2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

SAVANNAH MAGAZINE PRESENTS

BEST OF SAVANNAH

2017

INCREDIBLE • FANTASTIC • SPECTACULAR

EATS • BARS • SHOPPING • FUN

131 WINNERS IN ALL BY ALLISON STICE BULKA How it works: The Best of Savannah winners were determined by reader votes alone. Only one ballot per person was accepted; duplicate ballots and those without a verifiable name and address were automatically disqualified. Savannah magazine does not control how individuals campaigned.

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

EATS CHEF

APPETIZERS

BRUNCH

Mashama Bailey spent part of her childhood in Savannah, cut her teeth in celebrated New York City kitchens, and circled back in 2014 to open The Grey with founding partner John O. Morisano. Since then, the executive chef has elevated our city’s culinary scene with her fine-meets-comfort cooking style. Runner-up: AJ Baker, Sundae Café

Housed in a former warehouse by the river, amid heart-of-pine beams and ballast stones, the Shrimp Factory is an ideal spot to spoil your dinner with traditional Southern starters. Popular selections run the gamut from crab cakes to fried green tomatoes, and shrimp lovers can order them drenched in coconut, cocktail or buffalo sauce. Runner-up: Jazz’d Tapas Bar

CATERER

BREAKFAST

Three cheers for brekkie! Whether your beverage of choice is a cold brew, a matcha latte or a glass of bubbly, you can count on the stylish and sunny Collins Quarter to brighten up your morning. Its brunch dishes are prepared with a Down Under twist, including the avocado smash, brioche french toast and an egg, ham, cheddar and maple aioli sandwich aptly named the “G’day.” Runner-up: B. Matthew’s Eatery

Green Restaurant Associationcertified Thrive sprouted from chef Wendy Armstrong’s international travels and love for the outdoors. Her nourishing and eco-minded food, customized by season, culture and dietary preference, is sourced from more than 20 local farms. Runner-up: Susan Mason

Rise and shine with a hearty breakfast skillet, a bowl of smoked cheddar grits or a stack of pancakes mixed with granola—called crunchcakes in J. Christopher’s parlance. The Atlanta-born chain recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, yet some consider its Savannah location (a converted Historic District garage) the restaurant group’s heart and soul. Runner-up: Clary’s Café

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BUSINESS LUNCH A former service station expertly redone by Daniel Reed Hospitality, Soho South Café serves American lunch staples for a lively crowd. Network over classic offerings like a pimento cheese sandwich with tomato soup and a glass of sweet tea, or request a large table for that team-building meeting—the best ideas begin

over a basket of tater tots. Runner-up: Treylor Park

CHEAP EATS The hibachi lunch and dinner specials at Japanese fusion restaurant Ta Ca includes enough starters and sides that you practically get two meals for the price of one. Bonus points for the affordably priced rolls at the sushi bar. Runner-up: Jalapeños Mexican Grill

COFFEE HOUSE Jennifer Jenkins’ empire started here at Foxy Loxy Café: part bakery, part coffeehouse and part Tex-Mex cantina in the Thomas Square neighborhood. Locals love the café for its art shows, musical performances and events in the ivy-covered courtyard—not to mention the Perc coffee and stocked pastry case. Runner-up: Savannah Coffee Roasters

Photo by JASON B. JAMES

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BEST OF SAVANNAH

Best brunch: Collins Quarter

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BEST OF SAVANNAH

drive. Savor vegetarian dishes alongside homemade pasta and fresh-baked bread in an environment where the décor is as organic as the menu. Runner-up: Kayak Kafé

Best barbecue: Sandfly Bar-B-Q

TAKE OUT Skip the queue that goes around the block by ordering your Conquistador sandwich to go from Zunzi’s. Unique menu items include charbroiled salmon and homemade sausage, best enjoyed with specialty sauces and a tall glass of rooibos, South African-style sweet tea. Runner-up: Papa’s Bar-B-Que & Seafood

BARBECUE At Sandfly Bar-B-Q’s pair of locations, Memphis-inspired and Savannah-made pulled pork, beef brisket, Brunswick stew and ribs are piled high on platters with Texas toast and all the finger-lickin’ fixins. Runner-up: BowTie Barbecue Co.

FINE DINING It makes perfect sense that Savannah’s only 18th-century mansion is home to The Olde Pink House, where twinkly ambiance and colonial architecture complement entrées of fresh-caught seafood and elegant Southern fare. Even its cellar tavern feels luxurious, especially when you're cozied up by the fireplace over a plate

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of shrimp and grits. Runner-up: The Grey

OUTDOOR DINING An order of wings, a round of draft beer and some live entertainment makes for the quintessential experience at Wild Wing Cafe, whose always-packed outdoor tables anchor a boisterous City Mar-

ket scene. On Saturday nights, you might just forgo your seat to get up and dance. Runner-up: The Wyld Dock Bar

VEGETARIAN The farm-to-table seasonal offerings at Cha Bella pledge to celebrate local produce—in fact, nearly all ingredients are sourced within a day’s

CHINESE Popular for both dine-in and delivery, Wangs II is where locals go for their Chinese-food fix. The menu is expansive enough to satisfy the pickiest eater while including all the traditional favorites: fresh vegetables and meats, as well as starters like hot and sour soup and spring rolls. Runner-up: Green Tea Chinese

Photo by JASON B. JAMES

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BEST OF SAVANNAH

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

Atlantic Runner-up: Hitch

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AST NOVEMBER, Jason Restivo set out to create a neighborhood eatery—and, by all measures, he succeeded. You’ve experienced this firsthand if you’ve put your name in for a table at Atlantic and found yourself waiting with a drink in the warm glow of the patio’s fire pit. When the weather is right, it’s the most pleasant wait in town. Atlantic is the kind of place where you’re bound to see someone familiar waving at you from across the boisterous subway-tiled dining room, built inside a former service station on the corner of Drayton and Victory. On any given night, you’ll catch Restivo himself greeting guests from table to table, checking on their dinners and recommending wines. After all, he says, he didn’t open the spot so everyone else could have all the fun. Chef Lauren Teague designed the menu with four categories—garden, breads, bowls and plates, all ideal for sharing. Dishes change based on inspiration and the seasonal produce she receives from area farms. From one visit to the next, you’ll likely find something new to enjoy. This evolution represents just what Restivo was hoping for: a day-over-day opportunity for the restaurant to keep getting better. Atlantic operates from a solid foundation, namely, Teague’s experience at 22 Square in the Andaz Hotel and Restivo’s time spent at Savannah stalwarts Garibaldi and The Olde Pink House. Restivo says he found the courage to venture out on his own in his collaboration with Teague, his business partner Ida George, and his wife, Jennifer. After years watching Jason help other restaurateurs succeed, Jennifer “pushed me toward the ledge,” he says, “and said, ‘It’s time! I believe in you!’” The leap paid off: Atlantic regularly fills its 1,800-square-foot space, and Restivo gets to fulfill his dream of coming to work every day in jeans and Converse sneakers. “This is what I want to do every night for the rest of my life,” he says. Pushing away your empty plate and buoyed by the camaraderie, you’re right there with him.

