Pirates’ House | Savannah

The Pirates’ House, located at 20 East Broad Street in the historic district of Savannah, Georgia, is one of the city’s most iconic and atmospheric destinations. This establishment, now a renowned restaurant, is steeped in over two and a half centuries of history, seafaring legend, and Southern culinary tradition. The Pirates’ House is not only known for its historic significance and connection to early colonial Savannah, but also for its haunted folklore and literary fame, making it a quintessential stop for both history buffs and food lovers.

Origins and Historical Significance

The story of the Pirates’ House begins in 1734, just one year after the founding of Savannah by General James Oglethorpe. At that time, the site became part of the Trustees’ Garden, the first experimental agricultural garden in the American colonies. Modeled after the Chelsea Physic Garden in London, the Trustees' Garden was created to test the viability of various crops like mulberry trees (for silk production), grapes, oranges, and spices. The small stone house built on the property—now known as the Herb House—was constructed to house the gardener. It is believed to be the oldest standing structure in Georgia.

By the mid-18th century, Savannah had developed into a bustling port city, and the area around the Herb House saw a transformation. A tavern and inn were added to the building around 1753 to cater to the influx of sailors, merchants, and adventurers arriving via the Savannah River, which is just a short walk away. The proximity to the river made the Pirates’ House a natural gathering place for sea captains, privateers, and, as legend has it, pirates.

Seafaring Lore and Connection to Pirates

Over time, the establishment earned its infamous reputation as a haunt of pirates. Stories tell of unsuspecting sailors being drugged or intoxicated at the tavern, only to awaken on ships at sea—pressed into service against their will. These tales are tied to the network of underground tunnels said to exist beneath the building, leading to the riverfront. These tunnels, whether fact or folklore, form the basis of many local ghost stories and contribute to the mysterious aura of the Pirates’ House.

The tavern’s notoriety reached literary fame in the 19th century when it was referenced in Robert Louis Stevenson’s 1883 novel Treasure Island. In the book’s preface, Stevenson names Savannah as the city where the fictional pirate Captain Flint died, and the Pirates’ House is believed to be his final haunt. This association has only deepened the lore surrounding the building and made it a key part of Savannah’s maritime mythology.

Transformation into a Restaurant

In the mid-20th century, the building was restored and repurposed as a restaurant. It was carefully preserved and adapted to showcase both its Colonial heritage and nautical atmosphere. Today, the Pirates’ House operates as a full-service restaurant while maintaining many of its original features—low timber ceilings, exposed brick walls, creaking wooden floors, and vintage furnishings that give visitors a vivid sense of the past.

The restaurant consists of multiple dining rooms, each decorated with maritime artifacts, historic photos, and pirate-themed décor. Many of these rooms are within the oldest parts of the structure, including the Herb House, giving diners the unique experience of eating in a space that is more than 250 years old.

Dining Experience and Cuisine

The Pirates’ House offers a menu focused on traditional Southern and Lowcountry cuisine. Guests can choose from à la carte dining or enjoy the popular Southern lunch buffet. Highlights from the menu include:

Appetizers such as She Crab Soup, Savannah Crab Dip, and Fried Green Tomatoes.

Signature entrées like Honey Pecan Fried Chicken, Shrimp & Grits, Pistachio-Encrusted Fresh Catch, and Lowcountry Boil.

Desserts including Peach Cobbler, Key Lime Pie, and Homemade Pecan Pie.

A children’s menu is available, and the atmosphere is family-friendly.

The kitchen blends Southern comfort food with fresh local seafood and seasonal ingredients. Service is attentive, and the restaurant frequently hosts large groups, including historical tour participants, school groups, and visiting dignitaries.

Haunted Reputation

The Pirates’ House is often listed among Savannah’s most haunted locations. Over the years, both guests and staff have reported paranormal activity: sudden cold drafts, unexplained footsteps, ghostly voices, and apparitions in old-fashioned sailor’s garb. The tunnel system beneath the house is also a focal point of ghost stories—said to have been used to “Shanghai” unwilling victims onto ships. Whether these tales are truth or local legend, they add a layer of intrigue to the dining experience.

The establishment has been featured on ghost tours and paranormal investigations, and its haunted history has been the subject of countless travel documentaries and articles.

Visiting Details

Location: 20 East Broad Street, at the corner of Broad and East Bay Streets in the historic district.

Hours: Typically open seven days a week, serving lunch and dinner. The lunch buffet is popular with tourists and locals alike.

Reservations: Strongly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons and weekends.

Parking: Street parking and nearby garage parking are available.

Cultural Role in Savannah

The Pirates’ House is more than a restaurant; it is a living museum, a cornerstone of Savannah’s heritage, and a symbol of the city’s colorful colonial and maritime past. Its mixture of preserved history, regional cuisine, and vibrant folklore offers a uniquely immersive experience. Whether you're drawn by the food, the history, or the ghost stories, a visit to the Pirates’ House offers an unforgettable taste of Savannah’s rich character and charm.