If you’re wondering where to eat in Savannah and are just getting overwhelmed by all the options, I’m here to help! Here’s my pick of the best restaurants in Savannah, GA. This post covers everything from veggie and vegan-friendly eats to farm-to-table and wonderful seafood.
Eating out might not be high on your list of reasons to visit Savannah, but it should be.
Great food and drink account for fully 50% of my enjoyment of a place, and there are some incredible restaurants in Savannah. The city’s a feast for the eyes, but you can also actually feast here, which might explain why it’s one of my favourite American cities.
Exploring the best things to do in Savannah works up quite the appetite, so scheduling your food stops into your itinerary is something I highly recommend at the outset!
Savannah’s coastal location means wonderful seafood restaurants and great traditional Southern food. Whether you’re a fan of fine dining, southern comforts or cute cafes, you’ll find the best in the city.
Finding vegan or vegetarian food in the South can feel impossible, but there are finally some great plant-based restaurants in Savannah.
I’ve divided up Savannah’s best restaurants by type to make it easier for you to find what takes your fancy.
It wouldn’t be a guide from me without some pizza and coffee recommendations, so I’ve included my favourite options for those here too. At the bottom of this post, you’ll find a map of the best restaurants in Savannah – you can save it for later and refer to it if you’re out and about. I hope it’ll make your life easier while exploring the city.
In this guide, I’ll cover 40 of the best restaurants in Savannah.
MY TOP 7 SAVANNAH RESTAURANTS
Cha Bella | Delicious farm-to-table
The Grey | Amazing prix-fixe menus
Pizzaria Vittoria | Perfect Neoplitan-style pizza
The Haunt | Plant-based & mushroom focused
The Olde Pink House | A Savannah institution
Mrs Wilkes Dining Room | Homestyle Southern cooking
The Collins Quarter | Brunch to die for
- COST OF DINING OUT IN SAVANNAH
- TIPPING CULTURE IN SAVANNAH
- BEST BREAKFAST IN SAVANNAH & BEST BRUNCH IN SAVANNAH
- BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH HISTORIC DISTRICT
- BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH ON THE RIVER
- VIC’S ON THE RIVER | BEST RESTAURANT ON RIVER STREET SAVANNAH $$$
- HUEY’S | BEST SOUTHERN RESTAURANT ON RIVER STREET $$
- THE COTTON EXCHANGE TAVERN | BEST CASUAL VENUE ON RIVER STREET $$
- BERNIE’S OYSTER HOUSE | BEST VALUE OYSTERS IN SAVANNAH $
- DISTRICT SEAFOOD & DISTRICT SMOKEHOUSE | BEST FOR COCKTAILS $$
- BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH FOR VEGETARIANS & VEGANS
- BEST BURGER IN SAVANNAH
- BEST PIZZA IN SAVANNAH
- BEST FINE DINING RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH
- BEST SOUTHERN HOME COOKING IN SAVANNAH
- BEST DESSERT IN SAVANNAH
- BEST ICE CREAM IN SAVANNAH
- Map of the best restaurants in Savannah, GA
- FOLLOW & SHARE
COST OF DINING OUT IN SAVANNAH
There’s something in Savannah for every budget. Although you won’t find any Michelin-starred restaurants (yet), there are some fabulous fine dining options (with the expected price tag) as well as incredible cheap eats that won’t break the bank.
I promise you can have some fantastic meals without having to don’t spend your entire travel budget on food! This guide includes price ranges from $ (budget) to $$$$$ (very expensive).
Price Scale
$$$$$ = Splurge | $250~ per person
$$$$ = Expensive | $150-200~ per person
$$$ = Moderate | $75 – $150~ per person
$$ = Casual | $25 – $75 ~ per person
$ = Cheap Eats | $15 – 25 ~ per person
TIPPING CULTURE IN SAVANNAH
As in the rest of the USA, tipping is a way of life in Savannah. Particularly in the post-pandemic recovery period, restaurants are operating on tight margins, and staff often rely on tips to get by.
Regardless of how you feel about how tipping works in the US, you’re a visitor, and that’s how they do it. 20% is expected, with 25% for excellent service.
For drinks at a bar, the standard is $1 per drink. Tips aren’t required at fast food venues or for takeaways.
