SAVANNAH: WHERE SOUTHERN CLASSICS SHARE THE STAGE WITH INNOVATIVE AND ECLECTIC EATS

The Best Places to Eat Savannah
Savannah may be known the world over for its history, charm and laid-back, sleepy Southern vibe, but the city is quickly becoming one of the East Coast’s premier dining destinations. From upscale restaurants that offer a variety of fresh, local, innovative dishes to neighborhood dives that serve up an eclectic mix of affordable, funky fare, Savannah will not disappoint even the most discerning foodies. Visitors to the city will undoubtedly be tempted to visit the restaurants made famous on the small screen, among them The Lady & Sons and Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room. Those willing to take a walk on the wild side, however, will be treated to a surprising number of back-alley barbeque joints and authentic ethnic eateries. The latter may be partially attributed to the influx of international students who attend the Savannah College of Art and Design. Savannah’s proximity to the Atlantic ocean means a steady supply of fresh seafood, and while it may be tempting to get those shrimp battered and fried, the health-conscious crowd will be pleased to find the words “broiled” and “grilled” on just about every seafood restaurant menu in town. Still, the Southern influence is prevalent, with traditional items such as fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits available at even the city’s finest dining establishments. After all, you can take the food out of the South, but you can’t always take the South out of the food. As Paula Deen might say, “Y’all come eat.”

By Amy Pine, Local Expert, Savannah

The Best Places to Eat Savannah

45 BISTRO

Local Expert Tip: “The melt-in-your-mouth beef Carpaccio appetizer with Dijon aioli, shaved Parmesan, spinach chiffonade and crispy capers might be the best Carpaccio of your life. Don’t pass it up.”

MRS. WILKES’ DINING ROOM

Local Expert Tip: “Wear comfortable shoes. You may have to wait on Jones Street for a while before getting a coveted spot at one of Mrs. Wilkes’ tables.”

BACK IN THE DAY BAKERY

Local Expert Tip: “Take your favorite recipes home! Pick up a copy of proprietor and chef Cheryl and Griffith Day’s new cookbook, available for purchase in the store.”

ELIZABETH ON 37TH

Local Expert Tip: “Want the ultimate Elizabeth on 37th dining experience? The restaurant offers a seven-course chef’s tasting menu for $90 per person. Contact the restaurant ahead of time to inquire about availability.”

OLDE PINK HOUSE

Local Expert Tip: “Plan to arrive early and enjoy a drink and music downstairs in Planters Tavern, a cozy, historic bar with exposed brick, fireplaces and beautiful woodwork.”

TOUCAN CAFE

Local Expert Tip: “Be sure to save room for the cappuccino pie, a frozen piece of heaven with a buttery, delicious cookie crust.”

LEOPOLD’S ICE CREAM

Local Expert Tip: “Be sure to sample the tried-and-true Tutti-Fruiti, which the ice cream parlor has been serving up for decades. The flavor was a favorite of local songwriter Johnny Mercer.”

CIRCA 1875 GASTROPUB

Local Expert Tip: “Save room for one of Circa’s traditional French desserts, including profiteroles and creme brulee.”

SANDFLY BAR-B-Q

Local Expert Tip: “Get your food to go and enjoy a picnic at nearby Wormsloe Plantation, a former colonial estate.”

THE LADY & SONS

Local Expert Tip: “If you don’t feel like waiting in line but want a piece of Paula Deen to take home, visit the adjacent gift store and pick up a jar of one of her many sauces, jams or dressings.”