Savannah Serenity: A Romantic Getaway Through Historic Charm, Exquisite Dining, and Southern Hospitality
(Forsyth Park – Savannah, GA)
Recently, my husband and I had the absolute pleasure of celebrating our milestone 10th wedding anniversary with a truly unforgettable escape to Savannah, Georgia. This enchanting city, steeped in history and draped in timeless beauty, proved to be the perfect backdrop for our romantic getaway. While it was my second time experiencing Savannah’s allure, it was my husband’s inaugural visit, and I believe it’s safe to say it certainly won’t be our last. From the moment we arrived, we were utterly captivated by this charming Southern gem and its undeniable charisma. We chose to immerse ourselves in the city’s rich past by staying on historic Jones Street, and our two days were delightfully spent wandering cobblestone paths, exploring picturesque squares, and indulging in Savannah’s celebrated culinary scene. It was, in every sense of the word, perfect.
(Front Entrance to Eliza Thompson House, Jones Street)
Where We Stayed: Embracing Savannah’s Historic Elegance
Eliza Thompson House – A Quintessential Savannah Bed & Breakfast Experience
For our anniversary retreat, we meticulously sought out a lodging experience that would truly embody Savannah’s historic spirit, and the Eliza Thompson House exceeded all expectations. This exquisitely charming bed and breakfast, ideally situated right on famed Jones Street, was precisely what I had envisioned. Stepping into this historic abode felt like a journey back in time, surrounded by antebellum architecture and genuine Southern hospitality. Our chosen sanctuary was The Savannah Room, a truly unique space where the front door opened directly onto the quiet, tree-lined street, nestled charmingly beneath the main house’s grand stairway. This direct access offered a wonderful sense of privacy and immersion in the local streetscape.
Each morning, our days began with a delightful breakfast served in a beautiful, sun-drenched open courtyard. There’s something truly special about starting the day al fresco, savoring delicious food amidst lush greenery. We relished lingering over our coffee in the rocking chairs, reading the newspaper, and soaking in the peaceful morning ambiance before setting out to explore. The breakfast offerings were consistently fresh and satisfying, featuring a hearty spread that typically included a flavorful egg casserole, crispy hash browns, savory bacon and sausage, an assortment of freshly baked breakfast breads, creamy yogurt, vibrant berry compote, and crunchy granola. The quality and variety ensured we were well-fueled for our adventures.
Beyond breakfast, the Eliza Thompson House offered thoughtful touches that elevated our stay. In the late afternoons, guests were invited to enjoy complimentary wine and an array of delectable appetizers in the elegant sitting room. Later in the evening, a tempting dessert spread was presented, providing the perfect capstone to a day of exploration. We made sure to partake in these delightful rituals at least once each day, finding them to be a wonderful opportunity to relax, mingle with other guests, and truly unwind. These amenities were not just conveniences; they were integral to the intimate and luxurious feel of the bed and breakfast experience, making us feel pampered and cherished.
This was our very first experience staying in a bed and breakfast, and we both wholeheartedly agreed it was an ideal choice for our anniversary weekend. The location of the Eliza Thompson House proved to be absolutely unparalleled; we found ourselves within easy walking distance of virtually every major attraction and charming square Savannah has to offer. We were constantly awestruck by the house’s impeccable preservation and its rich history, which permeated every corner. The entire stay was more than just accommodation; it was a deeply immersive and wonderful experience that perfectly complemented the historic charm of Savannah itself.
