Nestled within the historic district of Savannah — which is just two hours north of Jacksonville — is The DeSoto. An elegant hotel that reflects the southern tradition of its city while also infusing features of modernity, The DeSoto by Sotherly provides a uniquely special experience that leaves guests reluctant to return to reality come check-out time.
Located at 15 East Liberty St., the hotel has a storied history of over 125 years, with chandeliers from the original building shining in the lobby. The DeSoto offers several room options, allowing guests to choose between skyline views of Savannah or direct access to the hotel’s rooftop pool. Interested in a suite? There are several, including the King One Bedroom State Suite that features four private balconies with skyline views, a decorated living room, a dining table for six, wet bar, pantry, microwave, refrigerator and more.
Regardless of the room, the hotel’s accommodations consistently feature neutral colors mixed with pops of maritime blue, as well as marble and glass bathrooms with walk-in showers and more.
Savannah is known for its delicious cuisine, and guests of The DeSoto only have to take a few steps from their room to find it. Housed within the hotel are three dining options: 1540 Room, Edgar’s Proof & Provision and Buffalo Bayou.
The 1540 Room dining experience is nothing short of spectacular, thanks to the fantastic culinary work of Chef Kyle Jacovino and his team. The restaurant is sleek with a hint of Southern charm, featuring white walls adorned with art from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), which is seen throughout the hotel. Dim lights reflect the sophisticated nature of the restaurant that delivers a locally-sourced, farm/sea-to-table culinary experience to its patrons. The kitchen is immersed within the restaurant, which seats a maximum of 82 people.
Guests can start their dining room experience at the 1540 Room with the perfectly cooked Cast Iron Octopus, featuring sofrito, Anson Mills Charleston Gold rice, preserved lemon, harissa, chorizo and sauce escabeche, for $18. Or try the one-of-a-kind Ossawbaw Pork Belly, with turnip puree, caviar, Korean barbecue glaze, cilantro and crisp bread, for $12. Pair that appetizer with a glass of Italian wine, a locally brewed beer or cocktail.
Continue this dream-like meal with the Tagliatelle Bolognese for $22, or the Honey & Pecan Crusted Pork Ribs with Anson Mills rice grits, red kale and turnips, for $27. 1540 Room also offers a selection of desserts, including Arroz Con Leche for $7 and Torta De Santiago, which is an almond cake with honey cream and almond tuile, also for $7.
After dinner at 1540 Room and a fun night on the town, guests of The DeSoto should head to for breakfast. There’s no better way to start the morning off than with Coffee & Donuts, which are coffee beignets glazed with coffee and served with a shot of Savannah Coffee Roasters espresso ($11). Move onto the next course with the DeSoto Hash ($12), which consists of spicy local pork sausage, pan-fried potatoes, peppers and roasted corn, topped with a poached egg, Manchego cheese and green onion. Complete the morning meal with a bloody mary ($10-16) or a mimosa ($9).
Diners at Proof & Provision can eat inside or outside, with both options providing a comfortable, casual experience. The restaurant is known for its cocktails, offering over 130 bourbons, and also offers lunch and dinner.
For those guests who may be in a rush, Buffalo Bayou is the perfect option. The café provides breakfast sandwiches, boxed lunches, mid-day bites and coffee drinks. Buffalo Bayou also serves beer and wine, providing guests of The DeSoto with a quick option to pick up a drink before embarking on their “Sip and Stroll.”
One of the hotel’s specials, the “Sip and Stroll” is a guided tour through the Historic District of Savannah, allowing guests to learn more about the city and its history while enjoying a cocktail. (City laws allow possession and consumption of alcohol on the street in the Historic District.) Take in the sights of the Oglethorpe Club, Forsyth Park, the Sorrel-Weed House and more Savannah landmarks while on the tour.
The DeSoto also features a rooftop pool with fire pits, fountains and a cabana bar. Three large hall spaces and several meeting areas are available for those interested in holding a business meeting or wedding at the hotel.
Overall, The DeSoto provides guests with impeccable service on all fronts, resulting in a complete, luxurious experience. Book a stay at one of Savannah’s staple institutions and experience the historic city in all its glory. You will not be disappointed.
