Pinkie Masters
A Savannah Institution
Located in the center of Savannah’s historic district is a lounge with one of the oldest running bars in the city. Since opening in 1951, Pinkie Masters, also known as Pinkie’s and various other names, has offered affordable beers and music to guests. But, this is not your average dive bar. Over the past 70 years Pinkie Masters has hosted notable guests including President Jimmy Carter and more. With a central location, and deep rooted history, this is a place adored by locals and tourists alike.
Original owner, Luis Chris Masterpolis was known as Pinkie. He was a boxer who loved drinking, smoking, and talking politics who decided to open up a bar. The original name for this spot was “The Rainbow Grill” but the regular customers began to refer to it simply as Pinkie’s.
This charming bar features eclectic decor that is full of personality. Although not much has changed in terms of quality and atmosphere, there are a few things that are different than they were on opening day. To start off, there is no longer smoking allowed indoors. While this was common practice back in the day, it is no longer allowed. Next, is the music selection. Sure, the oldies are still available, but they’ve incorporated newer music to their rotation to keep up with the times. And finally, they now offer more than just PBR on tap. These minor changes have kept the atmosphere as originally created, while keeping it modern enough to attract new visitors every day.
A staple in Savannah’s historic district, Pinkie’s has hosted politicians and celebrities throughout the years. Most notably, president Jimmy Carter’s visit in 1978. While visiting the city on civic duty, Carter managed to slip out of his hotel along with his security personnel and headed toward Pinkie’s. While this was not his first time visiting the bar, it was his first time as the President of the United States. Having been a state senator and governor, Carter was all too familiar with Pinkie’s from his past visits.
Pinkie was a Carter supporter, and lived to see him get elected as President, but had unfortunately passed away by the time Carter visited in 1978. Upon discovering that Pinkie was no longer around, President Carter climbed on top of the bar at Pinkie’s and offered a speech in remembrance of Pinkie, who he considered a friend.
Through the years, Pinkie’s has hosted many notable celebrities who seek out a classic dive bar in the heart of the city. The Original Pinkie Masters has garnered critical acclaim as one of the best dive bars in the south, and is worth a stop next time you’re in town. Here, you’ll find the regulars enjoying cold pints surrounded by a welcoming atmosphere.
Don’t forget - bring cash! While some things have been modernized, one thing that has remained the same is that the bar operates on a cash only basis.
What could be better than a cold drink and good music in a historic spot?
