15 Best Restaurants on River Street in Savannah, GA
The best restaurants on River Street in Savannah include Huey’s on the River, Tubby’s Seafood, The Shrimp Factory, and Chart House. These spots serve seafood, Southern favorites, and casual American food near the Savannah River.
Restaurants on River Street in Savannah, Georgia, offer more than a place to eat. Some have outdoor tables where you can watch cargo ships pass. Others serve shrimp and grits, fresh seafood, and classic Southern dishes.
You’ll also find riverfront restaurants along nearby Bay Street and the Plant Riverside District.
This guide covers 15 places to eat, including their food, river views, price ranges, and locations. You’ll also find tips on parking, reservations, and choosing the right restaurant for your visit.
Quick Guide to the Best Restaurants on River Street in Savannah
The best restaurants on River Street in Savannah include Huey’s on the River, Tubby’s Seafood, Chart House, and The Shrimp Factory. Each offers a different dining experience along the historic waterfront.
Choose Tubby’s Seafood for casual seafood or Chart House for a special dinner. Huey’s serves New Orleans style dishes and beignets, while Spanky’s suits families looking for a relaxed meal.
For Southern food with river views, Vic’s on the River is another option on nearby Bay Street. Compare the restaurants below by cuisine, atmosphere, location, and budget before choosing where to eat.
Restaurant | Best for | Cuisine | River view | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Breakfast and casual meals | Cajun, Creole, Southern | Yes | $14–$22 | |
Seafood lovers | Southern seafood | Yes | $22–$35 | |
Families and casual lunch | American, chicken, pizza | Not confirmed | $10–$27 | |
Romantic dinner and special occasions | Seafood, steak | Yes | $29–$55 | |
Southern dining and couples | Southern, seafood | Yes | $20–$54 |
Prices show examples of published main dishes, not fixed meal costs. Menus may change. Chart House and Vic’s are on Bay Street, above River Street. Sources: restaurant menus and listings.
Best River Street Restaurants by Dining Experience
- Best seafood: The Shrimp Factory for shrimp, seafood platters, and Lowcountry dishes.
- Best river views: Chart House for waterfront dining and views of passing ships.
- Best romantic dinner: Vic’s on the River for Southern food and an upscale setting.
- Best casual lunch: Huey’s on the River for po’boys and New Orleans style food.
- Best family dining: Spanky’s for chicken fingers, burgers, and pizza.
For more dining options across the city, explore the best restaurants in Savannah, GA, including Southern cuisine, fresh seafood, casual eateries, and fine dining.
Best Savannah Riverfront Restaurants With Water Views
The best Savannah riverfront restaurants for water views include Vic’s on the River, Chart House, District Seafood, and Myrtle & Rose Rooftop Bar. These restaurants offer different views of the Savannah River, from outdoor waterfront tables to elevated dining rooms.
Visitors can enjoy Southern food, fresh seafood, or rooftop drinks while watching ships pass along the waterfront. Some restaurants sit directly on River Street, while others overlook the river from Bay Street.
Which River Street Restaurants Have the Best River Views?
Vic’s on the River offers river views from its upper-floor dining room. Located at 26 East Bay Street, it serves Southern dishes, including shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and seafood. Request a window table for a better view.
Chart House sits at 202 West Bay Street and overlooks the Savannah River. Its seafood, steaks, and waterfront setting make it suitable for dinner. The restaurant also has a patio for outdoor dining.
District Seafood, in Plant Riverside District, offers a more casual experience. Its outdoor setting lets visitors watch passing ships while enjoying oysters, fried seafood, and Southern dishes.
Best Outdoor and Balcony Dining
District Seafood is a good choice for casual outdoor dining near the water. Its open-air seating places visitors close to the riverfront walkway.
Chart House also offers patio dining with views of the Savannah River. It suits couples and groups who prefer a sit-down meal.
Vic’s on the River has an outdoor patio overlooking historic Factors Walk. Its indoor window tables offer better views of the river itself.
For outdoor waterfront dining in Savannah, consider the weather before choosing a table. Summer afternoons can feel hot, while rain may limit patio seating.
