• Savannah's brunch scene blends old-world charm with innovative cuisine.
  • Southern classics get a contemporary twist in Savannah's brunch menus.
  • Gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options are available at many brunch spots.
  • Savannah's farm-to-table movement offers fresh, locally sourced ingredients for a unique brunch experience.

As the morning light filters through the Spanish moss-draped oaks of Savannah, Georgia, a delightful culinary tradition beckons locals and visitors alike: brunch. This leisurely mid-morning meal is more than just a fusion of breakfast and lunch in this historic city; it's an institution, a weekend ritual that combines Southern hospitality with delectable cuisine. In Savannah, brunch isn't simply eaten—it's savored, and the city's best spots offer an array of flavors as rich and varied as its storied past.

Historic Charm Meets Modern Culinary Innovation

The allure of Savannah's brunch scene lies in its seamless blend of old-world charm and innovative gastronomy. Imagine sipping on a perfectly crafted peach bellini in a restored 18th-century mansion or digging into a plate of shrimp and grits at a chic bistro that once housed a Prohibition-era speakeasy. The settings are as diverse and fascinating as the menus themselves, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s architectural heritage while tantalizing your taste buds.

A Symphony of Flavors Awaits

Southern classics reign supreme on Savannah's brunch menus, but they're often given a contemporary twist that elevates them to new heights. From fluffy biscuits smothered in savory gravy to sweet praline pancakes drizzled with maple syrup, the options are endless. For those with adventurous palates, international influences weave through local ingredients creating dishes like huevos rancheros with Georgia-grown tomatoes or French toast with pecan praline topping.

Savannah's Brunch Delights

  1. Savannah shrimp and grits
    Shrimp and Grits - A creamy, savory Southern classic topped with fresh, local shrimp.
  2. chicken and waffles brunch
    Chicken and Waffles - Crispy fried chicken served atop a fluffy Belgian waffle, drizzled with maple syrup.
  3. avocado toast brunch
    Avocado Toast - Artisanal bread layered with ripe avocado, poached eggs, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
  4. peach cobbler french toast
    Peach Cobbler French Toast - Cinnamon-dusted French toast with Georgia peaches and vanilla whipped cream.
  5. Savannah eggs benedict
    Savannah Benedict - A Southern take on the classic, featuring poached eggs, country ham, and pimento cheese hollandaise.
  6. New Orleans style beignets
    Beignets - Light, airy pastries dusted with powdered sugar, served with a side of chicory coffee.
  7. seafood omelette
    Seafood Omelette - A fluffy omelette filled with fresh crab, shrimp, and herbs, embodying the coastal flavors of Savannah.
  8. fried green tomato BLT
    Fried Green Tomato BLT - A Southern twist on the BLT, with crispy fried green tomatoes and tangy remoulade sauce.
  9. blueberry pancakes brunch
    Blueberry Pancakes - Buttermilk pancakes bursting with fresh blueberries, served with warm maple syrup.
  10. Lowcountry boil hash
    Lowcountry Boil Hash - A hearty skillet of potatoes, shrimp, sausage, corn, and onions, topped with a fried egg.

Health-conscious diners need not worry; many establishments cater to dietary preferences with gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options aplenty. And let’s not forget about the libations—no brunch is complete without an artfully mixed cocktail or locally roasted coffee to complement your meal.

Embark on a Culinary Quest

To truly appreciate the breadth of Savannah's brunch offerings, one must embark on a culinary quest. Begin your journey by testing your knowledge about where to find these mid-morning gems with our interactive quizzes.

Savannah's Brunch Scene Challenge

Think you're familiar with the best brunch spots in Savannah, GA? Take this quiz to test your knowledge on where to find the most delightful mid-morning meals in this charming Southern city.

Once you've honed your instincts about what makes each spot unique, dive deeper into the heart of what gives these eateries their edge. Whether it's sourcing ingredients from nearby farms or employing award-winning chefs who blend tradition with innovation—you'll find stories as compelling as the dishes they serve.

