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16 Restaurants in Savannah You’ll Actually Want to Eat At

Savannah isn’t just charming — it’s one of the South’s most underrated food cities. From refined Southern tasting menus to bold ramen bowls and riverfront seafood, these top restaurants in Savannah go far beyond fried shrimp and sweet tea.

After multiple trips — our honeymoon, girls’ weekends, and spontaneous getaways — I’ve eaten my way through Savannah’s best restaurants. I’ve splurged on intimate fine dining, waited in brunch lines for those must-have mimosas, and even dined in buildings rumored to be haunted.

I’m rounding up my favorite restaurants in Savannah that I’d go back to again and again — whether you’re craving fresh seafood, classic Southern dishes, handmade pasta, ramen, sushi, burgers, or a laid-back brunch with park views.

A white round plate holds a deep-fried sushi roll cut into bite-size pieces, arranged in a circle around a pool of reddish dipping sauce at CO Sushi in Savannah, Georgia. The crispy exterior reveals rice, seaweed, and pink fish inside. The plate sits on a wooden table, with a drink glass and another small dish partially visible in the background.

Where to Eat in Savannah

1. Alligator Soul

Fine Dining, Southern

If you’re looking for one of the most unforgettable fine dining restaurants in Savannah, Alligator Soul is it.

Tucked beneath street level in a restored 1800s grain warehouse, the atmosphere is immaculate — exposed brick walls, candlelight, and a cozy, intimate dining room that feels equal parts romantic and slightly mysterious.

We came here on our honeymoon in Savannah, and it was the most memorable meal of the entire trip.

This is one of the pricier Savannah restaurants (and reservations are practically required), so I’d save it for a special occasion — anniversary, honeymoon, or your one big splurge meal of the trip.

I recommend the Mushroom Salad, the Crispy Alligator, and their Wild Game Specialty.

114 Barnard St, Savannah, GA 31401

2. B. Matthew’s Eatery

American, Brunch

White bowl filled with wide pasta noodles in a brown sauce, topped with shaved Parmesan cheese and pieces of crispy fried chicken at B. Matthew's Eatery in Savannah, Georgia. The dish sits on a dark wooden restaurant table, with water glasses and a cocktail blurred in the background.

B. Matthew’s Eatery blends historic charm with genuinely good food (not just trendy tourist hype, though it is very trendy).

Located in a restored late-1700s building on Bay Street, the exposed brick walls, tall windows, and vintage details make it feel classic Savannah. It’s right in the heart of the Historic District, which means it does get busy, especially for weekend brunch, but the line is so worth it.

On my first visit, I went for brunch, and their mimosas paired with their signature Fried Green Tomato & Crab Cake Benny is the best way to start the day.

On my second visit, I came for dinner where the menu shifts into more modern Southern fare, with locally sourced ingredients and thoughtful plating.

This is one of those Savannah restaurants that I keep coming back to time and time again. I recommend the Avocado Toast for brunch or the Shrimp & Grits for dinner.

325 E Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401

3. Collins Quarter at Forsyth

Brunch, Cafe

Black round plate holding a breakfast sandwich and waffle-style hash browns on a wooden outdoor table at Collins Quarter at Forsyth in Savannah, Georgia. The sandwich has a glossy brioche bun filled with a fried egg, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and greens. A small metal cup of ketchup sits beside two golden-brown waffle-shaped hash browns. A folded white napkin and a water glass are visible in the background.

Collins Quarter at Forsyth is one of the best brunch restaurants in Savannah. On a beautiful day, you’ll definitely want to grab a patio table and linger.

Their menu offers classic brunch and Southern dishes, like a tender, slow-braised Short Rib Hash or seasonal pancakes and specialty lattes.

We ate here on a weekend morning, and it is very popular. Expect a wait during peak brunch hours. But the location alone makes it a worthwhile stop, especially if you’re already exploring Forsyth Park.

Go early (before 9am) if you want a patio seat without a long wait, or opt for a weekday brunch. Dinner is typically quieter and makes for a relaxed date night with park views.

I recommend the Breakfast Sandwich, paired with their Strawberry Fields Mimosa.