Best Rooftop Restaurants Overlooking the Savannah River
Myrtle & Rose Rooftop Bar sits above Plant Riverside District at 500 West River Street. It offers river views, outdoor seating, cocktails, and small plates. Couples can visit for evening drinks or a rooftop meal.
Rocks on the Roof, at the Bohemian Hotel on West Bay Street, offers another elevated view of the Savannah River. It focuses on cocktails and lighter food rather than traditional full-service dining.
Bar Julian, at the Thompson Savannah in Eastern Wharf, provides views of the river and downtown skyline. It serves Mediterranean-inspired food and drinks. This restaurant sits farther east than the main River Street dining area.
These rooftop venues suit visitors who value scenery and atmosphere. Check their food menus, age policies, and operating hours before visiting.
Best Romantic Waterfront Restaurants for Couples
Vic’s on the River is a good choice for couples who enjoy Southern cuisine and historic dining rooms. Its upper-floor river views suit anniversaries and special dinners.
Chart House offers another option for a romantic waterfront dinner. Couples can enjoy seafood or steak while watching ships travel along the Savannah River.
For a more casual date, Myrtle & Rose offers rooftop seating, drinks, and smaller dishes. Its garden-style setting works well for an evening together.
Book ahead when possible, especially for weekend dinners. Ask about river-facing seats because a reservation does not guarantee a waterfront table.
Riverfront Seating Comparison
Restaurant | Seating type | River view | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
Vic’s on the River | Upper-floor dining room | From river-facing windows | Romantic Southern dinner |
Chart House | Indoor dining and patio | River-facing seating | Seafood and special occasions |
District Seafood | Outdoor waterfront seating | Direct river views | Casual seafood |
Myrtle & Rose Rooftop Bar | Rooftop indoor and outdoor seating | Elevated river views | Couples and rooftop drinks |
Rocks on the Roof | Rooftop lounge | Elevated river views | Evening drinks and light food |
Bar Julian | Rooftop restaurant and bar | River and skyline views | Rooftop dining |
Good to know: Not every table has a clear view of the Savannah River. Indoor seating, building angles, and outdoor arrangements can affect what you see. Contact the restaurant before visiting if waterfront seating matters most.
Beyond its food scene, Savannah offers historic squares, waterfront attractions, and coastal adventures. These things to do in Savannah, GA can help you plan activities around your meals.
Best Seafood Restaurants on River Street Savannah
The best seafood restaurants on River Street in Savannah include River House Seafood, Fiddler’s Crab House, and The Shrimp Factory. These restaurants serve shrimp, crab, oysters, and traditional Southern seafood dishes.
Visitors can choose fried seafood platters, steamed shellfish, or shrimp and grits. Each restaurant offers different menu specialties, making it easier to find a meal that fits your taste.
Where to Eat Fresh Seafood on River Street
River House Seafood, at 125 West River Street, serves seafood inside a restored historic cotton warehouse. Its menu features grouper, shrimp and grits, and Southern seafood specialties. Try the Grouper Florentine if you prefer fish over fried seafood.
Fiddler’s Crab House, at 131 West River Street, focuses on crab, oysters, and shellfish. The restaurant serves wild caught Georgia shrimp and seasonal seafood. Its outdoor balcony also offers views of the Savannah River.
The Shrimp Factory, at 313 East River Street, serves casual Southern seafood. Its menu includes fried shrimp, fish, oysters, and seafood platters. It suits visitors who prefer familiar coastal dishes.
Best Restaurants for Shrimp, Crab, and Oysters
Fiddler’s Crab House is a good choice for crab and oyster lovers. Its menu includes crab cakes, steamed shellfish, and oysters that staff shuck to order. Visitors can also choose fried seafood combinations.
The Shrimp Factory offers several ways to enjoy shrimp. Its published menu includes shrimp cocktail, coconut shrimp, firecracker shrimp, and peel and eat shrimp. Crab cakes and oysters provide other options.
River House Seafood serves crab and fish dishes alongside Southern favorites. Its menu includes grouper preparations and seafood appetizers, making it suitable for a full seafood dinner.
Best Places for Shrimp and Grits and Lowcountry Dishes
River House Seafood serves shrimp and grits with Tasso gravy. The dish combines shrimp, creamy grits, and the smoky flavor of seasoned pork.
