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🍽️ The Foodie’s Escape
If Savannah has a flavor, it’s layered — like a perfect Southern biscuit. In this one- to two-day guide, you’ll discover the city’s most memorable restaurants, from chef-driven kitchens to historic diners, modern cocktail lounges to cherished dessert spots. Whether you’re planning every meal or just want a few can’t-miss places to eat and explore, this guide blends trusted local favorites with iconic landmarks — all mapped out to help you walk, Uber, or wander your way through Savannah like a true food lover.
A pastry box from Le Café Gourmet Bakery in Savannah — one of the hidden gems featured in this self-guided Foodie Escape. From golden croissants to caramel-drizzled treats, it's the kind of spot locals keep to themselves.
Explore Your Day at a Glance
See how your foodie day in Savannah unfolds — from morning pastries under towering oak trees to late-night cocktails in atmospheric lounges. Each meal is paired with nearby sights and Savannah stories worth savoring.
Morning: Pastries, Parks, and Pour-Overs
Start your day with artisan pastries, Southern brunch, or something light and creative. Whether you're seated beside Forsyth Park or relaxing in a typical American diner, these breakfast spots deliver more than a meal — they set the tone for the day.
Afternoon: Burgers, Tacos, and Neighborhood Gems
From bold bites to classic comfort food, lunch is your chance to explore beloved neighborhood gems. Walk or Uber to these handpicked spots — and along the way, keep an eye out for hidden bookstores, historic squares, and garden-lined streets.
Evening: Craft Cocktails, Chef’s Tables, and Sweet Endings
As the day winds down, let Savannah show off her culinary polish. Dine at chef-driven restaurants, sip cocktails under antique chandeliers, and finish with dessert from one of the city’s most iconic sweet spots.
Want to explore all our Savannah itineraries (threads) in one place?
Get free access to our printable Savannah Travel Library — perfect for on-the-go exploring, printing, or sharing with your travel crew.
Here’s what’s inside:
✅ Printable layouts for tangible accessibility
✅ All featured stops clearly listed and mapped
✅ Direct links to our custom Google Maps
✅ “Locals know…” tips sprinkled throughout for authentic insight you won’t find on the web
📩 Just enter your email below and we’ll send the full library link straight to your inbox.
Breakfast Options in Savannah for the Foodie
Brunch at The Collins Quarter at Forsyth — a local favorite for its creative, globally inspired dishes and unbeatable park-side setting. Just one stop on our curated Foodie Escape itinerary.
The Collins Quarter at Forsyth
Collins Quarter is a staple of the Savannah brunch scene, blending Southern ingredients with Australian café culture. Located in the center of Forsyth Park, it offers an elegant yet relaxed start to your day. Signature items rotate, such as “Swine Time Beni” and Chicken and Waffle, but they all pair beautifully with specialty lattes or morning mimosas. The patio seating looks directly onto the park’s oak-lined walkways, making it a scenic choice, especially on cooler mornings. You’ll likely find both locals and travelers lingering over brunch here. After brunch at The Collins Quarter, take a few minutes to stroll through Forsyth Park, one of the most iconic stops on our Relax & Recharge itinerary — especially peaceful in the morning.
Flora and Fauna
Nestled in the artsy Starland District, Flora and Fauna is part café and part hidden gem. It’s known for its pencil cob grits with specialty toppings and carefully curated sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients. The vibe is peaceful and creative, with plenty of natural light and green touches throughout the space. While it doesn’t offer a traditional “eggs and bacon” breakfast, it’s ideal for food lovers who enjoy fare with a bit of flair. If you are someone who appreciates a menu that leans towards “brunch,” this is the place for you.
💡LOCALS KNOW — but we only spill the secrets in the downloadable itinerary
J. Christopher’s
If you're in the mood for something familiar and comforting, J. Christopher’s on Liberty Street hits the spot. This laid-back diner-style restaurant serves classic American breakfast favorites — think pancakes, bacon and eggs, omelets, and buttery grits. It’s spacious, dependable, and ideal for families or anyone wanting a straightforward start to the day. There’s also a pet-friendly patio for those traveling with four-legged companions. It’s not fancy, but it’s a local institution for good reason.