621 Drayton St, Savannah, GA 31401

4. The Pirate’s House

Seafood, Southern

Square white plate filled with creamy pasta topped with a generous mound of grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkled with chopped herbs from The Pirates House restaurant in Savannah, Georgia. Two grilled sausage links rest on either side of the pasta, with a slice of toasted bread at the top of the plate. A large spoon sits on the right side, and the dish is placed on a wooden restaurant table with a printed placemat underneath.

If you want dinner served with a side of ghostly activity, then you won’t want to miss The Pirate’s House.

Originally opened as an inn in 1753, this is one of the oldest buildings in Savannah (the Herb House annex is said to be the oldest standing structure in Georgia). Walking through the restaurant’s maze of rooms is like stepping into a different century.

And there’s plenty of pirate lore, as well as ghost lore, and some of the staff were very open to telling us all about it on our visit!

You can still see the entrance to the tunnel where sailors were allegedly kidnapped and forced onto ships. And several rooms are rumored to be haunted, including the Herb House, some of the banquet rooms, and the gift shop. This is one of the most haunted spots in Savannah, and the best way to explore it is to eat here.

The menu focuses on classic Southern fare: fried chicken, shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and hearty seafood dishes.

I recommend the Mardi Gras Pasta with Chicken.

20 E Broad St, Savannah, GA 31401

5. Corleone’s

Italian, Mediterranean

Corleone’s Trattoria is a cozy little downtown restaurant serving Italian and Mediterranean dishes, perfect for when you need a break from another day of Southern cuisine.

Tucked away on a quieter stretch of the Historic District, this spot is intimate and unpretentious with white tablecloths, low lighting, and that classic neighborhood trattoria energy that makes it ideal for a romantic dinner without the fine-dining formality.

Portions are generous, so consider splitting an appetizer or pasta if you’re not starving. Or be ready to take home some leftovers!

I recommend the Spaghetti and Meatballs (a classic, comforting Italian dish that they do consistently well) or the Baked Ziti (for something hearty and satisfying).

44 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401

6. YATAI Ramen + Yakitori

Ramen, Japanese

YATAI Ramen + Yakitori is a fun and unexpected restaurant in Savannah that serves Japanese street food, ramen, and yakitori.

The inside looks like a traditional Japanese food stall, with anime murals decorating the walls and anime playing on the TV. It’s playful, casual, and completely different from the historic, Southern vibe you’ll find at many Savannah restaurants.

The ramen here is rich and deeply savory and a broth that isn’t watered down. A bowl of ramen is just what you need to satisfy you after a day of exploring the best of Savannah, or to warm up during the mild Savannah winters.

This is the perfect nerdy restaurant for anime-lovers and Japanophiles! Kevin felt right at home here.

I recommend the Miso Ramen with Grilled Marinated Chicken or the Red Hot Spicy Miso Ramen with Pork Chashu.

10 Barnard St, Savannah, GA 31401

7. Zunzi’s

Sandwich, South African

Red plastic tray holding a  sandwich filled with lettuce, grilled chicken, sliced tomatoes, and shredded Parmesan cheese, wrapped in white paper at Zunzi's in Savannah, Georgia. Two small plastic cups of dressing sit beside the wrap. A bag of kettle chips and a clear plastic cup of water are visible on the wooden table in the background.

Zunzi’s is a South African-inspired sandwich shop that’s bright, beachy, and bold with tons of flavor and no frills.

Decorated with giant rainbow umbrellas outside and with a soundtrack of reggae pumping through the speakers, this is a casual, lively, and laid-back lunch spot.

Their signature “Sh*t Yeah!” sauce (and their signature “Sh*t Yeah! service) keeps people coming back for more. The sauce is tangy, slightly sweet, a little spicy, and completely addictive.

I recommend their Conquistador, their most popular sandwich with chicken, provolone, lettuce, parmesan, and their famous sauce.

236 Drayton St, Savannah, GA 31401

8. Tequila’s Town Mexican Restaurant

Tex-Mex, Mexican

Tequila’s Town Mexican Restaurant is consistently voted the best Mexican restaurant in Savannah. This restaurant serves bold, comforting Tex-Mex and classic Mexican fare.

This spot leans vibrant and energetic, with colorful décor, upbeat music, and an atmosphere that’s made for celebratory margaritas.

