Best Restaurants in Savannah GA
Savannah, Georgia is one of the best cities in the South for people who love great food. With more than 300 restaurants, the city has become a true food destination, offering everything from classic Southern comfort food and fresh seafood to fine dining, international cuisine, and modern local favorites.. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or simply stopping during a road trip, Savannah offers delicious meals that make every visit special.
Savannah’s dining scene combines historic local favorites with innovative new restaurants. The Historic District is home to many of the city’s top dining spots, offering everything from casual cafés to elegant restaurants for every taste and budget.
Best Restaurants in Savannah Georgia
1. Brochu’s Family Tradition
Brochu’s Family Tradition is a popular Savannah restaurant known for its crispy, juicy fried chicken and comforting homemade dishes. It is a great choice for visitors looking to enjoy one of the city’s best Southern-style meals.
Best For: Award-worthy fried chicken with a crispy outside, tender inside, and unforgettable flavor.
2. Bull Street Taco
Bull Street Taco is a local favorite in Savannah, serving fresh tacos, flavorful Mexican dishes, and refreshing margaritas in a relaxed atmosphere. It is a great place to enjoy creative flavors and a casual meal with friends or family.
Best For: Fresh tacos, handcrafted margaritas, and a fun local dining experience.
3. Coastal 15
Coastal 15 is a stylish waterfront restaurant offering Southern-inspired cuisine, fresh seafood, and handcrafted cocktails. With beautiful views of the Savannah River and a welcoming atmosphere, it is a wonderful spot for both lunch and dinner.
Best For: Southern-inspired dishes, craft cocktails, and scenic river views.
4. Common Thread
Common Thread is a modern restaurant known for its creative Southern cuisine made with fresh seasonal ingredients. Its elegant atmosphere and thoughtfully prepared multi-course menu make it a great choice for a special dining experience.
Best For: A multi-course dining experience with Southern-inspired flavors.
5. The Darling Oyster Bar
The Darling Oyster Bar is a stylish seafood restaurant known for its fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and coastal-inspired dishes. Set inside a beautifully restored historic building, it offers a lively atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying seafood and handcrafted cocktails.
Top Pick: Fresh oysters, flavorful seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and a fun night out.
6. Desposito’s
Desposito’s is a casual waterfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood, crab cakes, peel-and-eat shrimp, and lobster mac and cheese. Its relaxed atmosphere and family tradition make it a favorite spot for enjoying quality seafood by the water.
Top Pick: Fresh seafood served in a laid-back waterfront setting.
7. Elizabeth’s on 37th
Elizabeth’s on 37th is a fine dining restaurant set inside a beautiful Victorian mansion, offering classic Southern cuisine made with fresh seasonal ingredients. Its elegant setting and exceptional service make it a perfect choice for a special occasion.
Top Pick: Elegant Southern dining in a historic Victorian mansion.
8. The Grey
The Grey is an award-winning restaurant that serves creative Southern cuisine in a beautifully restored historic bus station. Known for its innovative dishes and elegant atmosphere, it offers a unique dining experience in the heart of Savannah.
Top Pick: Bold Southern flavors served in a stunning historic setting.
9. Husk Savannah
Husk Savannah is a popular restaurant that celebrates modern Southern cuisine using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From its famous fried chicken to seasonal specialties, every dish highlights the rich flavors of the South.
Top Pick: Elevated Southern cooking made with fresh local ingredients.
10. Joe & Vera’s
Joe & Vera’s is a stylish cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks, fresh oysters, steak frites, and light bites in a relaxed setting. It is a great place to unwind with quality food and creative cocktails.
Top Pick: Handcrafted cocktails paired with delicious small plates.
11. Local 11Ten
Local 11Ten is a modern restaurant known for its seasonal American cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Its elegant atmosphere and carefully crafted dishes make it a favorite for a refined dining experience.
Top Pick: Seasonal farm-to-table dishes with a modern American touch.
12. Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room
Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room is a beloved Savannah restaurant famous for its traditional Southern comfort food served family-style at shared tables. It offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a true taste of Southern hospitality.
Top Pick: Family-style Southern cooking served in a classic communal setting.
13. The Public Kitchen & Bar
The Public Kitchen & Bar is a popular gastropub serving fresh seafood, gourmet burgers, Southern favorites, and seasonal cocktails in a lively atmosphere. Its welcoming vibe makes it a great spot for both locals and visitors.
