These 16 Savannah, Georgia Restaurants Turn Seafood Boils Into A Summer Tradition
Summertime in Savannah means more than just heat and humidity. It’s the season when locals and visitors gather around tables piled high with spicy shrimp, sweet corn, and buttery potatoes.
Seafood boils have become a beloved tradition here, bringing people together over messy, delicious meals that celebrate coastal flavors and good company.
1. Mr. Crab House
Picture yourself eating with your hands while alligators lounge nearby in their natural habitat. You’ll find this iconic spot at 40 Estill Hammock Road, Tybee Island, GA 31328, just minutes from downtown Savannah.
The restaurant sits right on Chimney Creek, giving you waterfront views while you crack into your seafood.
I love how they pile everything onto metal trays lined with butcher paper. The boils come loaded with blue crabs, shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, all seasoned with their secret spice blend.
You can choose your heat level from mild to fire-breathing hot.
The outdoor seating under the covered pavilion makes this place perfect for summer evenings. Families come here because kids get excited about feeding the gators from the observation deck.
The casual atmosphere means nobody judges you for wearing a bib or getting butter up to your elbows while cracking shells.
2. Desposito’s Seafood
Fresh catches arrive daily at this family-owned gem that’s been serving Savannah since way back. Located at 5811 Skidaway Road, Savannah, GA 31406, this place feels like eating at your coastal grandmother’s house.
The owners know their seafood inside and out because they’ve been in the business for generations.
Their boils feature locally caught shrimp and blue crabs that were swimming in Georgia waters just hours before landing on your plate. I appreciate how they don’t drown everything in excessive seasoning.
Instead, they let the natural sweetness of the seafood shine through while adding just enough Old Bay and garlic butter.
The portions here are generous without being wasteful. You’ll get plenty of red potatoes and corn to balance out the protein.
The restaurant has a no-frills vibe that regulars love. Prices remain reasonable compared to touristy spots downtown, making this a favorite among locals who want quality without the markup.
3. Huc-A-Poos Bites & Booze
This lively spot brings New Orleans energy to the Georgia coast with a fun-loving attitude you can feel the moment you walk in. Find them at 1 Old US Highway 80, Tybee Island, GA 31328, right on the main strip.
The name tells you everything about the vibe here—it’s all about good food and good times.
Their seafood boils come with a Cajun twist that sets them apart from traditional Lowcountry preparations. I’m talking about spice blends that make your lips tingle and crawfish that taste like they swam straight from Louisiana bayous.
They offer different sizes so solo diners and large groups can both find options that work.
The bar program here deserves special mention because frozen drinks and seafood boils pair better than you might think. Live music on weekends creates a party atmosphere that younger crowds especially enjoy.
The outdoor patio stays busy during summer months when everyone wants to eat outside near the beach.
4. The Wyld Dock Bar
Nothing beats eating seafood while watching dolphins play in the water behind your table. You’ll discover this waterside treasure at 1 Old US Highway 80, Tybee Island, GA 31328, where the marsh meets the ocean.
The dock extends right over the water, making you feel like you’re dining on a boat.
Their boils focus on simplicity and freshness rather than complicated preparations. Sweet Georgia shrimp star in every order, joined by andouille sausage that adds a smoky depth.
The corn comes perfectly cooked, not mushy or underdone. Potatoes soak up all the flavorful broth at the bottom of your bowl.
Sunset timing makes all the difference here because the views become absolutely magical as the sky turns orange and pink. I recommend arriving early to snag a table on the dock itself.
The relaxed island vibe means flip-flops and tank tops fit right in. Cold beer flows freely, and the breeze off the water keeps you comfortable even on hot days.
5. Love’s Seafood & Steaks
Sometimes you want seafood boils but your dining companions crave something different entirely. Located at 6817 US Highway 80 East, Savannah, GA 31410, this restaurant solves that problem perfectly.
The menu variety means everyone in your group leaves happy, whether they want boiled shrimp or a ribeye steak.
Their seafood boils maintain traditional Lowcountry flavors with butter, garlic, and just enough heat to make things interesting. I like how they give you crackers and picks for the crab legs instead of expecting you to wrestle with shells using only your hands.
The portions could easily feed two people if you order appetizers to share.
The dining room has a slightly more upscale feel than typical boil joints without being fancy or stuffy. Tablecloths and actual napkins appear instead of butcher paper and paper towels.
This makes Love’s a good choice for occasions when you want seafood boils but also want to feel somewhat civilized while eating them.
6. Sea Wolf Tybee
Creative takes on coastal classics define this newer addition to the Tybee Island dining scene. You’ll find them at 19 Tybrisa Street, Tybee Island, GA 31328, right in the heart of the action.
The chefs here aren’t afraid to experiment with flavors while respecting seafood traditions that locals hold dear.
Their boils incorporate unexpected ingredients like chorizo instead of standard andouille sausage, giving everything a Spanish-inspired kick. I’m impressed by how they balance innovation with familiarity.
