D.E.A.L. (Dining, Entertainment, Attractions & Lodging): Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is known as a party town—possibly because you don’t have to finish your drink at the bar. Savannah’s ordinance allows you to take a to-go cup with you within the confines of the historic district boundaries (West Boundary Street to East Broad Street and to Jones Street). Take your libation in a to-go cup and head to City Market, a four-block hub in downtown between Ellis and Franklin Squares, with casual and upscale restaurants, cafes, art galleries, specialty shops and boutiques, and a lively nightlife scene. There’s lots of live music indoors and out, some by local street musicians and some by renowned concert bands.
Be sure to check out Jazz’d Tapas Bar on the fringe of Ellis Square, A unique sultry underground hot spot that’s been described as swank, sexy and sophisticated, this industrial chic below-street-level gathering place features live entertainment six nights a week—including blues, swing, jazz, classic rock, pop, Americana or standards in the style of Sinatra or Savannah’s own native son, composer/lyricist Johnny Mercer.
Just south of the Historic District lies the quirky Starland District which is home to the Water Witch Tiki Bar. Decked in palm fronds and bamboo, they serve up topical drinks complete with paper umbrellas.
Next up is Ghost Coast Distillery, Savannah’s first distillery since Prohibition, and just down the street from the new Plant Riverside District. There are free tours of the distillery facility, a cocktail room bar and a retail shop. And this pioneer in Savannah’s craft cocktail scene is still in the to-go cup zone.
Savannah is also known as “America’s most haunted city,” and Moon River Brewing Company (top picture) is considered by many to be Savannah’s most haunted site. The brewery is housed in what was originally the City Hotel, which was built on Bay Street in 1821. In 2014, Moon River was named the #1 Top Haunted Spot in Savannah by the Examiner. Ghost tour guides and Moon River’s staff and guests have been reporting apparition appearances for years. Liquid courage comes in handy!
Savannah’s stunning skyline can be viewed at several rooftop bars. At Top Deck (pictured right) you can watch cargo ships navigate the Savannah River or try a botanically-inspired cocktail at the charming Myrtle & Rose Rooftop Garden at the new Plant Riverside District. The top floor of the Bohemian Hotel is where you’ll find Rocks on the Roof.
Rounding out more of Savannah’s top nightlife attractions include the Good Times Jazz Bar and Restaurant (pictured left), The Pirates’ House, Savannah Smiles Dueling Pianos Saloon, Kevin Barry’s Pub, Congress Street Social Club, World of Beer, Jen’s & Friends, The Tree House, Wet Willies, Saddle Bags Savannah (complete with mechanical bull), Molly MacPherson’s Scottish Pub & Grill and many more!
This story originally appeared in the Jan./Feb. 2021 issue of Exhibit City News, p. TK. For original layout, visit https://issuu.com/exhibitcitynews/docs/ecn_jan-feb_2021