Photo by COLIN DOUGLAS GRAY

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INDIAN

THAI

Taste of India specializes in authentic Northern Indian cuisine, served buffet-style and tableside in an ornately decorated space. Dial up the spice on dishes ladled into silver serving bowls and wash it all down with a mango lassi. Runner-up: Pakwan

Ele Tran’s The King and I restaurant has a strong local following, and for good reason. Its lunch and dinner menus offer generous portions and a changing rotation of new dishes, from coconut-rich Tom Kha Gai to five mouth-watering Thai curry varieties. Runner-up: Chiriya’s

ITALIAN With starters like bruschetta and fried calamari, main courses such as baked ziti, chicken parm and mussels linguine, and cannoli and spumoni to finish, it’s pretty much guaranteed that you won’t leave Corleone’s hungry. Take a table inside or dine al fresco beneath the iconic striped awning. Runner-up: Bella’s Italian Café

MEXICAN Time-honored Tex-Mex recipes and authentic Mexican classics make up the flavorful menu at Tequila’s Town. Order your tacos, chimichangas and fajitas with a pitcher of margaritas and some guacamole, prepared tableside with your preferred ingredients. Runner-up: Jalapeños Mexican Grill

SOUTHERN FOOD With menu favorites like fried catfish, jerk chicken and meatloaf, it’s easy to fill up on the home cooking at Sweet Potatoes. Just save room for the banana pudding—topped with pecans, dusted with cinnamon, and dubbed by Man v. Food as the best on Earth. Runner-up: Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room

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VIETNAMESE The noodle bar craze landed in Savannah with Broughton Street’s Flying Monk Noodle Bar, another Ele Tran specialty. Serving up both hot and cold plates in a slurp-and-go storefront, Flying Monk is beloved for its pho, featuring noodles made fresh daily. Runner-up: Saigon Bistro

FRENCH FRIES Skin-on, thin-cut, lightly salted, crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside...the only thing that could make Green Truck Pub’s french fries even more irresistible is a dip in their tangy housemade ketchup. Runner-up: Five Guys Burgers and Fries

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BEST OF SAVANNAH

TO MARKET, TO MARKET FRESH/ORGANIC PRODUCE GROCER

Fresh food at a fair price makes it easy to eat a little healthier on a budget. That’s the ethos behind Lucky’s Market, the Boulder, Colorado-based chain that specializes in organic produce without the snobbery.

Runner-up: Whole Foods

FRESH/ORGANIC PRODUCE MARKET Set up each Saturday beneath a canopy of oak trees, the Forsyth Farmers' Market is a sight to behold, bringing Savannah the best in seasonal produce from area farms. Bonus points for custom goods like FraLi Gourmet pasta and Alake’s Pecans.

Runner-up: Davis Produce

SPECIALTY/GOURMET FOOD With gourmet groceries sourced both locally and regionally, Smith Brothers Butcher Shop sells all the accoutrements for a fine meal. The old-world butchery even doubles as a wine and cheese shop.

Runner-up: FraLi Gourmet

FRIED CHICKEN Like grandma’s house on a Sunday afternoon, Sisters of the New South serves up fried chicken with heart, using a secret family recipe passed down for generations. Runner-up: Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room

SEAFOOD MARKET A third-generation family business, Russo’s Seafood is synonymous with fresh-caught seafood in Savannah. The legendary market carries shrimp, scallops, crabmeat and assorted fish, cut to order or served for lunch in the restaurant next door.

Runner-up: Jackie’s Seafood

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BEST OF SAVANNAH

BEST WATERFRONT DINING

AJ’s Dockside

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Runner-up: Vic’s on the River

ANDY, SUN-KISSED PATRONS arrive at AJ’s Dockside on foot, by car and golf cart, on bike, kayak, boat and even the occasional seaplane. However they make their way, they’re in for a memorable treat at this unassuming harbor house, which offers crab legs, gumbo and key lime pie, as well as the best sunset view this side of paradise. Owned by Alan and Jackie Burns, AJ’s is tucked away on Chatham Avenue and 14th Street, its dock perched on the Back River on the island’s western edge. The scenery and neighborhood vibe are what Amy Gaster, founder of Tybee Vacation Rentals and treasurer of the

Photo by COLIN DOUGLAS GRAY

Tybee Island Tourism Council, likes most about AJ’s. Then again, she adds, there’s also the souvenirs: As the “world headquarters” of the Tybee Bomb Squad, which searches for the fabled nuclear weapon lost in island waters in 1958, AJ’s gift shop sells T-shirts, koozies and caps to keep the legend alive. There’s a good amount of indoor seating, but as the name suggests, here it’s all about dockside dining, even well into the fall season. There are no white tablecloths, just a come-as-you-are establishment where the rum punch hits the spot and the locals shoot the breeze— against a backdrop of nature’s spectacular show.

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HAMBURGER Green Truck Pub’s grass-fed, all-natural burgers (also available in veggie form) can be souped up with cheese, bacon, sautéed mushrooms, onions, pimento cheese and even a fried egg. Purists, though, like to keep theirs plain and simple, just the restaurant’s namesake classic pickup truck out front. Runner-up: B&D Burgers

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH Best salad: Kayak Kafé

PIZZA It’s cash only at Vinnie Van Go-Go’s, where pizzas come thin-crust and New York-style, with fresh grated Parmesan and Mozzarella melted over a rich sauce. A slice is only $3.50, and best when folded up and devoured quickly. Runner-up: Mellow Mushroom

SALAD With more than a dozen salads to choose from, eating healthfully never feels like a chore (or a bore) at Kayak Kafé. All made fresh with organic mixed greens, options range from a classic Cobb or Olympic Greek to creative favorites featuring the restaurant’s signature TexMex flavors. Runner-up: Starland Café

SANDWICH Looking for a healthy lunch that isn’t salad? Kayak Kafé still has you covered, sourcing local proteins like Georgia wild shrimp and Springer Mountain Farms chicken. Most sandwiches are available on a variety of breads, including a gluten-free option, and

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they also have a full lineup of paninis. Runner-up: Zunzi’s

SEAFOOD The big neon sign on one of the oldest commercial buildings in Georgia might be the first attraction, but it’s the fresh seafood that keeps crowds coming back. Sorry Charlie’s offers a premier selection of oysters, in addition to fish tacos, shrimp and grits, po’ boys, lowcountry boil, and local snapper and grouper. Runner-up: Tubby’s Tank House

SMOOTHIE Smoothie King whips up standard and special blends in a range of flavors to fuel

your healthy eating and fitness goals, emphasizing real fruits and juices along with enhancers from protein powders to probiotics. Our vote’s for the watermelon hibiscus, a refreshing mix of papaya, kiwi, watermelon and hibiscus juices, with a splash of coconut water. Runner-up: Beetnix Superfoods and Juice Bar

SUSHI Nigiri, sashimi and a tremendous selection of basic and specialty rolls are prepared fresh and made to order at the Ta Ca sushi bar. Try a variety as part of the Japanese fusion restaurant’s affordable lunch special. Runner-up: Sushi Zen

STEAK In a turn-of-the-century brick building in City Market, Belford’s features an awardwinning menu by chef Larry Balcarcel. Its delectable filet mignon, NY strip steak and boneless rib eyes are truly a cut above. Runner-up: Ruth’s Chris Steak House

TACOS Tequila’s Town street tacos are served three apiece or mix-and-match-style with fish, shrimp, barbacoa, carnitas, veggie or al pastor. Best washed down with a Mexican Coke. Runner up: Jalapeños Mexican Grill

Photo by IZZY HUDGINS

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2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

SWEETS BAKERY

CUSTOM CAKES

Krispy who? Mention Baker’s Pride Bakery to Savannahians and their mouths begin to water. This family business is as famous for sweet service as for its cakes, cookies, fritters and pies, each the perfect excuse to postpone your diet another day. Runner-up: Back in the Day Bakery

Wicked Cakes owner Abby Longwater elevates family recipes with sugar skills acquired during her training alongside master pastry chef Nicholas Lodge. From its downtown storefront, Wicked Cakes offers buttercream or fondant wedding-day confections, as well as sinfully delicious custom cakes. Runner-up: Baker’s Pride Bakery

CANDY SHOP The aroma of fresh pralines greets you at the door of the original River Street Sweets, along with a free sample rolled out on a giant marble slab. The nostalgically decorated candy shop’s gourmet Southern treats, like hand-stretched peanut brittle, glazed pecans and saltwater taffy, are made in store and shipped all over the world. Runner-up: Savannah Candy Kitchen

Photo by TERESA EARNEST

Best desserts: Lulu's Chocolate Bar

DESSERT Lulu’s Chocolate Bar madefrom-scratch desserts get switched up on a weekly basis, with sweet treats like tortes, tarts, mousse towers and crème brûlée as well as the date-perfect fondue for two. Menu mainstays include the chocolate-topped Strawberry Suspension cake or, if you prefer your desserts spiked, an array of syrup-laced martinis.

