Savannah is well-known for its stunning architecture, spectacular squares, and southern charm… but something Savannah is also known for is its phenomenal Southern food!
Savannah’s rich culinary tradition is deeply rooted in Lowcountry cuisine, a unique culinary style found along the coasts of South Carolina and Georgia, that can be discovered at many of the best restaurants in Savannah, GA. Keep reading to learn more about the most popular Southern dishes to try and the best restaurants to visit, to prepare for a mouthwateringly delicious trip to Savannah!
What Type of Southern Food Is Savannah Best Known For?
Savannah’s southern food scene generally falls into one of two categories (or a blend of both!): classic Southern food or Lowcountry cuisine.
Southern classics include fried chicken, cornbread, collard greens, mac ‘n’ cheese, fried green tomatoes, and other hearty “soul food” favorites you’ll find in most Southern destinations. Lowcountry cuisine, however, is unique to the coasts of South Carolina and Georgia and is heavily inspired by Gullah-Geechee culture. This style of Southern cuisine heavily emphasizes fresh seafood (like shrimp, oysters, crab, and clams), rice, and hearty vegetables.
Iconic Southern Dishes to Try in Savannah
While you’re visiting Savannah, don’t miss the chance to try these Southern specialties at one of the top-rated restaurants in Savannah:
- Shrimp & Grits — Sautéed shrimp served with creamy grits in a flavorful sauce is considered Savannah’s most iconic dish and a classic dish to try in the coastal South.
- She-Crab Soup — A Lowcountry favorite, this hearty soup is made similarly to a bisque with heavy cream, crab or fish stock, and crab meat.
- Fried Green Tomatoes — Battered and fried green tomatoes are usually served as a delicious appetizer with pimento cheese (another Savannah staple!).
- Peach Cobbler — After a delicious Southern dinner, try famous Georgia peaches in a classic Southern dessert, peach cobbler!
Top Spots to Find Southern Food in Savannah
Ready to try some of these iconic dishes? Savannah offers a range of Southern restaurants, from casual diners to high-end eateries, making it easy to explore the town’s vibrant foodie scene on any budget. Here are some of our top picks for Southern restaurants in Savannah:
1. The Olde Pink House
- Address: 23 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Price: $$$
The Olde Pink House is the most iconic restaurant in Savannah, with a rich history that dates back to the 1700s. This pink building with a charming, old-world-style interior houses one of the city’s most elevated Southern dining experiences, paired with impeccable service, making it perfect for celebrating a special occasion. The menu features Southern and Lowcountry classics with a refined twist, such as fried green tomatoes, she-crab soup, and shrimp.
2. Alligator Soul Restaurant
- Address: 114 Barnard St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Price: $$$
Alligator Soul Restaurant is another top-rated restaurant in Savannah, renowned for its attentive service and Southern and Lowcountry classics with elevated flair. Some of the menu highlights include gumbo, shrimp and grits, wild game, and, of course, crispy fried alligator and candied alligator (hence the restaurant’s name… don’t knock it until you try it!).
3. Vic’s on the River
- Address: 26 E Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Price: $$
For a delightful dining experience on River Street, head to Vic’s on the River. This upscale establishment serves Southern classics with an emphasis on seafood, featuring dishes such as shrimp and grits, pan-seared scallops, fried po’ boys, and pecan-fried flounder. And, in addition to its great food, this restaurant serves up stunning waterfront views of the Savannah River!
4. Repeal 33
- Address: 125 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401
- Price: $$
Repeal 33 is a fantastic spot for a modern southern dinner or brunch in Savannah. Although this swanky cocktail lounge is known for its drinks, guests can also pair their cocktails with a wonderful Southern meal that boasts a refined flair. Some of the menu highlights include shrimp and grits, southern schnitzel, pan-seared halibut, and a raw bar serving oysters, chilled shrimp, and crab rolls.
5. Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room
- Address: 107 W Jones St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Price: $
Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room is one of the most famous restaurants in Savannah — and for good reason! This family-style dining room, which has been open since the 1930s, is an ideal venue for savoring some classic Southern comfort food. You’ll find staples like fried chicken, gumbo, baked beans, fried okra, and cornbread dressing on the menu at this beloved cash-only establishment in Savannah.
6. Treylor Park
- Address: 115 E Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Price: $
For an innovative, playful approach to classic Southern favorites, head to Treylor Park in Savannah. This laid-back restaurant serves brunch, dinner, and cocktails, specializing in unexpected Southern flavor combinations that work exceptionally well together. Try the fried chicken and pancake tacos, hot chicken and waffles, or PB&J chicken wings to see what you think for yourself!
7. The Grey
- Address: 109 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401
- Price: $$
The Grey is a one-of-a-kind restaurant, located in an art deco Greyhound Bus Terminal that has been carefully restored to offer a unique dining experience in the heart of Savannah. The Grey specializes in deep, soulful dishes crafted with regional produce, seafood, and meats, offering a refined, chef-inspired twist on Southern favorites.
8. Husk
- Address:
- Price: $$$
For a sophisticated spin on Southern classics, head to Husk in Savannah’s Historic District. This high-end restaurant offers great service and a rotating menu featuring iconic coastal ingredients and flavors that the Lowcountry is known for, sourced from local farmers and waterways in Savannah.
Savor Authentic Southern Dining in Savannah During a Stay with South Key Management
Whether you’re in the mood for good ‘ole Southern classics, like fried chicken and peach cobbler, or an elevated spin on the fresh-caught seafood and vibrant flavors found in Lowcountry cuisine, you’re bound to find a mouthwateringly delicious dish in Savannah’s Historic District!
To fully immerse yourself in Savannah’s spectacular dining scene, stay in a charming vacation rental with South Key Management. Our beautiful homes are located in the heart of Historic Downtown Savannah within walking distance of all these top-rated restaurants, so you can sample as much Southern cuisine as possible during your trip to the Lowcountry. Browse our properties to find the perfect one for you!