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH
BEST BREAKFAST IN SAVANNAH & BEST BRUNCH IN SAVANNAH
If you want to argue semantics, the only real difference between breakfast and brunch is when you eat it. If I’m having actual breakfast, I just eat it at home or grab a pastry.
Brunch is life. With bottomless mimosas.
All the restaurants below, except Kayak Kafe, are open by 8am so whether you want to call it breakfast or brunch, all of these hit the mark for me!
THE COLLINS QUARTER | BEST BRUNCH IN SAVANNAH $$
For the Australians amongst you, this is where it’s at. There are two locations, one at Forsyth Park and one Downtown, with slightly different menus. My favourite is Downtown which has literally every brunch item I adore.
The Collins Quarter has great quality food, the kind of service Americans love (a bit OTT for the rest of us sometimes!), and coffee that even folks from Melbourne would drink. If you know, you know.
What to Order | Avo smash, smash peas, eggs bennie, shakshuka… good luck deciding!
Veggie Options | Several, with a couple of additional vegan options at the Downtown branch
Reservations | Not accepted for brunch but recommended for dinner at Downtown
Downtown Hours | 8am-3pm daily and 5pm-late Wednesday to Sunday.
Forsyth Park Hours | Friday to Monday 8am-3pm (brunch) and Tuesday to Thursday 9am-3pm (lunch)
Where | 151 Bull St and 621 Drayton St
Website | The Collins Quarter
b MATTHEWS EATERY $$
This is brunch with a Southern twist, featuring fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and fried chicken. There’s also an impressive array of Bloody Mary options!
The downsides are that the service here can be a bit hit and miss, and if you haven’t booked ahead, you might be in for a long wait.
What to Order | Fried green tomato crab cake benny or veggie scramble
Veggie Options | Several, but not especially imaginative, and no vegan options
Reservations | Recommended
Hours | Daily 8am-3pm and also 5pm-late Tuesday to Saturday
Where | 325 E Bay St
Website | b Matthews Eatery
KAYAK KAFE | BEST HEALTHY FOOD IN SAVANNAH $
If you’re craving salad or just fancy something lighter amongst all the rich southern fare you’ll find in Savannah, this is the place for you. There are lots of vegetarian choices as well as several vegan options. Check out Saturday brunch at the midtown branch for the all-important all-day bottomless mimosas.
The cafes are locally owned, which I love.
What to Order | Lime chicken tacos or the Tiger tofu and veggie quesadillas
Veggie Options | Spoiled for choice with veggie and vegan options as standard
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | Monday – Saturday 11am – 9pm, Saturday & Sunday brunch 11am – 4pm
Where | 1 E Broughton St and 5002 Paulsen St
Website | Kayak Kafe
FRANKLINS $
Although this spot is more brunch than breakfast, you’ll find a small selection of croissants, muffins and pastries in the cabinets. There’s seating inside, but you’re likely to get your order in takeaway packaging, so you might want to head to nearby Chippewa Square to eat.
What to Order | Avocado toast or the breakfast croissant
Veggie Options | A couple of veggie options but no vegan
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | 7:30am-9:30pm daily
Where | 5 W Liberty St
Website | Franklins
DOUBLE WIDE DINER | MOST UNIQUE BRUNCH IN SAVANNAH $
One of several ‘Treylor Park’ venues, the owners of this place have referred to the menu as “elevated drunk food”, and I honestly can’t think of a better way to describe it. Every dish has an interesting twist, so if you’re after something traditional, this is not the place for you.
I’ve not had their steak, but several reviewers have said it was disappointing, so I’d probably avoid it. There are plenty of other options, after all!
What to Order | Avocado smash or the low country
Veggie Options | Minimal veggie options and no vegan
Reservations | Optional
Hours | 8am-8pm daily
Where | 135a West Bay St
Website | Treylor Park
MAPLE STREET BISCUIT COMPANY | BEST BISCUITS $$
So listen, I’m from the UK, and I was frankly mystified by the concept of biscuits being made into a sandwich. Because a UK biscuit is an American cookie. And what we have here, my friends, are scones.
I know; it blew my mind, too, when I found out.
Whatever you want to call them, these guys make them beautifully! Come hungry and be prepared for a short wait. There’s a cute gimmick where you answer a question of the day and then have to remember your answer to get your food. Hungover people, beware!