Runner-up: Leopold’s Ice Cream

ICE CREAM A local favorite for 98 years, Leopold’s Ice Cream celebrates the place where it all began with six homegrown flavors, like ginger, incorporating Verdant Kitchen’s singular product. Owner Stratton Leo-

pold’s favorite flavor changes frequently, but if he had to choose one? Vanilla. “You can’t hide anything in vanilla,” says the second generation owner. “One bite, and you know it’s good ice cream.” Runner-up: Ben and Jerry’s, a franchise locally owned by Chad and Meri Scribner

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S & G E N T L E EM I D E A

N

P A R T Y THE

GREATEST

CITY on EARTH

Come one, come all, to the 2017 Best of Savannah party! Celebrate with small bites, festive cocktails, fortune tellers, carnival entertainment and more!

T HURSDAY , S EPT . 14 7-9:30 p.m. • Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa

Tickets $60 in advance at bestofsavannah2017.cityspin.com Event design by Posh Petals and Pearls

A TTENDANCE IS LIMITED

Presenting Sponsor

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Platinum Sponsors All About You Entertainment • AR Chalkboard Designs • Charleston Flair Bartenders & Beverages Jeremy Davis, Clay Johnson and the Fabulous Equinox Quintet • John Davis Florist • Old Savannah Tours • Pelican’s Snoballs Posh Petals and Pearls • Psychic Solutions • Sherry’s Honey Pot Fabric & More • Speedi Sign • Stage Front Gold Sponsors The Center for Digestive & Liver Health and The Endoscopy Center • Cheeky Monkey Face Painting ENT Savannah • EventWorks Rentals • Gastroenterology Consultants of Savannah • Glow Medical Spa + Beauty Boutique Herb Creek Landscape Supply • Malcom Tully Photography • Old South Cotton {Candy} Company Rebecca Moore Photography • Sara Jane Children’s Boutique • Savannah Square Pops • Southern Motors Honda The Stardust Pixxies • StayinSavannah.com • Wax & Wane Waxing Salon Nibbles courtesy of Belford’s Savannah Seafood and Steaks • Ben & Jerry’s • Corleone’s • Flying Monk Noodle Bar • Foxy Loxy Leopold’s Ice Cream • Old South Cotton {Candy} Company • The Olde Pink House • River Street Sweets Savannah Square Pops • The Shrimp Factory • Taste of India • Tequila’s Town Mexican Restaurant • Thrive Catering Wicked Cakes • Wild Wing Café • Zunzi’s Take Out and Catering Media Sponsor Savannah Morning News

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Best Fried Chicken!

3 Locations

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(Original location)

Purchase our seasonings at Mrs. Vicky’s online store!

• 2605 Skidaway Rd, Savannah (Other locations)

• Oglethorpe Mall Savannah (in the food court) • 27 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta

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2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

BARS, BOOZE & BEER BAR The Grey proffers European wines and vintage cocktails at a horseshoe-shaped bar beneath the main restaurant’s Art Deco dome, as well as in the Diner Bar, a sleek nod to the former Greyhound station’s 24-hour lunch counter. The Diner Bar features a bar menu full of retro small bites, though we say you can’t go wrong with a dozen oysters and a glass of bubbly.   Runner-up: Jen’s and Friends

CRAFT BREWERY Savannah’s first microbrewery, Southbound Brewing Company, offers tours and tastings of its signature and seasonal brews in an industrial space on East Lath-

Photo courtesy of THE GREY

rop Avenue, along with lively events like Pints and Poses yoga. Try their Scattered Sun Belgian Wit and Hop’lin IPA year-round or order a specialty brew like Moonlight Drive Imperial Coffee Stout, made with locally roasted Perc beans. Runner-up: Service Brewing Company

NIGHTCLUB There’s no better place in Savannah to let loose and bust a move than the expansive Club 51 Degrees, which spins a mash-up of music on multiple levels: Latin on the first floor, hip-hop on the second and house, electronica and dubstep on the third. Runner-up: Club One

LIQUOR/ PACKAGE SHOP

PUB

Operating in two locations, locally owned Habersham Beverage stocks wine, liquor and craft beer favorites in wall-to-wall warehouse style, with friendly staff to lend a helping hand. Runner-up: Johnnie Ganem

Pretend you’re Irish all year round at O’Connell’s, where the pints and picklebacks are served by bartenders who will soon have you singing the praises of Irish whiskey over bourbon. Runner-up: Moon River Brewing Company

IN MEMORIAM:

Scott Waldrup general manager, The Grey

If you read about Scott online or in the newspapers, all I can say is that all of it is true. He was kind. He was thoughtful. He was generous. He was passionate. He was smart. He was curious. He was absolutely hilarious. And, in case you didn’t know it, Scott was gay. He was that rare person who was simultaneously an idealist and a cynic. He had a relentless smile that his well-coifed red beard made futile efforts to conceal. He loved Speedo Sunday.  He loved his family: his parents Terry and Dave, his sisters Jen and Stacey. And he loved his soul mate Tart with a childlike giddiness that made the rest of us take note and give our own soul mates an extra squeeze every now and then just to try and keep up with him. Scott shined in everything he did—as a friend, colleague, son, partner, brother, mentor, mentee, activist and activator. Scott was pure goodness, plain and simple. —John O. Morisano, founding partner of The Grey

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BEST NEW BAR

Alley Cat Lounge Runner-up: Artillery

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N 2013, restaurant developer Pila Sunderland led Scott Marshall down a hatch to the basement that would become the Alley Cat Lounge. “It was like a scene out of a horror movie,” Marshall says. “There was hardly any light, three or four inches of silt, and bricks on the floor no one had stepped on in more than 100 years. I fell in love.” Sunderland is a restaurant developer and, after decades of bartending, Marshall’s drinks knowledge could fill a book. But when it came to designing a menu, instead of printing a stuffy leather-bound tome for their subterranean speakeasy, they opted for something a little more playful. The result is a 32-page newspaper

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BEST OF SAVANNAH

entitled the Alley Cat Rag, which greets patrons as they descend the steps and sidle up to the bar. Drawing from Marshall’s own bottomless expertise and the talent of local writers like Jackson DuMouchel, the paper unfolds in sections devoted to each spirit; excerpts on drinking culture from authors including Carrie Fisher, Thomas Pynchon and William Faulkner; black-andwhite vintage photographs of imbibers like Ernest Hemingway and Ava Gardner; the history behind drinks from the martini to Madeira wine; dissertations on the nuances of tequila, sotol and mezcal; quotes from famous boozehounds; cartoons; word searches, and, of course, a full accounting of the extensive back bar, which features more than 500 products, including 107 cocktails and 29 tasting flights. Judging by the Alley Cat’s double-down on doormen for crowd control, it seems Savannah patrons were on the prowl for just this blend of meticulous know-how and merrymaking—and if there’s anything that encapsulates the bar’s breadth, range, quirk and character, it’s not a particular beverage, but this broadsheet. “We are making drinks as fast as we can,” Marshall says. “And we’re constantly evolving.” Should you find yourself intimidated, take Marshall’s pick, the classic Manhattan, which dates back to 1806. It’s the only drink he mixes at his own home—a quintessential barman’s favorite.

