News Summary
Chef Jacques Larson, a two-time James Beard Award nominee, is set to open a French oyster bar named Lester’s in Savannah in early 2026. Situated in the basement of the Douglas hotel on East Oglethorpe Avenue, Lester’s will offer a unique culinary experience focusing on seafood, particularly oysters, alongside an à la carte breakfast menu. The restaurant aims to enhance Savannah’s dining scene by providing an intimate atmosphere and a diverse range of French-inspired dishes, while details about the menu and concept will be shared closer to the opening.
Chef Jacques Larson to Open French Oyster Bar “Lester’s” in Savannah in 2026
Savannah, a coastal city known for its vibrant culinary scene, will soon welcome a new dining establishment as two-time James Beard Award nominee chef Jacques Larson plans to open a French oyster bar named Lester’s in early 2026. The restaurant will be housed in the basement of the Douglas, a boutique hotel located at 18 East Oglethorpe Avenue, which is currently undergoing construction for additional guest rooms and facilities.
Lester’s will provide both lunch and dinner service every day, offering visitors a French culinary experience with a focus on seafood. While the menu is still in development, diners can expect a selection of small plates such as terrines and pâtés, along with a few larger entrees. Larson has chosen to emphasize oyster dishes, considering the limited size and facilities of the restaurant, which does not include a traditional hood system.
Dining Experience and Menu Highlights
In light of the restaurant’s unique layout, Larson initially envisioned a breakfast menu during the two-year renovation of the Douglas. However, this plan has evolved. The restaurant will feature a full kitchen, allowing for a more extensive range of dining options, including an à la carte breakfast menu. Offerings may include rotating items like acai bowls and soft-boiled eggs served with toast soldiers.
In the evenings, guests at Lester’s can look forward to a reception featuring a variety of cheese, charcuterie, and canapés, enhancing the dining experience at this intimate venue. The full kitchen will be an essential part of the restaurant, providing flexibility and enhancing the overall menu offerings when Lester’s opens its doors in 2026.
Details About the Douglas Hotel
The Douglas, where Lester’s will be located, currently operates at 14 East Oglethorpe Avenue while renovations are taking place at the adjacent site. This boutique hotel aims to provide visitors with high-end accommodations, and the addition of Lester’s aligns with its goal of offering an unparalleled experience, incorporating fine dining within a luxurious setting.
Future Developments
As the opening date approaches, additional information regarding the menu and specific features of Lester’s will be released. Chef Jacques Larson, known for his culinary expertise and dedication to high-quality ingredients, is expected to bring a distinctive flair to Savannah’s restaurant scene with this new venture.
In summary, those interested in experiencing a new taste of France, centered around fresh oysters and carefully crafted dishes, will have the opportunity to do so at Lester’s in early 2026. With its prime location and commitment to a refined dining experience, the restaurant aims to become a highlight in Savannah’s thriving culinary landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Municipal Grand Hotel Opens in Downtown Savannah
Additional Resources
- Eat It And Like It: Savannah’s The Darling Oyster Bar – An Update
- Wikipedia: Oyster
- Charlotte Observer: Food and Drink Article
- Google Search: Oysters
- AJC: Farms Near Savannah Stock Restaurant Menus with Oysters
- Google Scholar: Oyster Industry
- Savannah Now: Oldest Restaurant in Georgia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Savannah, Georgia
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.