The menu covers all the classics — enchiladas, fajitas, burritos, tacos — but the portions are generous and the flavors are bold.

I recommend the Molcajete, served bubbling hot in a traditional stone bowl and loaded with grilled meats and melted cheese, or the Avocado Burrito, which is lighter but still satisfying.

Downtown: 109 Whitaker St, Savannah, GA 31401

Sandfly: 7360 Skidaway Road, suites G1 & G2, 7360 Skidaway Rd, Savannah, GA 31406

9. B&D Burgers

Burgers, Sandwiches

A square white plate holds two small burger sliders with glossy brioche buns, each secured with a wooden pick, alongside a generous pile of golden French fries at B&D Burgers in Savannah, Georgia. The plate sits on a colorful wooden table, with a red drink and small appetizer dishes visible in the background.

B&D Burgers is one of the go-to burger restaurants in Savannah. They serve up big, stacked, fully-loaded gourmet burgers with creative toppings in a casual, sports-bar atmosphere.

Their gourmet burger lineup includes everything from bacon-loaded classics to spicy builds with jalapeños and specialty sauces. The patties are thick and juicy, cooked to order, and the buns hold up well.

I recommend the Alligator Sliders as a Savannah rite of passage (and it’s an non-intimidating way to try something alligator) or the B&D Fried Chicken Sandwich.

West Congress S: 209 W Congress St, Savannah, GA 31401

Broughton St: 13 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401

Pooler: 238 Pooler Pkwy G, Pooler, GA 31322

10. Spanky’s River Street

Pizza, Chicken Fingers

Overhead view of two small, thin-crust pizzas on round metal pans placed on a rustic wooden table at Spanky's Pizza Galley and Saloon in Savannah, Georgia. The top pizza is topped with melted cheese, crumbled sausage, and small pieces of ham or bacon. The bottom pizza has melted cheese and pepperoni slices, with one slice partially cut and separated. A knife rests on each pan, and a folded white napkin sits nearby.

Spanky’s Pizza Galley & Saloon on River Street is a classic, casual Savannah restaurant that’s been feeding locals and visitors since 1976.

The vibe is old-school with nautical décor, exposed brick, neon beer signs, and a relaxed energy.

Their name may say “pizza”, but they’re actually known for their amazing Original Chicken Fingers. They’re hand-breaded, perfectly crisp on the outside, juicy inside, and served with their signature honey mustard.

That said, I do recommend their pizza. Their customizable personal-sized pizzas are ideal if everyone in your group wants something different.

317 E River St, Savannah, GA 31401

11. The Sentient Bean

Coffee, Breakfast

The Sentient Bean is one of the most charming vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Savannah. Located on the quieter south end of Forsyth Park, this relaxed, locally loved breakfast spot is the perfect neighborhood hangout.

We stopped here during our girls’ trip for a quick breakfast and cup of coffee on our first full morning in Savannah.

Their menu is fully vegetarian, with plenty of vegan options. The breakfast plates are hearty and satisfying — think tofu scrambles packed with vegetables and seasoning, breakfast sandwiches layered with eggs and melty cheese, and house-made baked goods that pair perfectly with a strong cup of fair-trade coffee.

I recommend the Breakfast Burrito — it’s simple with eggs, cheddar, black beans, spinach, and salsa.

13 E Park Ave, Savannah, GA 31401

12. Java Burrito

Burritos, Coffee

Bright, modern fast-casual restaurant interior of Java Burrito in Savannah, Georgia, with an open kitchen behind a glass sneeze guard. Staff members prepare food at a long counter with metal ingredient bins. Large black menu boards listing steps, beverages, coffee, and prices hang above the counter. Stacks of brown paper takeout bags sit on the right, and light wood tables and chairs are visible in the foreground.

Java Burrito offers the unlikely pairing of coffee and burritos. On one end of the shop is a coffee bar and on the other is a build-your-own burrito counter.

It sounds random, but it works!

We stopped in when we needed something quick before heading back out to explore, and it ended up being one of those low-key reliable finds you’re glad to have bookmarked.

The burrito setup is customizable, Chipotle-style, but with fresher, locally sourced ingredients. You can go classic with grilled chicken, rice, beans, and salsa — or lean into something more flavor-forward with house sauces and fresh toppings.

