The Best Foodie Road Trip Through the Southeast
The southeastern United States is a haven for foodies, blending rich culinary traditions, bold flavors, and a warm, welcoming culture. From melt-in-your-mouth barbecue to fresh coastal seafood, this region is packed with unforgettable dining experiences. Pack your bags – and your stretchy pants, set your GPS, and prepare your palate for a road trip that celebrates the best of the South’s iconic eats.
I’m a GRIT myself (Girl raised in the South), I may be partial but I think the South has some of the best chefs in the world. They do an amazing job of fusing classic Southern favorites with seasonal ingredients and elevating every dish. While menus change seasonally, here are the spots where you can’t go wrong with some exceptional Southern cuisine. I’m sharing some of my favorite menu selections on this epic culinary road trip.
Start: Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is the perfect starting point for your journey, offering a deep dive into the flavors of Lowcountry cuisine like fresh seafood and classic comforting Southern dishes. Start your epic culinary road trip with lunch at 167 Raw Oyster Bar, a New England style Oyster Bar in the heart of historic downtown Charleston. Hopefully, you’ve got some friends along on the journey so you can try a little bit of everything including fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and an unforgettable tuna burger.
Stroll around downtown and get ready for your next feast, dinner at Husk, where chef-driven Southern cuisine meets historic charm. Don’t miss the Storey Farms deviled eggs with bacon jam and jalapeno and for your main course, enjoy a twist on the traditional shrimp and grits with blackened diver scallops over cheddar grits.
Don’t miss dinner at FIG, where seasonal ingredients shine in dishes like shrimp escabeche with (my favorite Southern veggie) butterbeans or the ricotta gnocchi. The sticky sorghum pudding is a must for dessert!
Where to stay in Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina, is home to some of the most charming and luxurious hotels, blending historic charm with modern elegance.
The Spectator Hotel, located in the heart of the historic district, offers a refined 1920s-inspired ambiance with personalized butler service, lavishly decorated rooms, and a sophisticated cocktail bar reminiscent of a Prohibition-era speakeasy. Each room features plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and locally curated minibars, ensuring a lavish stay just steps from Charleston’s best dining and shopping.
Another exceptional choice is The Dewberry, a mid-century modern masterpiece housed in a restored federal building overlooking Marion Square. This five-star hotel exudes Southern elegance with its bespoke interiors, indulgent spa, and the stylish Citrus Club rooftop bar, offering stunning city views. Guests can enjoy handcrafted cocktails, locally sourced cuisine, and impeccable service, making The Dewberry a quintessential Charleston retreat. Whether seeking classic charm or contemporary luxury, these hotels provide an unforgettable Lowcountry experience.
Distance to your next stop: 105 miles (about 2 hours) via US-17 South.
Stop 2: Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is near and dear to my heart as that’s where my mom was raised. And I can remember visiting my grandparents there and sitting on the stoop (IYKYK) shelling peas. Savannah, with its Spanish moss-draped oaks, sets the stage for a delightful culinary adventure complete with coastal seafood, Southern comfort food, and historic charm. Arrive in time for an early brunch at The Collins Quarter in Forsyth Park and get your shrimp & grits fix here topped with andouille sausage and chipotle tomato gravy. I always find it hard to pass up a good chicken & waffles and this spot’s buffalo syrup is a hit.
Walk off that early meal because lunch calls for a visit to the famous Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, where you’ll enjoy a true Southern feast served family-style. Remember, this is a culinary marathon, not a sprint! It’s okay if you make it a late lunch because a line forms early for lunch. Think fried chicken, mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread. For dinner, make reservations at The Grey, a restored Greyhound bus station turned modern eatery, celebrated for its creative takes on regional ingredients. Have the 3-course prix fixe dinner. Trust me!
Where to stay in Savannah
Savannah is known for its Southern charm, cobblestone streets, and historic architecture, and its hotels reflect that timeless elegance.
The Perry Lane Hotel, a chic yet classic retreat in the Historic District, offers a luxurious stay with thoughtfully designed rooms featuring curated artwork, plush bedding, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Guests can enjoy a rooftop pool with panoramic city views, craft cocktails at The Peregrin rooftop bar, and exquisite dining at The Emporium Kitchen & Wine Market.