Top Pick: Fresh seafood, hearty gastropub dishes, and a lively local atmosphere.
14. Savoy Society
Savoy Society is a stylish lounge offering creative small plates, Southern-inspired bites, and expertly crafted cocktails in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting. It is an excellent choice for evening drinks or a late-night meal.
Top Pick: Creative small plates and handcrafted cocktails in a chic lounge atmosphere.
15. Vic’s on the River
Vic’s on the River is an elegant waterfront restaurant known for its upscale Southern cuisine, fresh seafood, and classic Southern specialties. Its historic setting and beautiful river views make it a popular dining destination in Savannah.
Top Pick: Refined Southern dishes with scenic views of the Savannah River.
Top Restaurants in Savannah GA– From a Local
1. The Chive Sea Bar & Lounge
The Chive Sea Bar & Lounge is a great choice for fresh and light seafood dishes. The restaurant is especially popular for its Tuna Ceviche, fresh ingredients, beautiful presentation, and friendly, attentive service.
2. Coco and Moss
Coco and Moss is a popular spot for fresh sushi, poke bowls, and healthy meals. It is especially known for its flavorful bowls and sushi rolls, making it a great choice for a light yet satisfying lunch.
3. Green Truck Neighborhood Pub
Green Truck Neighborhood Pub is a local favorite known for its juicy burgers made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Along with its popular burgers, the pub also serves delicious sandwiches and classic comfort food in a casual, friendly setting.
4. Olympia Cafe
Olympia Cafe is a popular downtown restaurant serving delicious Greek and Mediterranean cuisine in a convenient River Street location. It is well known for favorites like octopus and saganaki, making it a great stop before or after exploring Savannah’s waterfront shops.
5. Six Pence Pub
Six Pence Pub is a cozy British-style pub known for its traditional English dishes, hearty meals, and wide selection of beers. Its warm atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for a relaxing lunch or dinner in Savannah.
6. Byrd Cookie Co.
Byrd Cookie Co. is a famous Savannah bakery that has been making delicious cookies since 1924. It is best known for its bite-sized treats, with the Georgia Peach cookies being a favorite among visitors.
7. The Peach Cobbler Factory
The Peach Cobbler Factory is a dessert shop famous for its warm peach cobbler, puddings, brownies, waffles, cookies, and sweet treats. It is the perfect place to satisfy your sweet cravings while exploring Savannah.
Restaurants in Savannah Famous for Breakfast
1. Goose Feathers Cafe
Goose Feathers Cafe is a popular breakfast and brunch spot known for its fresh pastries, hearty breakfast dishes, and Southern favorites. Its cozy atmosphere and delicious meals make it a great place to start your day in Savannah.
2. Maple Street Biscuit Company
Maple Street Biscuit Company is a popular breakfast restaurant known for its freshly baked biscuits, Southern-inspired breakfast dishes, and comforting flavors. It is a great choice for a hearty breakfast or brunch in Savannah.
3. Rise Biscuits & Donuts
Rise Biscuits & Donuts is a casual breakfast spot known for its fresh biscuits, creative breakfast sandwiches, and delicious donuts. It is a great place to enjoy a quick and satisfying Southern-style breakfast in Savannah.
4. Back in the Day Bakery
Back in the Day Bakery is a beloved Savannah bakery known for its freshly baked breads, pastries, cakes, cookies, and other homemade treats. It is a popular stop for visitors looking to enjoy classic baked goods in a cozy setting.
Restaurants in Savannah Famous for Lunch
1. Zunzi’s
Zunzi’s is a popular sandwich shop known for its fresh sandwiches, flavorful sauces, and South African-inspired flavors. Its hearty menu and unique taste make it a favorite stop for a quick and satisfying lunch in Savannah.
2. Parker’s Market and Urban Gourmet
Parker’s Market and Urban Gourmet is a convenient spot offering fresh sandwiches, paninis, salads, and ready-to-go meals. It is a great choice for a quick, tasty bite while exploring Savannah, especially for families and travelers on the go.
3. Soda Pop Shoppe
Soda Pop Shoppe is a nostalgic diner known for its classic sandwiches, hot dogs, and old-fashioned atmosphere. With its retro décor and comforting menu, it is a fun place to enjoy a casual lunch in Savannah.
