Savannah, Georgia. The very name conjures images of stately mansions, moss-draped oaks, and a palpable sense of Southern charm. But beyond the historic squares and ghost tours lies another Savannah treasure: a vibrant and diverse food scene just waiting to be explored. From Lowcountry boils to innovative culinary creations, the city offers a feast for the senses. However, navigating this delicious landscape and pinpointing exactly what’s *open right now* can sometimes feel like a challenge. Restaurants operate with varied hours, seasonal menus shift, and the post-pandemic world has brought unexpected adjustments to schedules.
This guide is your passport to Savannah’s open-door food scene. We’ll navigate you through a curated selection of establishments, showcasing a variety of options to satisfy every craving, at almost any time of day. Whether you’re seeking a hearty Southern breakfast, a quick and satisfying lunch, a romantic dinner, or a late-night snack, we’ll point you toward the culinary gems that are welcoming diners with open arms and, more importantly, open doors. Get ready to savor Savannah!
Morning Delights: Breakfast and Brunch Hotspots
Starting your day right in Savannah means indulging in a breakfast or brunch that sets the tone for a day of exploration. Thankfully, a few key spots consistently open their doors early, offering everything from classic Southern staples to modern twists on morning favorites.
The Collins Quarter
The Collins Quarter stands out as a must-visit for both locals and tourists. This charming café, inspired by the café culture of Melbourne, Australia, exudes a laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere. With its exposed brick, comfortable seating, and friendly staff, The Collins Quarter offers a welcoming space to enjoy a delicious breakfast. What makes it a great “open” option? They consistently maintain regular hours, catering to the early-morning crowd. Their menu boasts an array of tempting options, but the Baked Eggs Shakshuka and the Lavender Mocha are particularly noteworthy. The Baked Eggs Shakshuka is a flavorful and satisfying dish with perfectly cooked eggs nestled in a rich tomato sauce, while the Lavender Mocha offers a unique and aromatic twist on a classic coffee beverage. You can find The Collins Quarter at multiple locations throughout Savannah, including the historic district, making it a convenient choice no matter where your day begins. Their website and social media pages are regularly updated with hours and specials.
B. Matthew’s Eatery
For a taste of authentic Southern hospitality and comfort food, B. Matthew’s Eatery is a fantastic choice. Located in a beautifully restored historic building, B. Matthew’s provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely brunch. The eatery is known for its commitment to using fresh, local ingredients, resulting in dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying. Their reputation for consistent hours and a lively atmosphere makes it a reliable choice for those seeking a delicious and readily available brunch. The Shrimp and Grits, a Southern classic, is a standout on their menu, featuring creamy grits topped with succulent shrimp in a savory sauce. Don’t miss the opportunity to try their Fried Green Tomatoes, a crispy and tangy appetizer that perfectly captures the essence of Southern cuisine. B. Matthew’s Eatery is situated in the heart of the historic district, making it easily accessible to visitors. Check their website for the most current brunch hours and reservation information.
Back in the Day Bakery
If you’re craving something a little different, venture slightly outside the immediate downtown area to discover Back in the Day Bakery. This whimsical bakery, owned by Cheryl Day, is a true Savannah institution. The aroma of freshly baked goods wafts through the air, creating an irresistible atmosphere. Back in the Day Bakery consistently opens its doors early, offering a wide selection of pastries, cakes, and sandwiches. The Salted Caramel Cake is a must-try, with its decadent caramel frosting and moist cake layers. Their breakfast sandwiches are also a popular choice, providing a hearty and satisfying start to the day. The bakery’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional baking methods ensures that every item is bursting with flavor. Located a short drive from the city center, Back in the Day Bakery is well worth the trip. Be sure to check their social media for daily specials and seasonal treats.
Lunchtime Bites: Casual Dining That’s Always Welcoming
When lunchtime rolls around, Savannah offers a plethora of quick, casual, and consistently open dining options. Whether you’re looking for a classic sandwich, a slice of pizza, or a taste of Southern comfort food, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite.
Zunzi’s
Zunzi’s is an absolute Savannah staple. This casual eatery is famous for its South African-inspired sandwiches, bursting with flavor and piled high with fillings. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, reflecting the vibrant flavors of their cuisine. Zunzi’s is reliably open for lunch and offers a quick and convenient option for those on the go. The Conquistador sandwich, featuring roasted chicken, lettuce, tomato, and Zunzi’s secret sauce, is a must-try. The Godfather sandwich, with its flavorful blend of meats and cheeses, is another popular choice. With multiple locations throughout Savannah, Zunzi’s is easily accessible and always a good option for a quick and satisfying lunch. Their online ordering system and consistent hours make them a dependable choice.
Vinnie Van Go-Go’s
For a taste of classic Italian-American cuisine, head to Vinnie Van Go-Go’s. This unassuming pizza joint serves up generous slices of New York-style pizza, cooked to perfection with crispy crusts and flavorful toppings. Vinnie Van Go-Go’s is a consistently open and popular lunch spot, known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious pizza. The cheese pizza is a classic choice, while the specialty pizzas offer a variety of unique and flavorful combinations. With its late-night hours, Vinnie Van Go-Go’s is also a great option for a late-night snack. Located in the heart of the historic district, Vinnie Van Go-Go’s is a convenient and reliable choice for a casual and satisfying lunch.
Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room
If you’re craving authentic Southern comfort food, look no further than Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room. This legendary establishment serves up a family-style lunch featuring a rotating menu of Southern classics, including fried chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese, and sweet potato casserole. Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room is known for its consistently open hours and its communal dining experience, where guests share tables and strike up conversations with fellow diners. While be prepared to wait in line, the experience is well worth it for a taste of true Southern hospitality and home-cooked food. Located in a historic building in the heart of the city, Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room is a Savannah institution that should not be missed. Be sure to check their website for the daily menu and hours of operation.
Evening Elegance: Dinner Destinations that Delight
As the sun sets and the city lights begin to twinkle, Savannah transforms into a romantic and sophisticated dining destination. The city boasts an array of upscale restaurants offering exceptional cuisine, elegant atmospheres, and consistently reliable hours.
The Olde Pink House
The Olde Pink House is perhaps Savannah’s most iconic restaurant. Housed in a stunning eighteenth-century mansion, The Olde Pink House offers a refined dining experience in a truly unforgettable setting. The restaurant is known for its elegant atmosphere, impeccable service, and innovative Southern cuisine. The Olde Pink House generally maintains consistent hours, but reservations are highly recommended, particularly during peak season. The Crispy Scored Flounder, a signature dish, is a must-try, featuring a perfectly scored and fried flounder served with a flavorful sauce. The BLT Salad, with its creative twist on a classic combination, is another popular choice. The Olde Pink House is located in the heart of the historic district, making it easily accessible to visitors. Their website offers online reservations and detailed menu information.
Husk Savannah
For a modern take on Southern cuisine, Husk Savannah is an excellent choice. This acclaimed restaurant focuses on using local and seasonal ingredients to create innovative and flavorful dishes that celebrate the region’s culinary heritage. Husk Savannah offers a stylish and contemporary atmosphere, with a focus on showcasing the beauty of local ingredients. Husk generally maintains consistent dinner hours and accepting reservations. The menu changes frequently based on seasonal availability, but you can always expect creative and delicious dishes that highlight the best of Southern cuisine. Located in a beautifully restored building in the historic district, Husk Savannah is a must-visit for foodies seeking a unique and memorable dining experience. Their website provides up-to-date menu information and online reservations.
Garibaldi Cafe
If you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine, Garibaldi Cafe is a Savannah institution. This elegant restaurant, housed in a beautifully restored firehouse, offers a classic Italian dining experience with a touch of Southern charm. Garibaldi Cafe is known for its romantic atmosphere, attentive service, and delicious pasta dishes. Garibaldi Cafe consistently is open for dinner and allows reservations. The Veal Chop Parmesan is a perennial favorite, featuring a tender veal chop breaded and topped with a rich tomato sauce and melted parmesan cheese. The seafood pasta dishes are also a popular choice, featuring fresh seafood and flavorful sauces. Located in the heart of the historic district, Garibaldi Cafe is a perfect choice for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. Be sure to check their website for online reservations and detailed menu information.
Late-Night Cravings: Satisfying Your Midnight Munchies
Savannah’s nightlife is vibrant and energetic, and sometimes you need a late-night snack to keep the party going. Thankfully, a few key spots offer delicious eats well into the night.
Treylor Park
Treylor Park is a quirky and fun restaurant with a rooftop patio, offering creative Southern comfort food with a twist. Treylor Park is open late and provides a casual and lively atmosphere, perfect for a late-night bite. Their menu features an array of creative dishes, including the PB&J Wings, a unique and surprisingly delicious combination of peanut butter, jelly, and chicken wings. The Grilled Cheese Dumplings are another popular choice, offering a playful twist on a classic comfort food. Treylor Park is located in the heart of the historic district and a perfect place to unwind and have a late snack.
Seeking the Inside Scoop: Tips for Finding Open Restaurants in Savannah
Finding the perfect restaurant that is currently open in Savannah doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Here are a few insider tips to help you navigate the city’s culinary landscape:
* Leverage Online Resources: Websites like Google Maps, Yelp, and OpenTable can be valuable tools for finding restaurants and checking their hours of operation. However, always double-check the information by contacting the restaurant directly.
* Pick Up the Phone: The most reliable way to confirm a restaurant’s hours is to simply call them. This is especially important during holidays, off-season, or when you have a specific dining time in mind.
* Embrace Social Media: Many restaurants actively update their social media pages with daily specials, revised hours, or temporary closures. Following your favorite Savannah restaurants on social media can provide you with real-time information.
* Ask the Locals: Don’t hesitate to ask hotel staff, bartenders, shopkeepers, or even other diners for their recommendations. Locals often have insider knowledge of hidden gems and restaurants with consistently reliable hours.
A Culinary Farewell: Savoring the Flavors of Savannah
Savannah’s food scene is a vibrant and ever-evolving tapestry of flavors, traditions, and innovation. While finding restaurants that are currently open may require a bit of planning, the reward is well worth the effort. Whether you’re indulging in a classic Southern breakfast, savoring a refined dinner, or grabbing a late-night snack, Savannah offers a culinary experience that is sure to delight your senses. So, pack your appetite, explore the city’s charming streets, and get ready to discover the open-door food scene that awaits you in Savannah, Georgia. What are you waiting for? Let your culinary adventure begin! And feel free to share your own open-table Savannah discoveries in the comments below. Happy eating!