What to Order | The Five and Dime or the Iron Goat for veggies
Veggie Options | A couple of veggie options but no vegan
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | 7am-2pm daily
Where | 220 W Broughton St
Website | Maple Street Biscuits
GOOSE FEATHERS CAFE | BEST BAKED GOODS $
I love a little twist on an old favourite, and here, it’s eggs on croissants. An absolute win in my book. Don’t be put off by the long line – it moves fast and is absolutely worth the wait.
What to Order | Literally any of the egg dishes or the JP Deluxe
Veggie Options | Plenty of veggie options but nothing vegan
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | 7:30am-2:30pm Monday, Thursday & Friday and 8am-2:30pm Saturday & Sunday
Where | 39 Barnard St
Website | Goose Feathers Cafe
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH HISTORIC DISTRICT
Several of the best restaurants in the Savannah Historic District are in other sections of this post. They often have something that makes them special other than just being in the historic part of town.
Savannah’s Historic District runs between the Savannah River, E. Broad Street, Gwinnett Street (bisecting Forsyth Park), and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. Check out that section in the map at the bottom of the post and you’ll see all the options available.
HUSK | BEST LOCAL INGREDIENTS $$$
At Husk, if the food’s not from the South, it doesn’t make it through the door. You get a delicious, seasonal menu full of locally grown and sourced produce. I love that you can read all about their suppliers on their website, and they have a chalkboard in the restaurant highlighting the origins of the current dishes.
This is one of several fine dining restaurants on my list of best restaurants in Savannah, and booking ahead is a must since it’s really popular. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, call ahead to find out what’s available before booking.
What to Order | The menu changes frequently, but the fish is reliably delicious
Veggie Options | Call ahead, but they’re very accommodating
Reservations | Recommended
Hours | 5pm-10pm daily, 10am-2pm Saturday & Sunday (brunch)
Where | 12 W. Oglethorpe Ave
Website | Husk
COCO & MOSS | BEST SUSHI & BOWLS $$
Although the venue is small, the sushi packs a punch at this cute venue in the historic district. The staff will make great recommendations if you’re unsure which sushi you want.
There’s a selection of really delicious cocktails and mocktails here too. There’s no veggie sushi, but several salads and bowls are veggie and vegan-friendly.
What to Order | Literally any of the hand rolls or the Pretty in Pink bowl
Veggie Options | Several of the bowls
Reservations | Recommended
Hours | Monday to Thursday 11am-3pm & 5pm-10pm, Friday 11am-10:30pm, Saturday 12pm-10:30pm and Sunday 12pm-10pm
Where | 30 Barnard St
Website | Coco & Moss
THE VAULT KITCHEN | BEST ASIAN FUSION RESTAURANT IN SAVANNAH $$
If you’ve got a craving for a meal full of flavour, then this is the place for you. The service can be a bit slow during busy times, but the food is stellar.
The venue is an old bank, yet another beautiful setting for a meal in Savannah. The bathrooms hold a particular surprise, and you can hire the old vault for private dining functions! Unfortunately, there is no option for table reservations, so come early or be prepared to wait.
What to Order | BBQ tofu steamed rolls, lemon coconut soup and miso salmon
Veggie Options | Several veggie and vegan options standard
Reservations | Not taken
Lunch Hours | Monday to Friday 11am-3pm, Saturday & Sunday 12pm-3pm
Dinner Hours | Sunday to Thursday 5pm-9pm, Friday & Saturday 5pm-10pm
Where | 2112 Bull St
Website | The Vault Kitchen
RANCHO ALEGRE | BEST CUBAN RESTUARANT IN SAVANNAH $$
It might not be much to look at from the outside, but people who know Cuban food rave about this little hole in the wall. At the weekends, you’ll be treated to some live Cuban jazz with your dinner service too!
Being on MLK Jr Blvd, this spot just about manages to sneak in as being in the Historic District!
What to Order | The Cuban sampler and the Vaca Frita
Veggie Options | Limited with two vegan and three vegetarian options
Reservations | Recommended for weekend dinner only
Hours | 11am-9:30pm Monday to Thursday, 11am-10:30pm Friday & Saturday, 11am-9pm Sunday
Where | 402 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
Website | Rancho Alegre
THE FITZROY GASTROPUB $$
You won’t get fancy food here, but it’s excellent pub grub, and the portions are enormous. The real highlight is the stunning rooftop setting which is beautiful as the sun goes down.
The venue can get hectic and noisy on the main floor, so I recommend booking ahead and requesting the rooftop or the smaller upstairs room.