Restaurants in Savannah Famous for Dinner
| # | Restaurant Name | Description |
| 1 | Treylor Park | Treylor Park is a popular restaurant known for its creative comfort food, Southern-inspired dishes, and fun atmosphere. It offers unique appetizers, burgers, tacos, and desserts, making it a memorable dining spot in downtown Savannah. |
| 2 | Vinnie Van GoGo’s | Vinnie Van GoGo’s is a local favorite famous for large New York-style pizzas with fresh toppings and generous portions. Its casual vibe and customizable pizzas make it a great choice for both lunch and dinner in Savannah. |
| 3 | Flying Monk Noodle Bar | Flying Monk Noodle Bar serves flavorful Asian noodle dishes, soups, and specialties inspired by China, Japan, Laos, and Cambodia. Its rich broths, tender meats, and fresh ingredients make it a top spot for a satisfying meal. |
Restaurants in Savannah GA Famous for Desserts
1. Leopold’s Ice Cream
Leopold’s Ice Cream is a historic Savannah ice cream shop serving homemade ice cream, sundaes, milkshakes, and classic frozen treats since 1919. It is a must-visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth.
2. Odin and Sons / Mad Mac’s
Odin and Sons / Mad Mac’s is one of Savannah’s most unique spots, combining a comic book store and a cupcakery under one roof. Visitors can browse comics in the back while enjoying rich, creative cupcakes in the front, making it a fun and unusual stop in the city.
3. Savannah Candy Kitchen
Savannah Candy Kitchen is a well-known sweet shop famous for its pralines, pecan gophers, candy apples, and chocolate-covered treats. With multiple locations, it is a must-visit for anyone exploring Savannah’s dessert scene.
i. Mabel’s Cupcakes
Mabel’s Cupcakes is an award-winning bakery known for its fresh, flavorful cupcakes and creative frosting combinations. It is a popular stop near Ellis Square for a quick and satisfying dessert.
ii. Le Macaron French Pastries
Le Macaron French Pastries specializes in authentic French macarons and delicate pastries. With a wide variety of flavors, it is a perfect place to enjoy a light and elegant sweet treat in Savannah.
iii. Lulu’s Chocolate Bar
Lulu’s Chocolate Bar is a dessert lounge famous for chocolate treats and dessert cocktails. It is a perfect place to enjoy sweets after dinner or late at night.
Their crème brûlée and chocolate martinis are customer favorites.
History
Savannah’s food scene is rooted in Southern and Lowcountry traditions, shaped by African, European, and coastal influences. Early cuisine focused on simple, local ingredients like rice, seafood, and vegetables.
Over time, the city’s port brought new spices and cooking styles, expanding its flavors and diversity. Today, Savannah blends traditional Southern comfort food with modern global dining, making it a unique food destination.
Best Restaurants in Historic Savannah
Savannah’s Historic District is filled with a wide mix of restaurants serving Southern comfort food, seafood, and international flavors.
i. Orale Tacos
Orale Tacos is a casual Mexican restaurant known for its tasty tacos and refreshing margaritas. It’s a great stop for happy hour or a quick meal after exploring the city.
Their mahi-mahi tacos and signature sauces are especially popular.
ii. Belford’s Seafood and Steaks
Belford’s is a City Market restaurant known for classic Southern seafood and steak dishes. It offers a refined dining experience with dishes like salmon, fried green tomatoes, and peach cobbler. The restaurant is popular for its quality food and elegant service.
iii. B. Matthew’s Eatery
B. Matthew’s Eatery is one of Savannah’s top brunch spots, loved for its creative breakfast menu. Crab Benedict and homemade biscuits are among the most ordered dishes. It gets busy on weekends, so early visits or reservations are recommended.
iv. Savannah Seafood Shack
This local favorite is known for its hearty Low Country seafood boils filled with shrimp, corn, and sausage. It’s a great place for seafood lovers who enjoy bold Southern flavors. The portions are generous and perfect for lunch or dinner.
v. Capital Bee Company
Capital Bee Company is a unique shop offering different types of flavored honey.
Visitors can taste and learn about honey production and bee farming.
It’s both educational and a sweet tasting experience.
vi. Cha Bella – Farm-to-Table Dining
Cha Bella focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients that change with the seasons.
