Planning a trip to Savannah? Visions of charming squares, historic architecture, and maybe a ghost tour or two dance in your head. But then the worry creeps in: How much is all this going to *cost*, especially the food? Savannah is known for its incredible culinary scene, a rich tapestry of Southern traditions, fresh seafood, and innovative flavors. The good news is that experiencing that culinary magic doesn’t have to drain your travel budget. It’s entirely possible to indulge in Savannah’s gastronomic delights without emptying your wallet. In fact, some of the city’s best-kept secrets are its affordable and delicious eats, tucked away from the tourist traps, just waiting to be discovered.
This article is your comprehensive guide to navigating the Savannah food scene on a budget. We’ll explore a range of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, showcasing the best cheap eats Savannah has to offer, proving that you can have a memorable culinary experience without breaking the bank. Prepare to discover that Savannah on a shoestring is not only possible, but utterly delicious.
Morning Fuel: Breakfast on a Budget
Starting the day right is essential, especially when you have a full day of exploring ahead of you. Thankfully, Savannah has plenty of options for a budget-friendly breakfast that will keep you energized.
Coffee and Comfort at The Sentient Bean
Located in the heart of the Starland District, The Sentient Bean is a Savannah institution for a reason. This cozy cafe offers a welcoming atmosphere, excellent coffee, and a selection of affordable breakfast treats. Picture yourself sinking into a comfy armchair, sipping a freshly brewed cup of coffee, and enjoying a delicious pastry. Their muffins and scones are always a hit, and they often have daily specials that won’t break the bank. You can typically get a coffee and a pastry for under ten dollars, making it an ideal spot for a quick and satisfying breakfast. The Sentient Bean offers a vegetarian and vegan friendly menu, so there are choices for everyone. With a funky, laid-back vibe, The Sentient Bean perfectly captures the spirit of Savannah’s artistic scene.
Diner Delights at Clary’s Cafe
For a classic diner experience that won’t empty your purse, head to Clary’s Cafe on Abercorn Street. This iconic spot has been serving up hearty breakfasts for decades and has even been featured in the novel, “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”. Clary’s is all about comfort food and generous portions. They boast amazing daily breakfast specials, often featuring Southern staples like grits, eggs, and biscuits, all at incredibly reasonable prices. A plate of pancakes, eggs, and bacon will cost you significantly less than many other breakfast spots in the historic district. Clary’s Cafe has an old-school charm that will transport you back in time, and you will be sure to start the day feeling fully satisfied.
Do-It-Yourself Breakfast Options
If you’re staying in a vacation rental with a kitchen, consider stocking up on groceries and preparing your own breakfast. Local grocery stores like Publix offer a variety of affordable breakfast items, from cereal and yogurt to eggs and bacon. You could pick up some fresh fruit from the farmers market to make smoothies or a delicious fruit salad. Preparing your own breakfast is a great way to save money and control your portions, especially if you’re traveling with a family. It’s a great way to fuel up for a fun day, and this offers a chance to try local items that cannot be found anywhere else.
Lunchtime Deals in the Hostess City
When lunchtime rolls around, you’ll find that Savannah has a wealth of affordable options to choose from, ranging from quick and tasty sandwiches to flavorful tacos.
Sandwich Bliss at Zunzi’s
Zunzi’s is a Savannah institution that’s famous for its South African-inspired sandwiches. With several locations, Zunzi’s is a convenient and affordable option for lunch. Their massive sandwiches are loaded with delicious ingredients and bursting with flavor. While some of their more elaborate creations might be a bit pricier, many of their smaller sandwiches are incredibly budget-friendly. The Conquistador, featuring french bread, chicken, lettuce, tomato, and their special sauce, is a great choice for a filling and affordable lunch. Don’t forget to add their famous “Shizzle” sauce for an extra kick! Zunzi’s is a great choice for anyone looking for a quick, tasty, and affordable lunch that’s packed with flavor.
Pizza Perfection at Vinnie Van Go-Go’s
For a slice of New York-style pizza that won’t break the bank, head to Vinnie Van Go-Go’s on City Market. This popular spot is known for its huge, thin-crust pizzas that are perfect for sharing. A single slice is large enough to satisfy your appetite, and the prices are very reasonable. Their classic cheese and pepperoni slices are always a safe bet, but they also offer a variety of specialty pizzas with creative toppings. Vinnie Van Go-Go’s has a lively atmosphere and is a great place to grab a quick and casual lunch while exploring the historic district. The interior is full of quirky art.
Food Truck Adventures
Savannah has a thriving food truck scene, offering a diverse range of cuisines and affordable options. You can find food trucks parked at various locations throughout the city, particularly during lunchtime. Keep an eye out for trucks serving tacos, burgers, sandwiches, and other delicious eats. Food trucks are a great way to try different types of food without spending a lot of money, and they often offer unique and creative dishes. Checking social media to learn the locations and options before starting your explorations.
