Savannah is weird. I mean that in the best way possible, obviously. You’ve got the moss-draped squares of the Historic District where everyone walks around with a plastic cup, and then you’ve got the Starland District. It’s gritty. It’s creative. It’s where the locals actually hang out. Right in the thick of that vibe sits 1917 wine bar & bistro, and honestly, it’s doing something most wine bars fail at: being approachable without being boring.
Most people think of wine bars and immediately picture stiff white tablecloths or someone named Jasper trying to explain "terroir" for twenty minutes. This place isn't that. It feels like a neighborhood living room that happens to have a world-class cellar and a kitchen that knows exactly what to do with a piece of local fish.
The weird history behind the name and the building
You might think 1917 refers to a specific vintage or maybe a war movie, but it’s actually about the bones of the building itself. The structure was originally built in 1917. It has survived a century of Savannah’s humidity, hurricanes, and the general chaos of urban evolution. When you walk in, you can see that history in the exposed brick and the high ceilings. It’s got that "industrial-chic" thing going on, but it doesn't feel manufactured or like a Pinterest board come to life.
It feels lived-in.
Located on Bull Street, it sits at a crossroads of the city's identity. You’re far enough away from the tour trolleys to breathe, but close enough to the SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) energy to feel the buzz. The owners took a gamble on this specific spot in the Starland District, and it paid off because the neighborhood was starving for a place that served "real" food without the pretense of fine dining.
Why the wine list actually makes sense
Let's talk about the wine.
Usually, when a place calls itself a "wine bar," they have three categories: "Cheap," "I’m trying to impress a date," and "I just got a promotion." The 1917 wine bar & bistro takes a different approach. They focus heavily on small-production vineyards. You’re going to find labels here that aren't sitting on the shelf at your local grocery store. They lean into Old World classics—think crisp Sancerre or a punchy Tuscan red—but they aren't afraid of the funky stuff coming out of Oregon or California.
The staff knows their stuff. Ask them for a recommendation. They won't judge you if you say, "I want something that tastes like a forest floor," or "Give me something that feels like sitting on a porch in July." That's the mark of a good spot. No gatekeeping. Just good grapes.
The bistro side: More than just cheese boards
Don't get me wrong, I love a good charcuterie board as much as the next person. But a bistro needs to cook. And 1917 cooks.
The menu is a rotating door of seasonality. Because they are in the Lowcountry, they’d be crazy not to use the local seafood, so you’ll often find shrimp or snapper that was swimming in the Atlantic twenty-four hours ago. Their approach to Southern food is subtle. It’s not all deep-fried and covered in gravy. Instead, you get things like perfectly seared scallops with a corn purée or a ribeye that actually tastes like beef rather than just salt and butter.
- The Burger: It’s become a bit of a cult favorite. High-quality beef, usually some kind of interesting aioli, and fries that stay crunchy even after ten minutes of conversation.
- The Small Plates: This is where the wine pairing shines. Get the roasted Brussels sprouts. Or the octopus if it’s on the menu.
- The Vibe: It’s loud enough to feel energetic but quiet enough that you don’t have to scream at your partner.
Honestly, the bistro side of the business is what keeps the locals coming back. You can only drink so much Cabernet before you need a meal, and 1917 understands that the food should be a partner to the wine, not an afterthought.
Navigating the Starland District vibe
If you’re visiting Savannah, you have to understand that the Starland District is where the "New Savannah" lives. It’s a mix of record stores like Graveface, vintage boutiques, and art galleries. 1917 fits into this ecosystem perfectly because it’s a "transition" spot. You can go there for a glass of wine after browsing the Starland Strange shop, or you can make it the main event for a three-course dinner.
Parking is... well, it’s Savannah. It’s mostly street parking. If you’re lucky, you’ll find a spot right on Bull Street. If not, be prepared to walk a block or two. But honestly, walking through this neighborhood is half the fun. You get to see the murals and the old Victorian houses that are being painstakingly restored.
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Is it actually worth the price?
Let’s be real. Savannah has a lot of expensive tourist traps. Places where you pay $40 for a mediocre steak because there’s a view of the river. 1917 isn't cheap, but it’s fair. You’re paying for the quality of the ingredients and the fact that the person pouring your wine actually knows where the grapes were grown.
It’s the kind of place where you spend $60 to $100 per person and leave feeling like you got your money’s worth. That’s a rare thing in a city that’s increasingly becoming a bachelorette party destination.
How to do 1917 wine bar & bistro the right way
First, make a reservation. Even on a Tuesday, this place fills up with people who live three blocks away. Second, don't be afraid of the bar. Sitting at the bar is actually the best way to experience the place. You get to watch the bartenders work, and you usually get faster access to "off-menu" wine suggestions.
- Start with bubbles. They always have a great sparkling selection that isn't just cheap Prosecco.
- Share everything. The menu is designed for it.
- Ask about the specials. The chef likes to play around with whatever came in from the docks that morning.
One thing people get wrong about this place is thinking it's only for "wine people." It’s not. They have a solid beer list and their cocktail game is surprisingly strong. If you’re with someone who thinks wine is just fermented juice that gives them a headache, they’ll still find something to love here.
The Verdict on 1917
Savannah is changing fast. A lot of the old soul is being replaced by glass-walled hotels and chain stores. Places like 1917 wine bar & bistro are important because they keep the city's character intact. They take a historic building, keep its spirit, and fill it with modern, thoughtful hospitality.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new Tuesday night hangout or a traveler tired of the River Street crowds, this spot is a mandatory stop. It’s sophisticated but soulful. It’s exactly what the Starland District needed.
Actionable insights for your visit
- Location: 1917 Bull St, Savannah, GA.
- Best Time to Visit: Happy hour is great, but the 7:00 PM dinner rush is when the energy is peak.
- What to Wear: Business casual or "Savannah Hipster" (think nice jeans and a clean shirt). No need for a suit, but maybe leave the flip-flops at the beach.
- Nearby Stops: Check out the Starland Yard nearby if you want to keep the night going with some outdoor drinks and food trucks.
- Dietary Needs: They are surprisingly accommodating to gluten-free and vegetarian diners, which isn't always a given at a bistro. Just let the server know upfront.
Take the time to walk around the block before or after your meal. The architecture in this part of town is some of the most interesting in the South, and the street art provides a perfect backdrop for the historic 1917 aesthetic.
Check their social media before you go; they occasionally host winemaker dinners or live music events that can change the vibe of the evening significantly. If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic corner, ask for a table toward the back. If you want to be in the middle of the action, the front window seats or the bar are your best bets.