Savannah’s charm isn’t just in its cobblestone streets and moss-draped oaks—it shines brightly in its culinary scene. Known for its Southern comfort food and historic waterfront, Savannah offers some of the most memorable dining experiences in the South. Whether you’re on a romantic evening cruise, a lively gospel boat ride, or a guided food tour, the city’s flavors and scenery combine to create truly authentic moments. These experiences are perfect for travelers looking to enjoy delicious local cuisine while soaking up Savannah’s unique atmosphere. If you’re after a dinner with a view, a musical night on the river, or a tasting tour of the city’s best bites, this guide has you covered.
To help you pick the right experience, we’ve ranked the top six dining adventures based on reviews, uniqueness, and value. Whether you want a relaxed river cruise with live entertainment or an intimate tour exploring Savannah’s food scene, these options will make your trip unforgettable.
1. Savannah: Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment
At number 1, the Savannah: Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment offers a classic evening on the water. This 2-hour cruise along the Savannah River combines good food, lively music, and scenic views. It’s a popular choice, rated 4.3 out of 5 from over 670 reviews, mainly for its balance of entertainment and a tasty Southern-style buffet. As the boat gently drifts up and down the river, you’ll enjoy the sights of historic Savannah under the stars, with live music on multiple decks to keep you dancing or just relaxing with a drink.
What makes this cruise stand out is its combination of a delicious buffet, live entertainment, and the chance to see fireworks right as you dock. Reviewers love the friendly staff and the convenient elevator, especially for those with mobility concerns. The meal may arrive a little cool at times, but the overall experience remains a fantastic way to end your day. At $93 per person, it’s a solid value for a memorable night of scenery, music, and Southern hospitality.
Bottom Line: A lively, scenic cruise perfect for those wanting good food, entertainment, and a relaxed, romantic vibe. Book early to secure a spot for your preferred sunset time.
2. Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise
At number 2, the Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise offers a soulful experience on the water that’s hard to beat. This 2-hour cruise features live gospel music performed by local Savannah singers, creating an uplifting atmosphere as you glide past landmarks like the Talmadge Memorial Bridge and River Street. The dinner buffet includes hearty Southern staples and is complemented by a cash bar, making it a relaxed yet meaningful evening.
What makes this cruise special is its focus on music that moves the soul, combined with beautiful views of Savannah’s riverfront. Reviewers praise the delicious food and the friendly, accommodating staff. It’s perfect for celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, or just enjoying a night of genuine Southern hospitality with a musical twist. The intimate setting and passionate performances make it a standout, especially at just over $77 per person.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking an uplifting, musical experience on the river with a hearty dinner. Reserve tickets ahead—this one fills quickly.
3. Southern Traditions Dinner Tour
Ranking third, the Southern Traditions Dinner Tour is a 3.5-hour, adult-only experience that combines a walking tour with multiple restaurant stops. It’s a truly local taste of Savannah’s culinary scene. Starting at Madison Square, you’ll stroll through the historic district, stopping at several restaurants to sample Lowcountry classics like Shrimp and Grits, She Crab Soup, and farm-to-table oysters. The tour includes one cocktail or mocktail and offers a chance to learn about Savannah’s history and culture through its food.
This tour is especially good for travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy—with no more than 10 guests—and want to understand why Savannah’s cuisine is so revered. The guide shares stories about local traditions and the city’s quirks, making the experience both informative and delicious. At $119.99, it’s a bit pricier but offers a comprehensive taste of Savannah’s flavors along with storytelling.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies who want a relaxed, guided exploration of Savannah’s culinary scene combined with cultural insights.
4. Savannah: Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise
The Savannah: Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise is a must for gospel music lovers. This 2-hour cruise captures the uplifting spirit of southern gospel with live singing on board. As you sail along the Savannah River, the scenic views of the city light up the evening, creating a peaceful backdrop for this soulful performance. The dinner buffet features traditional Southern fare, making it a well-rounded experience at $77 per person.
What stands out here is the genuine community feel—people singing along, sharing joy, and embracing the uplifting music. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly staff and the delicious food, calling it a “wonderful evening” filled with “peace and joy.” If you’re seeking an inspirational, relaxed night with good food and soulful tunes, this cruise hits the mark.
Bottom Line: A heartfelt experience suited for gospel fans and those seeking a peaceful, soul-stirring evening on the river. Planning ahead is recommended due to limited availability on Mondays.
5. 2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment
Number 5 on the list, the 2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment offers a lively yet relaxed way to end your day. This 2-hour cruise includes a varied dinner buffet, scenic views, and onboard music or entertainment. The cruise features a dance floor and cash bar, making it perfect for those wanting to enjoy a bit of fun and movement while appreciating Savannah’s skyline.
Guests highly rate the friendly service and the mix of lively and relaxing moments, especially on the top deck where people dance and take in the view. The experience balances casual entertainment with scenic sightseeing, making it ideal for couples or groups. The cruise is priced at $92.52, giving good value for the combination of good food, lively atmosphere, and scenic cruise.
Bottom Line: A versatile evening option for those wanting to combine dining, light-hearted entertainment, and river views without a hefty price tag.
6. Savannah: Southern Traditions Dinner Tour
Our final pick, the Savannah: Southern Traditions Dinner Tour provides a 3.5-hour walk through Savannah’s historic district, with stops at several restaurants. For $106, you’ll enjoy tasting local dishes like she crab soup, fried green tomatoes, and Blue Crab, along with one alcoholic beverage included. The tour is designed for adults and emphasizes local culture and storytelling.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on multiple restaurant visits, giving you a broad taste of Savannah’s culinary offerings. The guide shares engaging stories about the city’s landmarks and quirky facts, making it a great choice for those interested in history along with food. The reviews praise the delicious food, fun atmosphere, and the guide’s storytelling skills.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers who enjoy walking, tasting many dishes, and learning about Savannah’s culture in one relaxed evening.
How to Choose Your Perfect Savannah Dining Experience
When selecting among these experiences, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For a romantic evening with scenic views, the Buffet Dinner Cruise or the 2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise provide a good balance of scenery and entertainment. If you’re a music lover, the Gospel Dinner Cruise offers soulful tunes in a relaxed setting.
For those wanting a deep dive into Savannah’s food scene, the Southern Traditions Dinner Tour or the Southern Traditions Dinner Tour combine food and history in intimate, guided walks. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise, which offers great value in a soulful setting.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular cruises and tours during peak seasons. Check availability and consider your comfort, music preferences, and whether you want to sample many dishes or enjoy a single, scenic cruise.
Final Thoughts
Savannah’s vibrant culinary scene and scenic riverfront make for unforgettable dining experiences. If you love music and scenery, the scenic cruises with live entertainment are perfect. For those who want to taste the city’s signature dishes while learning about its history, the food tours provide a rich, immersive experience. And if you’re after uplifting music and heartfelt community moments, the gospel cruises deliver genuine Southern spirit.
No matter what you choose, early booking is wise—these experiences fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. These tours showcase Savannah’s delicious food, rich culture, and scenic beauty, promising you memorable moments that go beyond just dining.
Enjoy your trip and savor every bite and melody Savannah has to offer!