For those seeking a more intimate and historic stay, The Kehoe House is a beautifully restored 1892 mansion offering a romantic bed-and-breakfast experience. This adults-only inn exudes charm with its antique-filled rooms, personalized concierge service, and gourmet Southern breakfast served on the veranda. Located just steps from Savannah’s picturesque squares and landmarks, both hotels provide an unforgettable blend of luxury, hospitality, and authentic Southern charm.
Distance to next stop: 180 miles (about 2 hours 40 minutes) via I-95 South.
Stop 3: St. Augustine, Florida
And now we’re in my hometown! St Augustine is the oldest city in the U.S. and pairs centuries-old architecture with a burgeoning culinary scene. Begin with a Minorcan clam chowder at O’Steen’s Restaurant, an iconic spot for fried shrimp and local specialties.
For a later lunch, stop at the local’s favorite Catch 27, where the focus is on fresh, locally sourced seafood. Try their blackened fish tacos or shrimp and grits. In the evening, treat yourself to an upscale dinner at award-winning Collage Restaurant, featuring dishes like duck a l’orange and filet mignon in a charming, intimate setting.
There are really too many great restaurants to list in one post. Be sure to read my article A Local’s Recommendations on The Best of St. Augustine, Florida for all of my top picks.
Where to stay in St. Augustine
St. Augustine has no shortage of charming places to stay including a number of quaint bed and breakfasts.
The Collector Inn, set within a meticulously restored collection of 18th-century homes, offers a boutique, adults-only experience with historic charm and modern comforts. Guests can explore the lush courtyards, relax by the heated outdoor pool, or enjoy craft cocktails at The Well, the intimate on-site bar. With individually designed rooms featuring period antiques and luxurious amenities, The Collector Inn immerses visitors in St. Augustine’s past while offering contemporary indulgences.
Just a short distance away, the Casa Monica Resort & Spa is a grand, Moorish Revival-style hotel dating back to 1888. This opulent landmark boasts ornate interiors, an upscale spa, and a stunning outdoor pool. Guests can savor fine dining at Costa Brava, admire original artwork throughout the hotel, or take advantage of exclusive access to the private Serenata Beach Club. Whether seeking a historic retreat or a lavish getaway, these two iconic properties showcase St. Augustine’s unique blend of heritage and hospitality.
Distance to next stop, heading back north: 65 miles (about 1 hour 5 minutes) via I-95 North.
Stop 4: Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville is my old stomping ground before I moved to St. Augustine. The city offers a laid-back vibe with a bustling food and craft beer scene. Start your day with breakfast at the Diners, Drive-ins, & Dives featured Metro Diner, known for its hearty portions and Southern favorites like chicken and waffles.
For lunch, head to Safe Harbor Seafood Market & Restaurant in nearby Mayport, where you can enjoy fresh-off-the-boat shrimp with stunning water views. Dinner options abound, but Taverna in San Marco is my favorite. It offers modern Italian cuisine with house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a curated wine list in a stylish yet cozy atmosphere.
Where to stay in Jacksonville
One Ocean Resort & Spa is a luxurious oceanfront retreat located in Atlantic Beach, just outside Jacksonville. This upscale resort offers elegantly designed rooms with floor-to-ceiling views of the Atlantic, a full-service spa, and personalized guest services, including a dedicated docent for each room.
Marriott Jacksonville Downtown is another great choice. Overlooking the St. Johns River, this upscale hotel is perfect for business and leisure travelers alike. It offers modern, stylish rooms with stunning river or city views, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a highly-rated restaurant and bar.
Distance to next stop: 350 miles (about 5 hours) via I-10 and I-75 North.
Stop 5: Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta’s food scene is as diverse as the city itself. My daughter lives there and I can never get enough of the eclectic food with international cuisine, farm-to-table dining, and Southern comfort food. Begin your culinary tour at Home Grown GA, a casual spot famous for its “Comfy Chicken Biscuit.” For lunch, explore (my favorite) Krog Street Market, a food hall featuring everything from sushi at Makimono to dumplings at Gu’s Kitchen. Honestly, I can spend an entire day here!