The Shrimp Factory prepares shrimp and grits with jumbo shrimp, garlic butter Chardonnay sauce, and house made grits. Tomatoes, green onions, and candied ham complete the dish.
For another Southern option, Boar’s Head Grill & Tavern serves shrimp and grits and traditional seafood dishes. Its menu also features she crab soup, a creamy Southern specialty.
If you want to try Lowcountry cooking, start with shrimp and grits or a seafood boil. Check the restaurant’s current menu before visiting, since seafood selections and market prices can change.
Fresh oysters, fried shrimp, and crab dishes are familiar favorites along Georgia’s coast. Local seafood places in Savannah serve these dishes in everything from casual seafood shacks to waterfront restaurants.
Best Places to Eat on River Street for Lunch, Dinner, and Brunch
The best places to eat on River Street in Savannah, GA, depend on your budget, meal time, and food preferences. Huey’s on the River serves breakfast and New Orleans food, while Spanky’s offers casual American meals.
For seafood, try The Shrimp Factory or River House Seafood. Couples planning a special dinner can consider Chart House or Vic’s on the River.
You’ll also find brunch spots and family restaurants near the waterfront. Some sit directly on River Street, while others are a short walk away.
Best River Street Restaurants for Lunch
Spanky’s Pizza Galley & Saloon is a good lunch choice for chicken fingers, pizza, and burgers. Its River Street location makes it convenient for families exploring downtown Savannah. The restaurant also offers weekday lunch specials.
The Shrimp Factory suits visitors who prefer seafood for lunch. Its menu includes shrimp dishes, fried seafood, and Southern favorites. The casual setting works for couples and small groups.
Huey’s on the River offers another option for lunch. Choose a po’boy, gumbo, or Cajun dish before continuing your waterfront walk.
Best Restaurants for Dinner and Special Occasions
Chart House is a good choice for anniversaries and romantic dinners. Its seafood, prime rib, and Savannah River views suit couples planning a special evening.
Vic’s on the River serves Southern food in a historic building above River Street. Popular menu choices include shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and fried chicken.
River House Seafood suits visitors who prefer a traditional seafood dinner. Its menu features fish dishes, shrimp and grits, and Southern seafood specialties.
Book ahead for weekend dinners, especially if you want a river-facing table.
Best Breakfast and Brunch Spots Near River Street
Huey’s on the River is a convenient breakfast option directly on River Street. Its menu includes eggs Benedict, French toast, and New Orleans beignets.
Rhett Restaurant & Bar, inside The Alida hotel, offers brunch near the western waterfront. Its menu includes shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles, pancakes, and biscuits with gravy.
Rhett suits couples seeking a sit-down brunch, while Huey’s works well before morning sightseeing.
Best Casual Restaurants for Families
Spanky’s Pizza Galley & Saloon is a practical choice for families with different food preferences. Its menu includes chicken fingers, pizza, burgers, and familiar American dishes.
The Shrimp Factory works for families who enjoy seafood. Its menu offers fried shrimp, fish, and other Southern favorites.
The Pirates’ House is another family option near the eastern Historic District. Its historic setting adds interest for children, while its menu includes Southern food and familiar meals.
The Pirates’ House is not directly on River Street, so allow extra walking time.
Affordable Places to Eat on River Street
Spanky’s is worth considering for a casual meal without fine dining prices. Its weekday lunch specials may help visitors spend less.
Huey’s on the River offers sandwiches and breakfast dishes alongside larger Cajun meals. Choosing a lighter dish can help control lunch costs.
For another budget option, The Pirates’ House offers a Southern lunch buffet. Its published menu lists adult and children’s prices, making meal planning easier.
Compare current menus before visiting. Drinks, taxes, tips, and extra sides can increase your final bill.
Quick Comparison of River Street Restaurants by Meal and Budget
Restaurant | Best meal | Budget | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
Huey’s on the River | Breakfast, brunch, lunch | $$ | Couples, casual diners |
Spanky’s Pizza Galley & Saloon | Lunch, dinner | $ to $$ | Families, budget travelers |
The Shrimp Factory | Lunch, dinner | $$ | Seafood lovers, groups |
River House Seafood | Dinner | $$ to $$$ | Seafood lovers, couples |
Chart House | Dinner | $$$ | Romantic meals, special occasions |
Vic’s on the River | Lunch, dinner | $$ to $$$ | Couples, Southern food |
Rhett Restaurant & Bar | Brunch, dinner | $$ to $$$ | Couples, hotel guests |
The Pirates’ House | Lunch, dinner | $$ | Families, Southern food |
Budget guide: $ means lower-cost casual dining, $$ means moderate spending, and $$$ means higher-priced dining. These categories are relative estimates, not fixed meal prices.
Good to know: Restaurant menus, specials, and service hours can change. Check current prices and opening times before planning your meal.
After a day of sightseeing, a good dinner is often the best way to unwind. The best dinner restaurants in Savannah, GA include Southern kitchens, contemporary dining rooms, and relaxed neighborhood spots.
Restaurants on Savannah’s Riverwalk and Plant Riverside District
Plant Riverside District has some of the best riverfront restaurants in Savannah for seafood, barbecue, pizza, and casual meals. The district sits along West River Street beside the Savannah River.
Visitors searching for restaurants on Savannah’s Riverwalk can find outdoor food stands, indoor dining rooms, and rooftop bars here. The former power plant also houses the JW Marriott Savannah hotel.
Most dining spots sit within a short walk of each other. You can eat, explore the waterfront, and watch cargo ships without leaving the district.
Casual Dining at Plant Riverside District
District Seafood serves oysters, seafood po’boys, hushpuppies, and Lowcountry dishes. Its casual setting suits visitors who want seafood without a formal dinner.
District Smokehouse focuses on Southern barbecue. Its menu includes smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and traditional sides. The open-air restaurant works well for lunch after a Riverwalk stroll.
Graffito offers Neapolitan pizza, pasta, and Italian dishes inside the Power Plant Building. Families and groups can share pizzas or order separate meals.
For a more expensive dinner, Stone & Webster Chophouse serves prime steaks and seafood. It suits couples and visitors celebrating special occasions.
Waterfront Restaurants With Outdoor Seating
District Seafood and District Smokehouse are good choices for outdoor dining beside the Savannah River. Both have open-air seating where guests can watch boats and cargo ships pass.
District Seafood suits visitors who prefer oysters, shrimp, and coastal food. District Smokehouse offers barbecue, sandwiches, and smoked meat platters.
Both restaurants welcome walk-ins and use seating on a first-come, first-served basis.
Riverside Burger offers another outdoor option along the Riverwalk. Its casual seating suits visitors who want a burger without spending much time at a restaurant.
Outdoor dining depends on weather and available tables. Savannah summers can feel hot and humid, especially during afternoon meals.
Rooftop Bars and Restaurants With Food
Myrtle & Rose Rooftop Bar offers views of the Savannah River and downtown rooftops. Its menu includes shareable dishes, cocktails, and weekend brunch options.
The rooftop suits couples planning an evening meal or drinks with a view. Check the current menu before visiting, since food service varies by day.
Electric Moon Skytop Lounge offers another rooftop setting within Plant Riverside District. Visitors can enjoy drinks, casual food, and outdoor entertainment above the waterfront.
Electric Moon is better suited to a lively evening than a quiet romantic dinner. Confirm its current food service, age restrictions, and entry policies before visiting.
Rooftop seating may change with the weather. River-facing tables are not guaranteed.
Quick Bites, Pizza, Burgers, and Barbecue
Visitors looking for a quick meal on Savannah’s Riverwalk have several options.
Riverside Burger serves smash burgers, fries, and tater tots. Its outdoor counter works well for a short lunch break. Current published hours mainly cover Friday through Sunday.
Graffito serves Neapolitan pizza from custom pizza ovens. Its menu also includes pasta and Italian starters. It suits families who want a full meal rather than takeaway food.
District Smokehouse is a good option for barbecue. Choose brisket, pulled pork, or smoked meat dishes before continuing your River Street walk.
