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Alise Talley

10 Restaurants You Need to Checkout in Savannah, GA

Updated: Dec 16, 2024

Forsyth Park in Savannah, GA

Besides being one of the oldest cities in the United States, Savannah has put itself on the map by combining the rich flavor of Southern cooking with the exotic taste of seafood. No visit to Savannah is complete without visiting some of the city's best restaurants and eateries.


Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room


It's a Savannah classic, but its legacy was cemented after President Obama dined here a few years ago. And you can’t blame him. The restaurant offers the best Southern cooking; just reading the menu options will water your mouth.


Don’t let its prestige fool you. Mrs. Wilkes’ has held onto its family-style seating and casual charm. Here, you and the family can chow down on fried chicken, buttered beans, collard greens, and other delicious Southern classics.


Be prepared for a bit of a wait, though. Seating typically goes fast, but it'll be worth it when you leave feeling full.


Olde Pink House


If you’re looking for a place that combines Savannah's history with a great dining experience, look no further than Olde Pink House.


Built in the 1800s, the mansion is rumored to be the home of several ghosts. See if you can spot one while enjoying upscale Southern cuisine.


While there, consider trying their BLT salad, a twist on the BLT sandwich featured on the Food Network’s “The Best Thing I Ever Ate.”


45 Bistro


Found in the Marshall House Hotel on Broughton Street, 45 Bistro is known for its show-stopping dish presentation and flavorful foods. At the Bistro, you can expect quality service and an elegant dining experience to leave you wanting to return the next time you’re in town.

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Typically, dining at a bus station is probably not ideal, but The Grey isn't your average bus station. The restaurant is not only renowned for its unique and delicious cuisine but also for its one-of-a-kind atmosphere.


The restaurant is a restored 1938 art deco Greyhound Bus Terminal. The owners, John O. Morisano and Mashama Bailey restored it to its original beauty.


"The Grey offers a food, wine and service experience that is simultaneously familiar and elevated. Bringing her personal take on Port City Southern food to a city of her youth allows Mashama to tap into all of her experiences to create dishes that are deep, layered, and soulful in their flavors."

If you're only visiting Savannah, you won't want to miss this iconic spot with its delicious food.


Driftaway Cafe


Nothing brings together the delight of the seafood and scenery of Savannah like the Driftaway Cafe. If you’re in the city during nice weather, you can dine outside next to a stream and a beautiful green backdrop.


As for the food, you can enjoy some of their unique dishes, like the spicy tuna tacos and scallions with a cucumber wasabi cream sauce.


Circa 1875 Gastropub


Part French restaurant, part pub, Circa has all you need for a night out on the town. This Whitaker Street gastropub offers exotic French cuisine, including classics like escargot, mussels, and pâté.


In the adjoining bar, you’ll see the remains from its founding as an Irish pub in the decor and atmosphere. If you want a more intimate setting, the downstairs wine cellar is perfect for a romantic dinner with your loved one.


Crystal Beer Parlor


Known as the second oldest restaurant in Savannah, the Crystal Beer Parlor has its fair share of history (like most places in the city).


Since its founding in 1933, the Parlor has been a popular attraction. This may have been because it was the country's first restaurant to offer alcohol after Prohibition was overturned.


But, many would like to say it was their food that grew their popularity. Their signature item, the Classic Crystal Burger, will leave your mouth watering and your stomach full.


Zunzi's


If you're on the go or want to sit outside and enjoy the fresh air, Zunzi's is a great spot. It's affordable, fast, delicious, and offers many unique items on its menu.


"Zunzi’s is a mixture of international cuisine that comes from Johnny and Gabriella’s very different cultural backgrounds. A combination of Swiss, Italian, South African and Dutch, Zunzi’s brings together flavors that are unique and delicious as well as always being fresh."

You can't go wrong with their well-known sandwich, The Conquistador. Just beware: you'll want to grab some extra napkins.


Noble Fare


Of course, Savannah has no shortage of seafood restaurants. Another notable mention is Noble Fare. There, you can enjoy the masterful dishes of chef Patrick McNamara.


The menu changes frequently so that every visit will be unique. Past memorable dishes include scallops with bacon corn risotto, avocado tuna tartare, and raspberry chocolate cake topped with custard.


Sandfly Bar-B-Q


Finally, a local favorite is the Sandfly Bar-B-Q, located in the historic Sandfly neighborhood. If you want a more casual setting with a menu for meat-eaters, Sandfly is where to go. Get your fingers dirty with ribs and smoked sausage served with the restaurant’s homemade sauce.


If the sun is shining and it’s not too hot, get takeout and enjoy the Southern atmosphere in the beautiful Wormsloe Park down the street.

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