Cobblestone streets. Gurgling fountains in Old-World squares. Spanish moss hanging from majestic oaks. Savannah has become a popular destination with its Old and New World charm.
And now, Georgia’s oldest city is the hottest culinary destination in the US. The city boasts an eclectic array of elegant restaurants and funky cafes.
So we recently took a tour of Savannah to discover the top restaurants, cafes, and hidden gems. You’ll find more than just great local seafood on the menu as we present the 16 best restaurants in Savannah.
1.The Grey
$$$$ | 912-662-5999 | WEBSITE
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The Grey is located in the heart of historic downtown Savannah in a 1938 art deco bus station. 2019 James Beard award winner for best chef in the Southeast, Chef Mashama Bailey combines Southern soul food with African influences.
She utilizes only the freshest local produce, seafood, and meats on her award-winning menu. Each dish is a melting pot of unique flavors and comforting tastes. You’ll discover something new every time you visit—the perfect spot to enjoy an elevated dining experience.
2. The Husk
$$$ | 912-349-2600 | WEBSITE
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At the Husk, Chef Chris Hathcock redefines the traditional essence of Southern cuisine. His food is a modern yet playful take on Southern cooking. He highlights the unique ingredients only found on the Georgia coast.
The menu frequently changes to reflect only the freshest ingredients available at local producers. If it doesn’t come from the South, you won’t find it on the menu. The decor in this historic 19th-century home makes the perfect backdrop to enjoy an intimate evening with friends.
3. Common Thread
$$$ | 912-944-7482 | WEBSITE
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You’ll find Common Thread at Thomas Square in the elegant Krouskoff House built in 1897. Executive chef Brandon Carter creates modern southern dishes reinterpreted through a global lens.
His menus feature unique flavorful experiences using exotic spices, like the Flounder Crudo seasoned with berbere spice or pork sausage with butterbean falafel.
They also offer a vegetarian menu. And for the perfect pairing, the restaurant offers an extensive selection of wines by the glass or bottle. A great place to enjoy elegant dining in a historic Southern mansion.
4. Franklin’s
$$ | 912-200-4045 | WEBSITE
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Looking for a great brunch? Come to Franklin’s. This Cafe is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Though it looks like a Parisian grab-and-go cafe, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy people-watching from the street-level counter or outdoor seating.
They serve a wide selection of brunch options until 3 pm daily. And the extensive selection of coffee cocktails makes it a great place for a nightcap before heading home.
5. Double Wide Diner
$$ | 912-298-6750 | WEBSITE
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Where else can you discover peanut butter and jam chicken wings or the Chupacabra other than the Double Wide Diner? In addition, they offer all your favorite Southern comfort foods.
Furthermore, they feature a rotating menu of seasonal cocktails and a full selection of craft beer on tap. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy traditional southern comfort food in a lively, vibrant atmosphere that’s a bit out of the ordinary.
6. Rocks on the Roof
$$$ | 912-721-3901 | WEBSITE
Enjoy tapas and small bites while taking in the incredible views of the Savannah River. The restaurant is on the rooftop of the historic Bohemian Hotel on the Savannah waterfront. The food and drink menu takes inspiration from the many cultures that have sailed into the Port of Savannah.
There’s outdoor seating and a firepit for chilly evenings. Enjoy a hand-made cocktail as you watch the barges slowly make their way upriver. The perfect spot for a romantic evening out.
7. Chive Seabar and Lounge
$$ | 912-233-1748 | WEBSITE
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Step back in time to this restaurant and lounge inspired by the decadence of the roaring 1920s. Their menu offers a variety of dishes created with Southern and Asian influences. Enjoy one of Chive’s signature vintage cocktails as you sample the fresh flavors from the raw bar – beef carpaccio, lobster on the ritz, or oysters on the half-shell.
The varied menu offers more than just seafood; there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Chive Seabar and Lounge is an excellent change of pace from traditional Southern seafood restaurants.
8. 45 Bistro
$$$ | 912-234-3111 | WEBSITE
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Located in a prime location on Broughton Street, 45 Bistro features contemporary American cuisine with old-world charm. The dining room is done in an elegant European decor that makes you feel like you’re back in the Old Country.
Though not extensive, the menu features a unique take on American classics. They also offer both vegetarian and vegan options. You’ll find 45 Bistro at the Marshall House, a historic inn serving Savannah guests since 1852.
9. Jazz’d Tapas Bar
$$ | 912-236-7777 | WEBSITE
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As you descend the steps to this underground hot spot, the sounds of live music greet you. Enjoy a specialty cocktail at the serpentine bar.
Or grab a table with friends to listen to the incredible music while dining on eclectic tapas with an American flare. The bar hosts jazz, blues, swing, and classic vocals six nights a week. With an industrial, chic vibe, Jazz’d is the happening place to be at Ellis Square.
10. Clary’s Cafe
$$ | 912-233-0402 | WEBSITE
Are you craving a great Southern-style breakfast? Clary’s Cafe serves it all day long. Their extensive menu features southern-style classics for breakfast and lunch. The diner is unpretentious, and the staff makes you feel at home.
The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating. Got your pup with you? No problem, Clary’s is pet-friendly, offering treats and water for our furry friends. This restaurant has been a perennial favorite among locals.
11. Elizabeths on 37th
$$$$ | 912-236-5547 | WEBSITE
Elizabeths on 37th has been a Savannah destination since 1981 for its southern hospitality, local coastal cuisine, and fine wines. The restaurant is located in a historic mansion initially built for a wealthy Savannah cotton broker.
Inspired by Chef Elizabeth Terry, head chefs Kelly Yambor and Jeremy Diehl serve a combination of traditional and innovative Southern dishes. Painted with Savannah colors and patterns, the dining rooms feature fresh flowers, original paintings, and elegant ceramics. This is elegant Southern dining at its finest.
12. The Old Pink House
$$$ | 912-232-4286 | WEBSITE
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The Old Pink House is becoming one of Savannah’s newest hotspots for elegant, inventive Southern cuisine. The restaurant is located in a grand Colonial mansion. The service is flawless, and the staff is happy to share stories about the mansion’s history.
Feel free to stroll upstairs and discover what life was like for Savannah’s elites. The extensive menu offers something for every taste. After dinner, grab a nightcap and enjoy live music in the downstairs cellar tavern.
13. Alligator Soul Restaurant
$$$ | 912-232-7899 | WEBSITE
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Once an underground grain warehouse, Alligator Soul Restaurant is now a romantic and elegant dining experience. One of the top upscale restaurants in downtown Savannah, it won Best of Savannah in 2016.
Chefs Hillary and Maureen Craig create eclectic and innovative Southern dishes with a focus on using only organic, fresh local and regional ingredients. The perfect location to experience upscale Southern cuisine.
14. FraLi Gourmet
$$ | 912-234-4644 | WEBSITE
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Did you know that authentic Italian pasta is slow-dried for 26-28 hours? You won’t find any mass-production pasta at FraLi Gourmet. Instead, they serve home-style Italian food just like in the Old Country.
Enjoy one of the many homemade pastas and ravioli offered at this family-owned traditional Italian eatery. And when you are ready to go, grab some homemade pasta or specialty gourmet products to create an elegant meal at home.
15. Coco and Moss
$$ | 912-999-8697 | WEBSITE
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Offering poke bowls, sushi, and other traditional Japanese dishes, this Japanese Cafe has a welcoming, laid back feel. The menu includes vegan and vegetarian options.
Try one of the house specialty cocktails or traditional sakes. The bar also offers a complete selection of wines and beer. Grab an indoor or outdoor table while enjoying some of the best sushi Savannah offers.
16. Vicks River Grill
$$ | 912-777-4387 | WEBSITE
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This once 1859 cotton warehouse is now the scene for a fun and vibrant southern dining experience.
With over 25 years of working alongside some of the top chefs in the industry, Chef Michael Semancik creates classic southern dishes with a fun twist. His passion for seafood, attention to detail, and love for the low-country show on every plate served. The perfect spot to enjoy contemporary seafood with friends and family.
Don’t let a lousy meal ruin your next trip to Savannah. More than just an excellent meal, a visit to any of the 16 best restaurants in Savannah will be an experience to remember.
Hayden has been a digital director for years. He has five years of experience editing and writing about food, restaurant, and recipe review content. At Birch Restaurant, he’s in charge of scouting, showing up unannounced in different restaurants, and writing a thorough food guide!