The menu is creative and often includes healthy and light dishes. It is a great choice for fresh and natural dining.
vii. Walls BBQ (Now Closed) – Historic BBQ Spot
Walls BBQ was a historic Black-owned restaurant serving classic Southern barbecue. It was loved by locals for its comfort food and rich flavors. Even though it is closed, it remains part of Savannah’s food legacy.
viii. Ashford Tea Company
Ashford Tea Company offers high-quality teas and herbal blends from around the world. It is a peaceful stop for tea lovers looking for unique flavors. The shop is known for its premium and relaxing tea experience.
ix. Rise Southern Biscuits & Chicken
Rise is a breakfast spot famous for its warm biscuits and crispy chicken sandwiches.
It offers simple but delicious Southern comfort food. It is perfect for a quick and filling breakfast.
Savannah’s Food Scene
1. Sunday Sunday
Sunday Sunday is a new brunch-focused restaurant known for its bright, sun-drenched atmosphere. It is especially popular for its Vietnamese-style banh xeo crepe with fresh ingredients and signature sauce.
The drinks, like the Blood Orange Martini, make it a trendy and relaxing brunch spot.
2. Untitled
Untitled is a dark, stylish lounge offering Japanese-inspired small plates and cocktails. It feels intimate and mysterious, perfect for late-night gatherings and industry crowds.
The restaurant also offers omakase, making it unique in Savannah’s dining scene.
3. Sexton Pub and Provisions
Sexton Pub is an Irish-inspired restaurant owned by brothers with strong hospitality roots. It serves comfort dishes like spice bags, sausage rolls, and hearty pub food.
The atmosphere feels local, friendly, and perfect for casual dining.
4. Urban Café
Located inside the Jepson Center, Urban Café offers sandwiches, soups, and coffee.
It is a simple and convenient spot for museum visitors and casual diners.
The menu also includes vegan-friendly options like falafel sandwiches.
5. Sela
Sela is an upcoming intimate tapas restaurant focusing on Spanish-style small plates.
It will highlight seasonal ingredients with a simple wine and beer menu.
The concept is designed to feel cozy, creative, and unfussy.
6. Garden Square
Garden Square is a modern restaurant known for its creative cocktails and garden-inspired dishes. Signature drinks include unique creations like affogato vodka and Bloody Mary flights. It is expanding its food menu with hearty seasonal Southern-inspired plates.
7. Bull & Barrel Steakhouse
This steakhouse is set in a historic building with a rich past in Savannah. It will offer classic fine dining with elegant service and a traditional steakhouse feel. The space itself is as important as the food, reflecting Savannah’s history.
8. West Broad Bandshell
West Broad Bandshell combines live music, cultural history, and dining in one space. It reflects Savannah’s African American and Korean culinary influences.
The menu blends Southern comfort food with global street food styles.
9. Fishbar
Fishbar is a modern seafood restaurant built around an open-fire cooking concept. It serves creative dishes like whole fish, bottarga potatoes, and unique cocktails. The design and menu both focus on teamwork, creativity, and innovation.
10. Marbled & Fin
Marbled & Fin is a modern American steakhouse opening in Savannah soon.
It focuses on premium steaks, seafood, and seasonal side dishes.
The design is elegant, welcoming, and less traditional than classic steakhouses.
11. Pritchard & Co.
Pritchard & Co. is a casual café offering sandwiches, salads, and specialty coffee.
It keeps a mix of classic recipes and modern breakfast and lunch items.
The café focuses on fresh ingredients and a relaxed dining experience.
12. The Triple Threat: Jay Trikha
Jay Trikha is a key figure in Savannah’s evolving food scene and co-owner of Savannah Taphouse. He is behind three major upcoming or recently opened concepts: Pritchard & Co., Nico Angelo’s Italiano, and Elsewhere.
Each project focuses on scratch-made food, close-knit locations, and hands-on ownership. Together, they represent a growing group of locally driven, experience-focused restaurants in Savannah.
13. Elsewhere
Elsewhere will be a luxury late-night dining experience in Savannah. It features global cuisines including Middle Eastern, Moroccan, and French influences.
The restaurant is designed to be exclusive, stylish, and nightlife-focused.
Best Italian Restaurants in Savannah GA
1. Nico Angelo’s Italiano
This restaurant is an Italian concept featuring pizzas, pasta, and rotating menus. It is designed to bring traditional Italian flavors with a modern touch. The space also offers tasting dinners and wine-focused experiences.