420 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401

13. Carey Hilliard’s

Diner, Family-Friendly

If you want a true local institution instead of a tourist-heavy hotspot, Carey Hilliard’s is one of the most classic restaurants in Savannah.

This is the kind of place that generations of Savannah families have grown up eating at — we actually came here because Kevin used to eat here with his family growing up.

The vibe is casual-diner-meets-Southern-barbecue-joint. Nothing fancy. Just vinyl booths, sweet tea, and large portions.

I recommend the Original Club (it’s their biggest seller for a reason) and the Barbecue Sandwich paired with classic sides.

Skidaway Rd: 3316 Skidaway Rd, Savannah, GA 31404

Waters Ave: 8410 Waters Ave, Savannah, GA 31406

Abercorn St: 11111 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31419

Hwy 80: 514 US-80, Garden City, GA 31408

Hwy 21: 5350 GA-21, Garden City, GA 31408

Pooler: 198 Pooler Pkwy, Pooler, GA 31322

14. Vinnie Van Go-Go’s

Pizza, Calzones

A large, golden-brown stuffed calzone from Vinnie Van Go-Go's in Savannah, Georgia sits on a white paper plate on a wooden table. A hand holding a black plastic fork reaches in from the top right, cutting into the crust to reveal a creamy filling.

Get a proper New York slice at Vinnie Van Go-Go’s, which boasts some of the best pizza in town.

This spot has true old-school pizza joint energy and a great location at City Market with outdoor seating that’s perfect for people-watching.

The slices are massive — the kind you fold in half before taking a bite — and so are their calzones. This is exactly the kind of satisfying, low-effort dinner you want after drinks downtown or a beach day on Tybee.

I recommend splitting a Calzone stuffed with cheese, pepperoni, fresh mushrooms, and sausage.

317 W Bryan St, Savannah, GA 31401

15. Dockside Seafood

Seafood, Waterfront

Two open white foam takeout containers sit on a wooden table, each holding a large fried shrimp po’ boy sandwich on toasted bread with lettuce and sauce, paired with crinkle-cut French fries from Bayou Cafe in Savannah, Georgia. Several ketchup packets are scattered nearby, and the sandwiches are generously filled with golden, breaded shrimp.

Dockside Seafood is a casual seafood restaurant set inside a historic 1700s building on Savannah’s riverfront.

The menu focuses on Southern seafood staples: fried shrimp, crab cakes, po’boys, and creamy pastas.

Get a table outside on a nice day for river views and plenty of fun people-watching along River Street.

I recommend the Shrimp Po’Boy with crispy shrimp piled high on a soft roll, or the Seafood Alfredo for something richer and indulgent.

201 W River St, Savannah, GA 31401

16. Sushi Hana Savannah

Sushi, Japanese

Sushi Hana is a great spot for lunch while you’re exploring downtown.

Located in the Historic District, it’s an easy stop when you want something that won’t leave you sluggish before continuing your walking around town. Their menu focuses on clean flavors and well-prepared sushi.

We stopped in when we needed a break from heavier Southern meals, and it felt like exactly the reset we were looking for.

I recommend starting with the Pork Gyoza, then moving on to a classic Salmon Tempura before trying their specialty Snow Beauty Roll.

18 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401

Restaurants in Savannah Map

Ready to eat your way around Savannah? Use the map below to find all the Savannah restaurants listed in this post.

I hope you have an amazing time exploring all these delicious restaurants in Savannah!

Savannah Restaurants FAQ

What are the best restaurants in Savannah for foodies?

If you’re prioritizing standout flavors and memorable meals, Alligator Soul, The Collins Quarter, and YATAI Ramen + Yakitori are some of the best restaurants in Savannah for food-focused travelers.

Alligator Soul is ideal for refined Southern cuisine with adventurous ingredients, Collins Quarter blends global café influence with polished brunch classics, and YATAI delivers bold, satisfying ramen that breaks up the traditional seafood-heavy lineup.

If you only have one or two dinners in Savannah, start with those.

What are the most romantic restaurants in Savannah?

For couples, especially on a honeymoon or anniversary trip, Alligator Soul and Corleone’s Trattoria are strong romantic picks.

