Sweet Potatoes Closes After 22 Years in Winston-Salem

By Stella Bovender

On Feb. 1, the beloved restaurant, Sweet Potatoes closed its doors after 22 years. Owners, Vivián Joiner and Stephanie Tyson shared the unfortunate news on their Facebook page on Jan. 23 saying, “You, our guest have lifted us, supported our dreams, and added to our lives in immeasurable ways.” They attributed the closing to the restaurant’s inability to bounce back after the Covid-19 pandemic, and said “The mental, physical, and yes financial strain has taken an overwhelming toll on us.” Joiner and Tyson have left the community and nation with a lasting impression despite the closing. From employing over 1,500 people to being featured nationally in publications and magazines such as Food Network.

Sweet Potatoes Owners, Vivián Joiner and Stephanie Tyson. (Photo Credit: Carolina Country)

With some more time on their hands, both are starting to focus on their occupations. Joiner is also a Winston-Salem City Council member overseeing the South Ward and will focus on those efforts. Tyson, a James Beard Award semifinalist, is interested in developing other enterprises in the city.