Savannah: Southern and Secret Food Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Savannah and want a taste of the city beyond its picturesque squares and historic streets, the Savannah: Southern and Secret Food Tour offers a compelling way to do just that. This experience promises more than just a meal; it’s your ticket to hidden eateries, local favorites, and stories that connect each dish to Savannah’s vibrant past. With a high rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 149 reviews, it’s clear many find this tour both enjoyable and worthwhile.

What makes this tour stand out? We love how it combines culinary delights with storytelling, giving you insight into Savannah’s culture and history through its food. Plus, the fact that the tour takes you into off-the-beaten-path spots and secret speakeasies means you’ll encounter places most travelers miss. On the downside, it’s a 3-hour walk requiring some standing and moderate walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of activity. If you enjoy trying new foods, exploring local neighborhoods, and hearing stories along the way, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Savannah flavors: Focus on Southern classics and local recipes.
• Hidden gems: Access to lesser-known eateries and secret spots.
• Storytelling: The guides share historical and cultural insights with humor and depth.
• Convenience: Pre-arranged reservations and curated food stops save you time.
• Value for money: With five tastings and a guide, the price of $92 offers significant culinary and cultural insight.
• Rain or shine: The tour runs regardless of weather, perfect for flexible planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Savannah Food Tour Experience

The Starting Point and Tour Format

The tour kicks off at Zunzi’s on the corner of Drayton and Perry Streets, a popular local spot known for its hearty sandwiches. From there, your guide—part storyteller, part food connoisseur—takes about 1 mile (1.6 km) of walking through the historic district, which is pretty manageable for most. The small group size—up to 14 people—ensures a more personalized experience, where guides can tailor their stories and ensure everyone gets a good view of each spot.

What You’ll Eat and Where

The tour includes food tastings at up to five restaurants. These are carefully selected to showcase Southern favorites, Lowcountry seafood, and local treats. Past reviews describe stops that include buttery biscuits, fried green tomatoes topped with crab, empanadas, gnocchi in cream sauce, and even Leopold’s famous ice cream. Some reviews mention the food portions being generous—more than enough for a satisfying lunch, so arriving with a light breakfast is recommended.

Each stop offers a chance to meet the makers behind the flavors, whether it’s a chef, a bakery owner, or a local artisan. One reviewer noted how the tour “stopped in all the squares along the way to give us some cultural & historic perspectives,” enriching the tasting experience with stories about Savannah’s culinary roots, from Gullah-Geechee influences to family recipes passed down through generations.

Insider Access and Hidden Spots

A highlight of this tour is venturing into eateries most visitors never find. Instead of sticking to popular tourist spots, the guides take you into secret speakeasies and locals-only food havens. This aspect is especially appreciated by those wanting an authentic, less touristy experience. Many reviews praise their guides’ ability to find welcoming, off-the-beaten-path establishments.

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The Guide and Storytelling

Across reviews, guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, humor, and personable approach. Whether it’s “Ann, Cindy, or Country,” the guides seem to excel at weaving history, food facts, and local lore into a lively narrative. One reviewer happily mentions, “Our guide, Ann, was excellent. Enthusiastic and full of information,” which underscores how important the guide’s personality is to the overall fun.

The Logistics and Value

Reservations are straightforward, and the tour is designed to save you time with reservations already made—a real bonus in busy Savannah. The $92 price point includes expert guiding, all food tastings, water, a map, and exclusive discounts. While drinks and alcohol are extra, the inclusion of up to five tastings makes this a very good value for a three-hour culinary journey.

Weather and Accessibility

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so you don’t have to worry about rain dampening your plans. It’s also wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal. However, expect moderate walking and some standing, so it’s best suited for active travelers or those comfortable with a bit of movement.

What’s on the Itinerary?

