One of the first dishes I ever had here was braised lamb shank, a dish that can run the gamut from greasy and overcooked to sublime. The lamb shanks at Alligator Soul are simply sublime. Currently on the autumn menu, they’re slowly braised in extra virgin olive oil and olives, tomato, orange and rosemary. Served over orange-scented couscous with fresh basil and charred baby lettuce, this ultimate comfort dish is then garnished with spiced roasted pistachios.

Many dishes change each season; others are fixtures. Among the latter is The “Little Hilbo,” so in demand by serious beef eaters. Like its originator, Chef Hilbo, this is big and bold! Eighteen ounces of prime cold smoked and dry aged rib eye steak is rubbed with Cajun spices and blackened in a cast iron skillet. Served with duck fat roasted Fingerling potatoes, bourbon peppercorn cream and veal demi glace. For those with gargantuan appetites, there’s a 32 oz. version! And, of course, there are other great steaks of more modest proportions.

In the seafood category, Diver Scallops, the tenderest and most succulent of all scallops, frequently appear. On the new autumn menu, they’re seared in hot butter rum and served over a bed of smashed Granny Smith apples and sweet potatoes accompanied by fire roasted asparagus and golden beet relish, then garnished with toasted walnuts and candied bacon. This is a dish I could eat forever.

Shrimp and Grits, Creole spiced Georgia Wild Shrimp, sensuous and creamy, sautéed in lemon butter and served over Georgia Stone Ground Grits with Tasso Ham and cheddar cheese and garnished with scallions rates my vote for the best shrimp and grits in Savannah.

Even among the staples of the menu, sauces, seasonings, accompaniments and garnishes change seasonally, benefiting from what is freshest in the local market. Over the years, I’ve eaten most of them, from their lovely House Salad, to soups, appetizers and entrees.

Some of my favorites have been tenderloin of beef, the best veal in town, lamb, venison, chicken and wild boar. Duck breast is a big favorite, always tender and succulent.

Vegetarians find bliss here, too. There’s always a luscious-sounding entrée, plus plenty of appetizers, soups and salads for the veggie-only crowd (of which owner Maureen Craig is one).

Desserts are often seasonal too. The Crème Brulee, Banana Beignets, Bread Pudding and Chocolate Torte, all on the current menu, are old favorites. And there’s an excellent and modestly priced wine list.

Overall, the combination of superb cuisine, excellent service, lovely ambiance and value for the dollar, make Alligator Soul the finest of fine dining!

Alligator Soul
114 Barnard Street
Tel: 232-7899
Open Monday - Sunday for dinner 5:30 - 10-ish

Dinner Entrees: $19 - $32
Full Bar
Reservations recommended

Questions? Comments? Email Editor@SavannahBest.com.