Embark on a tantalizing culinary adventure with our guide to the best Southern food in Savannah. From its vibrant culinary heritage to its mouthwatering signature dishes, this vibrant city offers a symphony of flavors that will delight your palate.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural traditions that have shaped Savannah’s unique cuisine, and discover the local purveyors and culinary events that keep the Southern spirit alive.
Top-Rated Restaurants
Savannah is a culinary haven, offering an array of delectable Southern cuisine. To guide your culinary adventure, we’ve compiled a list of the city’s top-rated Southern food restaurants, based on customer reviews and expert recommendations.
Notable Southern Restaurants
| Restaurant Name | Location | Cuisine Specialties | Awards and Accolades |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paula Deen’s The Lady & Sons | 102 West Congress Street | Fried chicken, ribs, collard greens | James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southeast |
| Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room | 107 West Jones Street | Fried chicken, sweet tea, cornbread | Featured in The New York Times and The Food Network |
| Olde Pink House | 23 Abercorn Street | Lowcountry cuisine, seafood, cocktails | AAA Four Diamond Award |
| The Grey | 109 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard | Southern comfort food, modern interpretations | James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southeast |
| Vic’s on the River | 26 East Bay Street | Seafood, steaks, oysters | Wine Spectator Award of Excellence |
Signature Dishes and Ingredients
Southern cuisine in Savannah boasts an array of iconic dishes that capture the essence of the region’s culinary heritage. These dishes showcase the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking techniques that have been passed down through generations.
One of the most celebrated dishes is shrimp and grits. This classic dish features succulent shrimp cooked in a flavorful sauce served over creamy grits made from stone-ground corn. The sauce often incorporates a blend of spices, herbs, and sometimes tomatoes, creating a rich and savory flavor.
Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is another staple of Southern cuisine and a beloved dish in Savannah. Chicken pieces are seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs before being coated in a crispy batter and fried to golden perfection. The result is a juicy and flavorful chicken that pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes, collard greens, or macaroni and cheese.
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Collard Greens, Best southern food in savannah
Collard greens are a hearty and nutritious side dish that is often served with Southern meals. These leafy greens are simmered in a flavorful broth made with smoked meats, such as ham hocks or bacon, and seasoned with spices like red pepper flakes and vinegar.
The result is a tender and flavorful dish that adds a touch of Southern charm to any meal.
Culinary Events and Festivals
Savannah’s culinary scene is celebrated throughout the year with a variety of events and festivals that showcase the city’s rich Southern food and culture.
These events offer opportunities to experience the flavors of Savannah through cooking demonstrations, food tastings, and live music.
Savannah Food & Wine Festival
- Dates: November
- Location: Historic Downtown Savannah
- Features: Cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and live music from local and national chefs and musicians.
Savannah Seafood Festival
- Dates: April
- Location: City Market
- Features: A variety of seafood dishes from local restaurants, live music, and a kids’ zone.
Savannah Black Restaurant Week
- Dates: February
- Location: Various locations throughout Savannah
- Features: A celebration of Savannah’s Black-owned restaurants with special menus, events, and promotions.
Taste of Savannah
- Dates: May
- Location: Forsyth Park
- Features: A showcase of Savannah’s diverse culinary scene with food from local restaurants, live music, and a kids’ zone.
Local Food Purveyors: Best Southern Food In Savannah
Savannah’s culinary scene wouldn’t be complete without its local food purveyors. These establishments provide chefs and home cooks alike with the freshest, highest-quality ingredients for creating authentic Southern dishes.
From farmers markets bursting with seasonal produce to specialty grocery stores offering unique artisanal products, Savannah has a wide range of options for sourcing local ingredients.
Farmers Markets
- Forsyth Farmers’ Market:Located in the heart of downtown Savannah, this market features over 50 vendors offering a variety of produce, meats, seafood, and baked goods. (2 East Bay Street, Savannah, GA 31401)
- Savannah State Farmers’ Market:Situated on the campus of Savannah State University, this market showcases the agricultural bounty of the region, with a focus on locally grown produce and seafood. (3211 College Street, Savannah, GA 31404)
- Southside Farmers’ Market:Located in the southside of Savannah, this market offers a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, and seafood, as well as a variety of prepared foods and crafts. (11111 Abercorn Street, Savannah, GA 31419)
Specialty Grocery Stores
- The Spice & Tea Exchange:This specialty store offers a vast selection of spices, teas, and other gourmet ingredients from around the world. (304 West Broughton Street, Savannah, GA 31401)
- The Olive Pit:This gourmet olive oil and vinegar store offers a wide variety of flavored oils and vinegars, as well as a selection of gourmet cheeses and other specialty foods. (112 East Liberty Street, Savannah, GA 31401)
- Savannah Bee Company:This local company produces a variety of honey products, including honey, beeswax, and honey-based skincare products. (109 West Congress Street, Savannah, GA 31401)
Butcher Shops
- Bryan’s Butcher Shop:This butcher shop offers a wide selection of fresh meats, including beef, pork, lamb, and poultry. (1304 East Victory Drive, Savannah, GA 31404)
- Moondoggy’s Butcher Shop:This butcher shop specializes in locally sourced meats, including beef, pork, lamb, and poultry, as well as a variety of sausages and other specialty meat products. (1001 East Gwinnett Street, Savannah, GA 31404)
Southern Food Traditions and Culture
Southern food in Savannah holds a deep social and cultural significance, deeply intertwined with the city’s history and identity. Family gatherings, holidays, and community events are centered around shared meals, fostering a sense of togetherness and belonging.
Family and Community
In Southern culture, food is a central pillar of family life. Family recipes are passed down through generations, preserving cultural heritage and creating a sense of continuity. Sunday dinners are a sacred tradition, where extended families gather to enjoy home-cooked meals, share stories, and strengthen bonds.
Holidays and Celebrations
Southern cuisine plays a prominent role in holiday celebrations. Thanksgiving and Christmas are marked by elaborate feasts featuring traditional dishes like turkey, ham, collard greens, and sweet potato pie. These meals are not merely about sustenance but also about expressing gratitude, honoring family traditions, and celebrating the spirit of community.
Community Events
Food is an integral part of community events in Savannah. Church suppers, fish fries, and barbecues provide opportunities for neighbors to socialize, share meals, and contribute to local charities. These events strengthen community ties and foster a sense of shared identity.
Conclusive Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, Savannah’s Southern food scene is an unforgettable experience. From the crispy fried chicken to the succulent shrimp and grits, each dish is a testament to the city’s culinary prowess.
So gather your friends, family, or fellow food enthusiasts and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving for more.
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