Savannah’s Best Restaurants: 7 Must-Try Dining Spots

Savannah’s Must-Try Restaurants: A Culinary Guide to the Hostess City

Historic charm, lush squares, and Spanish moss set the backdrop for Savannah’s dynamic dining scene. From classic Southern eateries to innovative restaurants breathing new life into old spaces, Savannah is a true food lover’s destination. This comprehensive guide explores the city’s most acclaimed restaurants—each offering a unique taste of the Hostess City’s spirit, hospitality, and irresistible flavors.

The Lady & Sons

Paula Deen’s The Lady & Sons is an iconic Downtown Savannah establishment renowned for timeless Southern cooking and warm hospitality. What began as a humble home-based catering business evolved into a welcoming restaurant every visitor should experience.

• Location: Downtown Savannah
• Signature Dishes:
  • Golden fried chicken
  • Collard greens
  • Baked macaroni and cheese
  • Homemade biscuits
• Atmosphere: Family-friendly, cozy, and vibrant

The Lady & Sons offers hearty lunch and dinner buffets complemented by attentive service in a bustling, fun atmosphere. Its recipes celebrate Southern tradition, inspiring generations and delighting all ages. The restaurant was named “International Meal of the Year,” reflecting its reputation for elevated comfort fare and Paula Deen’s infectious personality, which makes every visit memorable.

Crystal Beer Parlor

Crystal Beer Parlor stands as Savannah’s oldest restaurant, a beloved haunt where locals and visitors mingle over burgers, craft brews, and regional favorites. Located on historic West Jones Street, its walls echo stories from the Prohibition era onward.

• Location: West Jones Street
• Signature Dishes:
  • Parlor burgers
  • Beer-battered onion rings
  • She-crab soup
• Beverages: Local and craft beer selection
• Ambiance: Casual, nostalgic, and lively

Crystal Beer Parlor’s easygoing atmosphere and stories—ranging from secretive meetings to legends of infamous guests like Al Capone—make it more than just a restaurant. Its beer selection pairs with classic pub fare, attracting everyone from families to beer aficionados.

Belford’s Steaks & Seafood

Nestled in the heart of City Market, Belford’s is celebrated for upscale Southern cuisine, world-class steaks, and the freshest seafood. Its award-winning wine list and exceptional service draw locals and tourists seeking an elegant meal in a historic setting.

• Location: City Market, Savannah
• Highlights:
  • Hand-cut steaks and seafood specials
  • Extensive fine wine selection
  • Signature crab cakes, lobster tails, and premium filets
• Atmosphere: Refined, relaxed, and friendly

Belford’s is set in a beautifully restored historic building, offering a memorable backdrop for business dinners, celebrations, or a night out. Diners return for quality—the ingredients, the craftsmanship, and the skillful blending of Southern tastes with elegant presentation.

Green Truck Neighborhood Pub

When simplicity and flavor matter most, Savannah’s Green Truck Neighborhood Pub delivers with its acclaimed burgers, fresh local produce, and house-made specialties. It’s a classic American burger joint with a proud commitment to sustainability and community.

• Location: Starland/Thomas Square neighborhood
• Signature Items:
  • Pimento cheeseburger
  • Hand-cut fries
  • House-made ketchup and pickles
• Awards: Multiple-time winner of Connect Savannah’s “Best of Savannah”
• Atmosphere: Fun, casual, and welcoming

Green Truck uses locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing freshness in every bite. The vibe is laid-back, making it great for families or friends. Their truck-inspired décor is rooted in Savannah culture, and regulars can’t get enough of the classics like the Green Truck Classic.

Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room

Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room is a Savannah institution—a place for genuine Southern hospitality and comforting home-style cuisine. The legendary lines outside its modest door are a testament to its reputation for serving the best in Southern lunch fare.

• Location: Jones Street, Savannah
• Dining Style:
  • Communal tables encourage conversation and connection
  • All-you-can-eat, family-style lunch service
• Classic Dishes:
  • Fried chicken and pork chops
  • Sweet potato souffle
  • Black-eyed peas
  • Okra gumbo
  • Flaky biscuits
• Awards: Southern Living’s bucket list, Savannnah.com’s top picks

Diners at Mrs. Wilkes are treated as family, sharing heaping platters of Southern classics and passing dishes around the table. The experience is more than a meal; it’s a tradition, drawing visitors and locals alike to indulge in time-honored flavors made fresh daily.