Riverside Biergarten offers another casual stop for bratwurst, pretzels, and drinks. It suits visitors who prefer a lighter meal or snack.
Quick Comparison of Plant Riverside Dining Options
Restaurant | Food type | Dining style | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
District Seafood | Seafood, Lowcountry dishes | Outdoor waterfront | Seafood lovers |
District Smokehouse | Southern barbecue | Outdoor waterfront | Casual lunch |
Riverside Burger | Smash burgers, fries | Outdoor counter | Quick meals |
Graffito | Pizza, Italian food | Indoor restaurant | Families, groups |
Stone & Webster Chophouse | Steak, seafood | Upscale indoor dining | Special occasions |
Myrtle & Rose | Shareable dishes, brunch | Rooftop dining | Couples, river views |
Electric Moon | Casual food, drinks | Rooftop lounge | Nightlife |
Riverside Biergarten | Bratwurst, pretzels | Outdoor casual | Snacks, groups |
Location: Plant Riverside District, 400 West River Street, Savannah, GA 31401.
Good to know: Not every restaurant offers direct river views. Some have indoor seating, while others sit along the open-air Riverwalk. Check menus, opening hours, and seating policies before visiting.
Downtown Savannah has plenty of places to eat between visits to historic squares and local shops. Food in downtown Savannah includes Southern classics, sandwiches, seafood, and quick bites.
Best Restaurants Near River Street in Downtown Savannah
The best restaurants near River Street in Savannah, GA, include Vic’s on the River, Chart House, Rhett, and The Olde Pink House. These restaurants offer Southern food, seafood, steaks, and modern American dishes.
River Street sits below Bay Street along the Savannah River. Some restaurants overlook the water from higher floors, while others sit farther into the Historic District.
Visitors can walk between these dining areas using historic ramps, stairs, and nearby elevators. Your best choice depends on whether you prefer river views, a quiet dinner, or a historic setting.
Restaurants on Bay Street Overlooking the River
Vic’s on the River sits at 26 East Bay Street, above the waterfront. It serves Southern dishes, including shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and seafood. Its upper-floor dining room offers views of the Savannah River.
Visitors coming from River Street can enter through the coffee shop at 15 East River Street. An elevator takes guests to the fourth-floor restaurant.
Chart House, at 202 West Bay Street, offers another option for waterfront dining. Its menu features seafood, steaks, and prime rib. The restaurant suits couples planning dinner with river views.
Both restaurants sit above River Street rather than directly beside the waterfront walkway. Ask for a river-facing table when making dining plans.
Restaurants Within Walking Distance of River Street
The Olde Pink House, at 23 Abercorn Street, serves Southern food inside an 18th-century mansion near Reynolds Square. Its menu includes fried chicken, seafood, and traditional Southern dishes.
From East River Street, head toward Bay Street and continue south to Reynolds Square. The restaurant sits on Abercorn Street, a few blocks from the waterfront.
Rhett Restaurant & Bar, at 412 Williamson Street, serves Southern coastal cuisine inside The Alida hotel. Its menu includes seafood, brunch dishes, and seasonal Southern food.
Visitors exploring the western waterfront can reach Rhett by heading inland toward Williamson Street. The restaurant sits near Plant Riverside District.
The Grey, at 109 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, offers another dinner option in downtown Savannah. Chef Mashama Bailey’s restaurant occupies a restored 1938 Greyhound bus terminal.
From the western end of River Street, head toward Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and continue south. The Grey suits visitors who prefer modern Southern cooking over waterfront views.
River Street vs. Historic District Restaurants: Where Should You Eat?
Choose River Street restaurants if you want seafood, casual dining, and views of the Savannah River. The waterfront also puts you close to shops, hotels, and sightseeing spots.
Choose Bay Street restaurants for elevated river views and a more formal dinner. Vic’s on the River and Chart House are good options for couples and special occasions.
Choose Historic District restaurants if food and atmosphere matter more than waterfront seating. The Olde Pink House offers traditional Southern dining, while The Grey focuses on modern Southern cooking.
