Nashville Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

If you’re thinking about exploring Nashville beyond its famous country music scene, a guided food tour through the vibrant 12 South neighborhood might just be your best bet. This private walking experience from Secret Food Tours promises a taste of the city’s culinary soul, with plenty of insider tips, tasty bites, and a manageable pace that lets you soak in the local atmosphere.

What we especially like about this tour is its focus on authentic, well-curated food experiences—like savoring hot chicken, smoked turkey with grits, or even a secret dish that keeps the element of surprise alive. Plus, the private nature of the tour means you get personalized attention, perfect for those who want a more tailored experience. On the flip side, the price tag of $335 per person might make you pause—it’s an investment for sure, but one that aims to deliver quality and intimacy. This tour is ideal for food lovers, travelers keen to learn about Nashville’s local flavors, and those who enjoy a leisurely, guided stroll through a neighborhood brimming with character.

Key Points

• Enjoy a private, personalized experience with expert guides
• Taste a variety of Nashville specialties, including hot chicken, barbecue, and secret dishes
• Explore the lively 12 South neighborhood, a true “foodie” hub
• Gain insider tips about Nashville’s culinary scene and local spots
• The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, walking at a relaxed pace
• Price reflects a curated, high-quality tasting experience

An In-Depth Look at the Nashville Private Food Tour

What’s the Deal with the 12 South Neighborhood?

This tour is centered around Nashville’s 12 South, a neighborhood that’s earned its reputation as the city’s “foodie neighborhood.” It has a lively, welcoming vibe that makes walking from stop to stop enjoyable, and it’s a perfect setting for sampling both classic and innovative Southern dishes. The area is also known for its boutique shops, murals, and a local scene that stays true to Nashville’s creative spirit.

The Convenience of a Private Tour

Unlike larger, busier food tours, this private experience makes you the star of the show. With only your group, the guide can tailor the experience, answer questions directly, and focus on what interests you most. This personal touch can make the difference between a good food adventure and a memorable one. Plus, with a mobile ticket and flexible start points, you can meet at Donut Distillery on Gallatin Ave, easing logistics.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is most suited for travelers who value quality over quantity and prefer to explore at a gentle pace. If you’re a foodie eager to sample authentic Nashville dishes and hear behind-the-scenes stories, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also perfect for groups—families, friends, or couples—who want a guided tasting without the hassle of figuring out where to go or what to order.

A Step-by-Step Look at the Itinerary

First Stop: Donut Distillery on Gallatin Ave

Your journey kicks off with a smooth, sweet start—likely a treat that’s as smooth as Tennessee whiskey. While the specific snack isn’t detailed, it sets the tone for an indulgent afternoon. The 30-minute stop gives you a taste of local craftsmanship and a peek into Nashville’s creative food scene.

Second Stop: Main St for Memphis-Style BBQ

Next, you’re introduced to a Memphis-style barbecue sandwich crafted by a renowned chef. This is more than just a sandwich—it’s an introduction to the smoky, tender meats that define Tennessee BBQ. The 30-minute stop allows plenty of time to savor the flavors and ask the guide questions.

Third Stop: Woodland St for a “Somebody Feed Phil” Favorite

The third tasting is inspired by Phil Rosenthal’s popular show, Somebody Feed Phil. It’s a bite that’s earned its place on the tour route, giving you a taste of local culture and cuisine. This stop offers another 30-minute window to enjoy and learn.

Fourth Stop: A Venue with Live Music and Local Favorites

Here, you might catch some live tunes—Nashville’s musical heritage is woven into its food scene. The dish could be a local classic or a new favorite, and the atmosphere is likely vibrant and welcoming. Spend about half an hour soaking in the scene and sampling a beloved dish.

Final Stop: Fried Catfish Tacos and the Secret Dish

The grand finale is a true highlight, featuring fried catfish tacos and a “Secret Dish” that’s designed to bring smiles. This part of the tour is about celebrating Southern flavors with a twist, perfectly ending your culinary adventure. The 30-minute duration allows time to relax and reflect on what you’ve tasted.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

This tour includes several iconic Nashville bites: Nashville hot chicken, handcrafted crustburger, Memphis-style pulled pork, Tennessee whiskey donuts, and the mysterious secret dish. These selections showcase the city’s culinary diversity.

It’s worth noting that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, nor is gratuity—so plan to tip your guide if you’re pleased with the experience. Since the tour is walk-based, you should be comfortable walking at a moderate pace, and weather might influence your plans.

The Value of the Price

At $335 per person, this tour positions itself as a premium experience. It’s an investment in a curated, intimate journey into Nashville’s food scene, with the benefit of expert guidance and exclusive access. For foodies, the variety and quality of tastings can justify the cost. For others, it’s about the personalized storytelling and insider tips that come with a private guide.

Authentic Feedback from Past Participants

While most reviews are glowing—many rating it a perfect 5 out of 5—there’s always the occasional critique. One guest found the experience disappointing, citing a lack of engagement and quality tastings, which reminds us that no tour is perfect for everyone. Conversely, many rave about the knowledgeable guides, delicious dishes, and the chance to see a different side of Nashville from the typical tourist spots. One reviewer shared, “Joshua was great! We had a wonderful time discovering Nashville food and drinks. The food was really good, and the variety was impressive.”

This balance of opinions highlights that while the experience generally delivers, travelers should have realistic expectations about the tour’s focus on curated, high-quality tastings rather than a large quantity of samples.

Practicalities: What to Expect

The tour lasts about three and a half hours, walking at a leisurely pace through 12 South. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness—nothing too strenuous, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Meeting at the Donut Distillery and ending at Main St, the tour offers flexibility in logistics, especially if you’re staying nearby.

Booking on average 62 days in advance indicates strong interest—so if this experience appeals to you, mark your calendar early. Also, since weather conditions can affect outdoor activities, check the forecast and be prepared for rain or shine.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Nashville food tour offers a thoughtfully curated taste of the city’s culinary scene, delivered with insider knowledge and a personal touch. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to experience Nashville through its flavors, learn stories behind the dishes, and enjoy a relaxed, guided walk that balances food and local culture.

If you’re a dedicated foodie, love discovering local specialties, or simply want a memorable and manageable way to explore Nashville’s culinary side, this tour fits the bill. It’s also perfect for those who prefer private, intimate experiences over group chaos, making it suitable for couples, families, or small groups of friends.

However, if you’re looking for a quick, snack-heavy tour or are on a tight budget, this might not be the best fit. Its focus on quality, personalized service, and authentic local dishes makes it a worthwhile choice for travelers who want more than just a sampling—who want an immersive taste of Nashville.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions? The tour emphasizes local flavors and curated dishes, but it may not accommodate specific dietary restrictions. Contact the provider ahead of time to see if they can accommodate your needs.

How long is the tour? The tour is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including walking and tasting stops, making it a relaxed pace rather than a hurried snack crawl.

Where does the tour start and end? It begins at Donut Distillery on Gallatin Ave and finishes at 975 Main St, both in Nashville’s 12 South neighborhood.

Are gratuities included? No, gratuity is not included, so tipping your guide is appreciated if you enjoy the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, providing a full refund.

Is this a group or private experience? It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially since you’ll be outdoors and walking for over three hours.

In the end, this Nashville private food tour offers a well-balanced, tasty, and personalized way to see and taste the city’s culinary highlights. It’s perfect for those eager to go beyond the usual tourist fare and really get a sense of Nashville’s local flavors. Just come hungry, and ready for some insider stories along the way.