Notable Sights Near Breakfast Spots
Near The Collins Quarter at Forsyth
Forsyth Park Fountain
Just steps from the café, this iconic cast-iron fountain was installed in 1858 and modeled after fountains in Paris. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Savannah and serves as a dramatic centerpiece to the park.Confederate Monument (Forsyth Park)
At the center of the park’s main walkway stands this large obelisk commemorating Confederate soldiers. While controversial, it remains a prominent historic landmark within the park’s landscape.The Mansion on Forsyth Park (The Bardo Hotel)
A striking Victorian Romanesque Revival building turned luxury hotel. Even if you're not staying here, the lobby gallery and onsite Saint Bibiana restaurant are worth a peek.The Fragrant Garden
Tucked into the northwest corner of Forsyth Park, this serene garden was originally designed for the visually impaired. It’s filled with herbs and aromatic plants that encourage touch and smell. 💡LOCALS KNOW—but we only spill the secrets in the downloadable itinerary
Near Flora and Fauna (Starland District)
Starland Yard
An open-air food truck park and community hangout with rotating vendors, a container bar, and live music. It’s a great place to return to later in the day if you want a casual bite or drink in a colorful, creative setting.Scenic Drive: Bull Street → Washington Avenue → Daffin Park
After breakfast, consider hopping in the car and driving south down Bull Street. When you reach Washington Avenue, turn left — this stretch is one of Savannah’s most surreal and beautiful drives. The road is shaded by a sweeping canopy of moss-draped oaks, and the houses lining the street are classic examples of Savannah’s residential charm. The drive ends at Daffin Park, a wide-open green space perfect for a walk or picnic. Just adjacent is Grayson Stadium, home of the Savannah Bananas — the city's famously unconventional baseball team. Check our events calendar to see if they’re in town during your visit.SCAD Museum of Art (a short Uber ride away)
While not within walking distance, this museum blends historic and modern architecture and features rotating exhibits from student and international artists. If you're interested in design or contemporary art, it’s a worthwhile detour.
Near J. Christopher’s
Madison Square
Just a short walk west, this is one of Savannah’s most picturesque squares. It features a monument to Sgt. William Jasper and is surrounded by historical buildings, including the Sorrel-Weed House (often mentioned in ghost tours).Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
A few blocks away, this French Gothic cathedral (which also features in our History Buff’s Escape itinerary for those who want to dive deeper into Savannah’s spiritual and architectural history) is one of the most stunning churches in the South. Free to enter (donations appreciated), and the stained-glass windows are worth seeing.Lafayette Square
Near the cathedral, this lush square honors the Marquis de Lafayette. It’s framed by beautiful homes and the Hamilton-Turner Inn, said to have inspired parts of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Lafayette Square and Clary’s Café (just a block away) both make appearances in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil — you’ll find more film locations and backstories in our Midnight Savannah Tour.
Savannah’s Best Lunch Spots for Foodies
The Black Rabbit in Savannah’s Victorian District — tiny, quirky, and beloved for its sandwiches. Order two halves, grab a seat outside, and feel like a local.
Bull Street Taco
Located near the edge of the Historic District, Bull Street Taco offers a casual-yet-creative take on Mexican street food. While the entire menu is strong, the standout here is the tuna tostada. 💡LOCALS KNOW— but we only spill the secrets in the downloadable itinerary The interior is lively and stylish, and the patio is perfect for people-watching. It’s an easy walk from many downtown lodgings and pairs well with a casual afternoon of exploring nearby shops or squares.
