Lee L.
Yelp
First night in Savanah we chose Cotten & Rye because it was the closest restaurant on our chow downs list to our Airbnb. And admittedly, I'm a sucker for any sort of James Beard accolade, which this place has for its chicken wings.
We were able to make a last minute reservation, and from the looks of it it seemed like it was the last available seating available in the entire restaurant when we arrived. This converted bank building space was jammin to the max for a weeknight.
Great hostess reception, as we were warmly greeted and seated promptly and that just set the tone for the service we would receive throughout our stay. Our server was excellent, on top of everything and full of earnest recommendations, unlike me at this point, unfortunately I cannot remember his name, but he was awesome from start to finish.
Started with their riff on a Mai Tai, Old Fashioned and a local beer. Both cocktails were outstanding and a solid 10; it's always impressive when a restaurant has a strong cocktail program in place, it sets the tone for high expectations when moving to the food portion of a dining experience, so it can be a hard act to follow. As an aside, they have a solid wine list, next time...
Now for the edibles. SHRIMP & GRITS, CHEESEBURGER, SPICED SWEET POTATOES, MAC & CHEESE, BUTTERMILK RYE CORNBREAD, BRUSSEL SPROUTS. All had amazing texture and flavor profiles, not one of these items missed a beat, all solid 10's, except for one, the AWARD WINNING (FOR REAL) CRISPY CHICKEN WINGS, this otherworldly dish is off the numbers scale. I'm not even a big chicken wings aficionado, but these wings, adorned with spicy honey, sumac, chipotle morita (and maybe crack!?!) are a once in a lifetime must have, we ordered another. Too full for dessert, next time.
We started to worry that all the other restaurants on our list for our trip would not hit the same high note; and they didn't. We even went back late one evening after dinner at another place for some cocktails and sides (did I mention the Chicken Wings?) at the bar. Again, service, cocktail and food, stellar!
If you ever find yourself in Savannah, this is a MUST GO TO, even if you don't find yourself in Savannah, make it a point to go to Savannah to eat here.