When you think about the places in Greensboro that mean the most to you, what comes to mind? Perhaps these are the places where you celebrated life’s milestones, began a friendship, or shared a memorable meal.
For Greensboro native Russ Dunn, his mind goes right to Cincy’s Downtown.
Growing up, Russ was always drawn to the arts and gravitated toward music. Around the time he graduated from high school, Russ got into bluegrass music and played with several bands. They performed wherever they could, from the old Blind Tiger to restaurants, house parties, and other local venues. “I wanted to do it for a living because I’m so in love with that kind of music,” he says.
Traditional work shifts didn’t align well with his musician schedule but Russ found the perfect fit with Cincy’s Downtown. The restaurant is a lunchtime institution, serving Cincinnati-style chili since 1986. There, he could work weekdays from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and have his evenings free to perform. At the time, the restaurant was run by three women whom Russ remembers as kind, caring, and generous. “They were such wonderful people, and they saw my value,” he says.
Russ formed relationships with regular customers, often learning their orders by heart. “I think everyone should wait tables,” he says. “It helps people learn empathy and understanding and kindness.” He even created his own secret menu item, the “Russ dog”: one or two hot dogs served on buns with garlic butter, chili, cheese and a little Texas Pete.
Eventually, Russ parted ways with Cincy’s as he settled down, started a family, and began a full-time career. He devoted his time to working in janitorial management, starting a carpet cleaning business, and eventually entering the flooring industry. In April 2026, Russ joined Floor Coverings International of Greater Greensboro as a design associate. The company serves Greensboro, Burlington, and Mebane with a mobile showroom containing approximately 3,000 samples. By bringing carefully selected options directly to each appointment, Russ can help clients make decisions without feeling overwhelmed by an expansive showroom.
“Music will always be a part of my life,” Russ says. “But being a good husband, a good dad, and a flooring specialist is my calling right now.”
Even though Cincy’s is now a part of his past, he still visits often. The warm service and familiar conversations always beckon him back. It was a great workplace during his music years, a convenient lunch spot when his life went in other directions, and now a familiar destination to return to.
“Cincy’s has always brought me home.”
Cincy's Downtown
115 E. February One Place
336-378-9774
Wednesdays through Fridays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Floor Coverings International
2911 Pacific Avenue
336-860-7099