13 Best Restaurants in Savannah Historic District

Looking for the best restaurants in Savannah’s historic district, and what to try on each menu? Here’s a list of our favorites!

Savannah, Georgia, often touted as the ‘Hostess City of the South,’ is renowned for its Southern charm and hospitality. Nestled along the Savannah River, it boasts a rich history, cobblestone streets, and lush squares, all brimming with tales of times gone by.

One of its most captivating areas is the Historic District, a quintessentially quaint neighborhood that embodies the city’s charm.

The district’s historic homes, churches, and unique shops offer a timeless charm that leaves visitors spellbound, providing a delightful blend of historic elegance and contemporary vibrancy.

Savannah also has some of the best restaurants in the South, and especially in the Historic District. I’ve fallen in love after exploring Savannah on a girl’s trip!

I collaborated with travel blogger friends to bring you our favorite restaurants in this charming city.

Let’s jump in!

1. Collins Quarter Downtown

For brunch connoisseurs, Collins Quarter on Bull Street is a must-try. After living in Savannah for a few years, Anthony Debreceny found a niche in this Southern city and opened Collins Quarter. This charming cafe serves modern Australian cuisine with exquisite attention to detail.

You don’t need a reservation to dine at Collins Quarter–I highly recommend eating outside to enjoy the cooler weather in the morning hours.

With so many delicious options to choose from, you can’t go wrong! From the Swine Time Beni to the Bubble and Squeak, your taste buds will have a field day!

If you’re looking for something lighter, you can’t go wrong with the Coconut Chia with fresh fruit-yum! I ordered the Salmon Hollandaise and that sauce was top shelf.

Collins Quarter offers Thai coffee, Vietnamese coffee, and house blends with different flavors like sweet taro and lavender. They also have their own freshly squeezed juices like strawberry watermelon basil–or you could order traditional Southern sweet tea.

As we sat down, our waiter was very attentive and gave us a thorough rundown of the restaurant’s top dishes and the service was amazing. He elevated our experience at Collins Quarter!

Collins Quarter also has sister restaurants, with one of them located right in Forsythe Park. Be sure to check out this restaurant before leaving Savannah!

2. Treylor Park – Double Wide

If you’re looking for a down-home, Southern experience with a twist, then Treylor Park – Double Wide is the place to be. Located on Bay Street, this restaurant offers up delicious breakfast and brunch options.

You don’t need reservations to dine at the Double Wide, but it is quite a popular place so there is a chance you may have to wait.

The menu is also quite enticing. I highly recommend the Hot Chicken Waffles, Fried Chicken and Biscuit, or the Avocado Smash. If you’re up for a little adventure, the PB and J wings are tasty as well as the Treylor Park Nachos.

As you open the doors, it looks like you’re walking into a trailer itself with checkered tiles, ambiance lighting, and a movie playing on the wall.

Our server was quick to provide her recommendations and serve our drinks. We did wait longer than average for our food to come, but it was definitely worth it!

3. Fox and Fig

• Recommended by Victoria from Southern Trippers

Looking for one of the best restaurants in Savannah’s historic district? If so then you can’t beat Fox and Fig. This charming little spot is perfect for anyone looking for healthy food that also tastes delicious. 

On the menu, enjoy a wide variety of plant-based dishes that are so good you wouldn’t guess they were vegan. 

While the chickpea stew is epic and made with coconut cream, the real stand-out dish here is the smoky mac and cheese. It’s crafted to perfection inside this hip cafe/espresso bar with decadent smoked cashew cheese. 

If you want something a bit more indulgent, opt for a chia porridge or gunslinger pancakes since breakfast is served all day. 

Also, don’t leave one of the best coffee shops in Savannah without ordering a drink. After all, this cozy little spot features a variety of iconic espresso drinks that are made using locally roasted coffee from The Coffee Fox 

Select the plant-based milk of your choice and sip on fan faves like the spiced lavender mocha or the horchata latte.

Visit at an off time during the week since this place is popular and reservations are not accepted. 

4. Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room

• Recommended by Alexson from Adventure Together Podcast

Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room is a must-stop when looking for dining options in Savannah. Formally a boardinghouse, where folks would stay and be served two heart meals per day by the owner, Selma Wilkes, the tradition continues today.

Reservations are not accepted, and so every day, a line forms to grab a spot at the restaurant, which is only open from 11 to 2. The staff uses many of Selma’s original recipes to feed throngs of hungry folks.