2. Lucia Pasta Bar
Lucia Pasta Bar is a cozy Italian restaurant serving handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and authentic Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients. Its warm atmosphere and traditional flavors make it a favorite for Italian food lovers.
Top Pick: Fresh handmade pasta, Neapolitan-style pizza, and classic Italian flavors.
3. La Vetta
La Vetta is an ambitious upcoming restaurant that has been carefully developed over several years. It will open at 15 W. Broughton Street and represents one of Southern Cross Hospitality’s most important projects. The design is inspired by Italian Futurism, creating a dramatic and modern dining space. It aims to bring a refined Italian fine dining experience to Savannah’s evolving food scene.
Public Reviews About
Savannah Books
Whenever I visit a city, I like to pick up a book that captures its spirit usually starting with cookbooks and then branching into history and culture.
For Savannah, I chose Paula Deen’s: The Lady & Sons, Too! which shares the inspiring story behind her restaurant journey. From financial struggles and personal setbacks to starting small in a Best Western and eventually opening in Savannah’s historic district, her story reflects determination and grit. It’s the kind of background that makes you appreciate the food scene even more.
I also picked up Savannah Sideways, a fascinating take on the city’s everyday life. Written by someone who moved there through marriage, it explores Savannah from an outsider’s perspective covering local traditions, ghost stories, wildlife quirks, and the unique social culture of the city. It offers a fresh and sometimes unexpected view of what living in Savannah is really like.
Portland is one of America’s top food destinations, famous for its food cart culture, farm-to-table dining, award-winning chefs, fresh Pacific Northwest seafood, and one of the country’s best vegan restaurant scenes.
Savannah Taste Experience Food Tour
This food tour lets visitors explore Savannah while tasting food from different local restaurants. It combines history, culture, and food in one guided experience.
It is ideal for first-time visitors who want to try multiple places in one trip.
Now Hiring
Savannah’s growing restaurant industry is creating strong demand for skilled workers. fter the COVID-19 pandemic, many hospitality workers left the industry, making hiring more difficult nationwide.
Kitchen staff like line cooks are the hardest positions to fill, while servers are easier to find. Despite this, Savannah still attracts talent due to its relatively affordable cost of living.
Training the Next Generation of Chefs and Staff
- Savannah Technical College’s Culinary Institute trains future chefs, hospitality professionals, and restaurant managers.
- Hands-on culinary education prepares students for successful careers in Savannah’s growing restaurant industry.
- Strong career opportunities allow experienced chefs to earn competitive salaries over time.
- A skilled workforce helps support Savannah’s expanding and diverse food scene.
Restaurant Growth in Savannah
Savannah’s affordability compared to other coastal cities helps attract restaurant workers. Employers report strong interest from experienced food and beverage professionals in the area.
However, rising housing costs in other cities like Charleston make hiring more difficult there. This gives Savannah a competitive advantage in building a stable hospitality workforce.
Conclusion
Savannah’s food scene is a vibrant blend of Southern tradition, modern creativity, and global flavors. From classic comfort food and fresh seafood to Italian, Asian, and fusion-style dining, the city offers something for every type of food lover. Many restaurants focus on fresh, local ingredients and unique dining experiences that reflect the culture and charm of Savannah. Whether you are visiting for a short stay or exploring the city in detail, Savannah’s diverse restaurants ensure that every meal becomes a memorable part of your journey.
FAQs
I. What type of food is Savannah most famous for?
Savannah is best known for Southern comfort food, especially fried chicken, shrimp and grits, biscuits, and seafood dishes. The city also has strong international dining options.
II. Are there good seafood restaurants in Savannah?
Yes, Savannah has many excellent seafood spots offering oysters, shrimp boils, crab cakes, and fresh fish. Restaurants like seafood shacks and riverfront dining places are especially popular.
III. Is Savannah expensive for dining out?
Savannah offers a wide range of options from budget-friendly casual eateries to high-end fine dining. You can easily find affordable meals as well as luxury dining experiences.
IV. Do I need reservations at popular restaurants in Savannah?
For popular or fine dining restaurants, especially on weekends, reservations are highly recommended. Casual spots usually accept walk-ins.
V. What is the best area in Savannah for food?
The Historic District and City Market area are the best places for dining, as they have a high concentration of restaurants, cafés, and dessert shops.
VI. Are there vegetarian or vegan options in Savannah?
Yes, many restaurants in Savannah now offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, including salads, plant-based bowls, and creative farm-to-table options.
