Savannah, Georgia, isn’t just a city steeped in history and draped in Spanish moss; it’s a culinary haven where Southern comfort food reigns supreme. The aroma of fried chicken mingles with the salty breeze from the coast, the sweet tang of barbecue sauce hangs in the air, and the promise of warm, buttery biscuits beckons from every corner. Southern food, at its heart, is a reflection of the region’s rich heritage, a blend of African, European, and Native American influences, all cooked with a generous helping of love and time. From creamy grits to tender pulled pork, each dish tells a story, a testament to the generations of cooks who have perfected the art of Southern hospitality.
But what exactly *is* Southern food? It’s more than just a list of ingredients; it’s a feeling, a connection to the land, and a celebration of simple pleasures. Think fresh, seasonal produce, often locally sourced; hearty, slow-cooked meats; and plenty of butter, gravy, and sweet tea. It encompasses everything from the humble collard green to the sophisticated she-crab soup. And within this broad definition, you’ll find countless regional variations, each with its own unique character.
Savannah’s culinary landscape boasts all the above. From timeless establishments serving the classics to innovative kitchens reimagining tradition, the city is a paradise for food lovers. This article embarks on a delicious journey to showcase some of the best places to experience authentic Southern food in Savannah, tempting your taste buds and leaving you with an unshakeable craving for more. Get ready to discover the soul of the South, one bite at a time.
Classic Southern Restaurants – The Foundation
To truly understand Savannah’s Southern food scene, you must start with the classics – the restaurants that have been serving up beloved recipes for generations. These establishments are more than just places to eat; they’re institutions, preserving the culinary heritage of the region.
Take, for instance, the legendary Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room. A Savannah staple for decades, Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room offers a truly unique and quintessential southern experience. This family-style restaurant serves up a daily rotating menu of Southern specialties at communal tables, creating an atmosphere of shared enjoyment and conviviality. Stepping inside is like stepping back in time, a reminder of simpler days and shared meals. The menu is an ever-changing symphony of southern flavors and dishes like crispy fried chicken, tender collard greens, creamy sweet potato soufflé, black-eyed peas, okra gumbo, mashed potatoes with gravy, and cornbread. The lines outside often stretch down the block but the payoff is an authentic meal and memorable experience.
For a more elegant Southern dining experience, The Olde Pink House provides a sophisticated ambiance alongside exquisite cuisine. Housed in an historic mansion, the building itself is part of Savannah’s charm, with its distinctive pink exterior and beautifully appointed rooms. Its history adds to the unique character of the place. The menu features elevated Southern classics, highlighting local seafood and seasonal ingredients. Dishes like crisp scored flounder with apricot shallot butter, she-crab soup, and jambalaya showcase the restaurant’s commitment to both tradition and innovation. The price point is higher than Mrs. Wilkes’ but the atmosphere and service are designed to create a special occasion.
For a different kind of classic, a Savannah staple that combines Southern flavor with a unique twist, there is Zunzi’s. Zunzi’s is not your typical Southern restaurant. This casual eatery, inspired by South African flavors, has become a local favorite for its sandwiches and flavorful dishes. The “Conquistador,” a signature sandwich featuring baked chicken, lettuce, tomato, and Zunzi’s secret sauce, has become a must-try for visitors and locals. Its relaxed atmosphere and affordable prices make it a great choice for a quick and delicious Southern-inspired meal.
Lowcountry Cuisine – Savannah’s Coastal Delights
Savannah’s location on the coast of Georgia gives its culinary scene a unique twist: Lowcountry cuisine. This style of cooking emphasizes fresh seafood, rice, and locally grown produce, creating dishes that are both comforting and flavorful. Shrimp and grits are a Lowcountry staple, along with crab cakes, okra, and various preparations of rice.
For an immersive Lowcountry experience, one great option is to try a spot like Husk Savannah. This restaurant is dedicated to showcasing the best of Southern ingredients, with a menu that changes seasonally to reflect the freshest catches and harvests. They pride themselves on using only ingredients that are native to the South, so that diners get a pure taste of local flavors. Dishes like shrimp and grits with house-made tasso ham, Lowcountry boil, and she-crab soup are prepared with meticulous attention to detail. Their emphasis on local sourcing makes the food extremely fresh, and the cozy atmosphere of the establishment offers a genuine dining experience.
Another notable restaurant offering Lowcountry fare is The Collins Quarter. While it is also an Australian-style café, its Southern brunch menu is nothing to sneeze at. With standout brunch options like shrimp and grits or french toast, the Collins Quarter is worth a stop. Its local sourcing and comfortable environment provide a pleasant dining experience, suitable for families and friends.