Seating and service are family style, so you’ll sit with other parties at a table for 10 and be brought platters of amazing Southern cooking. Payment is cash only and costs $30 per person.

Visits to Mrs Wilkes dining room can take up to an hour, and you might even get stuck waiting in the rain, but the wait is definitely worth it! Once the tables are full of 10 people (keep in mind you might be making friends with strangers!), the waiters will bring out the food.

And they didn’t stop. We had 36 dishes, served family style: fried chicken, greens, coleslaw, cornbread, beans, macaroni and cheese, BBQ pork, biscuits, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, and more.

This traditional fare is an experience not to be missed. While families with young kids may find the line arduous, it is something that is sure to charm anyone visiting Savannah.

5. a.lure

• Recommended by Sierra from Your Guide to Wandering

A.lure is located in the heart of Savannah’s historic district and provides a unique experience for diners. The restaurant’s décor is a mix of contemporary modernity and classic elegance, giving guests an atmosphere of laidback upscale.

The menu features local seafood as well as prime cuts of meat with a variety of international flavors to choose from. The food is modern southern food with a farm-to-table approach.

The scallops with the peas were a clear highlight from the menu, and even rivaled fresh New England seafood! Be sure to leave room for dessert as they are known for their unique twist on the Southern classic pecan pie- the chocolate pecan pie!

A.lure also has an extensive wine list, craft beers, and cocktails to accompany your meal.

The service is friendly and friendly, but please make a reservation as the restaurant is cozy!

Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner or a festive gathering with friends, a.lure is the perfect choice for any occasion. With its delicious cuisine inviting ambiance and stellar service, it’s no wonder why a.lure is one of Savannah’s best-kept secrets!

6. Little Duck Diner

• Recommended by Erin from Savannah First Timer

Little Duck Diner is a retro diner that features classic B&W tile elements and brass finishes for the interior decor, and a dapper little duck as the logo. Each cocktail comes with a rubber duck that guests can keep as a souvenir! It’s consistently one of the top casual dining spots within Savannah’s Historic District.

The diner is famous for having the best Thai tomato soup in Savannah, so it’s a great place to go for comfort food during the winter months. They also serve a wide variety of gourmet grilled cheese options that pair perfectly with the soup. Try the “trainwreck” or their avocado option served with smoked applewood bacon.

The owners, Sean and Ele Tran, were originally from Vietnam, so many of their dishes have an Asian influence. As the name suggests, you can find duck on the menu via the “Quacko Taco” or the “Duck Dynasty Bowl.”

Although Little Duck Diner is a trendy spot, the ambiance is relaxed and friendly. The diner offers both indoor and outdoor seating, but indoor seating is a personal preference. (Outdoor tables are set close to the road and don’t offer views of anything particularly special.)

The Whitaker Street Garage is located below the restaurant, so it’s a good option if you can’t find street parking.

The food at Little Duck Diner is reasonably priced and tasty, and that’s why this spot is consistently popular amongst locals and tourists. It’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with no reservations needed.

7. Graffito

• Recommended by Sam Opp from Find Love and Travel

For a fun dining experience in Historic Savannah, check out Graffito.

Graffito can be found in the Plant Riverside District, and the cafe is decorated in a cool graffiti design created by an Atlanta-based street artist, Greg Mike. Even if you’re only taking a day trip to Savannah, walking down the river is a must – so why not grab some pizza?

On the menu, you’ll find a huge variety of pasta, pizzas, and salads that cater to all family members. However, they are most known for their authentic Neapolitan-style pizza. You can choose from a selection of different toppings and styles.

Graffito is open from 11 am to 10 pm on weekdays and 11 am to 11 pm on weekends. This means you can visit at lunchtime for a quick bite to eat or for dinner, where you can have a delicious meal and treat yourself to an alcoholic beverage.

You do not have to make a reservation, however, if you want to confirm a table, you can book online.

There is both indoor and outdoor seating available. We loved the outdoor seating as the Graffito is right by the river and has fantastic views.

In terms of the menu, the pasta was good, but the pizza served here was delicious. The service was excellent, which made the dining experience even better!

8. District Smokehouse

• Recommended by Eleanor from Elevate Your Travel Co

District Smokehouse is a southern-style restaurant, offering a casual experience along Savannah’s gorgeous, modern riverwalk. Not only is the food a delicious treat but it’s a great people-watching spot!

The restaurant offers versions of melt-in-your-mouth smokehouse classics like hot wings, smoked pork belly, BBQ mac-and-cheese, and a number of smoked meat platters. Sides like baked beans, slaw, potato salad, collards, and fries can be ordered separately.