Photo by COLIN DOUGLAS GRAY

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BEST OF SAVANNAH SPORTS BAR A neighborhood hangout for more than 25 years, Coach’s Corner features big-screen TVs, a patio and a packed game schedule. Come for the crowd, stay for the World Class Warm Up appetizers, Hitting the Greens salads, Major League sandwiches and Extra Innings desserts, along with reliable burgers and wings. Runner-up: Wild Wing Café

HAPPY HOUR Six Pence Pub’s British fare, extensive craft and seasonal ales, and prime people-watching near Chippewa Square is boosted by a weekday happy hour that’s sure to leave you feeling jolly. Just look for the bright-red phone booth. Runner-up: Bar Food

BEER LIST Living up to its name, this craft beer tavern pours the world into a pint glass, with dozens of domestic and international beers by the bottle and an ever-rotating draft list. Knowledgeable World of Beer bartenders will help you navigate the perfect brew for your taste buds. Runner-up: Public Kitchen and Bar

WINE LIST Circa 1875’s well-curated and continuously updated wine list features boutique domestic and international

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2017

Always grateful for your support.

wines. Enjoying a glass in this Parisian bistro setting? À votre santé. Runner-up: Elizabeth on 37th

COCKTAILS The mixologists at Rocks on the Roof serve up sophisticated hand-crafted cocktails with a side of sweeping city views. The drinks menu is a toast to regional distilleries— the Rye Tai features Virgil Kaine Lowcountry Whiskey’s Robber Baron Rye, and the Savannah Tea includes Fruitland Augusta’s Georgia Peach Tea Vodka. Runner-up: Jen’s and Friends

MARGARITA Silver, reposado, añejo, oh my! With more than 30 tequila labels behind the bar—including agave spirits mescal and sotol—margarita lovers will find plenty to choose from at Tequila’s Town, where offerings run from house-blend lime to prickly pear and jalapeño. Runner-up: Jalapeños Mexican Grill

MARTINI For martini lovers, going to Jen’s and Friends is like being a kid in a (grown-up) candy store. This welcoming bar off Johnson Square serves up more than 100 varieties, with concoctions like Birthday Cake and Blackberry Cobbler ready to double as dessert. Runner-up: Circa 1875

WE’RE NUMBER

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“BEST BAKERY” 7

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OCTOBER 1, 2017

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BEST OF SAVANNAH

BEST BARTENDER

Sidney Lance Pacci Italian Kitchen Runner-up: Summer Ivanowski at Spanky’s (Southside)

You've been at the Kimpton Brice Hotel since 2014, so we figure you’re the person to ask: What makes a great bartender? It’s not just about making a drink—it’s making an experience that people come back for. We’re all entertainers. Nine times out of 10, people come to the bar for good conversation.

You like to make your own ingredients. What kind of concoctions do you work up? I make my own syrups, infusions, shrubs and bitters. It helps save money on flavored spirits and it’s a conversation piece. Customers will ask, “What’s that bottle with the grapefruit behind the bar?” and then you educate them. When

Photo by COLIN DOUGLAS GRAY

you get crafty, you expand your knowledge and your creativity.

What’s the best drink you’ve ever invented?

a couple of days. When I went to make the drink, and I don’t know if it was the pineapple or the mezcal, but it tasted horrible! I pulled myself out of the competition.

It started with a wildberry cognac syrup. I cooked down blueberries and raspberries with a little water, sugar and cognac. I shake tequila and Aperol over crushed ice and float it with the syrup. Because of its violet reddish color with orange on top, we call it the Bloody Sunrise. We also create cocktails for customers every day. We love to find out what they like so we can mix them up something special.

If you could only drink one thing forever, what would it be?

Ever tried a recipe that didn’t work out?

I got more than double the tab in cash for my birthday one year, but that’s nothing compared to the relationships I’ve built. When I travel, I discover I’m so rich with friends and people I know, and that means more to me.

All the time. Once, for a cocktail competition, I decided to try a mezcal-infused pineapple. I used a turkey injector and let it sit for

I’m a big bourbon guy. I’d sip on Blanton’s whiskey over Pappy Van Winkle any day.

Has anyone ever tipped you with something other than cash?

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FUN Thank you for voting for us! DATE NIGHT

LIVE MUSIC/ ENTERTAINMENT

A former private home, The Olde Pink House on Reynolds Square invites you to slow down, savor your meal and hold hands across the table. Reserve a spot in the intimate wine cellar to up the romance factor. Runner-up: Circa 1875

Every night is different at The Jinx, and that’s what locals love about it. The venue hosts bands playing country, punk, bluegrass and metal and features events like Hip-Hop Night and the Savannah Sweet Tease Burlesque Revue. Runner-up: Savannah Smiles Dueling Piano Bar

LATE NIGHT If you find yourself in City Market any time after midnight, climb the stairs to Tree House and you’re bound to discover a spirited crowd dancing to live bands and DJs until last call. Take five on the covered balconies overlooking the revelers below. Runner-up: Circa 1875

TRIVIA/GAME NIGHT Gather your friends for Sunday night trivia at Molly MacPherson’s. Whether you’re toasting your win or drowning your sorrows after defeat, the formidable selection of whiskeys will do the trick. Runner-up: Mellow Mushroom

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GIRLS NIGHT OUT

Circa 1875 Runner-up: Jen’s & Friends

S

OMETIMES ALL YOU NEED in life is your best girls, a basket of fries and a bottle or two of rosé. That’s likely one reason—or three—why Circa 1875 is a favorite GNO spot for locals and visiting bachelorette parties alike. “Unpretentious French” is the restaurant’s tagline, and owners Donald Lubowicki and Jeffrey Downey take it seriously. The bistro menu’s uncomplicated classics (roast chicken, steak-frites, onion soup) please every palate, and leave room allow for a little adventure—frog legs, anyone? The high-ceilinged dining room fills quickly, but the bar is more refined than rowdy, and groups can also dine in the wine cellar downstairs. Lubowicki says Circa’s thoughtful touches and décor—vintage advertisements, antique lighting fixtures, cozy rugs, a rose on every table—create an elegant atmosphere. The impeccable service doesn’t hurt either. The boutique wine list is another well-rounded and affordable draw. Add to that desserts like crème brulee and chocolate cake, and Circa might be the closest you’ll get to a Parisian affair— sans airfare.

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Photo by PARKER STEWART

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

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WE SAVED A PLACE

FOR YOU.

“BEST OUTDOOR DINING”

7

Relaxing, casual, waterfront dining at it’s best. Great seafood. Great drinks. 1315 Chatham Ave, Tybee Island • ajsdocksidetybee.com • (912) 786-9533

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

Best artist: Panhandle Slim

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

CULTURE ARTIST Prolific folk artist Panhandle Slim accents his big, bright portraits of acclaimed celebrities and activists with a single storytelling quote. Iconic images of Maya Angelou, Nina Simone, Jimmy Carter and others inspire guerrilla installations all across town, leaving Slim’s Technicolor mark. Runners-up: (two-way tie) Tiffani Taylor Bellamy Murphy

ART GALLERY For the past decade, contemporary gallery and artists’ cooperative Kobo Gallery has featured a beautifully curated collection, exhibiting locally made art along with one-of-akind jewelry and wares. Runner-up: A.T. Hun

MUSEUM The Telfair Academy, said to be the oldest public art museum in the South, provides

Photo by DEVIN SMITH

a spectacular walk through Savannah history. Built for the Telfair family in 1818, the neoclassical Regency mansion features 19th century furnished rooms, as well as 19th and 20th century American and European art, including paintings, decorative arts and sculptures. Runner-up: Jepson Center for the Arts

BAND Liquid Ginger has been honing their high-energy vibe and eclectic shows since 1999. The band of six, helmed by frontwoman Ginger Fawcett, mashes up musical sounds and styles for a dynamic live experience. Runner-up: Velvet Caravan

CHARITY EVENT/ FUNDRAISER Each spring, hundreds of Savannahians step up to the fight against cancer by participating in the American

Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, which honors lost loved ones, celebrates survivors and raises money for American Cancer Society research and programs. Runner-up: Ronald McDonald House’s Wine, Women and Shoes

FESTIVAL From country to folk to jazz to chamber, the Savannah Music Festival delights and unites audiences, artists and fans of all stripes in a joyous two-week celebration of music. The nearly 30-year-old event is performed in venues around the city each spring. Runner-up: Savannah Food & Wine Festival

INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE It’s easy to get lost in a book and even easier to get lost in the aisles of E. Shaver, Bookseller. The quaint bookstore on Madison Square features seven tiny rooms, each devoted to various topics ranging from

popular fiction to local and regional history. The shop also hosts authors’ events and reader meetups, and passersby can catch the occasional glimpse of an indolent cat napping in the display windows. Runner-up: The Book Lady

GROUP TO VOLUNTEER FOR Savannah is passionate about animals, and it shows. Volunteering for The Humane Society for Greater Savannah makes a difference in the lives of thousands of animals in its care. Opportunities include dog walking, becoming a foster parent, pitching in at the shelter, donating to the wish list or thrift store and, for younger philanthropists, reading aloud to pets in the Nuzzle Buddies program. Runner-up: One Love Rescue

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Best public park: Forsyth Park

PUBLIC PARK

RADIO STATION

TV STATION

Forsyth Park is the most lauded of Savannah’s public spaces, featuring 30 acres worth of prime spots for play, picnics, public performances and people-watching. The arboretum near the fountain might be the most photographed place in town, while the vast surrounding green expanses make for an ideal nap zone—with plenty of live oaks providing shade. Runner-up: Lake Mayer

Yes, people still listen to the radio in Savannah, and chances are, they’re tuning into the No. 1 hit music station 97.3 KISSFM. The local channel from iHeartRadio spins a mix of today’s top songs, and features well-known personalities like the Kidd Kraddick Morning Show. Runner-up: Q105.3 WRHQ

If there’s a parade, WTOC is there. High school football game? There, too. The CBS affiliate station is dedicated to providing local news for the locals, in addition to the requisite national news, weather, traffic and more. Runner-up: WSAV

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COLUMNIST/ BLOGGER As the conscience of the Savannah Morning News, columnist Tom Barton has kept people coming back to his editorial page for 30 years and counting. That's some serious Savannah cred. Runner-up: Bill Dawers

Photo courtesy of VISIT SAVANNAH

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH DISCOVER

SavannahWeddingsMag.com Your Destination for “I Do” With our weddings website, we bring you the best of the print magazine as well as fresh, original Real Weddings, the instant inspirations brides are buzzing about, and Savannah-only secrets too good to keep to ourselves. It’s the Hostess City’s one-stop shop for the discerning bride.

SavannahWeddingsMag.com

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AMERIS BANK

With You.

Every Stage of Your Journey

From idea to evolution, Ameris Bank is with you on your business-ownership journey. Our team of seasoned commercial bankers will help you skip the canned lending formulas and red tape with our local decision-making and one-on-one service. We look forward to building a long-lasting relationship, with you.

amerisbank.com All loans subject to credit approval.

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

BEST PLACE TO WORK

Gulfstream Runner-up: Old Savannah Tours

In 1967, the fledgling company that would become Gulfstream launched its operations in Savannah. Since then, the little-company-that-could has become an aviation giant, expanding its workforce from 100 to more than 15,000 people worldwide. To celebrate Gulfstream’s 50th anniversary in full-circle fashion, Savannah magazine chatted with Community Investment Consultant Al Wright (the company’s longest-serving employee and “the last of the original 100,” as he puts it) and Flight Capabilities Innovation Director Bethany Davis, who came on board in 2011.

Photo by STEVE BISSON, courtesy of SAVANNAH MORNING NEWS

SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2017

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How did you get your start at Gulfstream? Al Wright: I came in through the Savannah Vocational School, now called Savannah Technical College. You went to school for about six weeks and based on their review, you got a job at Gulfstream. When I came in, we built aircraft and that’s all we did. I was 17, the only one in the class who had to get a work permit. Bethany Davis: I’ve been flying business jets since I was a teenager. My father, grandfather, uncle—everyone’s a pilot. When I was flying, I realized I was interested in how things work on the technology side.

How has your career evolved with the company? Wright: Back in 1967, we were so proud to have those Gulfstream badges that when we left work, we kept them on so everyone would know we worked here. From the beginning, there have always been training programs to get you to the next level. I started on the materials side, moved on to appliances and sustainability, and am now in public affairs and community relations. Davis: My role is to design, develop and mature technology that makes tomorrow’s airplanes even better. I went through the Management Development Program, a combination of leadership skills training, book knowledge and team-building activities, which included a real-world challenge where we presented our ideas.

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Can you describe how Gulfstream fosters professional and personal development?

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

Al Wright

Davis: There’s a formal program and a lot of ongoing, informal leadership development. We also do a lot of community volunteering. As the largest private employer in the city, we’re very involved in philanthropy. Wright: To get employees involved, we ask them, “What is your passion?” and set up related charity programs so they can get out and do those things. I also get to work with a lot of young people through the Youth Apprentice Program and other student programs. I’ve been asked to walk students through my journey at Gulfstream, to let them see what opportunities await them. It’s always fun to see their faces light up.

Bethany Davis

What’s your favorite part about your job? Davis: As both a pilot and engineer, it really doesn’t get any better. We have cutting-edge technology, but we’re extremely customer-driven. We don’t do technology for technology’s sake. It has to benefit the customer. Wright: When you come to work every day and you see the products that we produce, you feel like sticking your chest out. If you see a fancy aircraft in a movie, ad or on TV, nine times out of 10, it’s a Gulfstream. Even rappers sing about Gulfstream.

Photography courtesy of GULFSTREAM

7

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2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

SHOPPING WOMEN’S CLOTHING

AFFORDABLE FASHION

The stock of stylish finds by emerging designers at Red Clover changes as frequently as their adorable window displays overlooking Bull Street. This budget-friendly boutique, owned by college pals Leah Lancaster Riffle and Thu Tran, nails the breezy bohemian vibe every time. Runner-up: Kathi Rich

When shopping in Sandfly, a stop at Livvy for cheap-chic closet staples and trend-driven wardrobe updates is a must. Quality garments in eyecatching brights and patterns are a hallmark of this boutique, owned by Savannah native Olivia Wardlaw. Runner-up: Red Clover

MEN’S CLOTHING A shop for the sharp-dressing Southern gent, J. Parker Ltd. offers preppy finds and a wide selection of well-made menswear: Think polos, seersucker suits, khakis and tailored apparel for both leisure and formal occasions. Runner-up: John B. Rourke

HANDBAGS SCAD grad Elizabeth Seeger opened Satchel, her hybrid boutique-slash-studio, in 2006. She’s now assisted by a team of “Satchelettes” who buzz away on sewing machines, custom-designing handbags in an array of luxe leathers, linings and hardware. Pieces can be bought in-store or made to order. Runner-up: Spartina 449

JEWELRY Fourth-generation family business Levy Jewelers is Savannah’s trusted choice for a little—or a lot—of sparkle and shine. Its attention-getting windows at Bull and Broughton exhibit designer brands alongside an impressive collection of fine estate jewelry. Runner-up: Harkleroad Diamonds and Fine Jewelry

SPORTS/ OUTDOOR WEAR Whether camping, kayaking, hiking or fishing, Half-Moon Outfitters is the place to prep for any outdoor adventure. The shop carries more than 100 brands, from Carhartt to Columbia Sportswear, Patagonia to Pendleton, Reef to Roxy. Runner-up: Fleet Feet Sports

VINTAGE CLOTHING/ CONSIGNMENT Enter on Broughton Street and climb the metal stairs to Civvies New & Recycled Clothing, where a treasure trove awaits. There’s a whole rack of loud Hawaiian shirts, as well as a wall of perfectly punk dresses and another of covetable vintage denim. The back counter is devoted to consignment, where customers can sell wares on the spot. Runner-up: The Future on Forsyth

BRIDAL Heather Burge makes it easy for brides to say yes to the dress at BleuBelle, her premier salon with a beautiful selection of gowns by Pronovias, Paloma Blanca, Watters, Christos and other in-demand designers.

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BEST SHOES

Globe Shoe Company Runner-up: Shoe Be Do (now Carlisle of York)

A

MY SUSSMAN remembers her first pair of shoes from Globe Shoe Company: black patent Mary Janes by Stride Rite. She grew up in the store, after all, along with her younger brother John Sussman. Today, the siblings are third-generation co-owners of the 125-year-old business, bought by their grandfather Sol Lesser in the 1930s. A second location opened in the Twelve Oaks Shopping Center in 2001. “On a daily basis, customers share stories of shopping at Globe with their grandparents and parents,” she says. “We’re proud to be a part of those memories.” Globe offers a wide selection of sizes and widths, as well as a broad lineup of contemporary brands including Sam Edelman, Frye, Sorel, Hunter, Cole Haan and Birkenstock. These days, Amy says, customers at both stores are all about “function meets fashion,” gravitating toward block heels and athleisure styles. And they don’t only respond to trends, they also set them: John points out that Globe was one of the first stores in the Southeast to start carrying the Stuart Weitzman brand— another perennial top seller. While the boutique has certainly evolved with the times over the past century, the Sussmans say Globe’s essential DNA remains the same. “Our customers will say, ‘We haven’t had anybody provide us this level of service in years,’” John notes. “We tell them that not everything in the world has to change.”

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Photo by COLIN DOUGLAS GRAY

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH Best made-in-Savannah product: Savannah Bee Company

BleuBelle also carries shoes and accessories to complete every look, along with bridesmaid and mother-ofthe-bride dresses. Runner-up: Ivory & Beau

ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES 7

“BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHING”

Clothing • Accessories • Gift items Fashion Truck • Baby/Gift registry Complimentary wrapping

202 East 37th St. | 912-234-5266 sarajanekids.com 178 SAVANNAHMAGAZINE.COM

If you can’t find it at Jere’s Antiques, it might not exist. The collector’s paradise, owned by Jere Meyers, features original and rare 18th, 19th and 20th century antiques in a 33,000-squarefoot showroom. It’s also a destination for furniture that’s crafted in-house using traditional techniques. Runner-up: Picker Joe’s

GIFT STORE Lifestyle designer Emily McCarthy stocks her cheerful "shoppe" with home and entertainment pieces in signature geometric patterns. From tea towels and barware to his-and-hers champagne glasses and ice buckets, the

boutique is a win for gifts galore—just try to walk out without buying something for yourself, too. Runner-up: Polka Dots

STATIONERY With walls lined top-tobottom with greeting cards, wrapping paper and stationery sets, La Paperie charms like a handwritten note. Stock includes letterpress printing, designer stationery collections and handmade papers with pressed botanicals. Runner-up: Emily McCarthy Shoppe

MADE-INSAVANNAH PRODUCT Founder and head beekeeper Ted Dennard’s love for honeybees blossomed into the Savannah Bee Company, whose artisanal honeys and health and beauty products are now sold in stores across the South. Runner-up: Byrd Cookie Co.

Photo by BEAU KESTER

Than� you you, Savanna� FOR VOTING US

“BEST VETERINARIAN”

TM

7 SAVANNAH MAGAZINE

(912) 352-3081 • casevet.com

FROM THE CRADLE

TO GRADUATION,

TO THE BEST OF SAVANNAH. 912-721-2114 • SAVCPS.COM

WE ARE SAVANNAH CHRISTIAN PREP. Savannah Christian Preparatory School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, nationality, or ethnic origin.

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

SERVICES AD AGENCY Boost by Design provides big-firm marketing solutions for the little guy, cultivating relationships with clients to help small businesses put their best foot forward on the Web and in print. Runner-up: RobMark

ASSISTED LIVING/ RETIREMENT COMMUNITY With fine dining, greenhouses, a business center and a golf course, Marshes of Skidaway Island welcomes seniors with a variety of interests and needs in an easy island living atmosphere. Runner-up: Buckingham South

AUDIO/VIDEO/ LIGHTING PRODUCTION Stage Front handles the audio, video and lighting so you can have all the fun. The company is a go-to for any and all events, from corporate, educational, worship and military sectors to established venues including Palmetto Bluff and The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa. Runner-up: Capital A Productions

AUTO REPAIR RPM Autoworx prioritizes customer service as much as auto repair, offering a reward program and keeping a clean, well-appointed reception

area with WiFi to ease the wait for your vehicle. Runner-up: Autobahn Service Center Inc.

NEW CARS More than 85 years ago, Julius Kaminsky opened Southern Motors Honda on Broughton Street. Over the years, the dealership added two additional locations, now operated by Julius’ grandsons. Fun fact: Southern Motors is said to be the world’s oldest active Jeep dealer. Runner-up: Grainger Honda

USED CARS With its legacy of attentive customer service and a deep inventory of Honda,

Acura and Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Southern Motors Honda also takes the top spot as the place to purchase pre-owned vehicles. Runner-up: Grainger Honda

BARBERSHOP Housed in a historic building along downtown’s Bull Street, the Barber Pole is everything a classic barbershop should be—replete with its namesake red-and-white striped barber pole out front. Stop in for a cut and a straight-razor shave, or even a shoeshine if you’re really feeling old school. Runner-up: Christy’s Barber Styling

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BEST OF SAVANNAH COMMUNITY BANK/FINANCIAL INSTITUTION Southeastern financial institution Ameris Bank takes pride in being a part of the Savannah community. Even as it’s grown from a single Georgia location in 1971 to 31 branches across Georgia, Alabama, Florida and South Carolina, the bank has stayed true to its roots by prioritizing exceptional customer service and supporting regional philanthropic initiatives. Runner-up: Bank South

BEST BIKE SHOP

Quality Bike Shop Runner-up: Perry Bike Shop

CONVENIENCE STORE Parker’s is not your average pit stop: The original convenience store on Drayton Street sells apparel, home decor and specialty food products in addition to the requisite gasoline and famed “chewy ice.” If you’re outside the Historic District, check out their 12 other locations throughout Savannah, Pooler and Richmond Hill, or 40-plus other spots throughout Georgia and South Carolina. Runner-up: Broughton Market

DRY CLEANER Think green when you dry clean. Owned and operated by David Reeves with help from his daughter and consultant, Morgan McGhie, David’s Dry Cleaners emphasizes eco-conscious practices with state-of-the-art equipment and packaging. Runner-up: Curry Dry Cleaners

EVENT RENTALS Savannah Special Events by Ranco executes creative event design with an array of rentals including fine china, dance floors, fountains, furniture and, of course, gorgeous—and spacious—tents. Runner-up: Host South

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WHETHER CRUISING the competitive circuit or taking a spin around the neighborhood, local cyclists head to Quality Bike Shop for everything from repairs to tune-ups to a new set of wheels. Here, owners Mike Maynor and Robert Weil offer a by-the-numbers look at their shop.

300

bikes in inventory

3

brands of helmets available

$275

average retail price for most popular bike, the Electra Cruiser

30+

bikes in co-owner Mike Maynor’s personal collection. “I have bikes in every size from 20- to 29-inch, and a lot of 1970s styles that I either used to have or wish I’d had as a kid.”

170

bikes on the shop floor

3,000

square foot showroom

$8,000

most expensive bike, the Cannondale FSI

30

flat tires repaired per week

2

bikes in co-owner Robert Weil’s personal collection

Thank you for your support. We here at Circa fully appreciate all the positive response we have received.

