Where to eat in Savannah after a day outdoors

Fountain in Savannah's Columbia Square surrounded by oak trees and historic brick buildings

After walking for miles around Savannah with my teenagers, exploring the city’s spooky sights and historic areas, we had worked up a serious appetite. The city’s food is shaped by its coastal location and history, with plenty of seafood, Lowcountry cooking, Gullah Geechee influences and, of course, barbecue. Here’s where we stopped to refuel along the way, from classic fare to unexpected places and flavors.

Sandfly Bar-B-Q

Diners seated in red booths beneath a large Sandfly Georgia sign at Sandfly Bar-B-Q in Savannah
Diners enjoy a meal at Sandfly Bar-B-Q in Savannah, Georgia, a casual barbecue restaurant known for its pulled pork, brisket and Southern sides. Credit: Christina Valhouli/Camp & Country

Sandfly Bar-B-Q is a handy place to fuel up before exploring the grounds of nearby Wormsloe State Historic Site, just a short drive away. Arrive hungry at this casual spot, where you’ll order at the counter before taking a seat at a red booth. Pulled pork, brisket and chicken are available by the pound or piled onto sandwiches. My family ordered platters of chicken and pulled pork, served with Texas toast, fried okra and baked beans. Plan on having leftovers.

Baobab Lounge

Interior of Baobab Lounge in Savannah with an ostrich display, suspended crocodile and African-inspired decor
Baobab Lounge at JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District features African-inspired artwork, animal displays and colorful seating. Credit: JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District

While it may seem strange to have a drink beneath a suspended crocodile in Savannah, it makes sense at the Baobab Lounge inside the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District. The space is an homage to Africa, with hand-painted murals and ostriches perched atop bar tables. The menu is just as eclectic as the decor. My favorite was the tamarind martini, which I sipped while snacking on biltong.

The Darling Oyster Bar

Diners seated around a large oyster bar inside The Darling Oyster Bar in Savannah, Georgia
Diners gather around the central oyster bar at The Darling Oyster Bar in Savannah, Georgia, where exposed brick walls and high ceilings frame the restaurant’s historic interior. Credit: Andrew Cebulka/The Darling Oyster Bar

Housed in a restored 130-year-old building, The Darling Oyster Bar is a stylish restaurant serving seafood with a Southern twist. Start with a platter of oysters, or try an oyster shooter: a raw oyster served with Cathead pepper-infused vodka and a house-made mix. My teens went for the fried chicken and rich chocolate mousse, while I opted for something lighter: seared scallops with potatoes and corn. Sides include grits and hush puppies with sorghum butter.

Savannah Square Pops

Interior of Savannah Square Pops with wooden tables, black chairs and a large handcrafted ice pops sign
Savannah Square Pops in Savannah, Georgia, features a bright seating area where visitors can enjoy handcrafted ice pops in a variety of flavors. Credit: Savannah Square Pops

For a cool treat, head to Savannah Square Pops, a colorful space near SCAD Museum of Art and the Savannah Paranormal Museum. The square-shaped pops are made on-site and come in unexpected flavors. There are too many to sample in one visit, but I opted for the tart Blackberry Lemonade while my kids chose sweeter pops, including Salted Caramel.

Filed under: Beyond the Trail · Explore · Outdoor Travel · Southeast
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