Black Rabbit
Tucked into the Victorian District, The Black Rabbit is a true hole-in-the-wall — small, cozy, and proudly unpolished. Locals come here for the sandwiches: toasted, overstuffed, and full of character. You can order two halves of different sandwiches (try the Van Gogh and the Three Piggies), which makes it perfect for sharing or indecisive eaters. The vibe is unfussy and relaxed, and it’s just far enough from downtown to feel like you’ve discovered something. 💡LOCALS KNOW— but we only spill the secrets in the downloadable itinerary
Green Truck
Tucked into a quiet corner of the Baldwin Park area, Green Truck Pub is famous for its award-winning burgers, hand-cut fries, and house-made ketchup. Everything is made from scratch, and they feature lots of local farm ingredients — even some of the sodas are craft-made. It’s a few minutes by Uber from the Historic District, but absolutely worth the ride. The vibe is laid-back, with vintage signage and a true local’s-lunch energy. 💡LOCALS KNOW— but we only spill the secrets in the downloadable itinerary
What Locals Love Nearby: Sights to Pair with Your Midday Meal
Starland Strange and Bazaar
A quirky, locally owned shop full of oddities, vintage treasures, and all things weird. Great for a short stroll after lunch and a truly offbeat souvenir.
Front Porch Improv
One of Savannah’s best spots for local comedy. If you’re staying nearby or building a two-day version of this itinerary, consider checking their show schedule.
Over Yonder
Just a few blocks away, this colorful bar offers great cocktails in a laid-back setting. It’s a fun midday stop if you want a break between food stops or you're stretching the experience into the afternoon.
Drive to Wormsloe Historic Site
About 20 minutes from the Starland District, Wormsloe Historic Site is home to Savannah’s most famous live oak tunnel — nearly 400 oaks arching over a mile-long dirt road. It’s one of the most photographed places in Georgia. Once you arrive, you can walk the full length of the avenue, or explore several short trails winding through tabby ruins and maritime forest. If you’re there at the right time, you can catch golden hour under the moss at one of (in my opinion) best photo spots in Savannah — and burn off lunch while you’re at it.
Savannah Dinner Restaurants You’ll Still Be Talking About
Common Thread — a restored Victorian home turned neighborhood favorite. With a menu rooted in sustainability and local sourcing, it’s a beloved dinner choice for Savannah locals who know where to go.
Start with a Pre-Dinner Cocktail
Before dinner, ease into the evening with a well-made drink at one of Savannah’s most atmospheric lounges:
Artillery Bar
Tucked inside a historic armory building, this upscale bar is known for its moody lighting, impeccable service, and serious cocktail menu. It’s the kind of place where the details matter — and it feels like a natural lead-in to The Grey or Husk.
The Peregrin
For something breezier, head to the rooftop of The Perry Lane Hotel. The views over the city are unmatched at golden hour, and the drinks are crisp, creative, and photo-worthy. 💡LOCALS KNOW—but we only spill the secrets in the downloadable itinerary
The Grey
Set inside a restored 1938 Greyhound bus terminal, The Grey is as much about story as it is about flavor. Chef Mashama Bailey’s James Beard Award-winning menu fuses Southern comfort with global finesse — think oxtail, grits, country captain chicken, and more. The Diner Bar offers a slightly more casual experience (and may be easier to book), but every seat in the building is part of the show.
—Also featured on our History Buff’s Escape Itinerary — and for good reason.
Husk Savannah
Inside a historic mansion just steps from Broughton Street, Husk elevates traditional Southern ingredients with a modern, seasonal twist. Expect standout dishes made with heirloom grains, pickled vegetables, and smoked meats — plus one of the best Old Fashioneds in town. If you can't snag a table, the bar area is modern, welcoming, and serves the full menu.
—We also feature Husk on our Cocktail Crawl Itinerary thanks to that unforgettable Old Fashioned.
Common Thread (Uber recommended)
This Victorian-home-turned-restaurant is a favorite among locals, known for its sustainably sourced dishes and quiet elegance. You’ll find house-made pastas, delicate seafood, and vegetable-forward dishes, all presented with care and intention. It’s not in the tourist core — and that’s a good thing. Most of the crowd here are Savannah residents looking for something special but unpretentious.
—Not far from Starland Yard and a featured stop on our Savannah in a Weekend Itinerary.
Evening Sights Near Your Dinner Reservations
The Savannah Theatre — a vintage Art Deco landmark glowing above Chippewa Square. If you're dining nearby, catch a live show or simply enjoy the marquee lit up after dark. I took this photo from Peregrin’s rooftop bar.