(Jones Street)
Where We Ate: A Culinary Journey Through Savannah’s Flavors
Savannah is not just a treat for the eyes but also a feast for the palate. Our trip quickly transformed into a delightful culinary adventure, exploring everything from casual sports bars to elegant fine dining. Here’s a taste of where we satisfied our appetites:
Satisfied – The Perfect Game Day Spot
Upon our arrival, fate had it that a crucial Gator game was on, so our initial mission was to locate a vibrant spot showing the action. After some diligent online research and a few phone calls, we discovered Satisfied. It proved to be an excellent choice for catching the game, even if we were decidedly outnumbered as two of only four Gator fans in the entire establishment! Despite the enthusiastic opposition, we thoroughly enjoyed the lively atmosphere. We opted to sit at the bar, where the bartenders were incredibly friendly, attentive, and made us feel right at home. Their impressive selection of craft beers and a well-curated wine list offered plenty of choices, complementing a diverse menu.
We started with classic chips and salsa, a perfect appetizer. Larry, always a fan of good wings, ordered the roasted wings, which came with an array of truly awesome sauces – a definite highlight for him. I, on the other hand, couldn’t resist trying the fried green tomato BLT. While I appreciated the concept and the fresh ingredients, I felt the bread, though delicious, was a bit too soft for my preference in a BLT. A toasted bread would have provided that crucial textural contrast. Next time, I’ll definitely ask for it toasted! Overall, for anyone in Savannah seeking a laid-back sports bar vibe with great drinks and satisfying food, Satisfied is a solid recommendation.
Huey’s On The River – A Taste of New Orleans in Savannah
Huey’s On The River was our very first stop in Savannah, a perfect lunch spot before officially checking into our bed and breakfast. Situated directly on the vibrant River Street, this restaurant offered a fantastic introduction to the city’s lively atmosphere. The drinks were absolutely spot-on – those Bloody Marys, in particular, were wonderfully refreshing and prepared just right. The food was equally impressive, hearty and flavorful, ensuring we were well-fed for our afternoon adventures. Larry savored a classic Southern dish, Shrimp and Grits, which boasted creamy grits and perfectly cooked, succulent shrimp. My continued obsession with fried green tomatoes led me to try their Fried Green Tomato Muffaletta – a delicious take on the traditional New Orleans sandwich, with the tangy fried green tomatoes adding an exquisite Southern twist. The weather was beautiful during our visit, allowing for their large glass doors to be opened, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor dining. We enjoyed captivating views of the bustling River Street while we ate. While River Street itself was undeniably fun to explore, with its multitude of bars, restaurants, shops, and a lively festival in full swing, I personally found myself drawn more to the serene and historic squares of Savannah’s quieter side.
(River Street)
Six Pence Pub – Our Coziest Savannah Find
Six Pence Pub, without a doubt, emerged as my absolute favorite dining spot during our Savannah visit. We have a tendency to gravitate towards bar seating, and at Six Pence, our bartender, Laurie, instantly made us feel incredibly welcome and comfortable, as if we were regulars. Having enjoyed a late breakfast and anticipating a fancy dinner later that evening, we sought a place for a light, yet satisfying, lunch – a delicious sandwich and a refreshing drink or two. We had spent the entire morning walking through Savannah’s beautiful squares, working up quite an appetite for both sustenance and relaxation. Both of us opted for the Smoked Salmon BLT, a truly exceptional sandwich that perfectly balanced the rich salmon with crisp bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes. Alongside our sandwiches, we enjoyed a couple of “Snakebites,” which were perfectly refreshing. The pub slowly filled up with the Sunday lunch crowd, many settling in to watch football, creating a lively yet cozy atmosphere. What truly made this experience memorable, however, was Laurie’s warmth. She took the time to chat with us, inquire about our plans, and even offered taxi and pedicab numbers for our evening excursions. Her genuine kindness and friendly demeanor made our hour or so at the bar incredibly enjoyable, turning a simple lunch into a cherished memory. The Smoked Salmon BLT was so extraordinary that Larry is patiently waiting for me to recreate it at home!
The Olde Pink House – An Anniversary Celebration in Elegance
Our celebratory anniversary dinner was reserved for the legendary Olde Pink House, a restaurant I had eagerly anticipated revisiting and introducing to Larry. Housed within a magnificent 18th-century mansion, rumored to be haunted, dining here is an experience that most Savannah visitors yearn for. Its historical ambiance and refined atmosphere make it an impeccable choice for special occasions, justifying its higher price point. Every dish we savored was absolutely exquisite, a testament to true Southern fine dining.