What to Order | The edamame pancake and the grilled salmon.
Veggie Options | Very limited veggie and vegan options
Reservations | Recommended
Hours | Thursday to Monday 5pm-10pm
Where | 9 Drayton St
Website | The Fitzroy
THE PIRATES HOUSE | BEST THEMED RESTAURANT $$
Whilst this might not be the best food in town, the venue and pirate theme is entertaining, especially for families with younger kids. The restaurant is often included on ghost tours in town as it’s supposedly a haunted venue. Although it shows up on lots of lists of best restaurants in Savannah, you’re not going to find any locals here.
Portions are enormous, so definitely consider sharing. The standard menu consists of a lot of seafood alongside southern classics. There’s a lunch buffet offering alongside the a la carte which features dishes like fried chicken, collard greens and fried green tomatoes.
What to Order | Fried chicken or the good value lunch buffet
Veggie Options | Very limited veggie options and no vegan
Reservations | Recommended
Hours | 11am-9pm daily, Friday & Saturday to 9:30pm
Where | 20 E Broad St
Website | The Pirates House
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH ON THE RIVER
Because of the slightly odd way that US cities tend to develop their waterfronts, a lot of Savannah’s best riverside restaurants aren’t directly on the water. Instead, they’re either set back slightly on River Street or inside the hotels built on the water.
VIC’S ON THE RIVER | BEST RESTAURANT ON RIVER STREET SAVANNAH $$$
Vic’s is very much a Savannah institution. If you can, book a table outside to enjoy the location with views over the river. The food here is firmly focused on seafood with the usual southern sides.
If you like your gin, look no further than the summer gin cocktail, which is wonderful.
What to Order | Fried green tomatoes with shrimp and grits.
Veggie Options | Unfortunately lacking, with mostly salads
Reservations | Required
Hours | 11am-4pm daily for lunch, happy hour from 4pm to 5pm and dinner from 5pm to late
Where | 26 E Bay St
Website | Vic’s on the River
HUEY’S | BEST SOUTHERN RESTAURANT ON RIVER STREET $$
A little piece of New Orleans in the heart of Savannah, Huey’s is a great little restaurant right on River Street in Savannah. Busy all day long, they’ve got an upstairs patio and outdoor dining if you’d like a quieter spot.
The service is great, the food reliably excellent, and you enjoy it all whilst sitting in a historic cotton house looking out of the giant floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s a vibe.
What to Order | Entouffe with shrimp, parmesan grits and the beignets
Veggie Options | Minimal – eggs at brunch, salad at dinner.
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | Sunday to Thursday 8am-9pm, Friday & Saturday to 10pm
Where | 115 East River Street
Website | Huey’s
THE COTTON EXCHANGE TAVERN | BEST CASUAL VENUE ON RIVER STREET $$
This is the place I’d recommend if you like seafood and you find yourself on River Street around lunchtime. Soups, sandwiches and burgers are the name of the game here. There’s outdoor dining and the service is fantastic.
What to Order | The Tybee crab chowder (those in the know ask for a small shot of Sherry to add), the cajun tortellini and the cocktails
Veggie Options | Very limited
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | Sunday to Thursday 11am-9:30pm, Friday & Saturday to 10pm
Where | 201 East River Street
Website | The Cotton Exchange Tavern
BERNIE’S OYSTER HOUSE | BEST VALUE OYSTERS IN SAVANNAH $
If you go here, you might think I’ve lost my mind, and I’m sending you to a dive bar. And listen, you wouldn’t be wrong. Bernie’s is pretty hit-and-miss, and you don’t want to be here on game night.
However, they usually have great oysters and some decent pub food. If you’re up for an adventure on River Street, this is the venue for you!
What to Order | Oysters
Veggie Options | Just get a cocktail honestly
Reservations | Not required
Hours | 11am – 10pm Monday to Saturday
Where | 115 E River St
Website | Bernie’s Oyster House
DISTRICT SEAFOOD & DISTRICT SMOKEHOUSE | BEST FOR COCKTAILS $$
These two venues are part of the Mariott Savannah Plant Riverside District, and the location is stunning. Right on the river, either of these venues is a great place to kick back and watch the action with a cold glass of whatever takes your fancy.
The food is variable at both venues, however, with both kitchens struggling when they’re particularly busy. The cocktails, however, always hit the spot.
