The Grey (restaurant)
The Grey is a restaurant located in Savannah, Georgia, United States, housed in a renovated Greyhound bus terminal dating back to 1938. It is known for its innovative cuisine that blends Southern flavors with European techniques.
The restaurant is the creation of chef Mashama Bailey and partner Johno Morisano. Bailey serves as the executive chef, while Morisano handles the business side of the operation. The pair met in New York City, where Bailey honed her culinary skills. They chose Savannah for their restaurant due to its rich history, unique foodways, and growing culinary scene.
The Grey features two distinct dining spaces: The Diner and The Restaurant. The Diner offers a more casual, counter-service experience, while The Restaurant provides a full-service, fine-dining environment. Both spaces draw inspiration from the building's history as a bus terminal, incorporating elements of mid-century modern design and industrial chic.
The menu at The Grey focuses on seasonal ingredients and reflects the Southern heritage of the region, incorporating dishes such as braised oxtail, collard greens, and cornbread. However, Bailey’s training in European techniques elevates these traditional dishes to a more sophisticated level. The restaurant also offers a curated wine list and craft cocktails.
The Grey has received significant critical acclaim, including being named one of the best new restaurants in America by several publications. Chef Bailey has also been recognized for her culinary achievements, winning the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southeast in 2019. The success of The Grey has contributed to Savannah's growing reputation as a culinary destination.