Chippewa Square
This is the famous backdrop from Forrest Gump’s bench scene and one of Savannah’s most beautiful squares. While the bench is no longer there, you’ll still see people taking photos in the place where it stood for the movie.
The Savannah Theatre
Also on Chippewa Square this is one of the oldest continually operating theatres in America, offering regular performances in a vintage Art Deco setting. 💡LOCALS KNOW— but we only spill the secrets in the downloadable itinerary
Colonial Park Cemetery
Just a few blocks away, this cemetery dates back to 1750 and holds thousands of graves, including victims of Savannah’s yellow fever epidemics and dueling-era tragedies.
— Also featured in our Paranormal Path itinerary, it’s one of the city’s most haunted historic sites — especially eerie under moonlight.
Sweet Finishes & After-Dinner Drinks in Savannah
A double scoop from Leopold’s — served by our son, Cy, during his time behind the counter at Savannah’s most iconic soda fountain. A sweet stop that’s always worth the wait.
Leopold’s Ice Cream
Since 1919, Leopold’s has been the go-to for classic, handmade ice cream in Savannah. The retro soda fountain decor, marble counters, and black-and-white tile floor make it feel like stepping back in time. Expect a line — especially after dinner — but it moves quickly, and the experience is worth it. Try their signature Tutti Frutti flavor or a scoop of honey almond & cream.
Doki Doki
Tucked away downtown, this playful Japanese dessert café specializes in crepes, soft serve, and anime-inspired sweets. If you’re looking for something more whimsical than nostalgic, this is your stop. The staff is friendly, the setting is colorful, and everything is as photogenic as it is delicious.
Lulu’s Chocolate Bar
Romantic, dimly lit, and a little indulgent, Lulu’s is perfect for couples or anyone looking for something decadent to end the night. The dessert martinis are popular, and the chocolate fondue or key lime pie are standouts. It’s walkable from most downtown dinner spots and makes a great alternative to the more family-friendly vibe at Leopold’s.
Map Your Day
Follow your appetite through Savannah. This interactive map highlights every stop on the Foodie Escape itinerary — including our favorite places to eat, drink, stroll, and explore, all within reach of the Historic District.
Every stop is pinned — restaurants, landmarks, dessert spots, and more.
Want to explore all our Savannah itineraries (threads) in one place?
Get free access to our printable Savannah Travel Library — perfect for on-the-go exploring, printing, or sharing with your travel crew.
Here’s what’s inside:
✅ Printable layouts for tangible accessibility
✅ All featured stops clearly listed and mapped
✅ Direct links to our custom Google Maps
✅ “Locals know…” tips sprinkled throughout for authentic insight you won’t find on the web
📩 Just enter your email below and we’ll send the full library link straight to your inbox.
FAQs for the Foodie Escape
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Many of the stops are walkable from Savannah’s Historic District, especially if you enjoy wandering between neighborhoods. However, a few lunch and dinner spots like Green Truck Pub and Common Thread are best reached with a short Uber. We’ve noted walkability throughout the guide — and you can mix and match based on how far you want to go.
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Yes, especially for dinner. Restaurants like The Grey, Husk, and Common Thread often book up in advance. We recommend securing reservations a week or two ahead, particularly if you're visiting on a weekend or during a festival.
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While this guide leans more toward adult travelers and couples, kids are welcome at many spots (like Green Truck or Leopold’s). If you’re traveling with children and want more family-oriented experiences, check out our Savannah in a Weekend itinerary.
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None of the restaurants listed are strictly vegetarian or vegan, but they do offer vegetarian and vegan options. Because menus change frequently in Savannah, it is best to research the current menu before making a reservation.
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This itinerary includes plenty of romantic stops, but if you’re planning a special occasion or couples’ weekend, our Romantic Getaway itinerary focuses more on slower pacing, and elegant extras.
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Absolutely. We’ve intentionally included more options than you can fit into one day so you can build your own perfect two-day Foodie Escape. It pairs well with walking tours, museum visits, or a trip out to Wormsloe.