HUNTINGTON -- Named for Georgia's "Hostess City of The South," Savannah's has been one of Huntington's most elegant eating establishments since it first opened its doors in 1997.
Owner Ava Bicknell was inspired to open the fine dining restaurant by the kind of classy eateries she encountered in the South.
Recently, the restaurant was once again given the prestigious "Award of Excellence" from Wine Spectator Magazine. The restaurant has taken home the award every year since 1999. The restaurant has an extensive list of domestic and imported wines ranging in prices from $20 to $275 a bottle. Savannah's sells wine from as close by as Daniel Vineyards in Raleigh County and as far away as the Kumeu River in New Zealand. A wide variety of wines are available by the glass or in smaller half-bottles.
"Wine is not always good based on the price," Bicknell said. "Wine is also subjective, which is why we have a wide variety so people can make selections based on their individual tastes and price ranges. In the bistro, we also feature what we call 'Wine Flights' in which customers can sample half-glasses of two-to-three different types of wine. We also try not to mark up our prices as much as other places, and we want to make sure the wines we serve are good."
Savanna's restaurant has a seasonal menu which changes twice a year. Courses range from chicken farfalle served for $21 to filet mignon for $44. A number of exotic items, including rack of lamb, duck and lobster, are available, along with a variety of vegetarian options. The restaurant is also known for its seafood, particularly the Maryland crab cakes.
Customers have the option of ordering full-course meals. A pastry chef that's kept on staff offers a number of desserts including crème brûlée and chocolate chipotle cake. All entrees are accompanied by a basket of bread with whipped garlic-rosemary butter.
"I wanted something unique, and I always wanted a gourmet restaurant," Bicknell said. "I wanted something with character and something with a southern influence. In 1996, I discovered a small 'for sale' sign in front of this old house. The building had been around since 1903 and at the time was owned by the hospital (River Park) down the street. We then placed an advertisement in The Herald-Dispatch looking for a chef. We found John Coyner, a graduate of the Culinary institute of America who helped us hire the staff, buy equipment and develop our menu."
Coyner eventually left Huntington after graduating from medical school. Today Matt Parkins is the head chef.
In 2003, the restaurant was expanded when Bicknell purchased the building next door, adding a less formal bistro as well as the Magnolia room for private parties and large groups. The bistro offers a full bar, the complete diner menu, as well as the "small bites" menu offering a variety of lower-priced dining options in the $10-$20 range. The bistro also offers a variety of beers, ales, mixed drinks and a selection of martinis. The signature martini, "The Savannah," is made with Marker's Mark bourbon and peach schnapps.
Savannah's, located at 1208 6th Ave., is open Tuesday through Saturday for dinner. The bistro opens at 5 p.m., while the restaurant opens at 5:30.
Dress is business casual.
Customers seeking to dine in the restaurant or the Magnolia room are encouraged to make reservations in advance. A 20 percent gratuity is added for parties of six or more. Cash and all major credit cards are accepted. They do not accept checks.
A full menu, weekend specials and a wine list can be found online at www.savannahsmenu.com. To place a reservation or for more information call 304-529-0919.
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