West Broad Bandshell — Restaurant in Savannah

Let's start with the positives: The ambiance was nice, though I will note the online photos give a slightly more upscale impression than what we experienced. The food was flavorful and overall very good, though a bit heavy on the salt. I typically enjoy well-seasoned dishes, but had I not spent the day outdoors in the heat, it might have been too much for my taste.

Now for the concerns: We had a reservation, so we were surprised by the awkward greeting upon arrival. Our names were clearly written at the hostess stand, but it felt as though our presence caught the staff off guard. The interaction was uncomfortable, and frankly, unlike anything we’ve experienced when dining out. While my wife and I are Caucasian and the majority of the patrons were Black, which in itself is not an issue for us, we couldn’t help but feel noticeably out of place. The body language and reactions—from both staff and guests—made it clear that we were unexpected.

We were told our table was being cleaned and directed to wait at the bar. Only a couple of the eight seats were taken, yet it took a considerable amount of time before a bartender greeted us. By the time she approached, our table was ready, so we never ended up ordering at the bar.

Where things became more confusing: We were seated in a back area with only three tables. Our table was essentially a chessboard side table—not suitable for dining—and quite cramped. I'm of average height (5'10") and still struggled to fit comfortably. It felt more like a kid’s table than proper restaurant seating. We waited about 15 minutes before anyone acknowledged us. Eventually, a server passed by, noticed we had not been helped, and kindly took our order. I appreciated his attentiveness and decided to order everything at once, expecting additional delays.

A bright spot in the experience: That same server turned out to be one of the best we've had in a long time—attentive, courteous, and professional. His service alone is the reason I’m giving this review four stars instead of fewer.

Final thoughts: While the food and individual service were commendable, the overall experience—from our greeting to where we were seated—left us feeling like outsiders. I’m sharing this not out of anger, but to provide insight to others who may consider visiting. Everyone deserves to feel welcome when dining out, and unfortunately, that was not the...

Such a disappointment from the beginning. First of all, the parking is absolutely ghetto. I get it that this is Savannah, but gosh is it hard to at least renovate a parking lot for your establishment or just simply find a building with a good one? Second of all, we entered the establishment and there was no music playing. What kind of restaurant doesn’t have music playing? And it doesn’t even need to be lyrical songs, instrumentals are fine. So instead of music we’re instead listening to the people that are practically screaming next to us and the sound of loud chairs scraping across the floor as well as other conversations. Third of all, I wanted the chicken and waffles only to be told that they are out of waffles. Now I’m just pissed off. Add to the fact that their menu is limited. I’ve never been to an establishment that only had items on the front page of the menu. The back is completely blank. I haven’t even gotten my food yet and I already want to leave. Today is the last day I’m spending with my parents before I go off to college, and instead of having a nice brunch like I wanted, I can’t wait to leave. We’re also sitting next to a dirty table that still hasnt been cleaned before we got here. I won’t be coming back, EVER. Shout out to Victoria, though. She’s a nice waitress. I’ll edit this review when I get the shrimp and grits and hopefully they will make up for this underwhelming experience.

Edit: The food is decent. They also cleaned up the table. I feel a little better, I think I was just a little hangry when I wrote my previous review. This establishment is trying, and the atmosphere isn’t too bad. Maybe I’ll come back in the...

West Broad Bandshell lives up to its own motto—“Where Soul Meets Seoul” —by marrying Low-Country comfort with just-the-right touch of Korean flair. From the first bite it’s clear there’s no “safe” pick here; every plate I tasted had that “tell-your-friends” kind of flavor.

Run, don’t walk, for the Salmon & Grits. Silky, stone-ground grits anchor perfectly seared salmon finished with a whisper of gochujang sweetness—Southern nostalgia and Seoul-street-food swagger in one spoonful. We also sampled the brisket-tender short ribs, kimchi-spiked Caesar, and the famous corn-bread cake, and every dish landed like a greatest-hits track on a vinyl record—warm, crackling, memorable.

Yet the food is only half the story. Owners Tanika & “the Chef” make a point of stepping out of the kitchen to chat, swap stories, and make you feel like an old friend instead of a ticket number—exactly the “passion, culture, and community” vibe their mission promises . Their energy sets the tone for a staff that’s attentive without hovering and genuinely thrilled to guide you through the menu.

Add the cozy setting on MLK, a playlist that slides effortlessly from Motown to K-Pop, and prices that won’t scare your wallet, and you have one of Savannah’s can’t-miss dining experiences. In short: everything tastes good here—hands down—especially the Salmon & Grits, and the hospitality is second to none. I’ll be back, and I’ll be bringing...