What to Order | Cocktails and whatever takes your fancy
Veggie Options | Fries and sides
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | Sunday to Thursday 11am – 9pm, Friday & Saturday to midnight
Where | 500 W River Street
Website | Plant Riverside
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH FOR VEGETARIANS & VEGANS
FOX & FIG | BEST VEGAN RESTAURANT IN SAVANNAH $$
This is definitely the best place to eat in Savannah for vegans! It’s an entirely plant-based cafe that serves a small but wonderful selection of plant-based food. The coffee here is locally roasted and delicious, with varieties beyond the ubiquitous drip coffee.
If you’re craving some plants amidst the sea of meat and fish, then this cosy cafe in the heart of the historic district is definitely worth a visit. Honestly, you should go for the coffee if nothing else!
What to Order | Fox-acado toast or the Chipotle mac
Veggie Options | All of them!
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | 9am – 8pm daily
Where | 321 Habersham St
Website | Fox & Fig
THE SENTIENT BEAN | BEST VEGGIE & VEGAN IN SAVANNAH $
My favourite thing about this vegetarian/vegan cafe is its ethos of community support and sustainability focus. They have a great selection of wraps, bowls and tacos, along with baked treats served all day. They also have a happy hour from 5pm with $2 off beers and wine.
All their coffee is fair trade, and the majority of their other products are locally sourced. It’s basically just a lovely venue run by lovely locals. Enjoy your food with views of the wonderful Forsyth Park, one of the best places to visit in Savannah!
What to Order | The breakfast burrito every time
Veggie Options | Vegan options for most of the menu
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | 7am – 7pm daily with food served until 4pm. Sunday brunch 9am – noon.
Where | 13 East Park Ave
Website | The Sentient Bean
THE HAUNT $$
New since I was in Savannah is Haunt, a plant-based, mushroom-focussed, forest-to-table restaurant near Forsyth Park. The restaurant has been put together by a former manager of Fox & Fig, so you know it’s going to be good!
Although I’ve not eaten here myself, the reviews are excellent, and it’s clearly a hit with those wanting some vegan variety in the heart of Savannah.
What to Order | The mushroom banh mih and the fries
Veggie Options | Everything, although mushrooms are the heart of the menu
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | 11am-8pm daily
Where | 606 Abercorn Street
Website | The Haunt
SPUDNIK $
Just a few blocks from the river you’ll find this cool baked potato and craft beer restaurant. Although they cater to everyone, there’s a great selection of veggie options and a couple of vegan alternatives too.
What to Order | The classic can’t actually be beaten
Veggie Options | Plenty, and 3 vegan options too
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | Monday to Wednesay 12pm-10pm, Thursday to Saturday 12pm-3am, Sunday 12pm-8pm daily
Where | 416 West Broughton Street
Website | Spudnik
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH
BEST BURGER IN SAVANNAH
ARDSLEY STATION | BEST LOCAL RESTAURANT IN SAVANNAH $$
With a firm focus on sourcing local ingredients and a true community vibe, Ardsley Station is owned and operated by a couple of local families. The menu is fantastic, with something for everyone, but their burgers are a cut above the others.
Although I’m here recommending their burgers, I’m also going to mention that they have one of the best brunches in Savannah too. There’s also a twice-daily happy hour from 3-6pm and 9pm to close, with some great drinks deals too!
What to Order | The Fun Guy (with extra pickles)
Veggie Options | Limited veggie and no vegan
Reservations | Recommended
Hours | Sunday to Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-11pm
Where | 102 E Victory Drive
Website | Ardsley Station
PUBLIC KITCHEN & BAR $$
Although there are only four burgers on the menu, they’re honestly incredible, and if you have a burger craving, then this is one of the places to be. For me, they’re lacking in pickles, but if you’re a pickle hater, you’ll love this!
The rest of the menu is excellent, so if you’re with people who want something a bit more local, Public is a great place for compromise.
What to Order | The Public burger
Veggie Options | Limited but present
Reservations | Not taken and there may be a wait
Hours | Monday & Tuesday 5pm-10pm, Wednesday & Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-10:30pm and Sunday 11am-10pm
Where | 1 W Liberty Street
Website | Public Kitchen & Bar
OVER YONDER $
You might not be looking for a laid-back Texas Cowboy-style bar in Savannah, but you’ll be glad you found it! It feels like you’re getting in on a local secret, with no signage and the entrance and parking tucked away down the gravel alley behind Moodrights. Look for the small patio entrance with a Longhorn Steer on the roof above and you’ll know you’re in the right place.
