Savannah, Georgia, is renowned for its stunning architecture, picturesque parks, and rich history. However, the city’s culinary scene is often overlooked, leaving many to wonder: Does Savannah, GA have good food? The answer is a resounding yes. From traditional Southern comfort food to innovative, modern twists, Savannah’s restaurants offer a diverse range of delicious options to satisfy any palate.
A Brief History of Savannah’s Culinary Scene
Savannah’s culinary heritage is deeply rooted in its history. Founded in 1733, the city was a major port, attracting immigrants from various parts of the world, including Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean. These diverse influences have shaped the city’s cuisine, resulting in a unique blend of flavors and cooking techniques.
The Impact of Southern Cuisine
Southern cuisine plays a significant role in Savannah’s culinary identity. Traditional dishes like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and biscuits and gravy are staples in many local restaurants. The city’s Southern roots are evident in its use of local ingredients, such as seafood, pecans, and Vidalia onions.
Lowcountry Cuisine
Savannah’s proximity to the coast has also influenced its cuisine, with Lowcountry specialties like Frogmore stew (a hearty dish made with shrimp, smoked sausage, and potatoes) and oyster po’ boys being popular choices. The city’s chefs often incorporate fresh seafood into their menus, showcasing the region’s bounty.
Must-Try Savannah Restaurants
Savannah is home to a wide range of restaurants, from casual eateries to upscale establishments. Here are some must-try spots:
Traditional Southern Cuisine
- The Olde Pink House: This 18th-century mansion turned restaurant serves classic Southern dishes with a focus on local ingredients.
- Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room: This beloved institution has been serving up Southern comfort food since 1943.
- The Lady & Sons: Paula Deen’s flagship restaurant offers a range of Southern favorites, including fried chicken and mac and cheese.
Seafood and Lowcountry Cuisine
- The Crab Shack: This casual, waterfront restaurant serves up fresh seafood, including crab legs, shrimp, and oysters.
- Bernie’s Oyster House: This local favorite has been serving up oysters and other seafood delicacies since 1967.
- 17Hundred90 Inn and Restaurant: This historic inn and restaurant offers a range of Lowcountry dishes, including shrimp and grits and fried green tomatoes.
Modern Twists and Innovative Cuisine
- The Grey: Located in a restored 1930s Greyhound bus depot, this restaurant offers a range of creative, farm-to-table dishes.
- The Sentient Bean: This coffee shop and café serves up innovative vegetarian and vegan dishes, including a popular vegan “cheese” board.
- Elizabeth on 37th: This upscale restaurant offers a range of modern Southern dishes, including shrimp and grits and fried chicken.
Food Tours and Festivals
Savannah is a city that loves to celebrate its food, with numerous festivals and tours throughout the year.
Savannah Food Tours
- Savannah Taste Experience: This 3-hour tour takes you through the city’s historic district, sampling dishes from local restaurants and eateries.
- Foxy Loxy Cafe’s Food Tour: This tour focuses on the city’s coffee culture, with stops at local cafes and bakeries.
Food Festivals
- Savannah Food and Wine Festival: This annual festival celebrates the city’s culinary scene, with wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, and live music.
- Taste of Savannah: This festival showcases the city’s diverse culinary offerings, with samples from local restaurants and food trucks.
Conclusion
Savannah, GA, is a city that takes its food seriously, with a rich culinary heritage and a thriving food scene. From traditional Southern comfort food to innovative, modern twists, there’s something for every palate in this charming city. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply looking for a new destination to explore, Savannah is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves good food.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Savannah, be sure to check out the city’s official tourism website for more information on restaurants, food tours, and festivals. With its mild climate, beautiful architecture, and delicious food, Savannah is a city that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
What makes Savannah’s culinary scene unique?
Savannah’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich history and cultural heritage. The city’s strategic location as a port city has made it a melting pot of different cuisines, with influences from African, European, and Caribbean traditions. This blend of flavors and cooking techniques has resulted in a unique culinary identity that is distinct from other Southern cities. From traditional Lowcountry dishes to innovative fusion cuisine, Savannah’s restaurants offer a diverse range of flavors that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Another factor that contributes to Savannah’s unique culinary scene is its emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients. Many restaurants in the city source their ingredients from local farmers and fishermen, ensuring that their dishes are fresh, sustainable, and reflective of the region’s bounty. This commitment to local ingredients has helped to establish Savannah as a hub for farm-to-table cuisine, attracting foodies and chefs from around the world.
