Sweet Home Savannah's: Will Downtown Restaurant Close -- Or Not?

Upon moving to St. Pete in 2008, I instantly discovered Savannah’s, located steps away from the Dome, at 1113 Central Avenue.

Sometimes, a gal just needs to fill up on shrimp and grits, especially cream cheese grits paired with shrimp and smoky tasso ham.  Savannah’s always hit the spot.

Savannah’s and I may not go back to the opening in 2007, but we’ve got history. Savannah’s is where I:

• Celebrated two Kentucky Derbies, complete with the Bay’s best mint juleps.
• Sipped two-for-one mimosas before the Rays.
• Fell in love.
• Had my heart broken.  Twice.
• Eased homesickness with gourmet comfort food.
• Enjoyed countless meals with friends.

2011 signaled change. Savannah’s drinks stayed strong, the food quality (for the most part), remained consistent.  But the beer list dwindled.  A shorter menu appeared. Table after table remained empty.  

Recently, owner John Warren announced Savannah’s will close May 28th. Reduced hours (open Wednesday-Sunday) followed.  Southerners and St. Pete food lovers simultaneously sighed. Where else to order something as devilishly tasty as a chicken-salad melt-- Savannah’s scrumptious sandwich with gooey melted cheese, chunky chicken salad, and crispy bacon?

Despite the announcement, food remains strong (other than a slightly heavy hand with seasoning, my continual favorite, the non-greasy panko fried chicken, dripping with herbed goat cheese and smothered in gravy, stays stellar).  The staff remains friendly. The restaurant seems fuller than ever.  What happens next?

Rumors say the restaurant may stay open through the start of June.  More rumors that manager John Warren may reconsider. There’s a customer appreciation party on Friday, May 20th. Plus, many hungry bellies waiting for one last stab at their favorite entree.

You can bet I’ll be back for my shrimp and grits, served with a perfect mint julep for a hot Florida day.  Y’all better be sure to drop by.