Nashville: 12 South Secret Walking Food Tour

Thinking about exploring Nashville’s vibrant food scene without the fuss? This 12 South Secret Walking Food Tour might just be your ticket. It promises a taste of local favorites, a bit of walking, and a chance to learn more about Nashville’s culinary influences—all in just three hours. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but from what’s on offer, it looks like a friendly, flavorful way to spend an afternoon.

What caught our eye? First, the variety of tastings — from breakfast tacos to Southern classics, you’re promised a good mix of flavors. Second, the local guide’s knowledge, which can really elevate the experience, giving you insights into the district’s history and food culture. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the price point at $105 per person, which could be a stretch for some, especially since it’s a group walking tour with no included transportation. This tour seems best suited for travelers who love food, enjoy walking, and want an insider’s take on Nashville’s lively 12 South neighborhood.

Key Points

• Taste a variety of Nashville specialties, from breakfast tacos to Southern comfort food.
• Learn about local culinary influences from a knowledgeable guide.
• Enjoy a manageable 3-hour walking experience that’s perfect for a half-day activity.
• End with a secret spot’s gourmet cookie, adding to the feeling of discovering hidden gems.
• No transportation needed, just meet at the designated spot.
• Limited info on dietary accommodations, so check ahead if you have special needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the 12 South Secret Walking Food Tour?

If you’re into exploring neighborhoods through their food, this guided tour offers a relaxed, tasty way to get to know Nashville’s 12 South district. The focus isn’t just on eating but also on understanding what makes Nashville’s culinary scene unique. It’s a fairly compact experience—just three hours—making it easy to slot into a busy Nashville itinerary.

The tour operates mainly in the mornings, which is ideal if you’re a breakfast or brunch person. You’ll meet your guide outside Ladybird Taco, easily recognizable with an orange umbrella, ready to lead you through the district’s culinary highlights.

The Itinerary Breakdown

From the start, you get a taste of Nashville’s breakfast scene with a locally renowned breakfast taco. This is a popular spot, and honestly, starting with a breakfast taco sets a relaxed tone—simple, satisfying, and full of local flavor. The flaky pastry that follows gives a sweet contrast, making for a nice variety early on.

Next, you’ll move on to a hearty club sandwich with a Southern twist, paired with crunchy fried dill pickles. This pairing is classic Southern comfort, elevated just enough to feel special. The guide will likely tell you about the restaurant’s local reputation, which adds context to your eating experience.

One of the tour’s standout moments is tasting Southern hot pork and a well-loved grits casserole. These dishes are authentic Southern staples, and if the reviews are anything to go by, they’re prepared with a level of care that makes them memorable. This stop is a clear highlight—those flavors are what make Southern cuisine so comforting and appealing.

The tour wraps up with a secret gourmet cookie at a hidden spot—an unexpected end that leaves you with a sweet reminder of Nashville’s culinary secrets. The fact that it’s kept under wraps by a famous hotel adds a bit of intrigue and exclusivity.

What You Can Expect From the Experience

Walking through 12 South, you’ll get a peek into Nashville’s lively neighborhood, but the main focus is on food tastings and casual conversation with your guide. The guide’s local knowledge is a plus: they help you understand the influences behind each dish and the significance of each spot.

The tastings are thoughtfully curated, meaning you aren’t just snacking aimlessly but sampling dishes that are beloved locally. The variety is designed to give a sense of Nashville’s culinary diversity — from breakfast to hearty Southern fare, ending with something sweet.

Because there are no included hotel pick-ups or drops-off, you’ll want to plan your meeting point at Ladybird Taco. The tour’s duration, about three hours, makes it accessible and not overly demanding, ideal for those who want a relaxed pace without rushing.

The Food and Drinks

The food offerings seem well-chosen, with an emphasis on local favorites. Starting with Nashville’s iconic breakfast taco is a smart move — it’s simple but flavorful, and a good way to get your taste buds going.

The fried pickles and club sandwich bring a fun crunch and satisfying richness, perfect for a late-morning or early afternoon snack. The Southern hot pork and grits casserole stand out as authentic regional dishes, offering a hearty, flavorful experience that showcases Nashville’s comfort food roots.

The tour’s finale, the secret gourmet cookie, offers a sweet, decadent ending. It’s a small, thoughtful touch that leaves a lasting impression, especially as the secret is kept by a famous hotel—adding a sense of exclusivity and discovery.

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The Price and Value

At $105 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest activity in Nashville, but it does include all the food and drinks along the way, plus a guide. This means you’re paying for a curated experience that combines food, local insights, and some walking. If you’re into foodie adventures and want to sample authentic Nashville dishes without the hassle of planning, it could be worth it.

A reviewer from the UK praised the “variety of food” and the guide’s local knowledge, calling the experience “really friendly.” This suggests a warm, engaging atmosphere that justifies the cost for some travelers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for food lovers who want to taste a slice of Nashville’s culinary scene and learn about local influences. It’s also great if you enjoy walking, small-group tours, and discovering secret spots. Because it’s only three hours, it suits those with limited time but who want a meaningful, relaxed taste of Nashville.

Travelers who appreciate authentic, well-prepared Southern dishes will find this tour especially rewarding. If you’re traveling with people who like a good mix of food and local culture, this tour offers a friendly, accessible way to dive into Nashville’s neighborhood vibe.

Final Thoughts

This 12 South Secret Walking Food Tour offers a well-rounded, flavorful peek into Nashville’s vibrant dining scene. The combination of beloved local dishes, a knowledgeable guide, and the sense of discovery—especially with that secret cookie—makes it a compelling choice for foodies.

While $105 might seem steep for a three-hour tour, you’re paying for more than just the food—you’re investing in a guided experience that’s both fun and informative. The tastings are thoughtfully selected, showcasing Nashville’s comfort foods and culinary influences.

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic way to experience Nashville’s 12 South district—without the hassle of planning or navigating on your own—this tour could be just what you need. It’s best suited for those who want to indulge in local flavors and learn a bit about Nashville’s food scene in a friendly, casual setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
You might find some options, but since the tour features specific Southern dishes like hot pork and fried pickles, it’s best to contact the provider beforehand to see if dietary needs can be accommodated.

How long does the tour take?
It lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable activity in a Nashville morning or early afternoon.

Where do I meet the guide?
In front of Ladybird Taco, where your guide will be holding an orange umbrella.

Are drinks included?
The tour includes food and drink tastings, but specific beverages aren’t detailed, so you might want to ask if you’re interested in additional drinks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour good for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the relaxed pace and small-group atmosphere could work for older children with an interest in food. Check with the provider if you have specific needs.

Is there any transportation included?
No, there’s no transportation—just meet at the designated spot and walk through the neighborhood.

What about dietary restrictions?
It’s recommended to contact the activity provider before booking to confirm if certain dietary needs can be accommodated.

In all, this tour is about enjoying Nashville’s flavors in a friendly, no-pressure environment. If you’re after authentic tastes, local stories, and a bit of discovery, it’s worth considering—just be ready for some hearty Southern eats.

You can check availability for your dates here: