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Savannah › Savannah › Chive Sea Bar and Lounge
Chive Sea Bar and LoungeAMust Try
4 W Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401
· Seafood restaurant, Bar, Bar & grill
· 4.6/5 Google (2414 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Polished seafood spot with Asian-Southern flair, excellent cocktails, and standout dishes; book ahead and expect premium pricing with occasional service or waitlist hiccups.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
Chive Sea Bar and Lounge exemplifies grade A standards through exceptional seafood quality with bold Asian-Southern flavors and warm, attentive service that creates a polished dining experience. The stylish art-deco setting with semi-private booths elevates the destination appeal in Savannah's Historic District, though occasional consistency variations in pacing and execution prevent a higher tier. Strong loyalty and repeat visits confirm this ranks among the region's finest seafood establishments.
Restaurant Summary
Set in Savannah’s Historic District, Chive feels warm and buzzing the moment you step in. Guests talk about attentive hosts, polished cocktails, and those tucked-away booths with curtains that create a semi-private glow. One diner put it simply: "The room looked gorgeous and the staff moved with ease." Do book ahead—this is a small footprint, and waits and policies can feel rigid at peak times. The kitchen leans seafood-first with Asian-Southern touches—think red curry with mussels, lemon-caper sauce on delicate fish, and sashimi alongside she-crab soup. When they are on, plates land with finesse and bold, balanced flavors; the Chilean sea bass and Ocean’s Five are frequent hits, while a few guests note occasional misses on steaks or pacing. Cocktails, including smoked Old Fashioneds, help set a stylish lounge tone. For families, the menu has plenty a kid will actually eat—fried shrimp, calamari, salmon, steamed rice, and simple sides—so the spot is surprisingly approachable despite its date-night vibe. There is no dedicated kids menu, but portions are shareable and service can accommodate basics. If you have strict vegan needs, options are limited to simple veggies and rice, so plan accordingly.
At a Glance
- Standout seafood with Asian-Southern flair (sea bass, mussels, she-crab soup)
- Polished cocktails and cozy, semi-private booths
- Waitlist and seating policies can feel inflexible at peak times
- A few reports of slow pacing and occasional overcooked items
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- asian_lowcountry_fusion
- curtained_semi_private_booths
- craft_smoked_cocktails
What People Love
- Buttery, perfectly cooked sea bass
- Rich she-crab soup that feels indulgent
- Smoked cocktails that set the mood
- Attentive servers who guide the menu
- Stylish, art-deco lounge ambiance
Points of Concern
- Seating and bar-to-table rules may prevent switching mid-meal; expect firm policies
- Service speed can lag during rush; some long waits for drinks or check
- Isolated food safety complaints across years; majority report no issues
- Review patterns are consistent with potential coordination (staff name repetition, enthusiastic language), though metadata supports overall authenticity
- For creative menus, conservative palates may prefer simpler options; sauces can be rich
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$58-88 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Seafood-focused diners should choose sea bass, scallops, or Ocean's Five for best execution.
- Gluten-free guests: ask for ceviche or sashimi; sauces on side help.
- Vegan diners: plan for sides (steamed rice, vegetables); mains are limited.
Perfect For
- Date night with cocktails and seafood
- Visitors exploring Historic District dining
- Small celebrations in semi-private booths
- Solo bar diners who enjoy craft drinks
Location Insights
Area: Historic District hub with tourists and locals; stylish storefronts, bars, and boutiques create an upscale but lively scene.
Safety: Generally safe, busy foot traffic, well-lit main corridors; typical urban awareness at night.
Nearby: Near shopping on Broughton, squares, hotels, and other dining; strong cocktail and seafood competition nearby.
Downtown SavannahDowntown Savannah offers a rich dining scene with a variety of restaurants ranging from casual eateries to upscale dining, often featuring Southern and seafood cuisine. The area is bustling with visitors and locals enjoying the historic ambiance, nightlife, and cultural attractions.
Broughton StreetBroughton Street is a popular commercial corridor in Savannah's Historic District, known for its shops, restaurants, and bars. It has a lively atmosphere with a mix of casual and upscale dining options, attracting a diverse crowd throughout the day and evening.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Tuesday10:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Wednesday10:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Thursday10:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Friday11:00–15:00, 17:00–23:00
Saturday11:00–15:00, 17:00–23:00
Sunday11:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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