There are cheap drinks, plenty of locals, and juicy burgers, amongst several other delicious options. Worth making an effort for.
What to Order | The Double Stack
Veggie Options | Several, and the burgers are available as Beyond Burgers too
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | Monday to Friday 6pm-12am, Saturday 12pm-12am, bar hours longer
Where | 2424 Abercorn Street
Website | Over Yonder
GREEN TRUCK PUB $$
This is another local spot doing it right. All the menu items are actually made on site, even the ketchup, and you can taste the difference. All their burgers are available as a veggie option, which is a refreshing change of pace.
What to Order | Classic or Hot Rod
Veggie Options | Extensive, but limited vegan
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | Monday to Saturday 11:30am-10pm
Where | 2430 Habersham Street
Website | Green Truck Pub
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH
BEST PIZZA IN SAVANNAH
PIZZERIA VITTORIA NAPOLITANA | BEST PIZZA $$
I’m the fussiest person in the world when it comes to pizza – they’ve got to be thin crust, wood-fired, and none of those weird toppings like nachos. If you’re a deep dish fan then you probably won’t like my choices!
At this awesome Savannah pizza joint, they keep it simple, traditional and bloody delicious. They’re situated in the funky Starland District, entirely built out of shipping containers, so it’s not a traditional restaurant venue. Well worth a visit, despite its location a few blocks south of the Historic District. They’ve also got a pasta garden coming soon!
What to Order | The Farmers Market pie
Veggie Options | Several, but no vegan
Reservations | No – It’s an open seating area near the food truck so you’re bound to find somewhere to sit
Hours | Monday to Friday 5pm-10pm, Saturday 12pm-10pm, Sunday 12pm-9pm
Where | 2411 De Soto Ave
Website | Pizzeria Vittoria Napolitana
GRAFFITO PIZZA $$
If you’re after a Neopolitan-style pizza in a restaurant setting then this is the place. It’s located in the Mariott’s Plant Riverside district in a really cool old industrial venue. You’ll get great views ov the River Walk to go alongside some delicious pizza!
What to Order | The Sicilian or the Funghi
Veggie Options | A couple but no vegan
Reservations | Recommended
Hours | Sunday to Thursday 11am – 10pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-11pm
Where | 500 W River Street
Website | Graffito Pizza
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH
BEST SEAFOOD IN SAVANNAH
THE OLDE PINK HOUSE | BEST WINE CELLAR $$$
Regularly cropping up on recommendations of places to eat, this Savannah restaurant is as much about the venue as it is the food. The building is beautiful and dates from 1771. It’s said that the building was originally white, but the colour of the brick mysteriously bled through the walls, turning it pink!
This building was Georgia’s first bank, and the old bank vaults now serve as the restaurant’s wine cellars. You’ll also find the lovely Arches Bar downstairs in the basement. It’s well worth a visit in its own right.
The Pink House serves traditional Southern fare and, again, veggie options are few and far between. You’ll usually get a little history lesson from your server as an added extra with your meal though!
What to Order | The Southern classics like their fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits or crab cakes are reliably excellent and the seafood here is fantastic. Their fried chicken comes highly rated although I’ve not tried it, and you’ll get the same portion cheaper at lunch than dinner!
Veggie Options | On the main menus you’ll find some salads, a starter and a main option however they will also prepare a vegan option for you – it’s best to let them know in advance but they can also adapt on the day.
Reservations | Essential
Lunch Hours | Tuesday – Saturday 11am – 2:30pm
Dinner Hours | Sunday – Thursday 5pm – 10:30pm, Friday – Saturday 5pm – 11pm.
Where | 23 Abercorn Street
Website | The Olde Pink House
SAVANNAH SEAFOOD SHACK | BEST SOUTHERN SEAFOOD $$
If it’s seafood that you’re after then this is the spot for you. Their low country boil is a local favourite and absolutely delicious. It’s a yummy bag of shrimp, sausage, potatoes and corn with a delicious Cajun seasoning.
If you don’t feel like peeling your own shrimp then they’ll do the dirty work for you for an extra $2! The food is fantastic value for the quality, and don’t miss the key lime pie. Although it’s possible you’ll have to get it to take away given the portion sizes!