Picnic in the Park
Why not grab takeout from one of the restaurants mentioned above and enjoy a picnic lunch in Forsyth Park? This iconic park is the perfect place to relax and soak up the Savannah atmosphere. You can spread out a blanket on the grass, enjoy your food, and watch the world go by. A picnic lunch is a great way to save money and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Or try Emmet Park on the waterfront to enjoy the harbor views.
Dinner Under $20: Affordable Evening Eats
As evening approaches, the options for cheap eats in Savannah don’t diminish. You can still find plenty of delicious and affordable restaurants where you can enjoy a satisfying dinner without breaking the bank.
Taco Tuesday (or Any Day!) at Tequila’s Town Mexican Restaurant
For flavorful Mexican food that won’t break the bank, head to Tequila’s Town Mexican Restaurant. This casual spot offers a wide variety of tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites at very reasonable prices. The tacos are a standout, with a range of fillings to choose from, including carnitas, carne asada, and pollo. Their burritos are also massive and packed with flavor. Tequila’s Town offers a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a casual and affordable dinner. Many different locations make it convenient.
Seafood Savings at The Shrimp Factory
While Savannah is known for its seafood, some restaurants can be quite pricey. However, The Shrimp Factory offers a more budget-friendly option for enjoying fresh seafood. Located on River Street, The Shrimp Factory has baskets of fried shrimp, fish, and chicken that are easy on the budget. It’s a popular spot with tourists but it offers tasty baskets and a great view of the Savannah River.
Happy Hour Delights
Don’t underestimate the power of happy hour! Many restaurants in Savannah offer discounted food and drinks during happy hour, making it a great time to grab a bite to eat without spending a lot of money. Check out local bars and restaurants in the early evening to see what happy hour specials they have on offer. Some popular spots include bars along Bay Street and those in the City Market. Many offer appetizers, drink specials, and more.
Savannah Staples (Affordable Style)
Savannah’s culinary scene is defined by certain dishes. Here’s how to sample some of them without overspending:
Lowcountry Boil on a Budget
A traditional Lowcountry Boil, a mix of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, can be pricey. Look for restaurants that offer smaller portions or individual components of the boil at lower prices. Consider purchasing the ingredients yourself from a local market and preparing a mini-boil at your vacation rental.
Fried Green Tomatoes for Less
Many restaurants serve fried green tomatoes, but prices can vary. Do some research to find restaurants that offer them as an appetizer at a reasonable price. Sometimes, a casual cafe is more likely to have an affordable version.
Shrimp and Grits, Economically
This classic Southern dish is a must-try in Savannah. Look for restaurants that offer a smaller portion or a lunch-sized portion at a lower price. Some cafes may offer a simpler version of the dish at a more affordable price point.
Tips for Eating Cheap in Savannah
Here are some additional tips to help you save money on food during your visit to Savannah:
- Embrace Happy Hour: As mentioned earlier, happy hour is your best friend when it comes to saving money on food and drinks.
- Lunch is Your Friend: Many restaurants offer lunch menus that are significantly cheaper than their dinner menus. Take advantage of these lunch specials and enjoy a larger meal at midday.
- Leverage Food Delivery Apps: Check food delivery apps like Uber Eats and DoorDash for deals and discounts. Sometimes you can find special promotions that will help you save money.
- Consult Local Guides and Reviews: Read local guides and reviews to find hidden gems and affordable restaurants that might not be on the tourist radar.
- Venture Off the Beaten Path: Don’t be afraid to explore restaurants outside of the historic district. You’ll often find more affordable options in residential areas.
- Ask the Locals: Strike up a conversation with locals and ask them for their recommendations for cheap eats. They’re sure to know some hidden gems that you won’t find in any guidebook.
- Consider Self-Catering: If you’re staying in a vacation rental with a kitchen, consider preparing some of your own meals. This is a great way to save money, especially if you’re traveling with a family.
Savannah on a Budget: A Delicious Reality
Savannah is a city that tantalizes the senses, with its captivating history, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine. And, as you’ve discovered, you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy the culinary delights of this Southern gem. By following the tips and recommendations in this guide, you can experience the best cheap eats Savannah has to offer.
From cozy cafes serving up affordable breakfasts to flavorful restaurants offering budget-friendly lunches and dinners, Savannah has something to satisfy every palate and budget. So, pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to experience the delicious and affordable side of Savannah! Don’t forget to share your favorite cheap eats in Savannah in the comments below – we’d love to hear your recommendations! Enjoy exploring, eating, and saving!
