Savannah’s Newest Italian Restaurant Named for the Patron Saint of Hangovers

The former Mansion on Forsyth Park (700 Drayton Street, Savannah) will have a refreshed look and vibe when it reopens as Hotel Bardo early next year, but if curious onlookers want a taste of what’s to come, the hospitality group behind the project, Left Lane, recently opened Italian restaurant Saint Bibiana on the property.

The group named the eatery after Saint Bibiana, known as the patron saint of hangovers, to evoke a cheeky playfulness, yet still keep it formal (because there’s sainthood involved).

Chef Derek Simcik leads the kitchen and pulls inspiration from the Chianti region, portions of Southern Italy, and the island of Sardinia. Diners can start with tuna crudo, burrata, grilled octopus, or saffron arancini stuffed with tomato-braised pork. Pastas go from the classic spaghetti pomodoro to the bold campanelle with octopus puttanesca and pork crackling. Entrees include sole piccata, porchetta, olive-brined roast chicken, and duck rotolo. Desserts from pastry chef Kate Siegel include hazelnut cake with olive oil gelato.

Everything on the menu is meant to draw from the classics but add a bit of fun and modernity.

Saint Bibiana is open Wednesdays through Sundays, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.