Bourbon, Biscuits, and a Dash of Ghosts: Savannah’s Food & Spirits Uncovered
- michelesweetserenity
- Oct 31
- 6 min read
Savannah, Georgia, is a city that doesn’t just whisper history, it sings it. Founded in 1733, this coastal gem has long been known as the “Hostess City of the South,” and for good reason. Its cobblestone streets, moss-draped oaks, and stately squares are the backdrop to a culture that thrives on hospitality, storytelling, and indulgence. But beyond the antebellum architecture and riverfront charm lies a food and spirits scene that is as intoxicating as it is delicious. From Prohibition-era speakeasies to James Beard Award-winning kitchens, Savannah has transformed itself into a culinary and cocktail destination where every sip and bite carries a story. Whether you’re chasing bourbon, oysters, or ghostly pub crawls, Savannah invites you to taste its history and toast to its future.
A Teenage Memory in Savannah - I still remember the first time I set foot in Savannah as a teenager, just for a couple of days before heading down to Orlando. Even then, the city felt like something out of a dream. The plantation-style homes stood tall and dignified, their wide porches practically begging you to sit a spell, while the Spanish moss draped over the oak trees like nature’s own lace curtains. There was a softness to the air, a kind of Southern rhythm that made everything feel slower, sweeter, and more intentional.
And because I’ve always loved a good ghost story, I couldn’t help but imagine what those walls and cobblestones might reveal if they could talk. Every creak of a floorboard, every flicker of a lantern seemed like an invitation to wonder about the lives that had passed through before me. Savannah wasn’t just charming; it was haunting in the most beautiful way, a city where history and mystery seemed to dance together under the mossy canopy. Even as a teenager, I knew this wasn’t just another stop on the way to Orlando. It was a place that left its mark, a city that whispered stories I’d carry with me long after I left.
“Savannah is a city that doesn’t just hold history, it breathes it. Every moss-draped oak, every cobblestone street, and every whispered ghost story reminds you that the past and present walk hand in hand here, inviting you to slow down, savor, and stay awhile.”
Spirits of Savannah: Where the Glass is Always Half Full
Savannah’s spirit scene is as layered as its history, equal parts sultry, sophisticated, and a little mischievous. Here, cocktails aren’t just poured; they’re performed, and distilleries double as storytellers of Southern craft.
Burnt Church Distillery (just across the river in Bluffton, SC) – Worth the short drive, this distillery is steeped in storytelling and Southern heritage. Their tasting room is stunning, and their lineup includes inventive spirits like Chocolate Milk Moonshine alongside classic whiskeys. The vibe is polished yet welcoming, with a strong sense of history woven into the experience.
Savannah Bourbon Co. – A haven for bourbon lovers, this spot offers curated tastings that highlight small-batch Southern distillers. The mood is refined yet approachable, with leather chairs, amber lighting, and the faint hum of jazz in the background.
Congress Street Up – Tucked inside the American Prohibition Museum, this speakeasy transports you straight to the 1920s. Expect bartenders in suspenders, cocktails with names like “Bee’s Knees,” and an atmosphere that feels like Gatsby might walk in at any moment.
Service Brewing Co. – Veteran-owned and community-driven, this brewery is all about bold flavors and camaraderie. Their IPAs and stouts are best enjoyed in the lively taproom, where the vibe is casual, patriotic, and buzzing with locals.
Savannah Wine Cellar – For those who prefer grapes to grains, this boutique wine bar offers flights from around the world in a cozy, candlelit setting. It’s intimate, romantic, and perfect for lingering conversations.
Savannah’s spirit scene is a toast to the city’s past and present, equal parts rebellious, refined, and endlessly fun. Whether you’re sipping bourbon or swirling wine, you’ll find yourself raising a glass to the Hostess City.
Ready to sip your way through Savannah? Let’s plan your tasting tour.
Food of Savannah: A Feast for Every Palate
If Savannah’s spirits are bold and playful, its food is soulful and deeply rooted. Here, Southern tradition meets modern innovation, and every plate tells a story of heritage, hospitality, and a little culinary daring.