We commenced our meal by sharing a unique Caesar salad featuring delectable cornbread fried oyster croutons – a brilliant textural and flavor combination that was utterly divine. A basket of warm rolls and corn muffins further complemented our starters. For my main course, I couldn’t resist ordering the same dish I had years prior and had been dreaming about ever since: the Crispy Scored Flounder with Apricot Sauce, served alongside creamy grits and tender collard greens. This dish is famously served whole (without the head, for those wondering!), cooked to absolute perfection, with the server providing helpful instructions on how to best enjoy it. The apricot sauce is, quite simply, to die for – a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the perfectly flaky fish. Larry opted for the Braised Pork Shank with Pineapple Glaze, accompanied by macaroni and cheese and collards. The pork shank was incredibly tender, falling off the bone with ease, and its pineapple glaze was so remarkably flavorful that I’m determined to recreate it in my own kitchen.
Despite our delicious and generous main courses, we somehow managed to make room for dessert. We were so glad we did, as the chocolate pecan pie was a rich, indulgent, and perfectly sweet ending to an extraordinary meal. After such a feast, it was a welcome (and necessary!) decision to walk the mile back to our hotel, soaking in the night air of historic Savannah.
Zunzi’s – A Local Foodie Legend
On our way out of town, we made one last, highly anticipated stop at Zunzi’s. I must confess, at this point, I felt I couldn’t possibly eat another bite. However, I am incredibly grateful we pushed through, as it was undeniably worth it. My friend Katie had raved about Zunzi’s, and the more I researched it, the more my intrigue grew. It’s apparently an extremely well-known foodie hot spot in Savannah, a fact immediately evident by the perpetual line stretching out the door throughout the day. I loved their thoughtful touch of providing a bucket of shade umbrellas on the sidewalk for patrons waiting patiently in the sun! We arrived even before opening, and already about eight people were in line by 11 AM – a true testament to its reputation. All I can say is that the food is uniquely interesting and incredibly delicious. Larry wisely ordered the infamous Conquistador, a sandwich legendary for its flavor and generous size, while I opted for the equally delightful Portobello Sub. Both were absolutely ah-mazing.
Zunzi’s itself is quite “quaint” – a walk-up, order-at-the-counter type of establishment. We were fortunate to snag a table in their small outdoor seating area, though we had fully prepared to walk a half-block to enjoy our subs on a bench in one of Savannah’s charming squares. During our meal, the owner herself made rounds, greeting regulars and checking in with all her customers, adding a personal and welcoming touch to the experience. Zunzi’s is truly a great little place to eat, offering a memorable, flavorful, and uniquely Savannah culinary experience.
A Truly Unforgettable Savannah Experience
My friends, Savannah, Georgia, is truly an incredible destination, offering an abundance of sights, sounds, and experiences that cater to every taste. For Larry and me, it was the quintessential getaway, perfectly suited for our anniversary celebration. The convenient four-hour drive from our home made it an accessible and stress-free escape, allowing us to maximize our time enjoying the city. Spending our days outdoors, walking beneath the majestic, ancient oaks draped with ethereal Spanish moss, exploring cobblestone streets, and soaking in the rich tapestry of history that permeates every corner of Savannah, left us feeling utterly content and profoundly refreshed. There’s a certain magic in the air there, a timeless quality that soothes the soul.
If you’re seeking a relaxing and enriching escape with your spouse, family, or friends, I wholeheartedly recommend Savannah. Its blend of historical grandeur, Southern charm, and outstanding culinary offerings makes it an unparalleled choice for creating lasting memories. We’re already eagerly anticipating our next visit, especially looking forward to bringing our little ones along to experience the enchantment of Savannah for themselves.