Elizabeth on 37th

Located where Savannah’s Historic and Victorian districts meet, Elizabeth on 37th blends Southern hospitality, fine dining, and a historic mansion atmosphere. Chef Elizabeth Terry’s vision thrives in this celebrated restaurant, offering innovative cuisine in a memorable setting.

• Location: 37th Street, Savannah
• Atmosphere: Upscale, romantic, with Southern mansion elegance
• Menu Highlights:
  • Seasonal specials with house-grown herbs
  • Fresh local seafood
  • Signature salads and desserts

Elizabeth on 37th is renowned for its blending of Southern flavors with contemporary culinary techniques, making each dish both comforting and special. It’s a favorite for anniversaries, celebrations, or anyone seeking an elevated Savannah dining experience.

The Grey

The Grey redefined Savannah dining by transforming a 1930s art deco Greyhound bus terminal into a critically acclaimed restaurant. The dynamic team of John Morisano and Chef Mashama Bailey brought fresh vision, sophistication, and inventive cuisine to the city.

• Location: 109 MLK Jr. Blvd., Savannah
• Notable Accolades:
  • Southern Living #1 Best Local Restaurant in the South
  • Multiple James Beard Award nominations
• Signature Dishes:
  • Grilled NY strip steak
  • Lamb shoulder
  • Carolina Gold Rice
  • Chocolate panna cotta
• Ambiance: Stylish, artistic, and distinctly Savannah

The Grey’s blend of Southern tradition and cosmopolitan flair attracts serious foodies, critics, and Savannah locals who appreciate innovative seasonal menus and attentive service. Its imaginative plates and stylish interior make it a must-visit for anyone seeking sophistication and bold flavor in the Hostess City.

Comparison Table: Savannah’s Most Renowned Restaurants

Additional Recommendations and Tips

• Reservations: Consider booking in advance, especially for The Grey, Elizabeth on 37th, and Mrs. Wilkes.
• Local Ingredients: Many restaurants emphasize farm-to-table freshness and use local vendors and seafood.
• Historic Settings: Dine in restored mansions, vintage pubs, and repurposed bus terminals for a uniquely Savannah ambiance.
• Nightlife: City Market and Starland/Thomas Square offer vibrant nightlife options post-meal.
• Dietary Needs: Most establishments can accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly requests.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the typical cuisine style found in Savannah’s top restaurants?

A: The majority feature Southern comfort food, but the city boasts everything from upscale seafood and steak to creative modern and international fusion.

Q: Is it necessary to make a reservation for Savannah’s renowned restaurants?

A: Some restaurants accept walk-ins, but reservations are recommended for high-demand spots like The Grey, Elizabeth on 37th, and Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room—especially during peak tourist seasons.

Q: Are there vegetarian or vegan-friendly dining options?

A: Yes—while many menus focus on Southern classics, several spots provide plant-based options or can customize certain dishes to accommodate dietary needs.

Q: Which restaurant is best for an authentic Southern family-style dining experience?

A: Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room remains the benchmark for true communal, family-style meals with classic Southern dishes.

Q: Which restaurants are optimal for a special occasion or romantic dinner?

A: Elizabeth on 37th and The Grey are top picks for upscale ambiance, innovative cuisine, and memorable evenings.

Exploring Savannah’s Culinary Neighborhoods

Savannah’s dining scene is as varied as its architecture. City Market offers bustling energy and central location; Starland/Thomas Square features trendsetting eateries like Green Truck Pub; and the Historic/Victorian intersect provides elegant old-school mansions with acclaimed kitchens. Each neighborhood offers a distinct mood and flavor profile.

A Final Taste of Savannah

Whether you crave golden fried chicken, crave-worthy burgers, refined Southern seafood, or modern interpretations of local classics, Savannah’s restaurant scene promises unforgettable meals for every palate. Plan your journey carefully, toast with locals, and discover why the Hostess City remains one of the South’s premier culinary capitals.