True South Lunch Tour

True South Lunch Tour: A Taste of Savannah’s Soul

If you’re looking for a way to truly connect with Savannah beyond its pretty squares and moss-draped trees, the True South Lunch Tour offers a flavorful journey through the city’s culinary and cultural landscape. This small-group experience, run by Flavors Food Tours, promises not just a delicious sampling of classic southern fare but also insights into Savannah’s history and traditions, all wrapped up in a friendly, walk-and-eat format.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authenticity and intimacy. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making each stop feel like visiting a local friend’s favorite restaurant. Plus, the combination of delicious food and engaging storytelling makes it a perfect way to start a day in Savannah. That said, keep in mind that at about 2 miles of walking, it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of physical fitness. If you’re after a more relaxed experience or have mobility concerns, this is something to consider.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to taste the real Lowcountry while learning about its history, culture, and architecture. Food lovers, curious history buffs, or anyone who enjoys a good story paired with great eats will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic Southern Cuisine in a small, intimate group setting
• Guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides with local insights
• Combines history, culture, and architecture with food tastings
• Visits up to five notable eateries, including a sit-down dessert stop
• Includes an alcoholic drink in the price, enhancing the local experience
• Ideal for travelers who want a personal, local flavor experience

An In-Depth Look at the True South Lunch Tour

The Beginning: Coffee and Beignets at the Riverfront

The tour kicks off in Savannah’s Historic District, at Rousakis Riverfront Plaza, close to Huey’s restaurant. Here, you’ll meet your guide, easily spotted by their cheerful peach-colored shirt. The first treat is a classic Southern breakfast—beignets and coffee, offering a warm, soft, powdered sugar-dusted bite that immediately sets a friendly, relaxed tone.

From the reviews, it’s clear that this opening moment is a crowd favorite. Madeline_K from April 2024 said, “Such a fun tour — each restaurant offered unique southern dishes.” This initial stop introduces not just the food but also a sense of the local atmosphere, as savannah’s riverfront buzzes with energy.

Walking Through Savannah’s Historic District

After your sweet start, the group sets out on a 2-mile walk through Savannah’s historic streets. This part of the experience is more than just getting from A to B; it’s about soaking in the sights, sounds, and stories behind the buildings and squares. Your guide will weave in tales of Savannah’s past, connecting architecture and tradition to the dishes you’ll enjoy later.

Sampling Iconic Southern Dishes

The core of the tour is visiting up to five carefully selected eateries, each representing a facet of Lowcountry cuisine. The reviews highlight the variety and quality of the food:

• Shrimp ‘n Grits: A staple of southern comfort food, creamy, hearty, and full of flavor. Sandra_O commented, “The food was delicious, and the restaurants were very good.”
• Fried Green Tomatoes: A crispy, tangy appetizer that’s as Southern as it gets.
• She-Crab Soup: Rich, creamy, and full of seafood flavor, this dish offers a taste of the coast.
• Beignets: Light, fluffy, and dusted with powdered sugar, perfect for starting or ending your meal.
• Dessert: The tour concludes with a classic sit-down sweet treat, rounding out the culinary experience.

Each stop is carefully curated to give a representative sample of Southern and Lowcountry cuisine, paired with stories about its origins and significance.

The Atmosphere and Guides

Reviews consistently praise the guides—Leslie and Pamela in particular—for their warm, personable approach and wealth of knowledge. Madeline_K said, “Our host, Pamela, was very personable and gave us a good overview of each restaurant and square.” This personal touch elevates the experience from mere tasting to an engaging cultural conversation.

The Beverages: A Local Touch

Included in the tour is an alcoholic drink at one or more stops, adding a layer of local flavor and making the experience feel more authentic. Whether it’s a sweet tea cocktail or a local brew, it’s a thoughtful inclusion that complements the food.

Practical Details and Value

Priced at $99.99 per person, the tour offers a lot of value for those wanting an authentic, guided culinary experience. It’s about 3 hours and 30 minutes long, which means you get a substantial amount of food and information without feeling rushed. Booking 28 days in advance suggests it’s popular, so plan ahead.

The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness—steady walking, some standing, but not overly strenuous. The small group size (up to 10 travelers) ensures a more personal experience, with ample opportunity for questions and interaction.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes the True South Lunch Tour particularly compelling is its blend of culture, history, and food. Unlike generic food tours, this experience emphasizes the stories behind every dish and the city itself. The guides are lauded for their personable approach, making every participant feel like a local friend rather than just a tourist.

The quality of the eateries and the authenticity of the dishes are evident from reviews. The food offerings aren’t just touristy clichés; they’re genuine representations of Savannah’s culinary traditions. Plus, the inclusion of a sit-down dessert makes the experience feel complete and satisfying.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers eager to taste real southern dishes, history buffs interested in the stories behind the food and architecture, and travelers who appreciate small-group, personalized tours. It’s a great way to start a day in Savannah, setting the tone with friendly chat, good eats, and local insights. If you’re traveling with someone who prefers not to walk long distances, you might want to confirm the walking pace beforehand.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a genuinely local experience in Savannah, the True South Lunch Tour offers a delightful mix of tasty food, cultural stories, and friendly guides. It’s a thoroughly enjoyable way to get to know the city’s culinary roots while strolling through one of America’s most charming historic districts. The small-group setting ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, making this tour both personal and memorable.

Priced reasonably for the richness of experience and the quality of food, it’s a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting to eat their way through Savannah’s soul. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for an engaging introduction to the city, this tour promises a satisfying taste of the South.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy the food and absorb the atmosphere.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, the tour involves walking about 2 miles through the historic district, so moderate fitness is recommended.

What is included in the price?
The price covers food at up to five eateries, an alcoholic drink, and the guided experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, ensuring flexibility in your schedule.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the moderate walking and adult-oriented food and drinks suggest it’s best suited for older children or teens.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, with an average booking window of 28 days, it’s wise to reserve ahead to secure your spot.

In summary, the True South Lunch Tour is a well-balanced, authentic experience that combines Savannah’s delicious cuisine, friendly guides, and local stories. It’s ideal for those who want to taste the city from the inside out, making it a highlight of any visit to this charming Southern city.