Auspicious Baking Company
There's a reason you always see a line for the most heavenly croissants and pastries for miles; available for takeout Friday through Sunday.
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.
There's a reason you always see a line for the most heavenly croissants and pastries for miles; available for takeout Friday through Sunday.
Locally owned and operated B&D Burgers is a great bet for a quick, low-key bite to eat with offerings like tempura-battered chicken fingers and a grand assortment of locally themed burgers. The large, two-story dining room is decorated in Lowcountry flair, including faux trophy alligators and nets and buoys, but be encouraged to venture outside; this place has some of the best outdoor dining in the city and the expansive patio is equipped with a video screen for sports events and large umbrellas that protect against the rain and sun.
Tybee Island's only microbrewery features an array of craft beers from dark lager to fruity and floral sours with characteristically Tybee-sounding names, like "Move Beach, Get Out the Whale Juicy IPA" and "Hurricane Season Sour." The brewery also provides fresh and tasty snacks served alongside their frosty mugs, including dishes like a watermelon and cantaloupe salad, seasonal veggie wraps, and an Auspicious Bakery–made pretzel served with Back River Brewery beer cheese. The space is small but cozy, and still provides enough room for a live music setup, performed on Fridays and Saturdays.
Traditional pizzas, subs, and calzones are served up in a friendly atmosphere.
Located inside the American Legion Post 135 on Forsyth Park, this throwback mess hall is a hit with the locals. World War II--theme decor lines the walls, and "Bettys" in period-inspired dress smile and serve classics like chili dogs, cheesesteaks, juicy burgers, and baskets of French fries.
Wood-fired bagels, hot coffee, and other brunchy treats are available through lunchtime, with pop-up pizza on the weekends.
On bustling Barnard Street in the Victorian District, this neighborhood café and bar serves up affordable, scrumptious sandwiches and creatively crafted cocktails in a small, intimate space. With a name inspired by the black rabbit painted on its roll-down door, the property stands today as a compelling concept from seasoned Savannah restaurateurs who know how to make unforgettable food at unbeatable prices.
This natural foods haven has been serving Savannah's organically minded since the 1970s. In the back of this full-fledged grocery and supplement store is a busy deli counter busting out custom sandwiches with meat, vegetarian, and vegan options as well as house-made side dishes, salads, and cakes. Eat at the small counter indoors, at one of the tables out front or—since it's located at the southern end of Forsyth Park—put together a picnic to enjoy on a bench.
The new kid on the Starland block elevates Southern staples like fried chicken and oysters with high presentation and super-charged flavors. Locals flock to the spacious patio for late afternoon cocktails and house-made pickles, and the dining room buzzes with sociability and a kickin' soundtrack.
Every night is taco night at this bright and busy spot. Handmade tortillas, authentic recipes, and tasty vegetarian options bring delicious depth to the usual street-style taco fare. Non-taco options include tasty rice bowls and a killer poke salad with sushi-grade tuna. Enjoy happy hour at the newly renovated bar with tangy house margaritas and fresh-made chips and salsa.
The white fort in the middle of Forsyth Park opened in 2020 with a full-service restaurant, bar, and café that bustles from early mornings to late afternoons. Sophisticated Southern brunch and lunch fare like shrimp 'n' grits, pork belly Benedict and avocado toast (of course) pair with a drink bar that offers signature coffees, beautifully garnished craft cocktails, and fun treats for the kids. Glorious, bright interiors lead to spacious outdoor seating.
Embodying the new Southern cuisine, Cotton & Rye offers a menu that is creative and artistic with a strong sense of tradition. You'll see classic, recognizable comfort dishes like shrimp n' grits and thick bone-in pork chops, but careful intention goes into the preparation and presentation that results in delightful sensory surprises. The casual-chic dining room embraces the design boldness of 1950s bank architecture and unfolds around the central bar, serving up some of Savannah's best cocktails. Stop by for an excellent happy hour on the back patio.
"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.
In the heart of the historic Sandfly neighborhood lies this "casual coastal" eatery where folks from the surrounding islands come to unwind. Choose from small dishes like firecracker shrimp tacos, turkey club wrap, or tuna tataki salad for lunch or dinner; larger entrées like grilled mahi mahi and pan-seared scallops are available after 5 pm. It's a place to enjoy great food without having to change out of your flip-flops!
Restauranteurs Ele and Sean Tran brought Asian-style street food to Savannah with their menu that boasts everything from sushi rolls to noodle soups, and some of the best sweet-and-spicy chicken wings in town. Occupying a bright, hypermodern space, this eatery offers an offbeat alternative to the slow-paced Southern Savannah feel. Enjoy a quick meal in the dining room, stop by when you have a late-night craving, or order a few of the small plates to go.
Super fresh tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites are served in to-go containers, but you can still eat inside.
Fried shrimp and ahi tuna bites hit the spot on the way home from the beach.
Noodle, rice, and soup dishes from across Asia come together on the eclectic, flavorful menu at the Flying Monk. The well-appointed space and laid-back atmosphere complement the savory dishes. Start with vegetarian-friendly edamame dumplings or the meaty braised pork belly. Move on to the signature Vietnamese pho or Japanese ramen noodle soups. For those interested in a traditional rice dish, the curry can't be beat.
This long-established coffee haunt and art enclave features a steady rotation of local artists, with house-made pastries, cheesecakes, muffins, scones, and luscious desserts. Gallery Espresso is a real neighborhood joint and a popular destination for art students, and the comfortable vintage couches and chairs are a great place to curl up with a book.
This well-appointed restaurant is known to locals and travelers alike for its contemporary cuisine and Italian classics at reasonable prices. Dark wood and burnished tin ceilings evoke a romantic brasserie. Ask your knowledgeable and professional server to offer wine pairings.
Serving one of the best burgers in the state, this casual haunt draws diners from far and wide for its grass-fed beef—though vegetarians will find satisfaction with the hearty meatless patties. Everything from the coffee to the produce is locally sourced, and even the ketchup is made in-house. There is a revolving public art installation in the drive-thru section out back.
Be prepared to wait a few minutes for a table or grab a seat at the bar.
Shimmering stained glass, stunning woodwork, and magnificent decor make this old-time pharmacy one of the most handsome settings in town. Delectable sandwiches and salads are the main bill of fare, but for more ambitious selections, opt for the ratatouille and shrimp orzo, served with locally caught wild Georgia shrimp.
From the same owners as Foxy Loxy and the Coffee Fox, this wide-open, family-oriented café offers a place for kids to explore the art project of the day while parents enjoy some caffeine. The menu also includes vegan donuts, grab-and-go sandwiches, and the in-house bakery's famous kolaches.
As Southern food goes, Huey's is decidedly more New Orleans than Coastal Georgia, as you'll discover with one bite of the sinfully rich beignets served with praline sauce—they are a taste of perfection. Although lunch and dinner items like po'boys and muffaletta accompanied by red beans and rice are delicious, the breakfast and brunch menu is the highlight.
This palm-shaded eatery is the sister restaurant to the original downtown location and hands down the best spot for vegetarian and vegan options in the city. There's also more than enough on the menu to keep a meat eater happy—consider the fried chicken tacos or the chicken-and-goat-cheese enchiladas. If you have your mind on a cocktail, gather 'round the bar for a Hot Derby with spicy ginger ale. There's ample parking and several big screens where you can watch the big game.