Nashville Beer, Bourbon, and Barbecue Guided Food & Drink Tour

Imagine a four-hour jaunt through Nashville’s vibrant food and drink scene, where you’ll sample some of the city’s top smoked meats, sip craft beers, and explore local distilleries. This guided tour offers a taste of Nashville beyond the country tunes — revealing its culinary soul through a well-paced, intimate experience. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie, a whiskey enthusiast, or just curious about Nashville’s flavors, this tour promises a genuine, personal peek into what makes Music City’s gastronomy so special.

Two aspects we especially appreciate are the knowledgeable guides who bring stories and history to life and the quality of the tastings, from smoky barbecues to expertly crafted spirits. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite focused on alcohol and food—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy sampling drinks and hearty bites. Also, at $189 per person, it’s an investment, but one that many find worth the experience for the depth and authenticity offered.

If you’re someone who likes a leisurely, well-organized introduction to Nashville’s culinary culture, this tour is likely a great fit. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate small groups, expert commentary, and a mix of history and taste.

Key Points

• Includes visits to popular BBQ joints, distilleries, and a local brewery
• Offers tastings of smoked meats, craft beers, and whiskeys
• Small group size enhances a personalized experience
• Guides provide engaging stories and local insights
• Four-hour duration balances immersion with comfort
• Price reflects a comprehensive food and drink adventure

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: 308 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville
The tour begins conveniently in downtown Nashville, near public transportation options. The meeting point is straightforward, making it easy to find your guide and hop on the air-conditioned vehicle that will ferry you between stops.

First Stop: Central BBQ (Hillsboro)
Here, you’ll get a meaty introduction with a BBQ trio meal. The reviews mention that the BBQ was good, and the stop lasts about an hour. Expect to taste different smoked meats while your guide shares stories about Nashville’s BBQ traditions. One reviewer highlighted that the food at this stop was enjoyable, though some noted it wasn’t necessarily the best BBQ they’d ever had, highlighting the importance of local authenticity over perfection.

Second Stop: New Heights Brewing Company
Next, you’ll sample a barbecue meal paired with a flight of craft beer. This stop offers a chance to see Nashville’s burgeoning craft brewing scene while enjoying another hearty bite. Reviewers appreciated the high-quality stops and the lively, fun atmosphere. The guide’s commentary adds depth, explaining what makes Nashville’s beers unique and how they complement local cuisine.

Distillery Tour & Tastings
A highlight for whiskey fans: a dedicated Tennessee whiskey distillery tour. Expect to learn about the traditions behind bourbon and whiskey-making, with tastings included. Guests have praised the informative and engaging guides, who share stories behind the spirits and Nashville’s famous bourbon scene. The reviews mention that the distillery was very informative, making it more than just a tasting — it’s an educational experience.

Final Stop: A Local BBQ Joint or Brewery
The last stop often features a local BBQ joint or brewery, where you’re served a simple BBQ sandwich or other smoked bites. Some guests mentioned that the BBQ was more of a sandwich than a traditional joint, but overall, the experience was still highly enjoyable. The focus remains on quality, local flavor, and the stories behind each place.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the tour’s excellent guides who make the experience engaging and educational. Tina R. praised their driver John as “excellent and informative,” while Lorelei D. appreciated Caleb’s “wonderful” personality and the depth of knowledge shared. The small group size, capped at 14 travelers, fosters a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, allowing everyone to ask questions and enjoy their tastings without feeling rushed.

Many reviewers note the quality of the tastings. “The BBQ was good and both distilleries were very informative,” one said. Others appreciated the variety—from the smoky meats to the flight of beers and whiskey—to satisfy different tastes. One review pointed out that the tour was more focused on distillery visits than BBQ, which might be a consideration for those expecting an exclusively barbecue tour.

The reviews also reflect a common sentiment: the tour is well-organized, with comfortable transport and an engaging guide. However, some critics felt the BBQ stop could have been better or that the food wasn’t quite what they expected, but overall, the experience was rated highly.

Transport and Group Size

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, making the roughly four-hour experience comfortable regardless of the weather. The small group size (up to 14 travelers) ensures personalized attention, a relaxed pace, and the chance to meet other like-minded food lovers. Having a dedicated guide with live commentary is a major plus, as they are able to share the stories behind each place and answer questions in real-time.

Pricing and Value

At $189 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Nashville’s food and drink culture. Considering the inclusion of tastings at multiple venues, a distillery tour, lunch, bottled water, and transportation, it represents a solid value for an immersive experience. Food and drink lovers often feel this price is justified, especially when comparing it to the cost of individual tastings, guided tours, and transportation on your own.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy sampling local foods and spirits and want a guided, behind-the-scenes look at Nashville’s culinary scene. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small-group tours, engaging guides, and a balanced mix of history and tastings. If you’re after a more food-focused experience, be aware that the tour leans heavily on alcohol, with some guests noting the emphasis on distillery visits over BBQ joints. It’s best suited for those aged 21 and over who are comfortable with alcohol consumption, as a valid ID is required.

The Sum Up

This Nashville Beer, Bourbon, and Barbecue Guided Food & Drink Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to experience the city’s culinary highlights. With knowledgeable guides, quality tastings, and a relaxed small-group setting, it’s an excellent choice for food and drink enthusiasts eager to explore Nashville’s flavors in depth. The tour balances education, fun, and hearty bites, making it a memorable part of any Nashville visit.

While some may wish for more traditional BBQ stops or different food pairings, the overall experience provides authentic insights into Nashville’s dynamic food scene. It’s especially recommended for those who value an intimate, informative journey through the city’s best craft beverages and smoked meats.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, giving you enough time to enjoy multiple tastings without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 308 Rep. John Lewis Way S in downtown Nashville, a convenient location near public transportation.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes transport in an air-conditioned vehicle for all stops.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the entire tour, tastings at each venue, a distillery tour with samples, a lunch stop with BBQ, bottled water, taxes, and fees.

Are drinks additional?
Yes, any extra alcoholic drinks beyond the included tastings can be purchased separately.

What is the minimum age?
Participants must be at least 21 years old with valid ID.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
No, this tour is non-refundable and cannot be modified once booked.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions; just dress appropriately for the weather.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 14 travelers ensures a more personal experience.

Would I enjoy this if I don’t drink much?
If you prefer non-alcoholic options, this might not be the best fit, as the tour is centered around tastings and spirits.

In summary, this tour is an excellent way to experience Nashville’s flavors with a knowledgeable guide, making it a worthwhile addition to any culinary-focused trip. Whether you’re here for the smoky BBQ, innovative beers, or Tennessee whiskeys, you’ll come away with new favorites and stories to tell.