Thank you for voting us Best “Wine List” & Best “Girls Night Out” and for voting us Runner-up for best “Late-Night Spot,” “Martini,” and “Date Night!” WE HOPE TO SEE EVERYONE AT C IRCA 1875! •UNPRETENTIOUS FRENCH•

48 Whitaker Street, Savannah, Georgia 31401 reservations: 912.443.1875 • circa1875.com LaScala Ristorante • Opening Soon!

7927 ABERCORN ST. 31406 | 4618 HABERSHAM ST. 31405 SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2017

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PARTY/EVENT PLANNER

INSURANCE COMPANY

All About You Entertainment has a proven record of keeping the party going. The company provides premier DJs, photo booths, lighting and day-of coordination to make events large and small run seamlessly and beautifully. Runner-up: Tammy Ray, The Detail Department

Like a good neighbor ... well, you know the rest. State Farm is Savannah’s choice for automobile, home and property insurance needs. Runner-up: Bernard Williams

FLORIST Arrangements by John Davis never fail to wow: The beloved local florist’s services are sought for events from Savannah to Bali to Portugal, where they make memories on occasions both big and small. Runner-up: Kiwi Fleur

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LAWYER From workers’ compensation to automobile accidents, Eichholz Law Firm managing partner David Eichholz has a proven track record fighting for the rights of personal injury victims. Runner-up: Danny Falligant

PHOTOGRAPHER Christine Hall focuses on fine art portraiture, capturing

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

meaningful moments with striking realness. The SCAD grad’s studio started in a small downtown apartment in 1999 and has grown to include international publication credits and awards. Runner-up: Kelli Boyd

PUBLIC RELATIONS FIRM For 17 years, Jennifer Abshire and her team at Abshire Public Relations have provided the region with PR and business development expertise. A key goal of the firm is to turn national and local brands (corporate, hospitality, nonprofit) into household names. Runner-up: (two-way tie) Carriage Trade Public Relations Lesley Francis PR

SEAMSTRESS With nearly 50 years of experience altering bridal gowns, formalwear and leather goods, Alterations & Designs by Vera will tailor a custom fit or design a whole new look. Runner-up: Stitch

SPECIAL EVENT FACILITY Dating back to 1902, the historic Savannah Station has a vintage feel that’s perfect for weddings and large events. With 12,000 square feet of space, its eager staff can turn any dream into reality. Runner-up: Charles Morris Center

Premiere Assisted Living!

7

See why DOCTORS choose Buckingham South!

Dr. Frank Davis with his father, Frank

Dr. Robert Bosque, Jr. with his father, Bob

Dr. Murray Arkin and his wife June

Dr. John DeVaro and his mother, Joanne

Dr. Michael Chisner with his mother Sharon

Dr. Ben Hubby

The finest assisted living in Savannah! 912-355-5550 Around the clock nursing and medical care • Warm, secure, family-oriented enviornment

7

Mrs. Harkness

likes

l emon in her t ea, b l u e b e r r i e s i n h e r pa n c a k e s a n d a treat for her dog, rile y.

Every experience consists of a thousand little details. We pay attention to every one of them to ensure each experience reaches its utmost potential. Come see how our retirement community makes every moment the best it can be.

1-866-905-4446 www.marshesofskidaway.org

Thank you for voting us

“Best Summer Camp�

Open daily: 10am-4pm (Except certain holidays)

For directions and more information call

912.395.1212

oatlandisland.org 188 SAVANNAHMAGAZINE.COM

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2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

BEAUTY & WELLNESS DAY SPA

HAIR REMOVAL

Treatments at Spa Bleu are fit for a royal: chocolate-rose body wraps, Florida orange facials and Savannah Bee Company honey-salve manicures and pedicures. The salon also offers cleverly designed packages for couples, mothers and little ones, and, perhaps best of all, for luxuriating by yourself. Runner-up: Savannah Day Spa

The simple booking process and comforting, knowledgeable staff at Wax and Wane might have you actually looking forward to a hair removal appointment. A wide range of self-care products sweeten the deal, and its new expanded space upstairs makes it that much easier for last-minute bookings. Runner-up: Southern Sugaring

MEDICAL SPA

HAIR SALON

Science and beauty combine for luminous results at Glow Medical Spa. After a complimentary consultation, select from the range of services, including eyelash extensions, chemical peels, laser hair removal, fillers and facials. Runner-up: Genesis Medical Spa

The savvy stylists at B Street Salon on Broughton know your hair is the only thing you wear every day, and they strive to make it your crowning glory with superior cut, color and hairdressing services. Runner-up: Roots Southern

MANICURES/ PEDICURES

PERSONAL TRAINER

With more than 200 polish colors by OPI, Shellac and Essie, luxury nail spa Crystal Nails turns a mani-pedi into an experience that lasts long after your appointment. Runner-up: La Bella

Self-improvement is painless thanks to Drew Edmonds, who leads private and group personal training for all fitness levels and tailors routines to individual goals in Train Me 24/7’s 4,000-square-foot studio. Runner-up: Mark Lebos at Strong Gym

GYM Working out at the YMCA of Coastal Georgia strengthens your body and the community. All ages and backgrounds are welcome to pursue healthier lifestyles at fully equipped gyms in three locations across Savannah, and one in Pooler. Runner-up: Planet Fitness

MASSAGE THERAPIST Hope Lyon’s hands-on service at Ahh, There’s Hope kneads away tension and stress, alleviates chronic pain and eases the post-surgery healing process to leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed. Runner-up: Dawn Tanis, Sunrise Healing Arts

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BEST YOGA/PILATES STUDIO

Dancing Dogs Yoga Runner-up: Savannah Power Yoga

AS FOUNDER of Dancing Dogs Yoga, Shelley Lowther likes to say she’s the vibe behind the tribe. She teaches the practice of Baptiste Power Vinyasa Yoga in her breezy Broughton Street studio, with additional locations in Bluffton, South Carolina and Greensboro, North Carolina, and a fifth one in Atlanta. Lowther also operates Beetnix Superfoods and Juice Bar below the studio, where raw, vegan, gluten-free and organic products are just as transformational as the classes upstairs.

40

classes per week

11

cold-pressed juices at Beetnix

15

teachers

200 hours of teacher training

90

minutes of longest class (Journey into Power)

Photo by JON WAITS

95

degrees, average studio temperature

5

Pillars of Baptiste yoga, including drishti (focus), ujjayi (breath), bandhas (core, hands and feet), vinyasa (flow) and tapas (heat)

30

Energy Exchange yogis (volunteers who receive discounted yoga in exchange for their time)

53

poses in the Journey into Power sequence

3

warrior bowls at Beetnix

6

assistants

300

hours of master teacher training

50

minutes of shortest class (Yoga for Busy People)

SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2017

191

WE ARE ON A ROLL!