What are some must-try dishes in Savannah?
Savannah is famous for its traditional Lowcountry cuisine, which features dishes such as shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and oysters. These classic dishes are often served with a twist, incorporating fresh ingredients and creative flavor combinations. Another must-try dish in Savannah is the city’s famous pralines, which are made with sugar, cream, and pecans. These sweet treats are a staple of Southern cuisine and are often served as a dessert or snack.
In addition to traditional Lowcountry cuisine, Savannah is also known for its innovative fusion dishes, which blend different culinary traditions to create something new and exciting. Some popular fusion dishes in Savannah include Korean barbecue tacos, shrimp and grits with a spicy kick, and fried chicken with waffles. These creative dishes reflect the city’s cultural diversity and its willingness to experiment with new flavors and ingredients.
What are some popular restaurants in Savannah?
Savannah is home to a wide range of restaurants, from traditional Southern eateries to innovative fusion restaurants. Some popular restaurants in the city include The Olde Pink House, which serves up classic Southern cuisine in a historic mansion, and The Grey, which offers a modern take on traditional Lowcountry dishes. Another popular restaurant in Savannah is The Lady & Sons, which is owned by celebrity chef Paula Deen and serves up classic Southern comfort food.
In addition to these well-known restaurants, Savannah is also home to a number of smaller, independent eateries that offer a unique dining experience. Some popular options include The Sentient Bean, a coffee shop that serves up delicious sandwiches and salads, and The Collins Quarter, a Australian-inspired cafe that offers a range of breakfast and brunch options. These smaller restaurants offer a more intimate and personalized dining experience, making them a great option for those looking to try something new.
What is the best way to experience Savannah’s culinary scene?
One of the best ways to experience Savannah’s culinary scene is to take a food tour of the city. These tours offer a guided tour of Savannah’s restaurants and eateries, providing visitors with a taste of the city’s diverse culinary offerings. Many food tours also offer behind-the-scenes access to Savannah’s kitchens, allowing visitors to meet the chefs and learn about the city’s culinary traditions.
In addition to food tours, another great way to experience Savannah’s culinary scene is to visit the city’s many farmers markets. These markets offer a wide range of fresh, local ingredients, as well as prepared foods and artisanal products. Visitors can sample the city’s best produce, cheeses, and baked goods, and meet the farmers and artisans who produce them. This is a great way to experience the city’s culinary scene in a more casual and relaxed setting.
What are some popular food festivals in Savannah?
Savannah is home to a number of popular food festivals throughout the year, celebrating the city’s culinary heritage and showcasing its best chefs and restaurants. One of the most popular food festivals in Savannah is the Savannah Food & Wine Festival, which takes place every November and features a range of food and wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, and live music.
Another popular food festival in Savannah is the Taste of Savannah, which takes place every March and features a range of food and drink vendors, as well as live music and entertainment. This festival is a great way to experience the city’s culinary scene in a fun and lively atmosphere, and is a must-visit for foodies and families alike.
Can I find vegetarian and vegan options in Savannah?
Yes, Savannah has a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options, catering to the growing demand for plant-based cuisine. Many of the city’s restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, from traditional Southern favorites like fried green tomatoes and grits to innovative fusion dishes like vegan “cheese” plates and plant-based burgers.
In addition to restaurants, Savannah is also home to a number of health food stores and specialty shops that offer a wide range of vegetarian and vegan products. These stores offer a great selection of fresh produce, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, as well as prepared foods and artisanal products. Visitors can also find a number of vegan and vegetarian cafes and bakeries throughout the city, offering a range of delicious plant-based treats.
Are there any cooking classes available in Savannah?
Yes, Savannah offers a number of cooking classes and culinary workshops, allowing visitors to learn about the city’s culinary traditions and techniques. Many of the city’s restaurants and cooking schools offer classes, from beginner-friendly sessions on traditional Southern cuisine to more advanced workshops on specialized topics like pastry-making and food photography.
In addition to cooking classes, Savannah is also home to a number of culinary schools and institutes that offer more in-depth training and certification programs. These programs are designed for aspiring chefs and food professionals, and offer a comprehensive education in culinary arts and sciences. Visitors can also find a number of online cooking classes and tutorials, allowing them to learn about Savannah’s culinary scene from the comfort of their own homes.