News Summary
208 Wine Bar, a staple on Bay Street in Savannah, plans to expand its offerings to include cocktails after receiving a liquor license. Set to launch cocktail service with a family recipe margarita, the bar successfully grew its wine selection to 85 choices. Despite facing challenges, including a decrease in foot traffic, owner Christina Pirovitz-Williams aims to attract a broader customer base by rebranding the establishment as a wine and cocktail lounge. Future plans may include food collaborations to enhance the customer experience.
Savannah, Georgia – 208 Wine Bar, a popular establishment on Bay Street, is preparing to expand its offerings to include cocktails after securing a liquor license from the city. The hearing for this liquor license is scheduled for October 8, 2025, with the expectation of obtaining the permit by October 9. If successful, the bar will commence cocktail service on October 10, 2025, beginning with a family recipe margarita.
Originally opened over four years ago, the wine bar has gained a loyal following but is facing challenges due to decreased foot traffic in downtown Savannah, attributed to ongoing parking issues and rising prices in the area. The current menu features an impressive selection with 85 wines available by the glass, a significant increase from the original ten choices when the bar first opened. However, to make room for cocktails, there may be a reduction in the number of wines offered, potentially scaling back to around 60-70 options.
Christina Pirovitz-Williams, the owner, aims to rebrand the venue as a wine and cocktail lounge, with plans to include “Cocktail Lounge” in the bar’s title. This strategic move is part of her vision to attract a wider customer base and adapt to the evolving landscape of dining and nightlife options in Savannah. Christina has collaborated closely with local bartenders and business owners to refine the cocktail offerings, ensuring a quality experience for patrons.
The 208 Wine Bar is situated in a historic building constructed in the 1850s, which has retained its architectural integrity and offers large windows with scenic views of the river. This location contributes to an inviting and beautiful atmosphere that enhances the overall customer experience. While the bar does not currently serve meals, it offers small tapas and cheese boards to complement its beverage selection and has begun engaging local chefs to explore the possibility of food pop-ups and collaborations in the future.
Despite the bar’s success and community presence, Christina acknowledges the difficulties that restaurants in Savannah are currently facing. The impacts of a slow summer and increasing competition from other bars have necessitated this expansion into cocktails for the business’s survival. The establishment has become not just a venue for wine, but a hub for friendships and community engagement.
Specializing in providing a quiet, adult space free from televisions and distractions, 208 Wine Bar strives to create a relaxed environment for its guests. With the anticipated cocktail offerings, the business aims to continue serving the local community while adapting to the challenges of today’s market. This expansion is seen as a essential development for Christina and her team, ensuring that 208 Wine Bar remains a cherished destination for both wine enthusiasts and those looking for expertly crafted cocktails.
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Additional Resources
- Eat It and Like It: Changes Ahead for Savannah’s 208 Wine Bar Cocktails
- WSAV: Savannah Sips 208 Wine Bar
- Savannah Magazine: Turning the Tables at Sobremesa
- AJC: New Pasta Bar, Crepe Café and Cocktail Den Open in Savannah
- Google Search: Savannah 208 Wine Bar cocktails
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