I ordered the Smokehouse Dog, an all-beef hot dog, wrapped in bacon with pulled pork, barbecue sauce, and pickles. On the side, I enjoyed a delicious, creamy mac-n-cheese.

This trendy location also pours a number of local craft beer options, as well as its own house-made root beer.

District Smokehouse offers a casual outdoor open-air atmosphere. There are many bar seats along both sides of a long, curved bar, which is also covered to shield from the elements. Circular globe lights have been strung throughout, adding to the warm ambiance. Additionally, the restaurant seats eight four-seater low-top tables closer to the water.

Seating is first-come, first-serve. Arriving early in the evening will reduce wait time at this popular location. You can be seated immediately and will be well taken care of by the server all evening.

9. Olde Pink House

• Recommended by Sydney from A World in Reach

Experience Savannah’s traditional southern cuisine and deep history at once by having dinner at The Olde Pink House.

Located in Reynolds Square, The Olde Pink House, once known as Habersham House, is one of the most notable buildings in Savannah’s Historic District. The restaurant’s name comes from the iconic pink-colored mansion it’s housed in.

Originally serving as a home, the mansion was later turned into a bank, then an attorney’s office, and then a bookshop before becoming the restaurant that it is today.

The restaurant is best known for its Southern cuisine. Some of the best dishes include fried chicken and collard greens. There’s also a great selection of cocktails – don’t miss the famous “Pink Lady!”

The Olde Pink House is an upscale restaurant, and the restaurant has a romantic ambiance and attentive servers. Although there isn’t a dress code, this is a great place to get dressed up for a nice dinner after a day of exploring Savannah. It’s also a great spot to celebrate a special occasion, like an anniversary or a 21st birthday.

The Olde Pink House is popular among locals and tourists alike, so reservations are highly recommended.

Unable to get a reservation, or want a place to have a quick drink before your reservation begins? Head downstairs to Planters Tavern, the basement bar that serves the same menu as the restaurant upstairs.

10. The Husk

• Recommended by Denise from Chef Denise

If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Savannah, GA then Husk is precisely where you should go. The combination of top-notch service, delicious food, and a cozy yet elegant ambiance makes this restaurant one of the best in the city.

Located in the heart of the historic district, Husk bills itself as a celebration of southern ingredients and that’s exactly what it is. It’s the brainchild of chef Sean Brock, who has taken traditional southern dishes and given them a modern twist.

The restaurant concentrates on using local seasonal ingredients for its dishes, and this commitment to using fresh, local produce is evident in every dish. It is also evident in its menu which is ever-changing.

Expect dishes like Shrimp n Grits with okra and corn, Smoked Pork Loin with coconut curry collards, and Coal Roasted Chicken with bbq watermelon and peanuts. Every dish was perfectly cooked and presented.

The first Husk Restaurant opened in Charleston, SC in a gorgeous 18th century house. It was so successful they opened the Savannah restaurant in an equally stunning wrap-around porch location. It feels like you’re dining at a grand home in the South, yet it’s comfortable and welcoming.

The well-trained staff helps with that too. Service at this Savanah institution is top-notch. When you go, be sure to sit out on the porch.

Reservations are a must at Husk due to its immense popularity. The restaurant is often fully booked.

11. The Grey

• Recommended by Stella Jane from Around the World in 24 Hours

The Grey is one of the most critically acclaimed restaurants in Savannah. Its executive chef, Mashama Bailey, has been featured on Chef’s Table, so people come from Atlanta and all over the country to try this restaurant.

Because of The Grey’s popularity, you definitely need to make reservations ahead of time if you want to dine here.

The menu changes frequently and features seasonal produce, so it can be hard to predict exactly which dishes will be on the menu. A whole section of the menu is dedicated to raw seafood, and the tuna crudo is especially delicious.

If you want something more decadent, the foie gras with grits is one of the signature dishes of the restaurant. It shows how Chef Bailey combines European technique with classic Southern ingredients.

The ambiance is romantic with lots of candlelight, which is impressive considering that the restaurant is located in an old Greyhound bus station that has been converted into a restaurant. This may be the only romantic Greyhound bus station in history.

The staff is attentive, but not overly so, and will happily recommend dishes.

This is definitely a can’t-miss restaurant if you are able to get a reservation while you are in Savannah!