Thank you readers OF SAVANNAH MAGAZINE FOR VOTING

Mary Kay Ross, MD, FACEP Best Functional Medical Specialist Best Hormone Replacement—Runner UP

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The Institute for Personalized Medicine is Savannah’s premiere location devoted to Functional Medicine. By identifying the underlying cause of chronic disease, true healing can be achieved. Functional Medicine

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Bio-identical Hormone Replacement

Physician guided weight loss

●

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Reversing Cognitive Decline

IV nutrition therapy

413 W. Montgomery Cross Road, Unit 102 Savannah, GA 31406 InstituteForPersonalizedMedicine.com 912.352.1234 ●

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2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

KIDS CLOTHES Born and raised in Savannah, Sara Jane Stroupe knows her way around classic Southern style for kids. She stocks her Sara Jane boutique shop with all things smocked, checked and embroidered, and makes the shopping experience more kid-friendly with a dress-up box and a pint-sized tent for playing. Runner-up: Punch and Judy

DAYCARE/ CHILDCARE Since 1982, Maggie’s Morning School has been a favorite place for children aged 18 months through four years old

to learn, play and grow. The private, nonprofit preschool is a Quality Rated center by Georgia’s Bright from the Start Early Care and Learning department. Runner-up: Savannah Christian Preparatory School

PRIVATE SCHOOL With a lower, middle and upper school, Savannah Christian Prep equips students to achieve their full potential with challenging coursework and diverse extra-curricular offerings in a college preparatory environment. Runner-up: St. Andrew’s School

PUBLIC SCHOOL Performing and visual arts-focused Savannah Arts Academy encourages students to develop both creatively and academically. The award-winning, audition-based school offers majors programs in communication arts, dance, music (band, orchestra, piano and vocal), theater and visual arts. Runner-up: Islands High School

SUMMER CAMP Weeklong day camps at Oatland Island Wildlife Center empower kids (kindergart-

eners through rising eighth graders) to explore nature and science with hands-on activities, creative crafts and wildlife observation. Runner-up: YMCA of Coastal Georgia

KID-FRIENDLY DINING Basil’s not only features simple fare like fresh-made pizza and pasta, the Wilmington Island restaurant also provides a movie room where youngsters are entertained while their parents savor a meal in (relative) peace. Runner-up: Tubby’s Tank House

SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2017

193

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

PETS (912) 234-9100

18 East Oglethorpe Avenue Historic Downtown Savannah

Savannahdayspa.com Open 7 Days a Week

PET GROOMER

PET SUPPLIES

Your pup will feel like the leader of the pack after a visit to Top Dog, where grooming services include bathing, nail trimming, teeth brushing, de-shedding treatments and full spa packages. Runner-up: Carol’s Pampered Pets

All-natural, nutrient-rich food free of byproducts and preservatives is a hallmark at TailsSpin, where commitment runs deep, extending to health supplements, flea and tick treatments, and grooming products, as well as gourmet treats, toys and accessories. Opened in 2007 by owners Jusak Bernhard and Jeffrey Manley, the store also supports pet rescue campaigns and hosts vaccine clinics. Runner-up: Woof Gang Bakery

PET SITTER

Facials • Massages • Body Treatments Nail Care • Waxing • Teeth Whitening Makeup Application • Aroma Touch Therapy Cryoclear Therapy • Gift Cards • Corporate Retreats Off-Site Services • Hydra Facials

Your Downtown Oasis • Savannah Day Spa

194 SAVANNAHMAGAZINE.COM

Carol’s Pampered Pets is determined to set pet owners’ minds at ease with doggie daycare and boarding that takes into account your animal’s preferences and personality. Runner-up: Blissful Buddha

2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH BEST VETERINARIAN

Case Veterinary Hospital Runner-up: Savannah Veterinary Medical Center AS THE FOURTH-GENERATION OWNER of her family’s veterinary hospital, Dr. Carla Case-McCorvey goes to work each day surrounded by history: diplomas, her great-grandfather’s anatomy books, and even her own memories of playing in the halls as a child. Though Case Veterinary Hospital is now 110 years old, no two days are the same there—and that’s just how Dr. Case-McCorvey likes it. Here, she shares a day of her life. 7:30 A.M.: “Our first responsibility is taking care of pets that are here from the day or night before. We may have patients who had surgery or are hospitalized because they’re sick.” 8:30 A.M.: All doctors on the floor. Along with Case-McCorvey, there are five other veterinarians, who decide on treatment for the animals. “Some are routine surgeries, like a spay/neuter, while others may need additional blood results, X-rays, and continued monitoring, so we’ll call the owner and make a plan for the day.” 9 A.M.: Appointments begin. “We’ll see a patient every 30 minutes, with each doctor’s schedule staggered so everyone isn’t gone at the same time. This is interspersed with surgeries and urgent patients who need to be seen right away.” 1-2 P.M.: Lunch. “We very rarely go out. The break is usually used for catch-up time: reviewing lab work to decide how to treat a case, or calling a client who has questions you need a little more time to go over. 2-6 P.M.: More appointments and surgeries. “Some clients have been coming here for years because they knew my dad or grandfather. My mother used to work here too, from when I was a little girl until I went to college. Clients tell me a lot of stories about my family that I would never know otherwise.” 8 P.M.: Closed for the day. “There’s no buzzer that rings and everyone walks out the door. We stay until every pet is taken care of and every client is called.” Then she goes home to her husband, two children, two dogs and three cats.

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Thank You Savannah for voting us BEST Salad & BEST Sandwich! Runner Up: BEST Vegetarian

DOWNTOWN 1 E. BROUGHTON STREET 912.233.6044

MIDTOWN 5002 PAULSEN STREET 912.349.4371

SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2017

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2017

BEST OF SAVANNAH

TOURISM TOUR COMPANY

Best hotel: Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa

All aboard! Discover Savannah in a day with a ride on the iconic white trolleys of Old Savannah Tours, whose drivers serve as your insider guide to the haunts and history of the city. The company offers eight different tours, along with guest appearances by costumed characters like pirates, colonials, Forrest Gump and Jim Williams. Runner-up: Old Town Trolley Tours

BOUTIQUE HOTEL

HOTEL

INN/B&B

(LESS THAN 100 ROOMS)

All the luxuries of a resort plus easy accessibility to the city’s attractions make the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa a haven close to home. Enjoy the PGA Championship golf course or relax in the spa and pool with views of the Savannah River and skyline. Runner-up: Hotel Indigo

A circa 1853 historic private home less than a block from Forsyth Park? Yes, the Savannah Bed & Breakfast Inn is the perfect starting point for sightseeing or a staycation. Spacious rooms are elevated by antiques and charming courtyard gardens, and the bedtime milk and cookies make for a gracious touch. Runner-up: Ballastone Inn

Set on a picturesque corner of River Street, the Bohemian Hotel blends historic allure with contemporary style. Driftwood, brass, leather and original works of art echo the maritime setting, while modern amenities provide luxurious comfort. Its rooftop lounge, Rocks on the Roof, might have one of the best views in Savannah. Runner-up: Cotton Sail Hotel

196 SAVANNAHMAGAZINE.COM

TOUR GUIDE Take a leisurely stroll through picturesque squares with the ideal companion: dapper Savannah Dan, a self-styled Southern gentleman with a wealth of knowledge and plenty of stories delivered in a charming drawl. Runner-up: Jonathan Stalcup, Architectural Tours of Savannah LLC

THANK YOU SAVANNAH FOR VOTING US THE BEST!

Occupational Therapist

Winner: Katie Fletcher, OTR/L Runner Up: Kimberly Zellner, OTR/L

Speech Language Pathologists Winner: Caitlin Layfield, M.S., CCC-SLP Runner Up: Kelsey Knight, M.S., CCC-SLP

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Thank you for voting

KEITH A. KIRBY, MD Best of Savannah Pain Management

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Savannah Pain Management 8 Wheeler Street

912.352.4340 savannahpainmanagement.com

Michael Grabowski, PA-C, Libby Reinhart, FNP-BC

A Better Quality of Life Starts with the Best.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR BEST OF SAVANNAH WINNERS! Family Medicine

Radiologist

General Surgeon

Nephrologist

Kristen Updegraff (winner) Jeffrey Mandel (winner)

Infectious Disease

Nenad Avramovski (winner)

Neurologist

Victor Rosenfeld (winner)

PhysicalTherapist

Lisa Bettio (winner)

Nathan Fergus (winner) Nizar Eskandar (winner) Garrett White (runner up)

Cardiologist

Sidney J. Bolch (runner up)

Foot Specialist

Craig Skalla (runner up)

Internal Medicine

Robert Grant (runner up)

SouthCoastHealth.com