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Southern cuisine is rich in tradition, but the dining scene in Savannah is more than just fried chicken and barbecue. Many of the city's restaurants have been exploring locally sourced ingredients as a way to tweak their usual homespun offerings, a change that is now attracting chefs and foodies alike.Although the farm-to-table
Southern cuisine is rich in tradition, but the dining scene in Savannah is more than just fried chicken and barbecue. Many of the city's restaurants have been exploring locally sourced ingredients as a way to tweak their usual homespun offerings, a change that is now at
Southern cuisine is rich in tradition, but the dining scene in Savannah is more than just fried chicken and barbecue. Ma
Southern cuisine is rich in tradition, but the dining scene in Savannah is more than just fried chicken and barbecue. Many of the city's restaurants have been exploring locally sourced ingredients as a way to tweak their usual homespun offerings, a change that is now attracting chefs and foodies alike.
Although the farm-to-table trend was first spotted at upscale spots like Elizabeth on 37th and Local 11ten, more neighborhood restaurants are now getting in on the action. Places like the Green Truck Pub utilize locally raised, grass-fed beef for their burgers, and after-dinner options now even include locally roasted coffee.
The arrival of some new kids on the block doesn't mean the old standbys have ridden off into the sunset just yet. For traditional, exquisitely prepared menus, be sure to visit the Olde Pink House, which has been pleasing local palates for decades. Or follow the crowds to the ever-popular Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room (which even President Obama once visited), where you’ll find all the fried chicken, collard greens, and mac ’n' cheese you can handle.
That's just a few ideas to get you started. While exploring Savannah, you're sure to find any number of other exciting options as well, whether you're craving noodle bowls or a simple sandwich.
Even regular visitors to Savannah might not have heard of this beloved marsh-side local haunt. The Wyld offers a somewhat upscale twist to dockside dining, evidenced by the cocktail menu featuring lavender bitters, crème de framboise, and house-made ginger beer. The plates are small but memorable; don't miss the fish dip, peel and eat shrimp, or the okra side.
2740 Livingston Ave., Savannah, Georgia, 31406, USA
Enjoy elevated fish-shack food with yacht-rock vibes at this former marina where many of the patrons arrive by water. Order at the counter for a fresh catch of the day prepared perfectly; pair it with flavorful sides like Mexican corn and skillet okra. The craft cocktail set will find their thirst slaked with the famous Painkiller Slushie, though no one will look at you sideways when you order just a good ol' cold beer. Kids of all ages entertain themselves for hours with free cornhole and ring games on the sunset side of breezy Country Club Creek, a tributary of the Herb River.
2740 Livingston Ave., Savannah, Georgia, 31406, USA
This island bar and grill resembles a fish camp that was expanded time and time again to accommodate its growing clientele. Colorful and laid-back, the ambience is characteristic of Tybee Island itself, which perhaps explains why it is a favorite among locals, and the food, mostly fresh seafood, is simple and delicious.
1315 Chatham Ave., Tybee Island, Georgia, 31328, USA
Watch boats pass and the sun set over Lazaretto Creek while enjoying fried oysters, steamed shrimp, hush puppies, and Lowcountry boil. Fitting right in to Tybee's laid-back beach bum vibe, this seafood shack welcomes boaters, local surfers, and visitors alike inside an unfussy dining room or on the ample porch.
1 Old Tybee Rd., Tybee Island, Georgia, 31328, USA
This place is about as low key as it gets, as evidenced by the neon beer signs on the walls and the day-old newspapers doubling as tablecloths. Located just across the bridge from Savannah, Desposito's has been serving up cold beer and fresh fish for decades and the no-nonsense menu offers a small but tempting variety of seafood, as well as options for landlubbers.
3501 Marye St., Savannah, Georgia, 31410, USA
912-897-9963
Known For
Casual atmosphere
Tucked-away location
Great place to bring kids
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. No lunch on weekdays, Closed Sun. and Mon.
A great place to grab a bite after a long day power-lounging on the beach, this beachside eatery is a favorite with locals and visitors alike. The menu lists simple favorites like sandwiches, burgers, and fried seafood, but all are prepared exceedingly well. The pizza menu includes some interesting choices, including pies topped with salmon or scallops and bacon.
1613 Strand Ave., Tybee Island, Georgia, 31328, USA
Four generations own and operate this charming, family-owned coastal eatery located on the banks of the bucolic Ogeechee River. Suitable for a lunchtime meal or a special occasion dinner, Love's serves up perfectly prepared regional dishes like Lowcountry boil, fried green tomatoes, and its famous bone-in catfish. With water views, casual ambience, and super-friendly service, it's a pleasure to while away a few hours over beers and oysters here.
6817 Chief of Love Rd., Savannah, Georgia, 31419, USA
Between the historic Tybee Island Lighthouse and North Beach lies one of the island's most colorful, Caribbean-inspired eateries. The menus feature local and sustainable seafood, including delectable crab cakes and the fresh citrus shrimp salad, along with lots of family-friendly options. Find live music on the large porch on some nights, or grab a seat at the bar for a local beer or frosty mixed drink.
Seafood specialties and fine steaks are served with golden green views of the Herb River at this longtime local favorite. Parmesan grouper, crab-stuffed flounder, and a "shrimp-three-ways" platter are the crowd pleasers, though there's delicious pasta and steak dishes for turfier appetites. Large tables can accomodate large parties, and an intimate meal at the three-sided bar is a romantic treat.
This casual eatery specializes in fresh takes on typical beach food, like smoked fish dip made with the local catch, a mahimahi banh mi, shrimp bruschetta, and blue crab poutine. You can still get your favorites, though, as the innovative menu also includes standards like beer-battered flounder and fisherman's stew served over jasmine rice. There are several vegetarian side options that can be made vegan as well, which is rare for a seafood restaurant. Round your meal out with a craft beer or cocktail from the bar.
101 Lovell Ave., Tybee Island, Georgia, 31328, USA
"Where the elite eat in their bare feet" is the motto of this laid-back eatery tucked away on a side street just over the bridge to Tybee Island. The beer is cold, the vibe is relaxed, and items like the Lowcountry boil—a huge plate of shrimp, corn on the cob, and smoked sausage—are delicious. Out front is a large pool filled with baby alligators that is a huge hit with kids—a good way to keep them entertained if there's a wait for tables, which is possible on weekends when the weather's nice. Just inside is a huge patio lit with tiki torches and packed with picnic tables. Seating is available in screened-in dining areas if there's rain or sand gnats.
40 Estill Hammock Rd., Tybee Island, Georgia, 31328, USA
By Anthony Debreceny, the restaurateur behind downtown Savannah's The Collins Quarter and The Fitzroy, this is the only restaurant on Tybee Island where you can walk straight from your table onto the sand. The cuisine is casual and approachable with elevated takes on fish tacos, a pulled-pork banh mi, and more, served alongside refreshing craft cocktails and local beer offerings.
404 Butler Ave., Tybee Island, Georgia, 31328, USA
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