Savannah’s proximity to the water means delicious seafood is plentiful around town, but it is by far not the only choice. Climbing the culinary ladder over the years, Savannah is also home to several renowned fine-dining restaurants. One of the best is Elizabeth on 37th in the Victorian District. Housed in a lavish 1900 villa, the atmosphere is surpassed only by the menu, which changes seasonally. They have a well-chosen wine list and terrific desserts.
For traditional southern fare, Savannah has two standouts. Mrs. Wilkes’ Boarding House is family-style dining at its best. Be prepared to share a table with other hungry diners - you can marvel together as endless plates of fried chicken, collard greens, black-eyed peas, and cornbread descend onto your table. Across town you will find The Lady and Sons, owned by the matriarch of the Food Network, Paula Deen. There is a buffet that will leave you incapacitated for at least a couple of hours, or you can choose to order off the menu if you can manage to decide on just one or two items. Either way, stacks of hoecakes and cheese biscuits will continually arrive at your table, delivered with an amiable smile.
For pizza try Vinnie VanGoGo’s in the City Market district. Also in the area is Café at City Market, where you can find an eclectic mix of dishes and a great children’s menu. A can’t miss Savannah dining experience can be found at Clary’s Café, which was featured in the movie version of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. It is down home diner food to be sure, and the breakfasts are particularly good (order the potato latkes).