Savannah has plenty of delicious food options, but few have the history and reputation that can rival Crystal Beer Parlor, located in the Savannah’s Historic District. Changing names and owners a couple times in the early 1900s, the restaurant as it’s known today was established shortly after the prohibition ended. The history surrounding the restaurants early years are a little hazy but that’s likely because the owner was rumored to be running an illegal hooch operation and speak easy. Not exactly something they’d be fastidiously documenting.
While Crystal Beer Parlor might have an interesting background, it’s only relevant because of how good the food is. Spoiler alert, this restaurant is an easy 10/10. One of the best restaurants we’ve ever been to, everything from the service to the food was top notch!
FOOD
During this visit we had the creamy crab stew, fried flounder Reuben, onion rings shrimp and grits and the fried pound cake. Every item was nothing short of perfect and we’re more than happy to share our experience.
Starting the meal off, I had the crab stew as an appetizer. I’m glad they only served me a cup because I would have kept eating until I was full. I honestly can’t think of a soup I’d rather have. I recommend very strongly you order this with your meal.
For my main, I had the shrimp and grits because the waiter said it was the best in Savannah. I wasn’t really in the mood, but he was insistent after learning I was a shrimp and grits connoisseur. Not really a fan of andouille sausage, I braced myself for disappointment. Even with a strong dislike of andouille sausage, it landed in my top three favorites. Rich, creamy and perfectly balanced, this might very well be the best shrimp and grits in Savannah. I’ll let you know when I’ve tried them all.
Not usually the adventurous type, my wife was somehow convinced by the wizard of a waiter to try the fried founder Reuben with onion rings. A simple enough sandwich, it was prepared to perfection. The sandwich had a flavor and crunch that could only be accomplished with an expert amount of care to each layer. Note: we substituted the rye bread for sour dough.
Just like every other part of dinner, the onion rings were amazing. They weren’t greasy in the least and they didn’t start falling apart when eating them like most onion rings. I wonder if that wizard waiter had anything to do with this.
We finished off the meal with the fried pound cake. I don’t know If I can properly communicate how delicious this was. Before the dessert was even brought to the table, I thought I was going to cry because of how full I already was. I did not think I’d be physically able to fit any more food in my stomach. I didn’t stop until the literal pound of cake and ice cream was gone. It was so good; my mind was easily able to push my physical limitations to the brink. Note: we got the caramel on the side.
SERVICE
Just like the food, the service was exceptional. Our wizard waiter was named Dylan. He was attentive, knowledgeable and asked just enough questions to expertly guide us on this culinary journey. We’ll definitely be asking for him by name next time we visit.
We also met the manager, who was one of the most genuine people we’ve met while reviewing restaurants. Being humble, he told us we just caught him on a good day when we praised him and his staff. We’ll have to come back and put that to the test.
AMBIENCE
If you’re like me and love eating outside, they have a large tent around back with plenty of seating. Also, make sure you stop by their shop, which carries products from all over the world including art made here in Savannah. You can find some great jewelry and other handmade items from local artists and SCAD students in here too. Overall, the ambience had a lot of charm and fits well with the prohibitionist history of the restaurant.
BOTTOM LINE
Looking back, I couldn’t find anything to complain about. This will forever be a top choice when making recommendations to friends and family visiting Savannah. It’s an iconic spot that also feels like a hidden gem.
With some of the most flavorful dishes we’ve ever had in one sitting, we can’t say enough about the Crystal Beer Parlor. This is clearly a Savannah Secret Society favorite.