Nashville Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

If you’re considering diving into Nashville’s vibrant culinary scene, this private walking food tour offered by Secret Food Tours might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally experienced it, the consistently high ratings and positive reviews suggest it’s a solid choice for anyone eager to taste the city’s best bites with a knowledgeable guide.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines delicious food with local insights—a combo that transforms a simple meal into a memorable adventure. Plus, the tour’s private setting means you get plenty of attention from your guide and the chance to ask all those burning questions about Nashville’s food culture.

A potential consideration? The tour lasts about three and a half hours and involves walking through the 12 South neighborhood, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet and with a moderate physical activity level. And the price tag of $335 per person isn’t exactly cheap, but when you think about the variety of tastings and insider tips, many would say it’s worth the splurge.

This tour is perfect for food lovers, curious travelers wanting an authentic look at Nashville beyond the typical tourist spots, or anyone who enjoys guided experiences that combine culture and cuisine. If that sounds like your kind of outing, read on for a detailed look at what’s in store.

Key Points

• In-Depth Food Experience: Taste a variety of local Nashville dishes, including hot chicken, barbecue, and secret dishes.
• Expert Guidance: Your private guide provides insider tips about Nashville’s food scene and neighborhood.
• Convenient and Flexible: The tour offers a relaxed pace, lasting around 3.5 hours, with plenty of opportunities for questions.
• Exclusive Access: As a private tour, it caters entirely to your group, making it more personalized.
• Neighborhood Focus: The 12 South area is known as Nashville’s foodie neighborhood, giving you a taste of local life.
• High Satisfaction: With an average rating of 5.0 from 62 reviews, most guests leave happy — though some mention uneven tastings.

An Honest Look at the Tour Itinerary

This private food tour takes you through Nashville’s lively 12 South neighborhood, a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The itinerary is carefully curated to introduce you to some of the city’s most iconic and unique food offerings. Let’s break down what you can expect at each stop:

Start at Donut Distillery on Gallatin Ave

Your adventure kicks off with a sweet treat that’s as smooth as Tennessee whiskey—probably a decadent donut that sets the tone for the day. It’s a relaxed introduction where you get your first taste of Nashville’s inventive food scene. From the reviews, we know guests appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable guides here, making the initial moments inviting.

Memphis-Style BBQ on Main Street

Next, you’ll move to a spot where a Memphis-style West Tennessee BBQ sandwich is served up. If you love smoky, tender meats, this is likely to be a highlight. One reviewer raved about the quality and remembered it as a memorable part of the tour. The focus on barbecue meats here is a nod to Nashville and the South’s BBQ heritage, giving you an authentic experience.

The ‘Phil Rosenthal’ Bite on Woodland Street

Moving along, your guide takes you to a spot Phil Rosenthal of “Somebody Feed Phil” fame enjoyed, hinting at a dish that’s both popular and locally loved. The inclusion of this stop shows how the tour balances well-known favorites with hidden gems. Guests appreciate the insider tips, often learning about Nashville’s food scenes from passionate guides.

Live Music and Local Classics

One of the stops might feature some live music—an added bonus that’s very Nashville. Imagine enjoying a hearty, classic dish while soaking in local tunes. It’s this blend of great food and culture that guests tell us makes the tour special. You’re not just eating; you’re experiencing Nashville’s vibrant neighborhood vibe.

Final Stop with Secret Dishes

The last tasting is a true highlight—fried catfish tacos paired with the tour’s “Secret Dish,” which is designed to put a smile on your face. The menu here showcases a southern twist, adding a bit of surprise and local flavor. Guests leave saying that these final bites are memorable and satisfying.

What’s Included and What To Expect

You get a curated selection of Nashville favorites, including:

• Nashville Hot Chicken, a spicy, crispy classic.
• Handcrafted Crustburger, offering a satisfying bite.
• Secret Dish, a surprise that adds an element of fun.
• Memphis-style Pulled Pork Sandwich, showcasing regional barbecue.
• Tennessee Whiskey Glazed Donuts, sweet and indulgent.

All tastings are carefully selected to give you variety and a true taste of Nashville. Plus, the tour’s private nature means you’re free to ask questions, get personalized recommendations, and explore at your own pace.

How Does the Experience Feel?

Guests consistently mention the knowledgeable guides and the delicious food as highlights. One reviewer said, “Joshua was great!!! We had a great time discovering Nashville food and beverages. The food was really good. We were able to try a variety of food and drinks. All was great! Totally recommend!!”

The pace is relaxed but engaging, making it suitable for most people with moderate physical fitness. The tour is designed to be fun and educational, providing context about Nashville’s culinary culture along the way.

Pricing and Value

At $335 per person, this tour isn’t the most budget-friendly option, but it offers a comprehensive, curated experience with private guiding. When you consider the variety of tastings, insider tips, and the personalized nature, many guests find it worthwhile. It’s a way to indulge in Nashville’s flavors while learning about the city from an expert.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour is ideal if you’re looking for a guided tasting adventure rather than just a self-led exploration. It suits travelers who enjoy trying new foods, learning local stories, and having a dedicated guide to answer questions. It’s also great for groups wanting a private, intimate experience.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer independent wandering, this might not be the best fit. And if you or your group have specific dietary restrictions, you’ll want to check whether the tour can accommodate those beforehand.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this private Nashville food tour offers a well-rounded taste of the city’s culinary scene, paired with local insights from a knowledgeable guide. The variety of dishes reflects Nashville’s diverse flavors—from spicy hot chicken and smoky barbecue to secret dishes that keep things interesting.

The tour’s private setting makes it a personalized experience, perfect for those wanting an immersive, bite-sized adventure. If you’re after a relaxed, fun, and tasty exploration that combines culture and cuisine, this tour checks a lot of boxes.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy guided food experiences, don’t mind walking, and want to learn about Nashville’s neighborhood life through its food. While it’s a bit on the pricier side, many find the quality, insider tips, and memorable bites make it a worthwhile splurge.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is mainly designed for adults, it doesn’t specifically mention restrictions for children. Since it involves walking and eating, it should be fine for families with kids who enjoy food and are comfortable with moderate physical activity.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the tastings without feeling rushed.

Are vegetarian or other dietary restrictions accepted?
The tour emphasizes creating a well-balanced experience and mentions that dietary restrictions may be limited. It’s best to contact the provider beforehand to see if they can accommodate specific needs.

What’s included in the price?
You get tastings of Nashville hot chicken, a handcrafted crustburger, a secret dish, Memphis-style pulled pork sandwich, and Tennessee whiskey glazed donuts. No hotel pickup or gratuities are included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Donut Distillery on Gallatin Ave and ends across the street from the starting point at Hunters Station on Main Street.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

Whether you’re a seasoned food lover or just curious about Nashville’s flavors, this private tour offers a tasty, intimate way to get to know the city. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your appetite—you’re in for some good eats and local stories.