The shrimp still tastes like Georgia shrimp should, but the surrounding flavors take you somewhere new and exciting.
The restaurant space feels modern and beachy without relying on tired nautical decorations. Large windows let in plenty of natural light during lunch service.
The craft beer selection pairs wonderfully with spicy seafood, offering local brews alongside national favorites. Service moves quickly even during peak summer rushes, so you won’t wait forever for your food despite the crowds that flock here.
7. Rocky’s New York Deli & Seafood
This unexpected combination of Northern deli and Southern seafood somehow works beautifully. Find this unique spot at 2107 Skidaway Road, Savannah, GA 31404, where pastrami sandwiches share menu space with Low country boils.
The owners bring New York attitude to Georgia hospitality, creating something completely their own.
Their seafood boils lean heavily into garlic and butter rather than super spicy seasonings. I appreciate this approach because you can actually taste the sweetness of the shrimp and crab.
The potatoes get crispy edges from spending time in the seasoned water. Fresh lemon wedges come on the side for squeezing over everything.
The deli side of the menu means you can start with a proper pickle or coleslaw before your boil arrives. Portion sizes reflect New York generosity, so come hungry or plan to take leftovers home.
The casual counter-service setup keeps prices lower than full-service restaurants. Locals know this place as a hidden gem that tourists often overlook in favor of flashier options.
8. Chive Sea Bar & Lounge
Sophistication meets coastal cuisine at this downtown establishment that elevates seafood boils beyond picnic food status. Located at 12 West Oglethorpe Lane, Savannah, GA 31401, this restaurant sits in the historic district where cobblestone streets and Spanish moss set the scene.
The atmosphere here skews more date night than family gathering.
Their boils feature premium ingredients like king crab legs and jumbo shrimp that dwarf the standard sizes most places serve. I notice they plate everything more artfully than typical boil presentations.
The seasoning blend includes herbs like thyme and tarragon alongside traditional Old Bay, creating layers of flavor that develop as you eat.
The bar program takes cocktails seriously, offering creative drinks that complement seafood beautifully. Try their cucumber gin fizz or spicy margarita with your meal.
The indoor dining room stays comfortably cool during summer heat waves. Reservations become necessary on weekends because word has spread about how special this place truly is.
9. Erica Davis Lowcountry
Authentic Lowcountry cooking comes straight from the heart at this restaurant named after its passionate owner and chef. You’ll find it at 208 Johnny Mercer Boulevard, Savannah, GA 31410, where generations of coastal recipes get the respect they deserve.
Erica herself often greets guests, sharing stories about the dishes her grandmother taught her to make.
The seafood boils here follow time-tested methods passed down through families who’ve lived on the Georgia coast forever. I taste the difference that comes from using recipes with real history behind them.
The seasoning isn’t overpowering because the focus stays on letting quality ingredients speak for themselves. Fresh shrimp, local crab, and sweet Vidalia onions create simple perfection.
Soul food sides like collard greens and mac and cheese complement the boils wonderfully if you want to expand your meal. The warm hospitality makes first-time visitors feel like regulars immediately.
This restaurant represents what Savannah cooking is truly about—honest food made with love and served with genuine Southern kindness.
10. Fiddler’s Crab House
Crabs take center stage at this aptly named establishment where crustaceans rule the menu. Located at 131 West River Street, Savannah, GA 31401, this spot overlooks the Savannah River where massive cargo ships pass by during your meal.
The historic waterfront location adds character that newer restaurants simply cannot replicate.
Their boils emphasize blue crabs caught in nearby waters, arriving at your table still steaming hot. I love how they give you wooden mallets and show newcomers the proper technique for cracking shells efficiently.
The meat inside tastes sweet and delicate, worth every bit of effort required to extract it. Shrimp and sausage round out the offering without stealing the spotlight from the star ingredient.
Tourist crowds fill this place during peak season because of the prime River Street location. Try visiting during weekday afternoons for a more relaxed experience.
The second-floor patio provides excellent people-watching opportunities as you work through your pile of shells. Cold drinks and river breezes make even the hottest summer days bearable here.
11. Salt Creek Grille Valencia
Marsh views and fresh catches define this waterside restaurant that feels miles away from city stress. Find them at 101 Ockstead Drive, Savannah, GA 31410, tucked along a tidal creek where herons hunt for fish.
The natural setting reminds you why coastal Georgia is so special.
Their seafood boils showcase whatever came off the boats that morning, meaning the menu changes based on what’s freshest and most abundant. I respect restaurants that work with nature’s rhythms rather than against them.
The seasonings stay traditional with plenty of butter and lemon to enhance rather than mask the seafood’s natural flavors. Corn on the cob comes from local farms during summer months.
The outdoor deck extends over the creek, giving you front-row seats to stunning sunsets that paint the marsh grass golden. Bring bug spray during early evening hours when mosquitoes emerge.