Alligator Soul offers candlelit fine dining in a historic underground space, while Corleone’s delivers cozy Italian comfort in an intimate setting. If you want park views with your date night, The Collins Quarter at Forsyth also makes a beautiful evening option.

Where should I eat in Savannah’s Historic District?

If you’re staying in or exploring the Historic District, you won’t have to go far.

Top Savannah restaurants within walking distance include:
B. Matthew’s Eatery (brunch + modern Southern)
Vinnie Van Go-Go’s (casual pizza in City Market)
Sushi Hana (light lunch option)
The Pirate’s House (historic dining experience)

This area offers everything from quick bites to full sit-down dinners.

What are the best seafood restaurants in Savannah?

For classic Southern seafood near the river, Dockside Seafood is a convenient option. If you want something more refined, Alligator Soul often features elevated seafood dishes alongside its wild game menu.

Shrimp, crab, and Lowcountry-style preparations dominate menus across many Savannah restaurants — so it’s hard to go wrong.

What restaurants in Savannah are good for brunch?

Savannah takes brunch seriously.

– For classic Southern brunch with mimosas, head to B. Matthew’s Eatery.
– For park views and Melbourne-inspired café dishes, try The Collins Quarter at Forsyth.
– If you prefer something more relaxed and vegetarian-friendly, The Sentient Bean is a cozy morning stop near Forsyth Park.

Expect waits on weekends — especially during peak tourist seasons.

What are the best casual restaurants in Savannah?

If you want something laid-back and easy, Savannah has plenty of casual spots that still deliver big flavor.

Zunzi’s for bold, South African-inspired sandwiches
B&D Burgers for hearty, fully-loaded burgers
Vinnie Van Go-Go’s for massive pizza slices
Java Burrito for quick, customizable burritos

These are perfect for mid-day refuels between sightseeing stops.

Are reservations necessary for restaurants in Savannah?

For fine dining spots like Alligator Soul, reservations are highly recommended — especially on weekends and during spring and fall travel seasons.

Casual spots like Vinnie Van Go-Go’s, Zunzi’s, and Java Burrito typically operate on a first-come basis and move quickly.

If you’re visiting during peak travel months (March–May and October), plan ahead for popular dinner spots.

What’s the most unique dining experience in Savannah?

If you want something memorable beyond just the food, The Pirate’s House stands out for its 18th-century history and rumored haunted rooms.

For something different flavor-wise, YATAI Ramen + Yakitori offers a Japanese night-market vibe that contrasts sharply with Savannah’s traditional Southern aesthetic.

Is Savannah a good city for foodies?

While Savannah is known for its historic charm and ghost tours, the restaurant scene is more diverse than many expect. From refined Southern cuisine and fresh seafood to ramen, sushi, and globally inspired brunch, Savannah restaurants offer far more variety than just fried food and sweet tea.

Foodies willing to explore beyond River Street will find some genuinely memorable meals.

Save on Savannah’s Top Attractions

Want to save big on Savannah’s top attractions? With the Savannah TourPass, you can save up to 40% on 30+ tours and attractions.

Visit bucket list attractions, enjoy top tours, and discover hidden gems handpicked by local experts. With this pass, you’ll have everything you need right on your phone, saving you both time and money.

Get your Savannah TourPass here.

Top Savannah Tours

With so much to see, Savannah can be overwhelming for any first-time traveler. To take some of the stress out of planning your visit, opt for a guided tour! Check out this list of the top Savannah tours to help you make the most of your time in this gorgeous Southern city.

Where to Stay in Savannah

Find the perfect place to rest your head on your visit to Savannah, from the top rated accommodations to unique stays you can’t get anywhere else.

More Savannah, GA Itineraries

Check out more fun things to do in Savannah, Georgia with the help of these itineraries:


Ready to visit Savannah, Georgia? Plan your trip with these tips.

  • Book your flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner, my favorite flight search engine.
  • Find accommodation: You can find top hotels in Savannah using Booking.com.
  • Get packing: Make sure you’ve packed everything you need with my packing list resources.
  • Save on Attractions: Save big on admission to Savannah’s top attractions using the Savannah TourPass.

Cheers!

Paige

16 Restaurants in Savannah You’ll Actually Want to Eat At

Which of these top Savannah restaurants are you most excited about trying? Let me know in the comments!

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