Savannah, GA, is a city where cobblestone streets meet mouthwatering Southern cuisine, and every meal feels steeped in history. With its warm hospitality, vibrant Lowcountry flavors, and centuries-old buildings that house everything from fine-dining institutions to casual gems, Savannah offers a dining experience unlike any other in the South. Whether you’re craving buttery seafood, soulful barbecue, or innovative Southern fusion, here are ten unforgettable spots you simply must try.
1. The Grey
Image Credit: Ryan S.
Set in a restored 1938 Greyhound bus terminal, The Grey is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. The ambiance is stylish, atmospheric, and brimming with vintage charm, perfectly blending the building’s Art Deco past with modern sophistication. Service here is polished yet friendly, always with a personal touch. The cuisine is elevated Southern with global influences, led by acclaimed Chef Mashama Bailey.
Best Dish to Try: Country Pasta – a comforting, soulful blend of beef neck ragu, pasta, and herbs.
Unique Elements: A former bus station turned James Beard Award-winning restaurant, impeccable cocktails, and a history-rich dining space.
Overall Impression: A culinary landmark in Savannah. Refined, soulful, and creative—The Grey is absolutely worth the splurge.
2. Elizabeth on 37th
Image Credit: Brion C.
Dining at Elizabeth on 37th feels like being invited into a gracious Southern home. Set in a stunning early-1900s mansion, the ambiance is elegant and romantic, with antique chandeliers, original fireplaces, and cozy nooks. The service is formal but genuinely warm and Southern. Prices are on the higher side, but the experience is exquisite. The cuisine focuses on refined Coastal Southern fare with seasonal ingredients.
Best Dish to Try: Savannah Red Rice with local shrimp and andouille sausage.
Unique Elements: Locally sourced seafood and produce, a historic setting, and a deep wine cellar.
Overall Impression: Classic Southern fine dining in a setting that feels like a step back in time—perfect for special occasions.
3. The Collins Quarter
Image Credit: Janice Y.
Bringing Aussie café culture to the heart of Savannah, The Collins Quarter is bright, lively, and stylishly eclectic. The vibe is casual yet chic, with exposed brick, greenery, and a buzzing brunch crowd. Service is upbeat and friendly, with solid recommendations. Prices are fair, especially for brunch lovers. The cuisine is globally inspired café fare with Southern twists.
Best Dish to Try: Short Rib Hash – tender, slow-braised beef over crispy potatoes with a poached egg.
Unique Elements: Great coffee program, vibrant brunch atmosphere, and dual indoor/outdoor seating.
Overall Impression: A modern café with international flair—ideal for daytime bites and brunch with friends.
4. Husk Savannah
Image Credit: Husk Savannah
Husk is a name synonymous with progressive Southern cooking, and the Savannah location lives up to the hype. Housed in a grand historic mansion, the ambiance is upscale and moody, with original fireplaces and high ceilings. Service is attentive and knowledgeable without being stuffy. Prices reflect the quality and creativity. The cuisine is heirloom Southern made modern.
Best Dish to Try: Heritage Pork with seasonal vegetables and sorghum glaze.
Unique Elements: Exclusively Southern-grown ingredients, a strong cocktail program, and an evolving seasonal menu.
Overall Impression: A must for foodies seeking a fresh take on traditional Southern fare in a gorgeous setting.
5. Alligator Soul
Image Credit: Alligator Soul
Hidden below street level in a 19th-century grain warehouse, Alligator Soul is one of Savannah’s most romantic and unique dining spots. The ambiance is intimate, candlelit, and a little mysterious. Service is top-notch—gracious and deeply informed. Expect to spend a bit, but the experience justifies it. The cuisine blends Southern with exotic meats and global influences.
Best Dish to Try: Fried Alligator Tail served with aioli and lemon.
Unique Elements: A rotating menu that includes wild game meats, an extensive wine list, and a sultry cellar setting.
Overall Impression: A bold and memorable fine-dining experience that takes risks and pays off.
6. The Olde Pink House
Image Credit: Rick R.
A Savannah icon, The Olde Pink House offers charm, history, and hearty Southern classics all under one colonial-era roof. The ambiance is cozy and storied—each dining room has its own character, and there’s even a piano bar in the basement. Service is friendly, experienced, and personal. Prices are mid- to high-range, but portions and atmosphere deliver. The cuisine is traditional Southern comfort food.
Best Dish to Try: Shrimp and Grits—creamy, spicy, and undeniably satisfying.
Unique Elements: Historic building from the 1700s, live music downstairs, and Southern hospitality on full display.
Overall Impression: Quintessential Savannah—warm, historic, and crowd-pleasing.
7. Common Thread
Image Credit: Brion C.
Set in a beautifully restored Victorian home, Common Thread offers a modern yet homey vibe with thoughtful, minimalist décor. The ambiance is upscale-casual, perfect for a date night. Service is polished and genuine. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the care in ingredients and technique shines. The cuisine focuses on seasonal, sustainable Southern fare.
Best Dish to Try: Smoked Sea Bass with roasted fennel and citrus.
Unique Elements: Focus on sustainability, hyper-local sourcing, and creative plating.
Overall Impression: A newer addition to the scene that’s already making waves—elevated dining with a purpose.
8. The Wyld Dock Bar
Image Credit: Siobhan N.
For laid-back seafood with stunning views, The Wyld is unbeatable. Located on the marsh with dock access, the vibe is breezy and outdoorsy—think picnic tables, twinkling lights, and live music. Service is casual and warm. Prices are reasonable for waterfront dining. The cuisine is fresh coastal fare with creative twists.
Best Dish to Try: Crab and Corn Hushpuppies.
Unique Elements: Waterfront setting with dock access, kayak-friendly, and fresh seafood done right.
Overall Impression: A local favorite for a relaxed, delicious evening—best enjoyed at sunset.
9. Leopold’s Ice Cream
Image Credit: Leopold’s Ice Cream
While not a full-service restaurant, no culinary tour of Savannah is complete without a stop at Leopold’s. This old-school soda fountain is full of 1950s charm, with retro booths, marble counters, and friendly, fast-moving staff. The service is joyful and efficient even when the line wraps around the block. Prices are fair for premium quality. The cuisine is classic American desserts.
Best Dish to Try: Tutti Frutti ice cream—Leopold’s original flavor since 1919.
Unique Elements: A century-old institution, nostalgic décor, and house-made ice cream with seasonal specials.
Overall Impression: A sweet taste of Savannah history—don’t skip it, no matter how long the line.
10. Zunzi’s
Image Credit: Rachel M.
Bold South African–inspired flavors meet Savannah’s to-go food scene at Zunzi’s. The atmosphere is casual and quick, with limited outdoor seating and a big focus on takeaway. Service is fast, enthusiastic, and upbeat. Prices are excellent for the portion sizes. The cuisine is a mash-up of South African, Swiss, and Dutch influences.
Best Dish to Try: The Conquistador Sandwich—voted one of the best in America by Travel Channel.
Unique Elements: Global fusion with huge flavors, craveable sauces, and cult sandwich fame.
Overall Impression: Big flavors, fast service, and unbeatable value—Zunzi’s is street food at its finest.
Your Culinary Adventure Awaits
From the elegant halls of The Grey to the marshside casual charm of The Wyld, Savannah proves that great food doesn’t just nourish—it tells a story. These restaurants capture the city’s essence: its history, its charm, and its unwavering devotion to good, honest flavors. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering your favorite haunts, let this guide serve as your invitation to eat your way through one of the South’s most flavorful cities. Have a favorite spot we missed? Let us know in the comments below!
