Savannah is one of the South’s top food destinations, and the holidays offer a delightful time to indulge. Walk in any direction and you are sure to discover a cozy bistro, elegant restaurant, or casual coffee shop.
The Olde Pink House, 23 Abercorn St., is a favorite for locals and visitors, offering large portions, delicious menu items and a beautiful atmosphere. Located in an elegant, historic mansion at 23 Abercorn St., The Olde Pink House celebrates the holidays in style. For festive spirits, order the Pink Lady, made with fresh-squeezed lemonade and Absolut raspberry vodka, or the Planter’s Punch, a blend of Papa’s Pilar Dark Rum, Bacardi Rum, pineapple and orange juice, and grenadine.
Vic’s on the River, 26 E. Bay St., is housed in a beautiful old cotton warehouse overlooking the Savannah River and Historic River Street. So, it has a great location going for it right off the bat. Christmas music on the piano adds to the festive feel. The crawfish beignets with Tabasco topping make a delicious start. Follow those up with a Poached Pear Salad, made with dried cranberries and candied pecans, or Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes. Finish the meal off with Irish coffee.
Garibaldi Italian restaurant, 315 W. Congress St., pulls out all the stops during the holidays with lovely decorations, mouth-watering dishes, and a friendly staff. Celebrate the season with the Lobster Rabini, twin lobster tails, sherry, and asparagus served with fettuccine. The Veal Parmigiana and Grilled New York Strip also make scrumptious selections. Leave room for dessert. The Bailey’s Chocolate Cheesecake and Creme Brûlée are amazing.
Not every holiday meal has to be elegant. For a casual atmosphere, head to the Sentient Bean Coffee Shop, 13 E. Park Ave. This merry and bright coffee shop serves breakfast all day, with vegan and vegetarian choices that include a Black-Bean Burrito and a Gluten-Free Veggie Bowl. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a Peppermint Mocha topped with a crushed candy cane. A Mint Mocha blended with the house-made organic syrup is also a sensation.
Six Pence Pub, 245 Bull St., always provides a warm, lovely ambience but even more so during the holidays. Beautifully decorated, this cozy pub makes a festive stop on your food tour of Savannah. The Shepherd’s Pie is delicious and filling, while the creme brûlée tops off the meal. Open on Christmas Eve.
Artillery Bar, 307 Bull St., sits in a restored landmark location where the ambiance is almost as enticing as the drink menu. The friendly wait staff provides excellent suggestions on wine and cocktails. Ask about holiday drinks, but you can’t go wrong with the Artillery Punch is made with Smith and Cross Rum, Copper & Kings Brandy, Rittenhouse Rye, and Haymans Sloe Gin, topped with sparkling wine.
Eat, drink, and be merry this season during your Savannah stay.