The Newest “Red-Hot” Area in Savannah
Thomas Square has become the hottest, hippest neighborhood in Savannah with the likes of Foxy Loxy Café, The Vault, Cotton and Rye, Atlantic and so many others. Revitalization and a well organized, long established neighborhood association have added great structure to the existing neighborhood fabric. This Midtown location has easy access to Victory Drive, the Drayton/Whitaker Corridor, 37th Street Connector and the Truman Parkway to ensure quick travel to all parts of town. Can’t really go wrong with this one as this area is about to really “blow up” in the best of ways.
Here are some of our favorite restaurants & shops in and around the Thomas Square Neighborhood:
Cotton & Rye – Located in the former home of several well-known restaurants, Cotton & Rye has really taken off since opening it’s doors a couple of years ago. You really can’t go wrong here. From a quite dinner to a large gathering with friends, Cotton & Rye has space for it all. There’s an outdoor seating area, plenty of street parking, and a great vibe from start to finish. Favorites on the menu include the Fried Chicken Thighs, Homemade Candy Bars, and of course the Mac n Cheese.
The Vault – The building itself used to be a bank and the restaurant owners left the bank vault in-tact, hence the name. This is one of the latest projects from the restaurant group Ele. Known for their Asian influenced dishes and stellar dining rooms, The Vault is one of a kind. From the giant metal casement windows to the nickels on the bathroom floor to the amazing sushi bar, no detail is left undone. If you’re looking for authentic sushi in Savannah (which can be a challenge) be sure to check out The Vault.
Foxy Loxy Cafe – Located right next door to the famous Gingerbread House and across the street from the Bull Street Library and SCAD’s Arnold Hall, this local coffee shop is in the heart of Thomas Square. Grab a pastry and enjoy your coffee in the main area, upstairs in this beautiful Victorian, or in the spacious rear courtyard! Foxy (as the locals say) is the venue of choice for local musicians, art shows, comedy and more. I mean, they even have an “events” page on their website for crying out loud.
Blowin’ Smoke – One of the Gaslight Group’s longest running ventures, Blowin’ Smoke is where BBQ meets Tacos. If you’re looking for a laid back, Southern California Cantina vibe, this is your jam. With a TON of outdoor seating, huge bar, live music most weekends, and in-house corn hole, what’s not to love?! We’re big fans of the Memphis Belle and the Smoked Pork Belly tacos. Oh, and of course there’s queso.
Atlantic – Located in the newly renovated building at the corner of Victory Drive and Drayton Street, Atlantic has quickly become the place to be seen in Savannah. Literally, you can’t go here and not see someone you know. Whether you’re just dropping in for happy hour with the girlfriends or having dinner with friends, Atlantic is a laid-back neighborhood eatery. Check out their Facebook page for daily specials, especially on the weekends.
Green Truck Pub – Regularly voted Savannah’s best burger, Green Truck has the heart of many in Savannah. If you’re looking to dine in, try off hours meal times, as the small dining room fills up fast. But trust us, it’s worth the wait. And PS, you can always order it to go, which we do often. There’s not a burger on the menu that isn’t delicious! Everything is homemade, down to the ketchup!
Al Salaam Deli – This little known restaurant is amazing! One might overlook it at first glance, but you should totally stop in! Authentic gyros. PERIOD. THE END. If you’re looking for Middle Eastern food in Savannah, look no further. Delicious falafel, gyro, Kufta Kabob, Fatoush, Hummus, or any one of their other Middle Eastern delicacies!
Bull Street Taco – It literally just opened, and has taken over the taco scene in Savannah! Their house made corn tortillas are as authentic as they come. Start your meal off with the queso fundido and don’t forget some Mexican street corn. Bull Street Taco is the newest, happening restaurant in Thomas Square.
Elizabeth’s on 37th – Perhaps the oldest and long-standing restaurant in Thomas Square, Elizabeth’s on 37th is a tradition in Savannah. This is semi-formal Southern dining at it’s finest. We are talking white table cloths, a great wine selection, crab cakes that are to die for and an elegant mansion for a dining area. What’s not to love?!
Back in the Day Bakery – The owners are adorable and famous and their cookbook is devine! Back in the Day Bakery is the perfect place for all the sweet treats you want, a quick bite, and of course the most amazing banana pudding you’ve ever tasted in your entire life. Literally people pop in for a to-go order of banana pudding only. It’s that good.