Modern Southern – Twists on Tradition
While Savannah honors its classic Southern dishes, it’s also home to a wave of talented chefs who are pushing the boundaries of Southern cuisine. These chefs are taking traditional ingredients and techniques and reimagining them in creative and exciting ways. This “Modern Southern” movement is about honoring the past while embracing innovation, creating dishes that are both familiar and surprising.
A prime example of this trend is The Grey. Housed in a beautifully restored Greyhound bus terminal, The Grey offers a sophisticated dining experience that blends Southern flavors with global influences. Chef Mashama Bailey has received national acclaim for her innovative dishes, which showcase the best of Southern ingredients in unexpected ways. Dishes like smoked collard greens with crispy ham hock, roasted chicken with benne seed brittle, and cornmeal-crusted oysters are both comforting and refined. The atmosphere is stylish and bustling, attracting a diverse clientele of locals and tourists.
Another restaurant at the forefront of the Modern Southern movement in Savannah is Common Thread. This farm-to-table restaurant is committed to using seasonal ingredients from local farms and producers. The menu features creative dishes that blend Southern traditions with global flavors, highlighting the versatility of Southern ingredients. Dishes like wood-fired pizza with pimento cheese and pickled peppers, roasted pork belly with collard green kimchi, and sweet potato gnocchi showcase the restaurant’s commitment to both sustainability and culinary excellence. Common Thread has received numerous accolades for its food and service, making it a must-visit for food lovers.
Sweet Endings – Dessert Delights
No Southern meal is complete without a sweet ending, and Savannah offers a plethora of options to satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic pies to creamy puddings, the city’s dessert scene is as diverse and delicious as its savory offerings.
Leopold’s Ice Cream is a Savannah institution, serving up handcrafted ice cream since nineteen-nineteen. Their classic flavors, like Tutti Frutti and Chocolate Chewies, have been delighting locals and visitors for generations. The historic shop is a nostalgic trip back in time, with its marble countertops and old-fashioned soda fountain. Leopold’s is the perfect place to cool off on a hot Savannah day and indulge in a scoop (or two) of creamy goodness.
For those craving a more traditional Southern dessert, Back in the Day Bakery is the place to go. This charming bakery, owned by Cheryl Day, specializes in classic Southern pies, cakes, and cookies. Their pecan pie is legendary, with its buttery crust and rich, nutty filling. The banana pudding is another must-try, with its layers of creamy custard, vanilla wafers, and fresh bananas. Back in the Day Bakery is a cozy and inviting spot, perfect for enjoying a sweet treat with a cup of coffee or tea.
Another sweet option is the candy shop Savannah’s Candy Kitchen. Pralines, made with pecans, butter, sugar, and cream, are a Southern specialty, and Savannah’s Candy Kitchen makes some of the best in the city. The candies are cooked in large copper kettles and cooled on marble slabs. The aroma of freshly made pralines fills the air, tempting passersby to step inside and sample a piece. This candy shop is a sweet spot to end any Savannah adventure.
Beyond the Plate – Exploring Savannah’s Food Culture
To truly immerse yourself in Savannah’s food culture, go beyond simply dining at the city’s best restaurants. Take a cooking class to learn the secrets of Southern cuisine, embark on a food tour to discover hidden culinary gems, or visit a farmers market to experience the freshest local ingredients.
Several local cooking schools and organizations offer classes focused on Southern cuisine. These classes provide hands-on instruction in classic techniques like frying chicken, making biscuits, and preparing collard greens. Participating in a cooking class is a great way to learn about the history and culture behind Southern food, as well as to gain the skills to recreate your favorite dishes at home.
Food tours are another fantastic way to explore Savannah’s culinary scene. Guided food tours take you to a variety of restaurants and shops, allowing you to sample different dishes and learn about the history of each establishment. Some tours focus on specific cuisines, like Southern food or seafood, while others offer a more general overview of Savannah’s culinary landscape. Food tours are a great way to discover hidden gems and get insider tips from local experts.
Finally, visiting a farmers market is a must for any food lover visiting Savannah. The Forsyth Farmers’ Market, held every Saturday morning in Forsyth Park, is a vibrant showcase of local produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. Browsing the market is a great way to meet local farmers and producers, learn about seasonal ingredients, and sample some of the region’s best flavors.
Conclusion
Savannah’s Southern food scene is a rich and rewarding experience, offering something for everyone. From timeless classics to modern interpretations, the city’s restaurants showcase the best of Southern hospitality and culinary tradition. Whether you’re craving crispy fried chicken, creamy grits, or a slice of pecan pie, Savannah’s restaurants offer a diverse and delicious array of Southern food experiences that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
So, pack your bags and head to Savannah for a culinary adventure you won’t soon forget. Explore the city’s historic streets, soak in the Southern charm, and most importantly, indulge in its incredible food. Savannah is waiting to welcome you with open arms (and a plate of warm biscuits!). Get ready to experience the soul of the South, one delicious bite at a time.