12. Leopold’s Ice Cream Parlor

No visit to Savannah’s Historic District would be complete without a stop at Leopold’s Ice Cream Parlor. Established in 1919, this iconic ice cream shop is a sweet gem in the heart of Savannah and has been serving delicious scoops for over a century.

Step through the doors of Leopold’s and you’ll be transported back in time. The charming parlor features original fixtures and furnishings, evoking a vintage vibe that pairs perfectly with the old-fashioned, handmade ice cream. Every scoop is a testament to Leopold’s enduring commitment to quality and tradition.

But be forewarned: Leopold’s popularity is no secret. There is almost always a line out the door, filled with locals and tourists alike. But trust me, the wait is worth it.

Whether you choose a classic flavor like Vanilla, settle for Georgia Peach, or opt for something more adventurous like Tutti Frutti, a signature flavor since 1919, you’re in for a treat!

So next time you’re strolling through Savannah’s Historic District, follow the line of eager ice cream enthusiasts to Leopold’s. Its revered status in the community and delectable ice cream make it a must-visit location in Savannah.

13. River Street Sweets Candy Store

Although it’s not a traditional restaurant, no journey through Savannah would be complete without a visit to the River Street Sweets Candy Store. This beloved institution, nestled in the heart of Savannah’s riverfront, has been churning out mouth-watering confections since 1973.

At River Street Sweets, you’ll discover an array of scrumptious candies and chocolates, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

The store is best known for its World Famous Pralines—soft, buttery caramel fudge candies studded with pecans and made fresh in store daily. Other specialties include chocolate Loggerheads (chocolate, caramel, and pecans), old-fashioned caramel apples, Bear Claws, and homemade fudge.

The charm of River Street Sweets extends beyond its candy. The warm, nostalgic atmosphere coupled with the tantalizing smell of sugar and chocolate in the air encapsulates the essence of Southern hospitality.

So while you’re exploring the historic district of Savannah, make time to pop into River Street Sweets Candy Store. Buy a delicious treat for yourself or a delightful souvenir to take home from this sweetly irresistible shop.

Map of the Best Restaurants in Savannah

What type of food is Savannah known for?

Savannah is renowned for its Southern cuisine, which is a delicious blend of comfort food, fresh seafood, and locally sourced produce. The city takes pride in dishes like Shrimp and Grits, a classic southern dish that combines creamy grits with succulent locally caught shrimp.

Fried Green Tomatoes, Collard Greens, and Peach Cobbler are also staple dishes in Savannah that echo the city’s rich culinary heritage. The city is also famous for its seafood, particularly oysters and crabs because it’s so close to the coast.

What restaurants are famous in Savannah?

Some of the most famous restaurants in Savannah include The Olde Pink House, a colonial mansion serving Southern cuisine; Husk, renowned for its modern twist on traditional Southern dishes; and The Grey, a critically acclaimed restaurant housed in a restored Greyhound bus station.

Leopold’s Ice Cream Parlor also holds a legendary status in Savannah’s culinary scene, having served delicious, handmade ice creams since 1919.

When should I make a reservation for restaurants in Savannah?

For high-demand restaurants like The Grey or Husk, it’s highly recommended to make a reservation because they are immensely popular. Reservations can be made several weeks in advance to secure a spot.

Be sure to plan your visit early, especially if you’re dining on weekends or during peak tourism seasons so that you have a stress-free, enjoyable dining experience in Savannah.

What is the best way to get around in Savannah?

Savannah’s historic district is highly walkable, making it an ideal place to explore on foot. The district is lined with beautiful squares, historic homes, and charming cobblestone streets, all within a compact area that’s easily navigable. It’s a delightful experience to meander through the alleys, appreciating the city’s architectural grandeur and soaking in the rich history.

For longer distances, or to reach other parts of the city, public transportation is available. The Chatham Area Transit (CAT) provides bus services throughout Savannah, including a free Downtown Transportation (DOT) shuttle.

If you prefer a more personal mode of transportation, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available.

You can also choose to rent your own car from the airport to get around Savannah as well.

However you choose to travel, Savannah’s charm and friendly atmosphere make exploring the city a pleasure.

Savannah is a delight for foodies and history buffs alike. Its thriving culinary scene is a marriage of traditional Southern cuisine with innovative trends.

Exploring Savannah offers a unique opportunity to sample delicious food while immersed in the captivating charm of old-world Southern elegance.

If you’re planning a visit, remember to come with a big appetite and a keen sense of adventure; Savannah is a city that’s best experienced with a full stomach and a spirit ready to explore.

Ready to plan your trip to Savannah? Check out these travel guides!

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