A Taste of the Coast: 15 Essential Southern Seafood Dishes to Try in Savannah Savannah's culinary scene is a treasure trove of Southern delights, and seafood is no exception.

A Taste of the Coast: 15 Essential Southern Seafood Dishes to Try in Savannah

Savannah's culinary scene is a treasure trove of Southern delights, and seafood is no exception. The city's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean ensures an abundance of fresh catches, which are expertly prepared by local chefs. From traditional Lowcountry favorites to innovative twists, here are 15 essential Southern seafood dishes to try in Savannah:

• Lowcountry Boil: A classic one-pot dish featuring shrimp, mussels, clams, and smoked sausage in a spicy broth.
• Fried Oysters: Thinly sliced oysters breaded and fried to a golden crisp, often served with remoulade sauce.
• Shrimp and Grits: A Savannah staple, this dish typically consists of sautéed shrimp, creamy grits, and a hint of spice.
• Crab Cakes: Crispy patties filled with jumbo lump crab, often served with a tangy remoulade sauce.
• Fish Fry: A Southern comfort food classic, featuring beer-battered fish, hush puppies, and coleslaw.
• Oyster Po' Boy: A New Orleans-inspired sandwich filled with fried oysters, lettuce, tomato, and pickles on a crispy baguette.
• Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty mixture, grilled to perfection and served with a side of garlic butter.
• Fried Catfish: A Southern favorite, breaded and fried catfish often served with hush puppies and coleslaw.
• Steamed Mussels: Freshly harvested mussels steamed in a flavorful broth, often served with crusty bread for dipping.
• Seafood Gumbo: A hearty stew made with a variety of seafood, including shrimp, crab, and oysters, in a rich and spicy broth.
• Crab Dip: A creamy dip made with jumbo lump crab, perfect for snacking on crackers or chips.
• Grilled Fish Tacos: Fresh fish grilled to perfection and served in a crispy taco shell with your choice of toppings.
• Shrimp Creole: A spicy stew made with shrimp, tomatoes, and herbs, often served over rice.
• Oyster Stew: A comforting stew made with oysters, potatoes, and vegetables in a rich and creamy broth.
• Crab Rangoon: Crispy wontons filled with jumbo lump crab, cream cheese, and scallions, often served as an appetizer.

When trying these dishes, be sure to pair them with a glass of sweet tea or a craft beer to enhance the flavors. Don't be afraid to ask your server for recommendations or to customize your dish to suit your taste.

Tips for Seafood Lovers:

• Try to visit during the peak seafood season (April to September) for the freshest catches.
• Be adventurous and try new dishes, but also don't be afraid to stick with what you know and love.
• Don't forget to try some of the local seafood markets and fish houses for a more authentic experience.
• If you're not sure where to start, ask your server for recommendations or try a seafood sampler plate to get a taste of several dishes.

Practical Info:

• Hours: Most seafood restaurants are open for lunch and dinner, but hours may vary depending on the location.
• Fees: Prices vary depending on the restaurant and the dish, but expect to spend around $15-$30 per entree.
• Location: Seafood restaurants can be found throughout the city, but the historic district and River Street are hotspots for seafood lovers.