Dining area | Best for | Restaurant examples | River views |
|---|---|---|---|
River Street | Seafood, casual meals, sightseeing | Huey’s, Fiddler’s Crab House | Available at selected tables |
Bay Street | Romantic dinners, upscale dining | Vic’s on the River, Chart House | Available at river-facing tables |
Historic District | Southern food, historic settings | The Olde Pink House, The Grey | Generally no |
Walking tip: River Street has uneven cobblestones, steep ramps, and historic stairways. Elevators near City Hall and The Alida hotel provide other routes to the upper streets.
If river views matter most, choose River Street or Bay Street. For a wider range of dining experiences, explore the Historic District a few blocks inland.
A perfectly cooked ribeye or tender filet mignon can make dinner feel special. Finding a steakhouse in Savannah, GA comes down to your favorite cut, budget, and preferred atmosphere.
How Much Does It Cost to Eat on River Street in Savannah?
Eating on River Street in Savannah typically costs $14–$25 per person for casual meals and $23–$35 for many seafood entrées. Upscale waterfront restaurants can cost $40–$55 or more for a main dish.
Your final bill depends on the restaurant, food choices, drinks, and tips. Lunch is often cheaper than a full seafood dinner.
The prices below come from published restaurant menus checked on October 15, 2026. They are sample prices, not guaranteed rates.
Typical Prices for Casual Dining and Seafood
Spanky’s Pizza Galley & Saloon is one of the more affordable sit-down options on River Street. Its published specials menu lists a burger for $14 and a turkey burger for $13.
Huey’s on the River offers New Orleans-style sandwiches and Southern food. Its online ordering menu lists a shrimp po’boy for $17.25 and a muffuletta for $17.50.
Seafood dinners usually cost more than sandwiches or burgers.
At The Shrimp Factory, a shrimp fry costs $24, while shrimp and grits costs $25. Its fried seafood platter costs $35 and includes several seafood selections.
Here are verified examples to help plan your dining budget.
Restaurant | Sample menu item | Listed price |
|---|---|---|
Spanky’s | Turkey burger | $13.00 |
Spanky’s | Burger | $14.00 |
Huey’s on the River | Shrimp po’boy | $17.25 |
Huey’s on the River | Muffuletta | $17.50 |
The Shrimp Factory | Shrimp fry | $24.00 |
The Shrimp Factory | Shrimp and grits | $25.00 |
The Shrimp Factory | Fried seafood platter | $35.00 |
Chart House | Salmon | $29.00 |
Chart House | Filet mignon, 7 oz. | $43.00 |
Chart House | Sea bass with lobster risotto | $54.00 |
Prices checked October 15, 2026. Taxes, tips, drinks, and optional extras are not included.
Fine Dining vs. Budget-Friendly Restaurants
For a budget-friendly meal, choose Spanky’s or Huey’s. Both offer casual food without requiring an expensive seafood entrée.
The Shrimp Factory falls into the middle price range. Visitors can choose a $16 shrimp po’boy or spend more on seafood platters.
For upscale dining, Chart House offers seafood and steaks with Savannah River views. Its published menu lists salmon for $29, a 7-ounce filet mignon for $43, and sea bass with lobster risotto for $54.
A couple ordering two $43 entrées would spend $86 before drinks, tax, and tip. With an illustrative 20% tip on the pretax subtotal, that becomes $103.20 before sales tax.
Choose casual dining for a quick lunch or family meal. Consider fine dining when atmosphere, service, and waterfront views are part of your plans.
How to Save Money on River Street Dining
You can enjoy River Street restaurants without spending heavily on every meal.
- Choose lunch specials. Spanky’s advertises weekday lunch specials from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Order sandwiches instead of seafood platters. Huey’s po’boys and The Shrimp Factory’s handhelds can cost less than larger entrées.
- Look for happy hour menus. Chart House lists weekday happy hour specials, including selected small plates starting at $8.
- Compare menus before sitting down. Check entrée prices, side dishes, and seafood market prices.
- Skip unnecessary extras. Appetizers, cocktails, and desserts can increase your bill quickly.
- Set a budget for the whole meal. Include taxes and tips rather than comparing entrée prices alone.
For two adults, a practical planning budget is around $35–$60 for a casual meal or $70–$120 for a seafood dinner, before tax and tip. Upscale dinners with drinks can exceed these amounts.