The tour’s itinerary isn’t overly rigid, but you can expect a mix of historic squares, secret eateries, and local markets. Past reviewers describe “stopping in restaurants most visitors never find,” which underscores the off-the-beaten-path approach. The food stops are carefully curated to include a variety of flavors, from savory bites to sweet treats.

For example, some stops feature fried green tomatoes with crab, offering a taste of Southern coastal cuisine. Others include gnocchi in cream sauce, showcasing a more Italian-inspired dish, but still within local culinary traditions. Leopold’s ice cream makes a popular stop, giving guests a chance to indulge in classic Savannah ice cream—a beloved local institution.

The Final Stop and Shopping

The tour concludes at a Southern marketplace, where you can browse and purchase hot sauces, treats, and souvenirs. Several reviews rave about this as a perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs or gifts to take home.

Authentic, Delicious, and Informative

What truly sets this tour apart is how it combines delicious food with engaging stories. Many reviewers have mentioned guides who are “knowledgeable about Savannah”, sharing local history, cultural tidbits, and humorous anecdotes. One said, “Country was an excellent host. Very fun tour and the food was amazing,” capturing the essence of an experience that’s both informative and entertaining.

The food variety and quality also receive high praise. From empanadas to Gullah-inspired dishes, the focus on authentic, locally loved recipes makes the experience more meaningful than just sampling restaurant fare. The fact that each tasting equals a lunch is a bonus for those who want to indulge without overdoing it.

The Reviews in a Nutshell

• “All the food stops were excellent” (Kim)
• “The food we sampled was fantastic” (Zenia)
• “A leisurely walk with lots of stories” (Vicky)
• “The selection of food was outstanding” (Judy)
• “Guides are super knowledgeable and fun” (multiple reviewers)

Of course, a few comments mention some dishes not meeting expectations—like the cold pulled pork sliders or food standing outside in hot weather—but these are minor compared to the overall positive feedback.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for food lovers eager to explore local flavors and history buffs interested in Savannah’s stories. It’s ideal for adventurous eaters comfortable with a moderate pace and a bit of walking. The small group size makes it personal and engaging, perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting a more intimate sightseeing and tasting experience.

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Savannah’s hidden culinary treasures, enjoy learning as you eat, and appreciate a guide with a sense of humor, this tour offers excellent value. Those who prefer a sit-down food experience or have mobility issues might find it less suitable, but overall, this tour offers a memorable introduction to Savannah’s flavors and stories.

The Sum Up

The Savannah: Southern and Secret Food Tour stands out for its authentic approach, blending delicious regional dishes with captivating stories. The knowledgeable guides and carefully curated stops deliver a genuine local experience that many reviews describe as fun, tasty, and informative. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to taste and learn about Savannah’s culinary roots without the hassle of waiting in lines or wandering into unknown spots on their own.

At around $92, for five tastings and a lively guide, this tour offers great value for a memorable afternoon. It’s a perfect way to get a feel for Savannah’s soul—through its food, history, and hidden corners—making it a must-do for foodies and curious explorers alike.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
While most tastings focus on Southern and seafood dishes, some stops might offer vegetarian options. It’s best to check directly with the tour provider if you have dietary restrictions.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs about 3 hours, covering roughly a mile of walking through Savannah’s historic district.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Yes, the tour is available in all weather conditions, so come prepared for rain or shine.

Are the food tastings enough for a full meal?
Yes, the five tastings are described as more than enough for lunch, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Absolutely, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all mobility levels.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a knowledgeable guide, five food tastings, water, a map of the route, and exclusive discounts.

Can I buy drinks or alcohol during the tour?
Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, but they must be in a plastic or Styrofoam cup, and only one at a time.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, weather-appropriate clothing, and an appetite for tasty surprises.

In sum, this Savannah food tour offers an excellent blend of flavor, history, and local flavor, making it a top choice for those wanting an authentic taste of the city. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just curious about Savannah’s culinary secrets, you’ll walk away with more than just a full belly—you’ll have stories, new favorites, and a better understanding of what makes this city special.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby