• Savannah's culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and history.
  • Explore local eateries to experience authentic Savannah Southern cuisine.
  • Each eatery in Savannah has its own charm and story.
  • Don't miss out on classic dishes like shrimp and grits and fried chicken.

As the Spanish moss whispers tales of the past amidst Savannah's cobblestone streets, your senses are invited to a symphony of flavors that can only be described as a true Southern comfort. The city's culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry woven with rich history, local ingredients, and recipes passed down through generations. In this foodie's guide, we'll uncover the best local eateries in Savannah, where every bite tells a story.

Savoring Savannah's Southern Cuisine

Begin your gastronomic journey at a place where the ambiance is as warm as the welcome—a spot that locals and travelers alike swear by for authentic Savannah Southern cuisine. To truly understand the soul of Savannah, one must indulge in dishes that have stood the test of time, those that have been perfected in the kitchens of grandmothers and served with pride in local diners.

For those who believe that love can be served on a plate, there is no shortage of options. From succulent shrimp and grits to hearty portions of fried chicken and collards, every meal is a loving nod to tradition. Dive into the art of Southern comfort with dishes that will make your heart sing as much as your taste buds.

The Charm of Local Eateries

In the heart of Savannah lies an array of local eateries, each with its own character and story. Picture yourself at a quaint café tucked away under a canopy of oak trees, or perhaps at a bustling market where chefs showcase their culinary prowess using fresh, local produce. These places are not just restaurants; they are cornerstones of community life where every meal feels like Sunday dinner at grandma's house.

Savannah's Food Gems

  1. Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room Savannah
    Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room - A family-style spread of Southern classics that feels like a warm embrace.
  2. The Grey Savannah interior
    The Grey - Housed in a restored 1938 Greyhound Bus Terminal, this eatery offers a chic twist on Southern dishes.
  3. Leopold's Ice Cream parlor
    Leopold's Ice Cream - Time-travel to the 1920s with a scoop from this legendary ice cream parlor.
  4. Zunzi's sandwiches Savannah
    Zunzi's - A fusion of flavors, where South African meets Savannah in hearty sandwiches.
  5. Back in the Day Bakery Savannah
    Back in the Day Bakery - Artisanal breads and pastries that are a throwback to simpler times.
  6. Elizabeth on 37th Savannah
    Elizabeth on 37th - Experience fine dining in a charming Southern mansion, with a focus on local seafood and produce.
  7. Wiley's Championship BBQ Savannah
    Wiley's Championship BBQ - Where the smoke and spices create a symphony of flavors that define Savannah BBQ.
  8. Green Truck Pub Savannah
    Green Truck Pub - Burgers and beers done right, with a commitment to local and sustainable ingredients.
  9. Crystal Beer Parlor Savannah
    Crystal Beer Parlor - Savannah's oldest restaurant with a side of history, serving up classic pub fare.
  10. Treylor Park Savannah
    Treylor Park - Quirky and fun, this spot's inventive menu is as unique as its airstream trailer decor.

To truly appreciate this city's flavors, you must venture beyond the tourist traps and into neighborhoods where Savannah's unique gastronomy thrives. Engage with locals who will eagerly point you towards their favorite spots for fried green tomatoes or sweet pecan pie—a testament to their hospitality and pride in their culinary heritage.

A Taste Tour Through Comfort Food Classics

Comfort food in Savannah goes beyond simply satisfying hunger—it's about creating an experience that feels like home. Each establishment you visit has its own rendition of classic dishes, each adding personal touches while honoring tradition. Whether it’s the creamy embrace of macaroni cheese or the spicy kick from a bowl of gumbo, these meals resonate with stories and shared memories.

Savannah-Style Shrimp and Grits

You will need:

  • peeled deveined medium shrimpMedium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • quick-cooking grits packageQuick-cooking grits
  • grated sharp cheddar cheeseSharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • raw bacon stripsBacon strips
  • chicken broth cartonChicken broth
  • chopped green onionsGreen onions, chopped
  • minced garlicGarlic, minced
  • butter stickButter
  • heavy cream containerHeavy cream
  • Cajun seasoning bottleCajun seasoning
  • salt and pepper shakersSalt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet until crisp.
  2. Remove the bacon and set aside, then add shrimp to the skillet.
  3. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and cook until pink.
  4. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the bacon.
  5. In the same skillet, add garlic and green onions, cooking until fragrant.
  6. Prepare the grits according to package instructions, using chicken broth and water.
  7. Stir in the cheddar cheese and butter until melted and smooth.
  8. Serve the shrimp on top of the grits, garnished with crumbled bacon and green onions.

Notes

For an authentic Southern experience, use stone-ground grits if available and cook them a bit longer as per their instructions. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference. For a richer flavor, you can also stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream into the grits just before serving.

If you're wondering where to start this sensory adventure through comfort food Savannah-style, consider testing your knowledge with an interactive quiz on Savannah’s culinary scene. It might just lead you to discover your next favorite dish or dining spot!

In pursuit of these comfort classics, don't miss out on exploring recommended Southern comfort food restaurants detailed over at Grits 'n Grace. They offer insights into some hidden gems where each meal is served not just with expertise but also with soul.

What's Your Savannah Comfort Food Favorite?

Savannah is a treasure trove of comfort food delights! What dish do you crave the most when visiting this charming Southern city?

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In our next section, we'll continue our exploration by delving deeper into individual eateries that have become institutions within this charming city. We'll learn about their histories, their specialties, and how they contribute to making Savannah not only a visual masterpiece but also a destination for those who live to eat.

As the sun casts a golden hue over Savannah's cobblestone streets, your culinary journey through Southern comfort continues. Tucked away in the city's charming nooks are eateries that serve up soul-soothing dishes, each with a story as rich as their flavors. Let's delve into more local favorites that promise to satiate your cravings and steal your heart.

Wallace BBQ - A Smokehouse Sanctuary

Imagine the smoky aroma of slow-cooked meats that have been tenderizing for hours, the sizzle of juicy ribs as they're brushed with a secret sauce, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere that only a true Southern BBQ joint can offer. Wallace BBQ is this sanctuary for meat lovers, where every bite is a testament to generations of perfected recipes. Don't miss their pulled pork sandwich, a harmony of flavors that will have you planning your next visit before you even leave.

The Pie Society - A Slice of Heaven

In the heart of Savannah, a quaint bakery called The Pie Society serves up slices of heaven daily. Here, the buttery crusts and rich fillings are crafted with love and tradition. From savory chicken pot pies to sweet peach cobblers, each pie tells its own Southern tale. Pair your slice with a dollop of homemade whipped cream for an experience that's pure bliss.

The Pie Society's Famous Peach Cobbler

You will need:

  • fresh peachesFresh peaches
  • granulated sugarGranulated sugar
  • all-purpose flourAll-purpose flour
  • baking powderBaking powder
  • saltSalt
  • unsalted butterUnsalted butter
  • milkMilk
  • ground cinnamonGround cinnamon
  • nutmegNutmeg
  • vanilla extractVanilla extract
  • lemon juiceLemon juice

Instructions

  1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Peel, pit, and slice the peaches.
  3. In a saucepan, combine peaches, 1/4 cup sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until sugar is dissolved.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, 1 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Melt butter and add to the dry ingredients along with the milk and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined.
  6. Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  7. Spoon the peach mixture over the batter evenly.
  8. Sprinkle the top with cinnamon and nutmeg.
  9. Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown.
  10. Let it cool before serving.

Notes

For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season peaches. If fresh peaches are not available, you can substitute with high-quality canned peaches; just be sure to drain them well before use. Serve the cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Savannah Seafood Shack - Coastal Delights

For those craving the bounty of the sea served with Southern flair, Savannah Seafood Shack is your port of call. Their Lowcountry Boil—a delectable mix of shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage—is a colorful feast for both the eyes and palate. And let's not forget their famous fried catfish; it’s crispy on the outside and flaky within—a true coastal delight.

Savannah's Seafood Delights

  1. Cajun Seafood Rice Bowl
    Cajun Seafood Rice Bowl - A tantalizing mix of fresh shrimp, andouille sausage, and seasoned rice, bursting with the bold flavors of the South.
  2. Low Country Boil platter
    Low Country Boil - Dive into a traditional platter of succulent crab, corn on the cob, sausage, and potatoes, all steeped in a spicy, savory broth.
  3. Fried Green Tomato BLT
    Fried Green Tomato BLT - A Southern twist on a classic, featuring crispy fried green tomatoes, thick-cut bacon, and a creamy remoulade on toasted bread.
  4. Shrimp n’ Grits dish
    Shrimp n’ Grits - Creamy, stone-ground grits topped with juicy, spiced shrimp, a staple that captures the essence of Southern comfort.
  5. Savannah Crab Stew
    Crab Stew - A hearty bowl of rich and creamy stew, brimming with tender crab meat and a blend of Savannah's signature spices.

As you meander through Savannah's enchanting streets lined with Spanish moss-draped oaks, take a moment to reflect on the culinary wonders you've encountered. From smoky barbecues to sweet pastries and fresh seafood delights, this city has offered you an authentic taste of Southern comfort food.

Join The Culinary Conversation

Your foodie adventure wouldn't be complete without sharing your experiences or learning more about Savannah’s unique gastronomy. Engage with fellow travelers and locals alike—exchange stories over shared meals or partake in quizzes to test your newfound knowledge about this city’s rich culinary heritage.

Which Southern Delight Tantalizes Your Taste Buds the Most?

After reading about Savannah's mouth-watering local eateries, we're curious to know - what's your ultimate Southern comfort food?

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Savannah's Culinary Delights

Are you ready to test your knowledge on the best local eateries that Savannah has to offer? Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just planning your next trip, this quiz will guide you through some of the must-visit spots for Southern comfort food in this charming city.

Whether you're reminiscing about savory bites at top-rated restaurants or dreaming about traditional Southern cooking, remember that each dish carries with it a piece of Savannah’s soul. So as you bid farewell to these storied streets and eateries, know that the flavors you’ve savored are not just meals—they're memories etched into the very fabric of this historic city.

To continue exploring what makes Savannah truly special—from its unique gastronomy to its vibrant culture—visit our comprehensive guides and quizzes. Test your knowledge on Savannah’s culinary scene, or find out which dish best represents your personality through our fun quizzes like Discover Your Next Savannah Dining Experience. And if you're looking for recommendations on where to indulge in more Southern comfort food during your stay, don't hesitate to check out recommended local eateries.

Savor each flavor; cherish each moment under Georgia’s warm skies; let each meal be an invitation back to the enchanting city of Savannah—where every dish is served with a side of history and heart.

Randy Hill
Photography, hiking, nature, local landscapes

Randy Hill, an outdoor enthusiast and nature photographer, captures the essence of Savannah's landscapes in his writing. His articles are a visual and descriptive journey through the most scenic spots in and around the city.

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