The Grey – Housed in a restored Greyhound bus terminal, The Grey is helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Mashama Bailey. Expect Southern classics reimagined with global flair, think collards with pistachio dukkah or duck confit with sweet potato dumplings. The vibe is sleek, historic, and unforgettable.
Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room – A Savannah institution, this family-style restaurant serves fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread at communal tables. The mood is warm, nostalgic, and as Southern as sweet tea on a summer porch.
The Collins Quarter – Inspired by Melbourne’s café culture, this spot blends Aussie brunch vibes with Southern charm. Avocado toast meets shrimp and grits, all served in a chic, airy space that feels both cosmopolitan and cozy.
Common Thread – Set in a Victorian mansion, this fine-dining restaurant focuses on sustainability and seasonality. The atmosphere is elegant yet welcoming, with dishes that are as artful as they are delicious.
Crystal Beer Parlor – One of Savannah’s oldest restaurants, this casual haunt is beloved for its burgers, beer, and no-frills charm. It’s the kind of place where locals gather, stories are swapped, and history lingers in every corner.
Savannah’s food scene is a delicious balancing act, equal parts tradition and innovation, comfort and creativity. Every meal feels like a celebration.
Hungry yet? Let’s map out your Savannah dining adventure. Which one would be your choice?
Where the Magic Happens
Savannah doesn’t just separate food and drink; it marries them in experiences that are immersive, playful, and sometimes a little spooky.
Savannah Slow Ride Pub Crawl – Pedal-powered fun meets pub-hopping adventure. Gather your friends, sip craft cocktails, and laugh your way through the historic district. The vibe is lively, social, and unforgettable.
Haunted Pub Crawl – Savannah is famously haunted, and this tour combines ghost stories with strong pours. Expect candlelit taverns, chilling tales, and a buzz that’s equal parts eerie and entertaining.
Savannah Taste Experience – A walking food tour that pairs bites with sips, weaving history and flavor into one delicious narrative. The mood is educational, indulgent, and perfect for curious foodies.
Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise – Dine and drink while gliding along the Savannah River. The atmosphere is romantic, with live music, Southern cuisine, and cocktails under the stars.
City Market Nightlife – A hub of bars, restaurants, and live music venues, City Market is where food and spirits collide in a vibrant, open-air setting. The vibe is festive, eclectic, and perfect for a night out.
Savannah’s food-and-spirits mashups are where the city truly shines, immersive, enchanting, and endlessly fun.
Want to experience Savannah’s food and spirits in one unforgettable night? Let’s make it happen.
Rest Easy, Play Hard
After all that sipping and savoring, you’ll need a place to rest your head. Savannah’s accommodations are as charming as its streets, keeping you close to the action while offering plenty of comfort.
The Perry Lane Hotel – A luxury boutique hotel with rooftop bars, art-filled interiors, and a vibe that’s equal parts sophisticated and playful. Perfect for those who want to stay stylishly close to the action.
The Marshall House – One of Savannah’s oldest hotels, this historic property blends antique charm with modern comfort. The mood is elegant, timeless, and steeped in history.
Andaz Savannah – A chic, contemporary hotel located in the heart of the historic district. With a lively bar and sleek rooms, it’s ideal for travelers who want modern luxury with easy access to the food and spirits scene.
Savannah’s hotels are more than just places to sleep; they’re extensions of the city’s charm, offering comfort, history, and style in equal measure.
Ready to book your Savannah stay? Let’s find the perfect spot for you.
Picture this: a weekend away with your closest friends, wandering cobblestone streets with cocktails in hand, indulging in fried chicken one moment and sipping bourbon the next. By day, you’re exploring historic squares and tasting your way through markets. By night, you’re laughing under the stars on a riverboat or swapping ghost stories in a candlelit pub. Savannah is the kind of city that makes indulgence feel effortless and connection feel natural.
Gather your crew, it’s time to make Savannah your next unforgettable getaway.
Savannah is a city that knows how to feed both your appetite and your soul. From bourbon tastings to brunch feasts, haunted pub crawls to rooftop cocktails, every experience is steeped in history and sprinkled with enchantment. Which of these Savannah experiences would be your favorite to try first, the soulful food, the spirited drinks, or the magical mashups?
"Travel Light, dream big, live sweet!"
