The New South Café: A Unique
Blend of the South and the City



It’s not particularly remarkable that Savannah native Matt Cohen became fast friends with Philadelphia native Scott Gordon while they both were training at the Culinary Institute of America in New York City. Nor is it too surprising that the two teamed up at the New South Café, which opened on St. Patrick’s Day in 2006. Given their extensive experience in fine cuisine, including Matt’s stint at, among others, famed Maxime’s and Scott’s work at Trump Plaza, their coming together might have been predicted. But the combination of their culinary expertise and influences with their emphasis on southern cuisine does make for a restaurant that is both remarkable and surprising and, indeed, unique. I visited the café twice at lunch for this review and on both occasions was delighted by both the atmosphere and, of course, the food.

First, let me say that The New South Café is full of pleasant contrasts. On the one hand, it is truly a café, with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. There are a couple of tables outside for when the weather is agreeable (parking is on the side and in the back), and many of the customers, an eclectic group of professionals, neighborhood locals, and college students, seem to know each other, although newcomers are immediately made welcome by the friendly and helpful staff. The whitewashed pine walls are decorated with original art (digitally-altered photographs, a mural, a psychedelic portrait of Jerry Garcia) and there are ceiling fans above, all giving the restaurant a relaxed café atmosphere. On the other hand, there is a somewhat elegant feel about the place as well, with white tablecloths and green cloth napkins, hefty tableware, exposed brickwork and overhead beams, large mirrors, and a wall-sized window facing Skidaway Road. The contrast between the elegant setting and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere is quite appealing. It’s as if your relatives are making Christmas dinner for your fiancé for the first time. Still, one thing unites it all: a great attention to detail.

On my first occasion, I ordered the crab cake burger, although I was sorely tempted to order the catfish after overhearing a seasoned customer exclaim, “the catfish fingers here are fabulous.” The crabmeat was very fresh and flavorful with a perfect texture. It came open-faced on a toasted bun with a side of Asiago cheese sauce, which delicately enhanced the crab without overpowering it. There was also an Asian salad with a ginger dressing that was a nice accompaniment and added a contrasting flavor. The sweet tea was some of the best I’ve had in Savannah, not overly sweet and with a definite taste of tea, rather than being watered down.

On my return visit, I thoroughly enjoyed the peanut-crusted boneless chicken. It comes with corn custard and a Vidalia onion ring garnish. The chicken has a honey-pecan drizzle that is indescribable, again adding a contrast to the textures and tastes of the chicken and the peanuts. Both lunches were presented elegantly on simple, square white plates. I cannot in this short space begin to tell you of all the other tempting dishes that The New South Café offers. Let me just say that if these two dishes sound inviting, check out their menu “cause you ain’t seen nothing yet.”

Aside from the delicious food available at lunch on Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 until 3 and at dinner from 5 until 10 p.m., The New South Café also offers a wide variety of catering options for weddings, corporate events, charity events and just about any situation you can imagine. To top it off, their staff will travel to events in Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina. See their website at thenewsouthcafe.com for more information, and for menus and prices. They are located just a block north of Victory Drive at 2601 Skidaway Road. Treat yourself to some true Southern hospitality at The New South Café.

Visit The New South Cafe website at www.TheNewSouthCafe.