best restaurants/seafood

Will be in Savannah 11/9-11/12. Looking for the best seafood and/or steak. (gluten free options are a plus. not celiac, but sensitive). Also would like to know if there are any dress codes at recommended restaurants, or important to make reservations very far in advance. Thanks so much.

Edited: 1 year ago

Hi there!

It sounds like you're in for a great trip to Savannah, and you're looking for some top-notch dining experiences, particularly with seafood and steak. Savannah has an excellent food scene, especially for seafood lovers, with plenty of restaurants offering gluten-free options. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best restaurants for seafood and steak, along with dress code info and reservation tips:

Best Seafood Restaurants:

  • The Grey – This award-winning restaurant in a restored 1938 Greyhound bus station offers Southern-inspired dishes with an emphasis on fresh seafood. They have gluten-free options, and the atmosphere is upscale but not overly formal, so smart casual attire is recommended. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
  • Alligator Soul – Located in the Historic District, this place serves Southern cuisine with a modern twist, including excellent seafood options. They offer gluten-free choices, and the ambiance is cozy and intimate. It’s a great choice for both seafood and steak lovers. Casual to smart casual attire is appropriate, and reservations are a good idea.
  • Vic’s on the River – Situated along the riverfront, Vic's is a local favorite known for its fresh seafood and low country dishes. They have gluten-free options and a beautiful outdoor patio for dining. The atmosphere is upscale casual, so smart casual attire works well here. It’s popular, so reservations are a smart move.
  • The Crab Shack – If you’re looking for a more casual, fun seafood experience, The Crab Shack on Tybee Island offers a relaxed, outdoor dining experience right on the marsh. They serve classic seafood dishes, including crab and shrimp, and have some gluten-free options. No strict dress code, but be prepared for a laid-back, beachy atmosphere. Reservations are not usually necessary, but it can get crowded, so it’s worth calling ahead, especially on weekends.

Best Steak Restaurants:

  • Chatham's Place – This upscale restaurant offers steaks and a variety of Southern dishes. They have gluten-free options and are known for their excellent service. The dress code is smart casual, and reservations are highly recommended, as it’s a popular spot.
  • Husk Savannah – Known for its creative Southern cuisine, Husk offers a great selection of steaks and a fantastic menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. They do offer gluten-free options, but it’s a good idea to double-check with the staff about any concerns. The atmosphere is chic but not overly formal, so smart casual attire is appropriate. Reservations are a good idea, especially for dinner.
  • The Collins Quarter – While not exclusively a steakhouse, The Collins Quarter offers a great selection of American dishes, including steaks. They have gluten-free options and a relaxed, modern atmosphere. Dress is casual, but you can always dress it up a little if you prefer. Reservations are recommended for weekends or busy times.

General Tips on Reservations & Dress Code:

  • Dress Code: Most restaurants in Savannah, especially the nicer ones, lean towards smart casual. You can wear nice jeans or slacks with a nice shirt or blouse. For upscale spots like The Grey or Chatham’s Place, you might want to dress up a little, but you won’t need anything formal like a suit or tie. It’s always a good idea to check the specific restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm, especially if you’re going to a more high-end establishment.
  • Reservations: While Savannah is a popular tourist destination, not all restaurants are always packed. However, for popular spots like The Grey, Husk, or Vic’s on the River, it’s best to make reservations in advance, particularly on weekends or around special events. For more casual places, like The Crab Shack, you might not need a reservation, but it’s always a good idea to check ahead, especially in peak seasons.

Overall, Savannah offers a wonderful culinary experience, and you’ll have no trouble finding great seafood and steak options with gluten-free choices. I hope you enjoy your time in Savannah and get to experience all the amazing food the city has to offer!


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