The laid-back island time atmosphere means service moves at a relaxed pace, perfect for long summer dinners with nowhere else to be. This place captures the essence of coastal living beautifully.
12. Bubba Gumbo’s
Louisiana flavors meet Georgia hospitality at this Cajun-inspired restaurant that knows how to throw a proper seafood party. You’ll spot them at 3 Old US Highway 80, Tybee Island, GA 31328, where the party starts early and runs late.
The name might sound familiar, but this locally owned spot has its own unique personality.
Their boils incorporate crawfish alongside shrimp and crab, giving you a taste of bayou country without leaving the Georgia coast. I’m impressed by how they maintain authentic Cajun spice levels that make your forehead sweat just a little.
The andouille sausage adds smoky richness that ties everything together. Red potatoes soak up all that flavorful broth like little flavor sponges.
Live music fills the air on weekend nights when local bands play everything from reggae to rock. The bar stays busy serving frozen drinks and cold beer to crowds that come for the food and stay for the atmosphere.
Families fit right in during earlier hours before the party crowd takes over after dark.
13. The Current Kitchen & Bar
Modern Southern cuisine gets a creative update at this stylish restaurant that reimagines coastal classics. Located at 309 West Congress Street, Savannah, GA 31401, this downtown spot attracts food lovers who appreciate innovation alongside tradition.
The interior design feels contemporary and Instagram-worthy without trying too hard.
Their seafood boils arrive deconstructed and beautifully arranged rather than dumped onto butcher paper. I find this approach makes the meal feel special while maintaining all the flavors you expect.
The shrimp get butterflied and seasoned individually before joining perfectly roasted potatoes and charred corn. Everything looks almost too pretty to eat, but you’ll dig in quickly once the aromas hit you.
The cocktail menu deserves your attention because the bartenders create drinks that pair specifically with seafood flavors. Try their jalapeño cucumber mojito or blood orange margarita.
The knowledgeable staff can guide you through menu options if you’re feeling overwhelmed by choices. Prices reflect the upscale presentation and prime downtown location, making this a splurge-worthy destination for special occasions.
14. Randall’s Seafood
No-nonsense seafood served by people who’ve been doing this forever—that’s what you get here. Find them at 2830 Ogeechee Road, Savannah, GA 31405, away from tourist areas where locals go for honest food at fair prices.
The building doesn’t look fancy from outside, but what comes out of the kitchen speaks volumes.
Their boils focus on huge portions and straightforward seasoning that lets the seafood quality shine through. I appreciate places that don’t feel the need to reinvent the wheel.
Fresh shrimp, snow crab legs, corn, and potatoes arrive piled high and steaming hot. The spice level stays moderate by default, but you can request extra heat if you like things fiery.
The atmosphere feels more like a fish market with tables than a formal restaurant, which I find charming and authentic. Prices remain shockingly reasonable compared to waterfront tourist traps.
Locals pack this place on Friday nights, so plan accordingly or be prepared to wait. The staff treats everyone like family, even if it’s your first visit.
15. Chart House Savannah
Historic elegance combines with waterfront dining at this restaurant housed in a building dating back to 1800. You’ll find it at 202 West Bay Street, Savannah, GA 31401, right along the Savannah River where history and hospitality meet.
The exposed brick walls and original wooden beams remind you that countless meals have been served here across centuries.
Their seafood boils offer an upscale take on the coastal tradition with premium ingredients and refined presentations. I notice they use only the largest shrimp and most impressive crab legs available.
The seasoning blend includes subtle touches like white wine and fresh herbs that elevate everything. Servers bring wet towels for cleaning your hands between courses, a thoughtful touch that shows attention to detail.
The multi-level dining rooms provide river views from almost every table, with the upper floors offering the best vantage points. Sunset reservations book up weeks in advance during summer months.
The overall experience feels more special-occasion than casual weeknight dinner, making this perfect for celebrations or impressing out-of-town guests with Savannah’s finest.
16. The Juicy Crab Savannah
Get ready to get messy at this hands-on seafood experience where bibs are mandatory and inhibitions disappear. Located at 11139 Abercorn Street, Savannah, GA 31419, this chain location maintains the fun energy that made the concept popular.
Plastic bags filled with steaming seafood arrive at your table, and you simply tear them open and start feasting.
Their boils come in different flavors ranging from mild garlic butter to tongue-scorching Juicy Special sauce. I recommend starting with medium spice and working your way up if you can handle more heat.
The variety of seafood options lets you customize your order with shrimp, crab legs, crawfish, mussels, or clams. Everything gets tossed together in your chosen sauce and spice level.
The casual atmosphere encourages loud conversations and laughter as everyone digs into their meals together. Kids love the interactive nature of cracking shells and getting their hands dirty.
Prices stay reasonable despite generous portions that easily satisfy big appetites. The restaurant provides plenty of napkins and hand-washing stations because you’ll definitely need them by meal’s end.
