Savannah, Georgia, is a city like no other. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and Southern charm make it a popular destination for tourists and foodies alike. When it comes to the local cuisine, Savannah is known for its unique blend of traditional Southern comfort food, fresh seafood, and innovative twists on classic dishes. In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey through the city and explore the types of food that Savannah, Georgia, is known for.
A City Steeped in History and Tradition
Savannah’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in its history and cultural heritage. The city was founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe, who brought with him a group of English colonists. Over time, the city’s cuisine was influenced by the traditions of these early settlers, as well as the African, Caribbean, and Native American cultures that were present in the region.
One of the most iconic dishes associated with Savannah is the Lowcountry boil. This hearty stew is made with shrimp, smoked sausage, potatoes, and corn, all boiled together in a spicy broth. The dish is said to have originated in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina and Georgia, where it was cooked by fishermen and farmers as a way to use up leftover ingredients.
The Influence of African and Caribbean Cuisine
African and Caribbean cuisine have had a significant impact on the culinary scene in Savannah. Many of the city’s traditional dishes, such as hoppin’ John and benne wafers, have their roots in African cuisine. Hoppin’ John is a dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon or ham, while benne wafers are thin, crispy cookies made with sesame seeds and sugar.
The Caribbean influence on Savannah’s cuisine is also evident in the use of ingredients such as okra and callaloo. Okra is a staple ingredient in many Southern dishes, including gumbo and fried okra, while callaloo is a leafy green vegetable that is often used in soups and stews.
Seafood: A Staple of the Savannah Diet
Savannah’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Savannah River makes it an ideal location for fresh seafood. The city is renowned for its shrimp, which are harvested from the waters off the coast of Georgia and South Carolina. Shrimp are often served fried, grilled, or in dishes such as shrimp and grits.
Other popular seafood dishes in Savannah include oysters, crab legs, and fish tacos. Oysters are often served raw on the half shell, while crab legs are typically steamed or boiled and served with melted butter. Fish tacos are a more recent addition to the Savannah culinary scene, but they have quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The Best Places to Try Savannah’s Seafood
If you’re looking to try some of Savannah’s famous seafood, there are several restaurants that are highly recommended. The Olde Pink House Tavern is a historic restaurant located in the heart of the city’s downtown area. The restaurant serves a range of seafood dishes, including shrimp and grits, fried oysters, and grilled fish.
Another popular seafood restaurant in Savannah is the Bernie’s Oyster House. This casual, no-frills restaurant has been serving up fresh seafood for over 50 years and is a favorite among locals. The restaurant’s menu includes a range of seafood dishes, including oysters, shrimp, and crab legs.
Southern Comfort Food: A Savannah Staple
Southern comfort food is a staple of the Savannah diet, and the city is home to a range of restaurants that serve up classic dishes such as fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and collard greens. One of the most popular comfort food restaurants in Savannah is the Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room.
This beloved restaurant has been serving up Southern comfort food for over 40 years and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant’s menu includes a range of classic dishes, including fried chicken, meatloaf, and mac and cheese.
The Best Places to Try Savannah’s Comfort Food
In addition to Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, there are several other restaurants in Savannah that serve up delicious comfort food. The 17Hundred90 Inn and Restaurant is a historic restaurant located in the heart of the city’s downtown area. The restaurant serves a range of comfort food dishes, including fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and collard greens.
Another popular comfort food restaurant in Savannah is the Sly’s Sliders and Fries. This casual, no-frills restaurant serves up a range of comfort food dishes, including burgers, hot dogs, and mac and cheese.
Innovative Twists on Classic Dishes
While Savannah is known for its traditional Southern cuisine, the city is also home to a range of innovative restaurants that are putting their own twist on classic dishes. One of the most popular restaurants in Savannah is the The Grey.
This upscale restaurant is located in a historic building in the heart of the city’s downtown area and serves up a range of innovative dishes, including shrimp and grits with truffle oil and fried chicken with spicy honey. The restaurant’s menu is constantly changing, but it always features a range of creative and delicious dishes.
The Best Places to Try Savannah’s Innovative Cuisine
In addition to The Grey, there are several other restaurants in Savannah that are serving up innovative twists on classic dishes. The Elizabeth on 37th is a popular restaurant located in the heart of the city’s downtown area. The restaurant serves up a range of creative dishes, including grilled shrimp with lemon butter and pan-seared chicken with roasted vegetables.
Another popular restaurant in Savannah is the SoHo South Cafe. This casual, no-frills restaurant serves up a range of innovative dishes, including breakfast tacos with shrimp and bacon and grilled cheese with tomato soup.
Conclusion
Savannah, Georgia, is a city that is steeped in history and tradition, and its culinary scene is no exception. From traditional Southern comfort food to fresh seafood and innovative twists on classic dishes, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a delicious meal, Savannah is a city that is sure to satisfy your appetite.
