Savannah, Georgia

Over the last couple years I have had the opportunity to spend a lot of time in Savannah. So much time, in fact, that every year I file a Georgia tax return. Fortunately, Savannah is a wonderful place to visit. There are many fabulous restaurants, historical sites, nearby beaches and of course, ghost tours. The Savannah / Hilton Head airport (SAV) is one of the easiest airports to get in and out of. While there the airport lounge is sparse, and not worth going to, there is a Dewar’s Bar and Grill which will get the job done. There is also a sunglass store and flip-flop stop, in case you forgot to bring some. Given the fact that I am there for work, I have only had a limited amount of time site seeing. One particular Monday night, my coworkers and I decided it would be a really good idea to take the haunted pub crawl. The pub crawl starts at the Moon River Brewery, which has a decent bar menu, good brews, and is surprisingly very much haunted. the rest of the tour was a bit foggy, as there are no open container laws in historic Savannah. 😉

A couple of other fun activities I’ve actually had a chance to partake in, (in no particular order): The Savannah College of Art and Design Store, a trolley ride, a day trip to Tybee Island, the Juliette Gordon Low house, staying in Hilton Head Island. However, what I did most often while I was in Savannah is eat! I like to think of myself as an amateur foodie. I saw amateur because many times the word foodie is synonymous with snob. While I have been known to splurge once and a while for a good meal, I love food of all price ranges. Rather than go into detail about why I love each restaurant on my list, I thought I’d give a brief synopsis. (Please note that Lady and Son’s is not on here, for good reasons.)

• Toucan Cafe – While, not in the center of town, this is truly a hidden gem. I have never had a bad meal here and the price is very reasonable. Monday nights even have a some discounts on a couple wines.
• Elizabeth’s on 37th – Probably the most expensive restaurant in Savannah, but totally worth every penny. The mint Julep’s are authentic, spicy mussel that’s served as a palate cleanser should be an appetizer. The menu changes seasonally, reservations are highly recommended, and valet park if possible, because the surrounding area is a little scarey late at night.
• 700 Drayton – Located in the Mansion on Forsyth Park, which is also my preferred hotel in Savannah, along with it’s sister hotel the Bohemian, but we’ll get there later. Again, while pricy, the menu and exceptional staff, deliver an enjoyable meal and overall dining experience.
• Noble Fare – Another expensive restaurant with a great soup, scallops and duck.
• Jazz’d Tapas – Reasonably priced with an extensive menu and wine specials on Monday’s, although their cocktail list is exciting as well.
• Rooftop of the Bohemian Hotel – Limited, but good menu. Great view of the city, great cocktails, music some evenings, and an energetic atmosphere.
• Garibaldi’s – Pricy Italian, but very delicious menu
• Sapphire Grill – Pricy Seafood, but very delicious menu
• Ciao Bella – Italian with outdoor seating. Bring an extra sweater if sitting inside.
• Vic’s on the River – I love their biscuits, cocktails, and scallop entree.
• The Distillery – A popular SCAD hang out, they have great pub food. I’ve ordered take out many times from here because they’re quick and they don’t mess up my order. They also have a great tap selection while I wait for my food! The lump crab balls and pretzel treasures are personal favs.
• Maxwell’s – A fairly new wine bar / tapas place that I really hope does well. They have a bottomless mimosa brunch.
• Leopold’s Ice Cream – Truly a Savannah institution. Their ice cream flavor change every season, and they also serve panini’s
• The Pink House – Another local institution. Reservations are highly recommended days in advance.
• Alligator Soul – Very southern menu. Skip the tourist trap that is Lady and Son’s, and go here instead.
• B. Matthews – Great brunch, worth the wait. Also serves a nice dinner.
• J. Christophers – Also a great brunch worth the wait.
• Jen and Friends – While not a restaurant, this place has every type of martini you could ever possibly want.

With a list like this, this is no reason to eat at any sort of fast food chain. I also want to point out that I’ve stayed in all of the downtown Marriott’s, however, nothing beats the Autograph collection hotels, The Mansion on Forsyth Park and the Bohemian hotel. Both have charm and a luxurious atmosphere, and occasionally, deals during the off-season. Unfortunately, I have not had the chance to visit Savannah during its infamous St. Patrick’s Day celebration. However, it is considered number two in the country, or something extraordinarily close to that, and is therefore worth checking out.

Tags: drinks, food, Georgia, Hilton Head, hotels, Marriott, nightlife, restaurants, Savannah, site seeing, tourism