Dinner at Staplehouse is a must, offering a seasonal tasting menu that showcases local ingredients with artistic flair. Don’t forget to grab dessert at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, known for creative flavors like brambleberry crisp and gooey butter cake.
Where to stay in Atlanta
If you want to avoid the Atlanta traffic, I advise staying south of Midtown. I love The Darwin, a chic boutique hotel located in Atlanta’s vibrant Old Fourth Ward neighborhood, featuring modern, minimalist design, and stylish rooms with contemporary amenities, including spacious workspaces and floor-to-ceiling windows. Guests can enjoy easy access to the Atlanta BeltLine, as well as nearby attractions like Ponce City Market and local dining hotspots.
The Clermont Ponce Market is a trendy hotel and venue in the heart of Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward, located within the historic Clermont Motor Hotel building. It has been transformed into a stylish, boutique hotel offering a mix of vintage charm and modern amenities. The hotel is known for its rooftop bar, which boasts panoramic views of the city, and its intimate atmosphere, blending unique design elements with local history
Distance to next stop: 250 miles (about 3 hours 45 minutes) via I-75 North.
Stop 6: Nashville, Tennesse
Your final stop is the vibrant city of Nashville, known for hot chicken and live music. And one of my all-time favorite Southern foodie towns. My son went to college in Nashville so I was always looking for a reason to visit. Start your day with biscuits and gravy at Biscuit Love in The Gulch. The name says it all. For lunch, experience the city’s famous hot chicken at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, where you can choose your preferred level of spice.
For dinner, visit The Catbird Seat, an intimate, chef-driven restaurant offering a multi-course tasting menu that’s as creative as it is delicious. End your night with live music and a nightcap at one of the city’s iconic honky-tonks.
Where to stay in Nashville
Located in the heart of downtown Nashville, The Hermitage Hotel is a historic, luxury property offering a blend of classic elegance and modern amenities. The hotel features stunning rooms and suites, a renowned restaurant (Capitol Grille), and a full-service spa. Guests enjoy its proximity to popular attractions like the Tennessee State Capitol, Broadway, and the Ryman Auditorium.
Situated in the vibrant Gulch neighborhood, Thompson Nashville is a trendy, upscale hotel known for its chic design and lively atmosphere. The hotel offers stylish rooms, a rooftop bar with stunning city views, and a top-notch restaurant (The 12 South) featuring contemporary American cuisine. It’s the perfect choice for those looking to experience Nashville’s nightlife, dining, and cultural scene.
Distance to next stop: 212 miles (about 3 hours) via I-40 West.
End: Memphis, Tennessee
Finish your journey in Memphis, a city steeped in musical and culinary history with barbecue and blues. Start with breakfast at Brother Juniper’s, a cozy spot famous for its open-face omelets. For lunch, dig into the city’s legendary barbecue at Central BBQ or The Rendezvous, both known for their smoky ribs and tangy sauces.
Cap off your trip with dinner at The Beauty Shop Restaurant, a quirky eatery set in a former beauty salon. The menu is eclectic, featuring dishes like watermelon and wings or pork osso buco.
Where to stay in Memphis
A Memphis landmark, The Peabody Hotel is known for its historic charm, luxury, and the famous daily parade of the ducks. Located in downtown Memphis, this grand hotel features elegant rooms, a rooftop bar, a spa, and multiple dining options, including the renowned Peabody Grill. Its proximity to Beale Street, the National Civil Rights Museum, and the Mississippi River makes it a prime location for visitors.
Located inside the iconic Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid, Big Cypress Lodge is a unique, upscale hotel offering a lodge-like experience with the amenities of a luxury resort. It features rustic-chic rooms and suites, many with stunning views of the Mississippi River. The hotel includes an indoor swamp, bowling alley, observation deck, and a variety of dining options, offering a one-of-a-kind Memphis experience.
This Southeast road trip is a feast for both the palate and the soul, offering an incredible variety of flavors, cultures, and landscapes. With each city, you’ll discover not only iconic dishes but also the stories and traditions that make Southern cuisine so special. So hit the road, and let your taste buds guide you through the heart of the South. Bon appétit!
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