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Olde Pink House Tavern | Seafood, Southern | $20-$50 |
| Bernie’s Oyster House | Seafood | $15-$30 |
| Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room | Southern, Comfort Food | $15-$30 |
| The Grey | Innovative, Southern | $30-$60 |
| Elizabeth on 37th | Innovative, Southern | $25-$50 |
| SoHo South Cafe | Innovative, Casual | $10-$25 |
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on the time of day, season, and other factors.
What makes Savannah, Georgia, a culinary destination?
Savannah, Georgia, is a culinary destination due to its rich history, cultural influences, and Southern charm. The city’s unique blend of traditional Southern cuisine, fresh seafood, and innovative twists on classic dishes creates a distinctive culinary experience. From historic restaurants to modern eateries, Savannah offers a wide range of dining options that cater to various tastes and preferences.
Savannah’s culinary scene is also shaped by its proximity to the Atlantic coast, providing an abundance of fresh seafood. The city’s chefs take advantage of this bounty, incorporating locally sourced ingredients into their menus. Additionally, Savannah’s historic district, with its picturesque architecture and romantic atmosphere, provides the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience.
What are some must-try dishes in Savannah?
Some must-try dishes in Savannah include traditional Southern favorites like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and biscuits and gravy. The city is also famous for its seafood, particularly its oysters, which are often served raw, grilled, or fried. Another popular dish is the Lowcountry boil, a hearty stew made with shrimp, crab, and smoked sausage.
For those looking for something unique, Savannah offers a range of innovative dishes that blend traditional Southern flavors with modern twists. Some popular options include fried green tomatoes, pimento cheese sandwiches, and sweet potato waffles. Visitors can also sample the city’s famous pralines, a sweet treat made with sugar, cream, and pecans.
What are some popular restaurants in Savannah?
Savannah is home to a wide range of restaurants, from historic eateries to modern bistros. Some popular options include the Olde Pink House, a historic mansion-turned-restaurant that serves up classic Southern cuisine. Another favorite is the Lady & Sons, a restaurant owned by celebrity chef Paula Deen that offers traditional Southern comfort food.
Other popular restaurants in Savannah include the Grey, a contemporary eatery located in a restored 1930s Greyhound bus depot, and the 17Hundred90 Inn and Restaurant, a historic inn that serves up classic American cuisine. Visitors can also explore the city’s many food trucks and cafes, which offer everything from gourmet grilled cheese to artisanal ice cream.
What is the best way to experience Savannah’s culinary scene?
The best way to experience Savannah’s culinary scene is to take a food tour, which allows visitors to sample a variety of dishes and drinks while exploring the city’s historic district. Many food tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide insight into the city’s culinary history and culture.
Another way to experience Savannah’s culinary scene is to visit the city’s many farmers’ markets, which offer a wide range of locally sourced produce, meats, and artisanal products. Visitors can also explore the city’s many restaurants and cafes, which offer a range of dining options to suit every taste and budget.
What are some popular food festivals in Savannah?
Savannah hosts a range of food festivals throughout the year, including the Savannah Food & Wine Festival, which celebrates the city’s culinary scene with wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, and live music. Another popular festival is the Savannah Seafood Festival, which showcases the city’s fresh seafood with cooking demonstrations, seafood tastings, and live music.
Other popular food festivals in Savannah include the Savannah Music Festival, which features live music and food vendors, and the Taste of Savannah, which offers samples of the city’s best cuisine. Visitors can also attend the Savannah Farmers’ Market Festival, which celebrates the city’s local food scene with live music, cooking demonstrations, and artisanal products.
Can I find vegetarian and vegan options in Savannah?
Yes, Savannah offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options, from traditional Southern cuisine to innovative plant-based dishes. Many of the city’s restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan menus, which often feature locally sourced ingredients and creative twists on classic dishes.
Some popular vegetarian and vegan options in Savannah include the Sentient Bean, a coffee shop that serves up vegan and gluten-free treats, and the Brighter Day Natural Foods, a health food store that offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options. Visitors can also explore the city’s many farmers’ markets, which often feature locally sourced produce and artisanal products.
Are there any cooking classes available in Savannah?
Yes, Savannah offers a range of cooking classes, from traditional Southern cuisine to innovative plant-based dishes. Many of the city’s restaurants and cooking schools offer classes, which often feature hands-on instruction and samples of the dishes being prepared.
Some popular cooking classes in Savannah include the Savannah Cooking Studio, which offers classes on traditional Southern cuisine, and the Mansion on Forsyth Park, which offers classes on gourmet cuisine. Visitors can also attend the Savannah Culinary Institute, which offers classes on a range of topics, from baking to pastry-making.