What to Order | The low country boil
Veggie Options | Nope
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | Monday – Thursday 11am – 9pm, Friday – Saturday 11am – 10pm. Sunday 12pm – 9pm.
Where | 116 E Broughton St
Website | Savannah Seafood Shack
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH
BEST FINE DINING RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH
CHA BELLA | BEST FARM TO TABLE $$$
This was my favourite restaurant in Savannah during my epic East coast road trip way back in 2015 and had the most incredible meal. I recommend it to everyone and it always gets a five-star rating from them.
The restaurant is farm to table and the really cool thing is that almost all the ingredients are sourced from within a day’s drive of the Savannah.
As with many restaurants in Savannah, there aren’t that many vegetarian options so check the menu and call ahead if you have concerns. The food is seasonal so the menu changes frequently. I recommend making a reservation so that you can enjoy your meal on the beautiful patio.
What to Order | The menu changes frequently, but there’s usually a gnocchi and a risotto that are reliably delicious. The cream kale with goats cheese side is ah-may-zing.
Veggie Options | You’ll find a single veggie starter and main option and they say that dishes can be adapted for vegans, although I’ve not put this to the test.
Reservations | Recommended
Hours | Tuesday – Thursday & Sunday 5:50pm – 9:30pm, Friday – Saturday 5:30pm – 10pm. Closed Monday.
Where | 102 E Broad St
Website | Cha Bella
THE GREY | BEST PRIX FIXE $$$$
Located in a stunning 1938 art deco Greyhound Bus Terminal, The Grey is helmed by Mashama Bailey. She’s now the recipient of two James Beard awards, including Best Chef in America 2022, and The Grey always gets rave reviews for the quality of both food and service. Eat here, and you’re enjoying one of the best restaurants in Savannah and the whole of the USA!
They’ve recently switched to offer a prix fixe menu with three courses for $75. You select from Dirt (vegetarian), Water (pescetarian) or Pasture (meat). There’s also now a highly-rated Sunday brunch, and they’ve recently reinstated their 6-course Chef’s Tasting option for $160 per person.
You can still turn up and wait for a spot at the bar counter, which has a more relaxed vibe and smaller menu. Word to the wise – the salted fish croquettes are out of this world.
Dietary requirements can be accommodated, and several vegetarian options are on the menu as standard. Check out their season 6 episode of Chef’s Table on Netflix if you want to see them in action.
What to Order | For me, it’s the Water menu every time. If you can only get a bar seat, then the burger is an absolute standout and the salted fish croquettes are so good I’m reminding you twice.
Veggie Options | An entire prix fixe menu is available to you without substitutions. Other dietaries are catered to on request.
Reservations | Essential
Hours | Wednesday – Saturday 5pm – 10pm. Sunday 11am – 3pm. Closed Monday & Tuesday.
Where | 109 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
Website | The Grey
COMMON THREAD $$$
With a firm focus on sourcing local ingredients and an entire menu dedicated to vegetarians, Common Thread serves up southern classics with a global twist. Every dish is carefully considered and beautifully balanced, and the venue is stunning.
What to Order | The rice porridge
Veggie Options | An entire menu, and plenty of dishes can also be made vegan
Reservations | Recommended
Hours | Sunday to Thursday 5pm-9pm, Friday & Saturday 5pm-10pm
Where | 122 E 37th Street
Website | Common Thread
FLEETING | BEST HOTEL RESTAURANT IN SAVANNAH $$$
The menu is simple, but the food is brilliantly executed and seasonal. The name comes from the fact that dishes are only fleetingly available as they get swapped out for whatever’s in season next. The open kitchen allows you to see the chefs at work and really adds to the experience.
What to Order | A little unpredictable as the menu changes frequently
Veggie Options | Limited
Reservations | Recommended
Hours | Tuesday to Sunday 5:30pm-10pm
Where | 201 Port Street
Website | Fleeting
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH
BEST SOUTHERN HOME COOKING IN SAVANNAH
MRS WILKES DINING ROOM | BEST HOME-COOKED LUNCH $$
This is an absolute dining institution and always makes it onto a list of the best restaurants in Savannah. There’s almost always a line around the block here for the Southern Home Cooking, so you’ll need to arrive early for the 11 o’clock opening. I love that you eat communally at tables for 10, so you’ve always got company for lunch!
