Ford Hospitality Group Closes The Grove in Savannah

The restaurant is being converted into a Christmas-themed bar by the new owners.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a historic Savannah brick building with a wrought-iron balcony, reflecting a seasonal business transition. — Ford Hospitality Group closed The Grove restaurant in Savannah to convert the downtown three-story building into a Christmas-themed bar concept. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Ford Hospitality Group has closed The Grove Restaurant and Bar in Savannah after purchasing the three-story building. The company is currently renovating the site into a seasonal Christmas-themed bar.

Why it matters

The transition marks a significant change for the downtown Savannah dining landscape as the new owners shift the venue toward a themed bar model. Former staff members from the previous restaurant were offered roles at the new establishment.

Ford Hospitality Group currently operates nine Good Night John Boy bars, including three locations in Florida. The firm dedicated three to four years to investment research in Savannah before securing the property.

The players

Ford Hospitality Group

This hospitality firm owns and operates a network of themed bars across the United States.

The details

Construction is actively transforming the building, with the ground floor slated to become an Xmas Bar and the rooftop designated as the North Pole. The venue will strictly enforce a minimum age of 21 for all patrons.

Ford Hospitality Group acquired The Grove in October 2026.
The Xmas Bar is scheduled to open on November 5, 2026.
A new Good Night John Boy disco bar will open on Congress Street in March 2027.

Market Landscape

The transition of this Savannah property reflects the broader shift toward immersive, experiential nightlife concepts in urban centers. This strategy positions Ford Hospitality Group to compete directly with other niche-themed nightlife operators in the regional market.

Savannah residents and visitors should anticipate a shift in the local nightlife offerings, with the new venue requiring all patrons to be at least 21 years old. Existing restaurant services at the site have ceased as construction proceeds toward the holiday-themed launch.

The takeaway

The move demonstrates how hospitality groups are increasingly betting on high-turnover, seasonal themes to drive foot traffic. Residents looking for festive nightlife can expect a themed experience starting in early November.