"In Savannah, every meal has its history, and every recipe tells a story." - Benjamin Sawyer

To aid you in your exploration of this vibrant culinary landscape, I've curated several resources that will guide you through some of Savannah’s most beloved dining experiences. Discover establishments that have perfected the art of brunch by following these links:

A visit to any one of these acclaimed spots will reveal why Savannah has earned its reputation as one of the South's premier food destinations. And if you're curious about how well you know this charming city's culinary scene already, take our quizzes to see where you stand:

In my next section, we'll delve into specific recommendations for must-visit brunch destinations throughout this picturesque city—complete with insider tips to enhance your dining experience. But first, let us whet your appetite further by showcasing some mouthwatering recipes that capture the essence of a quintessential Savannah brunch.

Classic Southern Shrimp and Grits

You will need:

  • peeled deveined medium shrimpMedium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • quick-cooking grits packageQuick-cooking grits
  • chicken broth cartonChicken broth
  • shredded cheddar cheeseCheddar cheese, shredded
  • unsalted butter stickUnsalted butter
  • raw bacon stripsBacon strips
  • chopped green onionsGreen onions, chopped
  • minced garlic in spoonGarlic, minced
  • lemon juice in tablespoonLemon juice
  • Cajun seasoning spice jarCajun seasoning
  • salt and pepper shakersSalt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Start by cooking the bacon until crisp and set aside.
  2. Prepare the grits using chicken broth according to package instructions.
  3. Stir in cheddar cheese and butter into the grits until melted and smooth.
  4. Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  5. In the bacon fat, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add the seasoned shrimp.
  6. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque.
  7. Stir in lemon juice and chopped green onions.
  8. Serve the shrimp mixture over the grits and crumble bacon on top.

Notes

For an authentic Southern touch, use stone-ground grits if available and cook them a bit longer than quick-cooking grits for a creamier texture. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference. Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor. This dish is best served immediately but can be reheated gently if necessary.

The Art of Southern Biscuits and Gravy

Imagine a plate of flaky, buttery biscuits smothered in rich, creamy gravy—this is a staple on the Savannah brunch scene. One cannot simply talk about brunch without giving proper credit to this Southern delicacy. The secret lies in the perfect balance between the lightness of the biscuits and the savory depth of the sausage gravy. For those looking to recreate this comfort food at home, I've curated an easy-to-follow recipe guide, ensuring you can bring a taste of Savannah to your kitchen.

Classic Southern Biscuits and Gravy

You will need:

  • all-purpose flour bagAll-purpose flour
  • baking powder canBaking powder
  • salt shakerSalt
  • unsalted butter stickUnsalted butter
  • milk cartonMilk
  • pork sausage packagePork sausage
  • chicken broth cartonChicken broth
  • heavy cream bottleHeavy cream
  • black pepper grinderBlack pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
  3. Cut in 6 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Gradually add 1 cup of milk and stir until the dough comes together.
  5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently.
  6. Roll the dough to about 1 inch thick and cut out biscuits with a biscuit cutter.
  7. Place the biscuits on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
  8. In a skillet, cook 1 pound of pork sausage over medium heat until browned.
  9. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour into the skillet and stir until fully absorbed by the sausage fat.
  10. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream.
  11. Cook the gravy, stirring frequently, until thickened.
  12. Season the gravy with salt and black pepper to taste.
  13. Serve the gravy over the warm biscuits.

Notes

For best results, keep all your ingredients, especially the butter and milk, as cold as possible before mixing. This will help achieve flaky and tender biscuits. For the gravy, adjust the thickness by adding more broth if it's too thick or cooking longer if it's too thin.

As you enjoy these warm bites, remember that each restaurant adds its own twist to this classic dish. Whether it's a hint of spice or a unique blend of herbs, every version has its own story. If you're curious about how these variations stack up, take our quiz on Savannah's top dining spots and see if you can guess their signature touch.

Farm-to-Table Freshness: A Brunch Trend Worth Following

The farm-to-table movement has taken root in Savannah's culinary scene, offering brunch enthusiasts not just a meal but an experience. Seasonal menus featuring locally sourced ingredients showcase the region's agricultural bounty. This trend is more than just about fresh food; it's about supporting local farmers and sustainability. To truly appreciate this movement, visit one of the many eateries that embody this philosophy—you'll taste the difference in every bite.

Farm-Fresh Brunch Spots

  1. The Farmer's Table Savannah interior
    The Farmer's Table - Nestled in the heart of historic Savannah, this cozy eatery prides itself on serving up locally-sourced, organic fare. The brunch menu boasts a range of seasonal specialties that celebrate the region's agricultural bounty. brunch menu
  2. Green Truck Pub Savannah brunch
    Green Truck Pub - Known for its commitment to sustainability, Green Truck Pub offers a brunch experience that features grass-fed beef and organic produce. Their famous farm-fresh burgers are a must-try for a hearty mid-morning meal.
  3. Foxy Loxy Café Savannah brunch
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    ...Foxy Loxy Café - A fusion of Tex-Mex and Southern comfort, Foxy Loxy Café serves up a brunch menu where local ingredients take center stage. Don't miss their signature biscuits and gravy made with locally-milled flour and regional sausage....
  4. Back in the Day Bakery Savannah
    Back in the Day Bakery - This artisanal bakery brings a touch of nostalgia with its vintage decor and time-honored recipes. Their brunch menu features scratch-made pastries and sandwiches, with ingredients sourced from nearby farms.
  5. Husk Savannah brunch
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    Husk Savannah - At Husk, the essence of Southern food is redefined with an emphasis on local ingredients. Their innovative brunch menu changes frequently, reflecting the freshest produce and artisanal products from Savannah's surrounding farms.

If you're intrigued by how these establishments choose their produce or want to know more about Savannah's local farms, our article on living in Savannah provides an inside look into the city's vibrant agricultural community.

Sweet Endings: Brunch Desserts That Steal The Show

No brunch is complete without indulging in something sweet. In Savannah, that often means pecan pralines, peach cobblers, or beignets dusted with powdered sugar. These desserts are not merely an afterthought; they are showstoppers that deserve their own spotlight. For those with a sweet tooth looking to explore these delectable finishes, I've compiled a fancy list featuring the best spots for brunch desserts in town.

Brunch Sweet Spots

  1. Lulu's Chocolate Bar Strawberry Suspension Cake
    Lulu's Chocolate Bar - Indulge in their signature Strawberry Suspension Cake, a divine concoction that perfectly pairs with their extensive list of dessert wines.
  2. Back in the Day Bakery Bourbon Bread Pudding
    Back in the Day Bakery - Savor the famous Bourbon Bread Pudding, a Southern classic with a decadent twist that will leave your sweet tooth utterly satisfied.
  3. The Collins Quarter Lavender Blueberry French Toast
    The Collins Quarter - Delight in their Lavender and Blueberry French Toast, a fragrant and visually stunning dish that tastes as good as it looks.
  4. Leopold's Ice Cream Tutti Frutti
    Leopold's Ice Cream - Step back in time with a visit to this historic parlor, where you can enjoy a scoop of their famous Tutti Frutti ice cream or a classic banana split.
  5. Fox & Fig Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
    Fox & Fig - For a plant-based treat, try their decadent Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding topped with fresh berries and coconut whipped cream.

To delve deeper into what makes these treats so irresistible, consider exploring our piece on Savannah's famous foods. You'll discover the history behind these confections and why they've become synonymous with Southern hospitality.

In summary, Savannah’s mid-morning dining scene is as diverse as it is delicious. With options ranging from traditional Southern comfort foods to innovative farm-to-table fare, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Remember that partaking in brunch here is more than just eating—it’s an experience steeped in history and community.

To further enhance your journey through Savannah’s culinary landscape, I encourage you to watch our curated selection of videos showcasing live cooking demonstrations from some of the city's most beloved chefs:

And for those eager to test their knowledge or decide where to dine next, our interactive quizzes offer both fun and guidance:

Savannah's Brunch Flavor Adventure

Are you ready to discover your next favorite brunch spot in Savannah, GA? Take this quiz to find out which Savannah mid-morning eatery aligns with your taste buds!

Finally, as you plan your gastronomic adventure through Savannah’s brunch offerings, keep an eye on our website for the latest weather updates, ensuring that whether you choose indoor coziness or outdoor patio charm, your experience will be nothing short of perfect.

Benjamin Sawyer
History, Architecture, Travel, Education

Benjamin Sawyer is a retired history professor and lifelong Savannah resident. He brings his academic expertise and personal love for history to his articles, providing readers with a deep dive into Savannah's rich past. Whether it's about historic landmarks or lesser-known historic sites, Benjamin's articles are a history lover's dream.

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