Money-saving tip: Check the restaurant’s official menu on the day you visit. Prices, portion sizes, lunch specials, and happy hour offers may change without notice.
Savannah’s Historic District has restaurants tucked among old buildings, charming squares, and cobblestone streets. The restaurants in Savannah’s Historic District include Southern kitchens, cozy cafés, and elegant dining rooms.
River Street Savannah Restaurant Map, Parking, and Directions
Most River Street restaurants in Savannah sit along East and West River Street, beside the Savannah River. Visitors can walk between seafood restaurants, casual cafés, and waterfront dining spots.
Bay Street runs above River Street, with ramps, stairs, and elevators connecting the two levels. Parking is available in nearby garages, surface lots, and selected hotel facilities.
Use the restaurant map below to plan your route before arriving.
Where Are the Restaurants Located on River Street?
River Street stretches along Savannah’s historic waterfront. Restaurant locations fall into three main areas.
East River Street: Huey’s on the River, The Cotton Exchange Tavern, The Shrimp Factory, and Spanky’s are located along this section.
West River Street: Fiddler’s Crab House and River House Seafood sit near the central waterfront. Plant Riverside District extends farther west, with additional restaurants and rooftop venues.
Above River Street: Vic’s on the River and Chart House are located on Bay Street. Both offer river views, but their main street addresses are above the waterfront.
Best Places to Park Near River Street Restaurants
The Bryan Street Parking Garage and Whitaker Street Parking Garage are useful options for visitors heading toward the central waterfront. The Lincoln Street Parking Garage serves the eastern downtown area.
Plant Riverside District also provides visitor parking information, including public parking and valet options. Confirm current rates and availability before arriving.
Parking directly beside a restaurant is not always possible. Allow extra time to walk from your garage to the waterfront, especially during weekends and festivals.
How to Walk From Bay Street to River Street
Bay Street sits above River Street because Savannah’s historic waterfront has two levels.
From the City Hall area, use the nearby connecting streets, steps, or public elevator to reach River Street. From the eastern Historic District, access routes include the Lincoln Street Ramp and other historic connections.
At the western end, visitors can approach Plant Riverside District from the Bay Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard area.
Use marked pedestrian routes rather than walking down vehicle ramps without sidewalks. Some paths are steep or uneven.
Accessibility, Stairs, Cobblestones, and Elevators
River Street has historic cobblestones, brick paving, steep ramps, and stairways. These surfaces can be difficult for wheelchair users, people with limited mobility, and families pushing strollers.
Public elevators provide alternatives at selected waterfront access points. However, an elevator may not connect directly to your chosen restaurant.
Visitors with mobility needs should confirm the restaurant’s accessible entrance, seating arrangements, and nearby parking before traveling.
Planning tip: Choose your restaurant first, then find the nearest accessible route. The shortest walking route is not always the easiest one.
Slow mornings in Savannah are made for biscuits, pancakes, and a good cup of coffee. Local brunch spots in Savannah, GA serve familiar breakfast favorites alongside Southern specialties.
How to Choose the Best River Street Restaurant for Your Visit
The best River Street restaurant depends on who you’re traveling with, your budget, and your preferred dining experience. Some places suit quick family lunches, while others work better for seafood dinners or romantic evenings.
Use these recommendations to narrow your choices without comparing every restaurant menu.
Best Restaurant for First-Time Visitors
Recommendation: Huey’s on the River
Huey’s offers New Orleans-inspired food in a convenient River Street location. Its menu gives first-time visitors several choices beyond traditional seafood.
Practical consideration: Breakfast and lunch are useful options if you want to eat before exploring the waterfront.
Best Restaurant for Couples
Recommendation: Vic’s on the River
Vic’s combines Southern cuisine with elevated Savannah River views, making it suitable for a date night.
Practical consideration: The restaurant sits on Bay Street, above River Street. Request a river-facing table when booking.
Best Restaurant for Families With Kids
Recommendation: Spanky’s Pizza Galley & Saloon
Spanky’s serves chicken fingers, pizza, and burgers that appeal to different age groups.
Practical consideration: Visit earlier for lunch or dinner to avoid the busiest evening dining periods.
