From salty southern meals to sugary sippin’s and late night nibbles, there are plenty of ways to savor Savannah.
But you don’t have to spend a fortune at restaurants in Savannah to sample some of The Hostess City of the South’s specialties. Between your scenic strolls along the Savannah River and stops in the city squares, make sure to indulge and savor Savannah. with these popular plates:
1. Fried Green Tomatoes
This simple golden side peaked in popularity when the movie “Fried Green Tomatoes” came out in 1991. Though it’s been said to be southern fare for years, this dish has its own secret backstory. It emerged from Jewish immigrants in the Northeast and Midwest before becoming a star of the South. Some of the first recipes found published on this dish appeared in America were in Jewish cookbooks. It then starting showing up in cookbooks in the Midwest and newspapers. No matter where they’re from, we’re just glad they’re here and you can find them almost anywhere. So forget the fried pickles and savor Svannah this crispy creation!
Where? Tubby's Seafood, 45 Bistro or Belford's
Photo provided by Tubby's.
2. Shrimp & Grits
A staple on any Southern table, Shrimp & Grits is another hot dish that you won’t want to miss. This regional specialty hails from the Lowcountry, with origins in the Native American Muskogee tribe. The Muskogees ground corn in a stone mill, giving it a gritty texture. It wasn’t until 1985 when Craig Claiborne of the New York Times visited North Carolina and published the recipe. The Shrimp & Grits we know today gained widespread popularity. It is served at hole-in-the-wall diners and upscale eateries all across the South. Shrimp & Grits is made many different ways, each pleasing palates of many different people.
Where? Tubby's Seafood
Photo provided by Tubby's.
3. Chatham Artillery Punch
Beers are great and your favorite cocktail is just that, but when in Georgia’s First City, thou shall do it like those before thee—with Chatham Artillery Punch. It is a champagne cocktail that some say has stuck around since the colonial period. Named after and first formulated by the Chatham Artillery, Georgia’s oldest military unit, this punch comes on strong. With a mix of champagne, rum, brandy, and bourbon, it’s the perfect drink to request while you’re here.
Where? Fiddler's Seafood
4. Pralines
You can’t just stroll down River Street or stop by City Market without smelling sweet aromas sifting through the air. Candy kitchens are always making fresh pralines, and they smell heavenly. Though they’re known for their caramel color and crunchy pecans in the United States, these delights actually hail from France. The French version is much firmer and made with almonds and caramelized sugar. When they were brought over by French settlers to Louisiana, local chefs substituted the ingredients for the ample pecans and sugar cane. They’re in abundance here in the Hostess City of the South. Be sure to grab some and savor Savannah!
Where? River Street Sweets and the Savannah Candy Kitchen
5. Peaches
While you’re looking for something sweet, don’t forget to grab a Georgia Peach! Franciscan monks first introduced these succulent snacks to Georgia’s coast in 1571. Peaches flourished until 1928, when they production peaked with about 8 million bushels. Though they might not be Georgia’s number one export anymore but they’re definitely woven into the fabric of the state. Whether it's peach ice cream, cobbler or some fresh ones from a roadside stand, try Georgia's fuzzy fruit!
