Spanish moss-covered trees, historic B&Bs, and beautiful public squares—it’s not surprising Savannah is my favorite Southern city for a weekend escape.

Living in Atlanta, Sam and I have been lucky to visit Savannah numerous times. And though the scenery is beautiful and the history is fascinating, there is one main reason we keep returning: the food!

Though Sam and I don’t consider ourselves foodies per se (our idea of a “fancy dinner” is one served over a tablecloth and/or requiring utensils), I admit that the mere idea of visiting Savannah makes my mouth water.

So whether you are visiting Savannah for a week-long vacation or simply for an in-and-out business trip, be sure to make the most of your time! Your taste buds will thank you (your waistline, not so much).

To help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite places to eat in Savannah:

Casual/Lunch Fare

 Starland Café

Sam and I stumbled upon Starland Cafe on our first trip to Savannah, and have returned on nearly every visit since. Their sandwiches are outstanding. The Mediterranean panini reaches a level of perfection that should challenge and inspire all other sandwiches. We always eat in the outdoor garden in the back. Open for lunch only.

11 E 41st St, Savannah, GA 31401

 Green Truck Neighborhood Pub

Sometimes you just need to consume a massive hunk of beef. Our most recent find, Green Truck Neighborhood Pub serves up the best, juiciest burgers in town for just such an occasion. What really makes Green Truck stand out is the extras, such as their house-made ketchup and pickles. So. Delicious. And don’t be scared away if you’re not a meat eater—Green Truck also offers some great vegetarian options.

2430 Habersham St, Savannah, GA 31401

Vinnie Van Go Go’s

If you’re a fan of New-York style pizza slices bigger than your head (And frankly, who isn’t?), look no further than Vinnie Van Go Go’s. Its pizza is legendary in Savannah. One slice should satisfy even the most voracious appetite. I should know. My family has dubbed my appetite “The Beast” because it’s more terrifying than anything you could find in an Alfred Hitchcock film. Payment is cash-only.

 317 W Bryan St, Savannah, GA 31401

Further Reading: The 7 Best Weekend Destinations in the Southeastern USA

 Classy Fare

Circa 1875

If you’re looking for something a little classier, you can’t go wrong with Circa 1875, a French restaurant in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. I’m a bit of a Francophile (I even compiled a list of my favorite books about France), so I was understandably thrilled when Sam surprised me with dinner at Circa 1875 for our anniversary. We enjoyed stuffing ourselves on all the classic French dishes while speaking in very bad French accents.Reservations are preferred.

48 Whitaker St, Savannah, GA 31401

Garibaldi Café

For a romantic Italian dinner, check out Garibaldi Café in Savannah’s historic district. Sam and I sat upstairs and loved the ambiance of the mirror-lined dining room. This is us trying to look all cute and romantic. Reservations are preferred.

 315 W Congress St, Savannah, GA 31401

Sweet Treats

Back in the Day Bakery

Craving delicious pastries and sweets? Of course you are. Look no further than Back in the Day Bakery. If you’re lucky enough to be in Savannah on a Saturday, try out the fresh cinnamon rolls. Back in the Day also has a lunch menu with sandwiches and salads if you want something that won’t put you in a sugar-coma.

2403 Bull Street  Savannah, GA 31401

Leopold’s Ice Cream

A visit (or three) to Leopold’s is a staple of any trip to Savannah. With great flavor options and a vintage ice cream parlor vibe, Leopold’s lives up to the hype.

212 E Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401

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