Best Restaurant for Seafood Lovers
Recommendation: Fiddler’s Crab House & Oyster Bar
Fiddler’s focuses on crab, oysters, shrimp, and seafood platters. Its menu offers several choices for shellfish lovers.
Practical consideration: Ask about seasonal seafood availability and market-priced dishes before ordering.
Best Restaurant for River Views
Recommendation: Chart House
Chart House overlooks the Savannah River and offers seafood and steak dinners in a waterfront setting.
Practical consideration: Not every table provides the same view. Ask about river-facing seating when making reservations.
Best Restaurant for Travelers on a Budget
Recommendation: Spanky’s Pizza Galley & Saloon
Spanky’s offers casual meals and weekday lunch specials, making it a practical choice for lower-cost dining.
Practical consideration: Compare current specials with regular menu prices. Drinks, taxes, and tips increase the final bill.
A hearty breakfast makes a busy day of walking around Savannah much easier. Many Savannah breakfast restaurants offer eggs, biscuits, pancakes, and fresh coffee before the city gets busy.
Tips for Dining on Savannah’s River Street
A little planning can make dining on Savannah’s River Street easier. Restaurant demand, waterfront seating, and parking conditions can change throughout the day.
These tips will help you choose a meal time, avoid unnecessary waits, and reach your restaurant comfortably.
Do You Need Restaurant Reservations?
Reservations are recommended for upscale restaurants such as Chart House and Vic’s on the River. They are especially useful for weekend dinners, holidays, and special occasions.
Casual restaurants may accept walk-ins, but tables can fill during busy periods.
Check each restaurant’s reservation policy before visiting. Large groups should contact the restaurant ahead of time.
When Is the Best Time to Eat on River Street?
Weekday lunches are often a practical choice for visitors who want a relaxed meal. You can also explore the waterfront before the evening crowds arrive.
For dinner, consider an earlier seating if you want more flexibility.
Sunset dining is popular with couples seeking river views. However, sunset times change throughout the year, and a window table is not guaranteed.
How Busy Are River Street Restaurants on Weekends?
River Street can become crowded on Friday evenings, Saturdays, holidays, and festival weekends.
Popular seafood restaurants may have longer waits during peak dining hours. Parking garages and waterfront walkways can also become busy.
Arrive early, make reservations where possible, and allow extra time between sightseeing activities.
Can You Get a River-View Table?
Yes, several Savannah waterfront restaurants offer river-facing tables. However, not every seat has an unobstructed view.
When booking, ask whether window, balcony, patio, or rooftop seating is available. Some restaurants handle these requests separately from standard reservations.
Outdoor tables may close during rain, strong winds, or extreme heat. Have an indoor seating option in mind.
What Should You Know About Parking and Accessibility?
River Street has cobblestones, uneven sidewalks, steep ramps, and historic stairs. These conditions can make walking difficult for some visitors.
Use nearby parking garages and check the walking route before leaving your vehicle. Public elevators provide alternatives at selected waterfront access points.
If you use a wheelchair or stroller, contact your restaurant about its accessible entrance. The closest entrance may not be on River Street itself.
Final tip: Choose your restaurant based on food and location first. Then confirm reservations, seating, parking, and accessibility before your visit.
Good food isn’t limited to Savannah’s downtown streets. The best food places in Savannah, GA include neighborhood cafés, seafood restaurants, and casual spots for family meals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurants on River Street Savannah
Final Thoughts — Where Should You Eat on River Street Savannah?
The best restaurants on River Street in Savannah depend on your food preferences, budget, and dining plans. Choose Fiddler’s Crab House or River House Seafood for seafood, Spanky’s for family meals, and Huey’s for casual dining.
Couples may prefer Vic’s on the River or Chart House for romantic dinners with river views. Plant Riverside District offers rooftop dining and outdoor seating.
Before choosing, compare menus, prices, river views, and restaurant locations. Check current opening hours, reserve ahead for weekend dinners, and confirm parking options before your visit.
John Robert
Travel Writer & Founder @ Thing Savannah
John Robert is a travel writer and explorer specializing in authentic regional guides, detailed itineraries, and practical travel logistics.
