Craving the distinctive flavors of Savannah but short on time? Perhaps you need a quick and tasty meal after a long day of exploring the city’s historic squares and riverfront attractions? We’ve all been there. Luckily, Savannah’s vibrant culinary scene, celebrated for its Southern comfort, fresh seafood, and diverse international influences, offers a wealth of takeout options to satisfy any appetite. From crispy fried chicken to succulent shrimp and grits, from spicy tacos to perfectly prepared pasta, Savannah’s takeaway scene delivers delicious dining directly to you.
The increasing popularity of takeout, particularly in recent years, has made it an essential part of the Savannah food landscape. Whether you’re a local resident looking for a convenient weeknight dinner or a visitor wanting to experience Savannah’s culinary delights from the comfort of your hotel room, finding the right takeout spot is key.
This article highlights some of the best take out food Savannah GA has to offer, covering a range of cuisines, price points, and locations. We’ll guide you through the options, ensuring you find the perfect meal to enjoy on the go or in the tranquility of your own space.
What Defines Great Takeout
Before diving into specific recommendations, let’s define what makes a truly exceptional takeout experience. It’s more than just getting food in a box. Several crucial elements contribute to a satisfying and memorable takeaway meal.
First and foremost is the quality of the food itself. The ingredients should be fresh, the dishes prepared with care, and the flavors should be authentic to the cuisine. A great takeout restaurant doesn’t compromise on the standards that define their dine-in service.
Speed and efficiency of service are also paramount. Nobody wants to wait an unreasonable amount of time for their order, especially when they’re already pressed for time. Restaurants that offer efficient online ordering systems and streamlined pickup processes are a step ahead.
Order accuracy is non-negotiable. Receiving the correct items and modifications, particularly when dealing with dietary restrictions or allergies, is essential for a positive experience.
Packaging and presentation also matter. Sturdy containers that keep food hot (or cold) and prevent leaks are crucial. While it’s takeout, a little care in presentation can enhance the overall enjoyment of the meal.
Many of the best takeout establishments in Savannah offer convenient online ordering platforms. These platforms allow customers to browse menus, customize orders, and schedule pickup or delivery with ease. Restaurants without well-designed online systems can miss out on a significant portion of the takeout market.
Finally, consider customer reviews and the restaurant’s overall reputation. Online reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of the food, service, and overall takeout experience. Look for consistent positive feedback and pay attention to how the restaurant responds to any negative reviews.
Specific Restaurant Recommendations
Let’s get to the good part: specific restaurants in Savannah that excel in the takeout game. We’ll break it down by cuisine type to help you find exactly what you’re craving.
Savannah’s Southern Comfort Food Takeout Destinations
For a taste of true Southern hospitality and flavor, Savannah offers several outstanding takeout options specializing in comfort food classics.
One standout is “The Chicken Coop” (located downtown). This establishment is renowned for its crispy, golden-brown fried chicken, cooked to perfection and seasoned with a secret blend of herbs and spices. Their menu also features creamy mac and cheese, collard greens cooked with smoked ham hocks, and fluffy mashed potatoes smothered in gravy. The Chicken Coop is an excellent choice for takeout because their portions are generous, the food travels well, and it’s a crowd-pleaser for families. Expect to pay between fifteen and twenty five dollars for a satisfying meal.
Another excellent Southern takeout choice is “Savannah Grits & More,” nestled in the Starland District. As the name suggests, their specialty is grits, prepared in countless ways. Their shrimp and grits, a Savannah staple, are a must-try, featuring succulent shrimp simmered in a flavorful gravy served over creamy stone-ground grits. They also offer other Southern favorites like pulled pork sandwiches, Brunswick stew, and sweet potato pie. Savannah Grits & More is known for its quick service and reasonable prices, making it a great option for a casual lunch or dinner on the go. Prices range from twelve to twenty dollars.
Seafood Takeout Delights
Given its coastal location, Savannah boasts a fantastic selection of seafood restaurants offering delicious takeout options.
“The Crab Shack” (located on Tybee Island, a short drive from Savannah) is an institution, known for its Lowcountry Boil, a massive pot of steamed shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes seasoned with Old Bay. It’s a perfect option for a group or family looking to share a hearty and flavorful meal. The Crab Shack’s casual atmosphere and outdoor seating make it a popular destination, but their takeout service is equally efficient. Be prepared for a slightly higher price point, with boils ranging from thirty to fifty dollars, depending on the size.
