Our HISTORY SINCE 1953
SThe Original Pinkie Masters. Pinkie Masters Lounge. The Grand Master of Pink. No matter the moniker, our little haunt has pretty much remained the same since it opened in 1951. One of the oldest running bars in downtown Savannah, Pinkie’s continues its presence as a place to get cheap PBR’s, listen to great music from the juke box, and – most importantly – host some really colorful patrons.
Originally called “The Rainbow Grill”, regulars soon began to refer to our little lounge just as “Pinkie’s” – in honor of its colorful owner, Luis Chris Masterpolis – Pinkie. A boxer and lover of all things political, tobacco, and PBR, Pinkie established the bar as a place to gather. Talk politics. Take a load off. And to this day, Pinkie’s remains that very place.
Ironically nestled within a quarter mile of about six churches – one being St. John’s Cathedral – Pinkie’s has seen politicians like Jimmy Carter and Al Gore, celebrities of all types, regulars that convene almost every day to have a beer and reconnect. And of course tourists, students and all that may wander in off of Drayton or Harris streets. And all, since the history of its opening, are welcome.
The eclectic décor – so much history – adds to the charm of our little joint. And there is no lack of personality behind the bar as well. Things have change a little…no more smoking inside, more than just PBR on tap, and our music has been updated over time. But you can still play a mean game of darts, pay cash only and hang out until last call. If you are feeling lucky or are so inclined.
Pinkie Masters is as much a fabric of the history of Savannah as any place in the historic district. The regulars will give you a once over. Appreciate it. Know that you are in a place of legends. You will still be treated with southern hospitality, delicious drinks and a warmth you won’t soon forget. Just be sure to tip your bartender. And tip your hat. We are Pinkie Masters and we’re here to stay. Y’all come on in. But bring cash. We’ll save a seat at the bar.
JIMMY CARTER
PINKIE AND JIMMY
PINKIE MASTER’S YOUNGER YEARS
ARTICLES
CONDE NAST TRAVELER: A dive through and through.
IMBIBE LIQUID CULTURE: Pinkie Master’s: The Dive Bar With A Presidential Past
THE NEW YORK TIMES: Pinkie Masters, Owner of Tavern In Georgia and Friend of Carter
USA TODAY 10 BEST: Pinkie Master's Lounge
NATIONAL TRUST FOR HISTORIC PRESERVATION: Pinkie Master's Lounge, Savannah's Best Dive Bar
SAVANNAH NOW: Savannah’s Pinkie Master’s: The rest of the story
SAVANNAH FOR 91 DAYS: Pinkie Master’s Lounge
WTOC: Jimmy Carter plaque rededication at The Original Pinkie Masters
VANISHING COASTAL GEORGIA: Pinkie Master's 1953 Savannah
Atlanta Journal-Constitution: How to see Savannah, Tybee Island (even with a dog along)
GARDEN AND GUN: The South’s Favorite Bars
WJCL: Pinkie Master's bar reopens St. Patrick's Day morning
CONNECT SAVANNAH: Best Bar to Spot a Celebrity
VISIT SAVANNAH: These 6 Savannah Spots Have Presidential Ties
COVETEUR: SAVANNAH, GEORGIA, MAY BE THE MOST UNDERRATED WEEKEND GETAWAY
FOODIE TRAVEL USA: Five Beloved Dive Bars in the Lowcountry
SOUTHERN LIVING: Pinkie Masters
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY: A Dog-Friendly Guide To Savannah
DESTINATION EAT DRINK: Home Cookin’, Prohibition, and So Many Squares
Savannah Sip and Cycle: Best Dining & Bars in Savannah – Pocket Guide