Nine of Our Favorite Places to Eat in Savannah

Several weeks back, we visited Savannah on a combination birthday/anniversary trip. Nothing like trading in Houston's humidity for Savannah's steamy climate. Vacation goals now include someplace where my curls will behave. 

There's so much to love about Savannah. The city is so walkable, the history is rich and interesting, the art is incredible, the streets and houses are stunning...and oh yeah, THE FOOD.

While we couldn't eat at every restaurant in Savannah, we tried our best in our five-day visit. Here are our favorites. 

Nine of our favorite places to eat in Savannah

1. Byrd's Famous Cookies

Cookie lovers, this should be your first stop in Savannah. With locations throughout the city, that won't be hard to do. These diminutive little cookies are addictive - you'll be hard-pressed to eat only, um, a dozen at a time. Oh, and the stores offer FREE SAMPLES. You heard me. The tangy Key Lime Coolers were our favorites. 

2. Rocks on the Roof at the Bohemian Hotel

*photo credit: first photo is mine, second from Bohemian Hotel

Hitting a rooftop bar in Savannah is a must. We visited a couple, and Rocks on the Roof at the Bohemian Hotel was our favorite. The Mediterranean Flatbread was delish, but the star of the show was definitely the river view. Go at sunset! 

3. Husk

We celebrated our 25th anniversary on this trip (please excuse the cheesy mirror pic!), so I wanted to book a special dinner. There are SO many restaurants in Savannah, it was hard to choose. We decided on Husk and OHMYGOODNESS...it was the right choice. With a menu that changes daily, this restaurant is known for fresh and local fare. [NOTE: you can check their archives for past menus if you're like me and want to spend an hour dreaming of meals that could have been.]

*photo credit: Husk 

Our dinner was spectacular, and the cornbread was out of this world! I wanted to pack an extra in my suitcase. Oh gosh...and I have to mention the Pimiento Cheese Profiteroles! Swoon! Husk is located in an old building in the historic district, so the tables are spaced out well in several rooms. We had only 3 other tables in our dining room. We loved our special meal here.

4. The Collins Quarter

*photo credit, top photo: Collins Quarter Instagram

Maybe you'll want a drink before or after Husk, or perhaps you'll want to visit their location near Forsyth Park. The Collins Quarter was recommended to us by several locals. While we didn't eat here, we did pop in for a cocktail, and the atmosphere is not to be missed. The Lavender Lychee Martini sure was gorgeous and refreshing!

5. Leopold's Ice Cream 

A Savannah institution, a scoop (or two!) from Leopold's Ice Cream is required Savannah eating. You'll likely be greeted with a looooooong line to order, so bring your patience. Started in 1919 by three brothers from Greece, Leopold's now offers a plethora of flavor varieties and nationwide shipping. We sampled 4 flavors; our favorite was "Savannah Socialite" - milk and dark chocolate ice cream with roasted Georgia pecans and swirled with bourbon-infused caramel. Good thing Savannah offers up lots of walking opportunities! 

6. Flock to the Wok

*photo credit: Flock to the Wok

While dumplings might not be top of mind when you think of Savannah, don't miss the homemade, handcrafted dumplings at Flock to the Wok. We first noticed this place as we were strolling the city - the front window offers a view of the dumplings being prepared. We were sold and came back for dinner. Flock to the Wok offers a "traditional yet modern twist on Asian cuisine." The place is small and loved by locals, so go early or prepare for a wait. It's worth it. 

7. The Coffee Fox

Finding a great local coffee shop is a must while traveling. Yes, you'll find a Starbucks in Savannah, but skip it and head to The Coffee Fox. (Trust me, as we spent 4 mornings at Starbucks only to find The Coffee Fox on our last day. Oh, I wanted to cry.) The Coffee Fox is a cool little place...they even sell beer, like a Guinness + espresso drink! Try the Mexican Mocha with dark chocolate, habanero, and cinnamon (ohmygosh), and the Nutella kolache. You're welcome. 

8. The Grey Market

*photo credit, top: The Grey Market

 If you're in the touristy City Market area, walk a block or two over to The Grey Market for lunch. Grab a seat at the lunch counter, and take in all of the fabulous signs above, or sit at one of the small tables. We split a Grey Market Burger and fries. Oh my. I don't know what was more delicious - the burger (with caramelized onions), the seasoned, crispy fries, or the COMEBACK SAUCE. The shop also has goodies to grab and go and Savannah treats to pack with you to take home. 

9. Franklin's

*photo credit, top two: Franklin's

This is the part of the post where I gush over avocado toast. While visiting the SCAD store (don't miss it or the history of SCAD movie next door!), the girls there recommended we head to nearby Franklin's for lunch. Franklin's is a little order-at-the-counter place with limited seating: a few stools in the windows and some sweet little tables outside. A great place to people-watch! The avocado toast, y'all...it's so good, we came back to have it again before catching our flight out of town. 

Cheers, Savannah! We love you...and your food!