Visitors to Savannah have always been drawn to the charms of Georgia’s oldest city: atmospheric town squares with Spanish moss-draped trees, an illustrious history steeped in legends and hauntings, and of course, its famed Southern hospitality and food culture. This city upholds its rich traditions but is also progressive in its outlook. Case in point is The Kessler Collection’s Plant Riverside District, which has revitalized Savannah’s iconic riverfront with a $375 million redevelopment, the largest in the city’s history. Since its opening in 2021, this four-and-a-half-acre entertainment and hospitality district has lured locals and visitors alike with its upscale shopping, curated galleries, and a dozen restaurants and bars on the riverfront to enjoy live music and sunset views.
My gastronomic exploration next takes me to the Kimpton Brice Hotel in Savannah’s North Historic District. Housed in an atmospheric 1860s building that was once a Coca-Cola bottling plant, this boutique property on one of the city’s original squares has a private courtyard garden, a literary-inspired lobby, and the celebrated Pacci Italian Kitchen & Bar serving Italian fare with a Southern twist. Helmed by Executive Chef John Angelo Cole, the restaurant prides itself on sourcing from local farmers, fishermen, and purveyors for crowd favorites such as their slow-cooked Pacci meatballs – a staple on the menu, and the Coca-Cola-braised short rib with seasonal vegetables. Hitting the high note visually and with the taste buds is the Pesce del Giorno, the dayboat catch: freshly caught scallops on the night of my visit, served over creamy risotto with garlic asparagus and citrus pesto.
Complementing the stellar food is an extensive wine list from around the world, as well as locally produced beer, and specialty cocktails showcasing their Georgian roots such as the ‘Scarlett O’Hara’ and the ‘Frankly My Dear’ – a tequila, ginger beer, and blackberry concoction so delicious that we do give a damn. It’s clear that while Savannah’s culinary landscape is ever-evolving with an innovative fusion of flavors and global influences, it’s also deeply rooted in its Southern traditions. With each tantalizing bite, you might fall more in love with this vibrant food city.
Pacci Kitchen & Bar at Kimpton Brice
601 East Bay Street, Savannah, Georgia
www.paccisavannah.com