For a more upscale seafood experience, consider “AquaOcean,” located near City Market. This restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced seafood prepared with innovative techniques. Their menu features a rotating selection of fresh catches, grilled or pan-seared to perfection. Their seafood pasta dishes and sushi rolls are also popular takeout choices. AquaOcean’s takeout packaging is top-notch, ensuring that your food arrives in pristine condition. Expect to spend between twenty and thirty five dollars per entree.
Exploring International Cuisine Takeout
Savannah’s culinary scene extends far beyond Southern and seafood specialties. The city offers a diverse array of international cuisines, many of which are well-suited for takeout.
If you’re in the mood for Italian, “Bella Italia Pizzeria” (found in the Midtown area) is a fantastic option. They offer a wide variety of pizzas, from classic Margherita to gourmet creations topped with prosciutto, arugula, and truffle oil. Their pasta dishes, such as lasagna and spaghetti carbonara, are also popular choices. Bella Italia Pizzeria uses high-quality ingredients and their pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a crispy crust and delicious flavor. Prices range from fifteen to thirty dollars.
For Mexican food, “El Taco Loco” (with several locations throughout Savannah) is a consistent favorite. Their tacos are flavorful and authentic, filled with your choice of meats, vegetables, and salsas. Their burritos are equally satisfying, and they also offer a range of other Mexican specialties like enchiladas and quesadillas. El Taco Loco is known for its quick service and affordable prices, making it a great option for a casual and satisfying meal. Expect to spend around ten to fifteen dollars per person.
For Asian options, “Siam Asian Fusion,” located downtown, offers a fantastic selection of Thai and Asian dishes. Their Pad Thai is a local favorite, and their sushi rolls are always fresh and flavorful. They also offer a variety of curries, noodle dishes, and stir-fries. Siam Asian Fusion’s takeout packaging is well-designed, ensuring that your food stays hot and travels well.
Takeout Apps and Services in Savannah
Navigating Savannah’s takeout scene is made even easier by the presence of several popular delivery apps. Services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub operate in Savannah, connecting customers with a wide range of restaurants offering delivery.
These apps offer unparalleled convenience, allowing you to browse menus, place orders, and track deliveries all from your smartphone. However, it’s important to be aware of the pros and cons of using these services. While they offer convenience, they also come with fees, including delivery charges, service fees, and tips for the driver. These fees can significantly increase the overall cost of your meal.
In addition to the national delivery apps, it’s worth checking if there are any local Savannah-specific delivery services. These services may offer lower fees or a more personalized experience.
Tips for Ordering Takeout Like a Pro in Savannah
To ensure a smooth and satisfying takeout experience in Savannah, here are a few helpful tips:
First, always check online menus and reviews before placing your order. This will give you a better understanding of the restaurant’s offerings and the quality of their food and service.
Consider ordering directly from the restaurant whenever possible. By bypassing third-party delivery apps, you can often avoid extra fees and ensure that the restaurant receives the full amount of your order.
When placing your order, be sure to specify any dietary restrictions or allergies clearly. This is especially important if you have any food sensitivities or intolerances.
Ask about reheating instructions if you’re not planning to eat your food immediately. This will help you ensure that your meal is heated properly and retains its flavor.
Confirm the pickup or delivery time with the restaurant. This will help you avoid unnecessary waiting.
Have your payment ready when you arrive to pick up your order. This will help streamline the process.
Beyond the Restaurants: Alternative Takeout Options
While restaurants are the primary source of takeout in Savannah, there are a few other options to consider.
Several gourmet grocery stores in Savannah, such as “Brighter Day Natural Foods” or “Whole Foods Market,” offer prepared food sections with a variety of salads, sandwiches, and entrees that are perfect for takeout. These options are often healthier and more convenient than traditional restaurant fare.
Food trucks that offer takeout are becoming increasingly popular in Savannah. Keep an eye out for food truck events and festivals, where you can sample a variety of cuisines and enjoy your meal on the go.
Conclusion
Savannah’s takeout scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Whether you’re craving Southern comfort food, fresh seafood, international cuisine, or something in between, you’re sure to find a takeout option that satisfies your appetite. The convenience and quality of Savannah’s takeout restaurants make it easy to enjoy the city’s culinary delights from the comfort of your own home or hotel room.
So, next time you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal on the go in Savannah, explore the restaurants mentioned in this article and discover your own favorite takeout spots. Don’t be afraid to try something new.
Savannah truly has something to offer everyone, and the array of takeout choices, delivering authentic tastes of Georgia, only reinforces that fact. Enjoy the convenience, savor the flavors, and experience the best take out food Savannah GA has to offer. We hope you find some new favorite dishes and restaurants!
