Nashville Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

Nashville’s Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours offers an engaging way to explore two of the city’s most lively neighborhoods—East Nashville and 12South—through a curated culinary journey. Priced at $99 per person, this small-group tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for food lovers eager to sample authentic Southern dishes and discover local hotspots. With a rating of 5.0 from over 2,200 reviews, the tour is highly recommended, with 97% of participants endorsing it. While it does not include hotel transportation, the tour’s walking pace and flavorful stops make it suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and an appetite for adventure.

This tour is perfect for travelers who seek an authentic taste of Nashville’s culinary culture while exploring vibrant neighborhoods. The small-group format ensures an intimate experience, and options to choose between East Nashville or 12South allow visitors to tailor their experience to their interests. The inclusion of local eateries, hidden gems, and knowledgeable guides makes this tour stand out from typical food experiences. However, potential diners should be aware that menus can vary, and certain stops may differ depending on vendor availability or weather conditions.

Key Points

• Two Neighborhood Options: Choose between the East Nashville or 12South tours, each offering distinct local flavors and sights.
• Authentic Southern Flavors: Sample dishes including pulled pork, Tennessee whiskey glazed donuts, breakfast tacos, and brisket quesadillas.
• Small-Group Experience: Maximum of 12 participants ensures personalized interaction and in-depth storytelling by guides.
• Includes a Secret Dish: Each tour features a special secret dish that adds an element of surprise to your tasting journey.
• Highly Rated Guides: Guides like Ben and Hunter are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling, enriching the food stops with local insights.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Tours are available at various times, and mobile tickets make check-in straightforward.

Starting the Tour in Nashville’s Neighborhoods

The East Nashville tour kicks off in historic neighborhoods known for their classic Southern flavors. Expect to visit local eateries serving hot chicken, Memphis-style pulled pork sandwiches, Tennessee whiskey glazed donuts, and handcrafted crustburgers. This route showcases classic Nashville cuisine in a leisurely walk that immerses guests in the area’s history and food culture.

In contrast, the 12South neighborhood tour ventures through Nashville’s trendiest street, lined with stylish coffee shops, restored buildings, and boutique shops. Here, visitors taste seasonal donuts, breakfast tacos, southern hot pork and grits casserole, and brisket quesadillas, ending at a popular local restaurant. The tour also pays homage to Dolly Parton, with a glance at her legendary studio and office.

Highlights of the East Nashville Food Tour

The East Nashville route emphasizes classic Southern dishes and local favorites. Participants enjoy hot chicken from a well-known Nashville spot, Memphis-style pulled pork sandwiches, and donuts glazed with Tennessee whiskey. An additional highlight is the secret dish, which adds a layer of surprise to the tasting experience.

Guests also learn about FIVE POINTS, a historic neighborhood area, through engaging stories shared by the guide. The tour includes stops at Donut Distillery, Edley’s barbecue, and other local eateries, providing a taste of Nashville’s barbecue scene and Southern culinary traditions.

Exploring Nashville’s Trendy 12South Neighborhood

The 12South tour showcases Nashville’s hipster side, with visits to trendy coffee shops, award-winning restaurants, and restored historic buildings. Highlights include tasting seasonal donuts and a breakfast taco at a popular morning spot, along with southern hot pork and grits casserole.

Guests get a glimpse of Dolly Parton’s studio, along with unique shops and possibly a celebrity-frequented dress store. The tour wraps up at a beloved new restaurant, where gourmet cookies and iconic Southern foods complete the tasting experience. The guide shares local stories that deepen appreciation for Nashville’s food culture and neighborhood character.

The Food Stops and Signature Dishes

The tour includes a variety of tasty surprises at each location. In East Nashville, expect Nashville Hot Chicken and handcrafted crustburgers, alongside a Tennessee whiskey glazed donut. In 12South, the focus is on breakfast tacos, seasonal donuts, and brisket quesadillas with spicy green beans.

Unique offerings include the secret dish, which remains a surprise until served. Water is provided throughout, ensuring guests stay refreshed amid the walking pace. The menus are subject to change based on vendor availability and weather conditions.

Logistics and Tour Format

The tour operates with a mobile ticket, making check-in seamless. It departs from central locations in Nashville’s vibrant neighborhoods and is designed for moderate physical fitness levels. The group size is limited to 12 people for a more personalized experience.

Participants should plan for moderate walking and wear comfortable shoes. The tour runs at various times, with most bookings made 30 days in advance, emphasizing its popularity. Since no hotel pick-up or drop-off is included, guests should arrange their own transportation to the meeting point.

The Role of the Guides and Local Insights

Guides like Ben, Hunter, Colleen, and others are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills. They offer insights into Nashville’s food scene, local history, and neighborhood highlights, making each stop more meaningful. Guests appreciate guides who share fun facts and recommend additional spots to explore after the tour.

According to reviews, guides also adapt well to group needs, making the experience engaging for all. Their enthusiasm and local expertise help turn a simple food crawl into a memorable cultural exploration.

The Value and Overall Experience

For $99, the tour provides over 4-5 food stops and the chance to try dishes that locals love. Many reviews note generous portions, with guests often taking leftovers home. The small-group format enhances interaction, making it ideal for foodies and anyone interested in Nashville’s neighborhoods.

While menus can vary, the overall quality and guide expertise remain consistent. The tour’s popularity and stellar ratings reflect its status as a reliable, enjoyable way to experience Nashville beyond typical sightseeing.

Final Thoughts on the Nashville Food Tour

This Secret Food Tours experience offers a well-balanced mix of local flavors, neighborhood charm, and informative storytelling. It shines in its ability to combine food tasting with cultural insights, all within a manageable 3.5-hour window.

The premium value comes from delicious dishes, friendly guides, and an intimate atmosphere. It’s especially suited for food lovers, culture seekers, and travelers who want to see Nashville through its culinary lens. The choice between East Nashville and 12South lets guests tailor their experience to their interests.

This tour is highly recommended for those wanting an authentic taste of Nashville’s food scene with minimal hassle. Just keep in mind that menus may change due to vendor availability, and walking is a core part of the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Nashville Walking Food Tour?
The tour costs $99 per person, which includes multiple food stops, water, and guide services.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Which neighborhoods does the tour visit?
Guests can choose between East Nashville and 12South, each offering unique local flavors and sights.

What types of food are served during the tour?
Expect Southern classics like hot chicken, pulled pork, donuts, breakfast tacos, and brisket quesadillas.

Are dietary accommodations available?
The reviews suggest flexibility and guide responsiveness, but specific dietary restrictions are not detailed in the information provided.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical activity and walking, so it’s best suited for those who can handle some walking.

Are transportation arrangements included?
No, hotel pick-up or drop-off is not included; guests should arrange their own transportation to the meeting point.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What makes this tour stand out from other Nashville experiences?
The small-group size, variety of local foods, proactive guides, and choice of neighborhoods make this tour a popular way to experience Nashville’s culinary culture firsthand.

Is this tour recommended for first-time visitors?
Absolutely—it’s a great way to get oriented with Nashville’s vibrant neighborhoods and sample the city’s best flavors.