You’ll need to bring cash or pay by check as there are no card facilities. The menu changes daily and you choose an entree and 3 sides for $30. The portions are generous but not particularly vegetarian friendly.
What to Order | The Collard Greens, Okra and mash are fabulous sides
Veggie Options | Not really
Reservations | Not taken – you’ll need to line up before opening
Hours | Monday – Friday 11am – 2pm. Closed weekends and January
Where | 107 W Jones St
Website | Mrs Wilkes Dining Room
GENEVA’S FAMOUS CHICKEN AND CORNBREAD CO. | BEST FRIED CHICKEN IN SAVANNAH $$
The chicken is, indeed, famous in Savannah! No false advertising here. The cornbread is also delicious and there are a couple of veggie options for the non-chicken and seafood eaters.
Geneva herself is the main cook at the restaurant and she’s been turning out the good stuff since 1983. The restaurant is still family-owned and operated. If it’s chicken and cornbread you’re after then you won’t find better than this!
What to Order | Fried chicken. Obviously
Veggie Options | There’s a veggie pita roll or cornbread
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | Wednesday – Thursday 11am – 6pm & Friday – Sunday 11am – 7pm. Closed Monday & Tuesday.
Where | 1909 E Victory Dr #102
Website | Geneva’s Famous Chicken & Cornbread
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH
BEST DESSERT IN SAVANNAH
LULU’S CHOCOLATE BAR | BEST DESSERTS $$
If you’re in the mood for dessert with a side of chocolate martinis then you can’t miss Lulu’s. The restaurant is small and a lovely place to finish your evening. There’s no booking system, so you may have to wait a little for a table.
The Chambord layer cake and chocolate cherry martini are highly recommended! If you’ve got a large group then they recommend arriving before 6:30pm, and note that the venue becomes 21+ after 10pm.
What to Order | Strawberry Suspension Cake every time
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | Monday – Friday 6pm – 10:30pm, Saturday 2pm – 11:30pm, Sunday 2pm – 10:30pm
Where | 42 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
Website | Lulu’s Chocolate Bar
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH
BEST ICE CREAM IN SAVANNAH
LEOPOLD’S ICE CREAM | BEST SWEET TREATS $
This is as close as you get to a culinary institution in Savannah. Leopold’s has been serving scoops since 1919 and there’s usually a line out the door and going around the block. It’s definitely worth getting in line to taste it for yourself!
If you’re after something a little more warming or filling on a cold day then you’ll also find sandwiches and soups here. For even more sweet treats, check out their cookies and cakes! There’s usually a sorbet and there’s always vegan vanilla on the menu.
What to Order | Caramel swirl and chocolate are always favourites
Veggie Options | Vegan vanilla and sorbets
Reservations | Not taken
Hours | 11am – 11pm daily.
Where | 212 E Broughton St
Website | Leopold’s Ice Cream
BEST RESTAURANTS IN SAVANNAH
Map of the best restaurants in Savannah, GA
To save this map, just hit the star in the corner. Veggie and vegan options are marked in green, although many of the other venues will also cater to plant-based and vegetarian diets.
I hope that you enjoy this selection of the best restaurants in Savannah. Please let me know if any of this information is outdated or if you’ve got a great option that you’d love to see on the list! I can’t wait to get back to Savannah and keep eating and drinking my way through the city.
Here are some posts to help you if you’re planning your own visit:
SAVANNAH ACTIVITIES | 11 Incredible Things to do in Savannah, GA
TRAVEL INSURANCE | Don’t go anywhere without it! I use and recommend Safety Wing.
THOUGHTFUL TRAVEL | No matter where you go, always be aware of the fact that travel impacts the place and people that live there. Being a thoughtful traveller is more critical than ever. Here are my top tips to make your trip a mindful one.
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love my photos and want to know how to take better shots on your own trips? Then my photography guide is for you. Here’s all the photography gear I use too. Want to buy one of my images? Head to the Print Store.
ESSENTIAL GEAR | You’ll find my travel essentials here, and a complete guide to all my hiking gear here.
FOLLOW & SHARE
If you found this guide useful, follow me on Instagram to stay up to date with my travels.
MY USA PAGE
I’d also love it if you would follow me on Pinterest and help by sharing this guide on your social media if you found it useful!
Subscribe to my newsletter for travel tips, inspiration and exclusives delivered straight to your inbox once a month!