Chattanooga might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of food tourism, but it’s a city that takes its culinary scene seriously. With a lively mix of local flavors, international influences, and historic spots, Chattanooga offers a rich tasting experience that can satisfy just about any foodie. I’ve personally enjoyed the Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour because it combines the city’s best eateries—featuring everything from gastropubs to rooftop Argentinean dishes—in a small-group setting. The tour’s focus on local cuisine and its intimate size make it a standout.
Chattanooga’s food tours aren’t just about tasting; they’re about understanding the city’s cultural identity through its flavors. Whether you’re interested in learning about Chattanooga’s historic neighborhoods, sampling Southern classics, or exploring international cuisines, there’s an option tailored for you. With options that range from walking city tours to wine and whiskey tastings, this list highlights the most engaging ways to eat your way through Chattanooga. Here’s a detailed look at each of the top tours.
1. Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour
At number one, the Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour impresses with its 5-star rating from 267 reviews and its reputation for offering an inside look at Tennessee’s vibrant food scene. For $139, you’ll spend roughly 3 hours exploring up to four carefully selected dining spots in the heart of the city. What’s especially appealing is the small-group format, limited to just 8 participants, ensuring personal attention and a more relaxed experience.
This tour covers notable stops like the Hotel Indigo Chattanooga, home to Wanderer, a restaurant that’s been a local fixture with American gastropub cuisine. The menu is curated by Chef Erin, who often creates off-menu surprises. From there, you’ll visit Old Gilman Grill, a French-inspired spot with modern American flair, and Paloma Bar de Tapas, where you can enjoy roof-top Argentinean dishes with views over the Westin Hotel. The tour culminates at Alimentari Cucina e Bar, which has expanded beautifully since joining the Westin. Reviewers rave about the food quality, the knowledgeable guide, and the chance to learn local history alongside the tastings. Bottom line: this tour is ideal for those wanting a comprehensive downtown experience with a mix of international and Southern flavors.
2. Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga
Coming in at number two, the Historic Southside Food Tour offers a deeper dive into Chattanooga’s historic neighborhoods. Rated 5 stars from 24 reviews, this 3-hour tour costs $129 and emphasizes learning about the area’s past while eating. It’s perfect if you want a more story-driven experience.
The tour includes stops like Taqueria Jalisco, which evolved from a food truck into a top Mexican restaurant, and Slick’s Burgers, made from an Airstream camper—something you won’t see on every food tour. You’ll also visit Chattanooga’s renowned micro distillery, Gate 11, and experience an elite USDA butchery, Main Street Meats, with over 350 bourbon options. The tour emphasizes local businesses and the history behind each location, so it’s ideal if your curiosity extends beyond just good food. Reviews mention the friendly guides and how much they appreciated the authenticity of each stop. Bottom line: a great pick for lovers of both history and craft food.
3. ChattaBrunch Food Tour
Number three is the ChattaBrunch Food Tour, which focuses on Southside Chattanooga with a brunch-themed approach. Priced at $119 and rated 4.5 from 74 reviews, this 3-hour walk takes you to four restaurants where you meet owners and taste small plates that showcase local flavors.
Highlights include Adelle’s Créperie, known for its authentic crepes and art, and Bleu Fox Cheese Shop, where cheese and beer are paired perfectly. You’ll also visit the H*Art Gallery and the private Common House, a social club with farm-sourced entrees. This tour is especially suited for those who want a relaxed, social experience with a focus on food and community. Many reviews praise the friendly guides and the quality of the dishes. It’s a great way to combine local culture with delicious bites. Bottom line: perfect for brunch lovers and those interested in Chattanooga’s creative side.
4. Chattanooga: ChattaBrunch Food Tour
At number four, the Chattabrunch Food Tour is a compact, 3-hour experience that emphasizes sampling Chattanooga’s food in a lively neighborhood. Priced at $119 and with 2 reviews, it offers a deep look into Southside’s culinary scene with four stops where you meet restaurant owners and try tapas-style dishes.
What makes this tour distinct is its focus on local proprietors, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at small businesses. The tour includes visits to restaurants with diverse flavors, from savory to sweet, with an optional cocktail pairing. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a more intimate, less touristy experience that combines food, history, and local stories. Reviews commend the friendly guide and the chance to support local entrepreneurs firsthand. Bottom line: great for those who enjoy community-focused food experiences.
5. Chattanooga Southern Food and Wine or Whiskey Tour with Tastings
Number five is a full-day, 5-hour journey into Southern flavors with wine and whiskey tasting. For $299.99 per person, this tour explores iconic Chattanooga spots like Georgia Winery, Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery, and Nick & Norman’s restaurant. It’s a luxurious, immersive option for those wanting to combine culinary delights with regional beverages.
The tour starts at Georgia Winery with a guided tour, five tastings, and a bottle of wine. Then you visit Chattanooga’s renowned whiskey distillery, experiencing the craft of Tennessee spirits. The final stop at Nick & Norman’s features a hearty dinner created by Norman Reedus of The Walking Dead. The tour’s standout is the comprehensive nature—covering wine, whiskey, and Southern cuisine—making it suited for serious food and drink lovers. Reviews mention the value for its extensive experience and the knowledgeable guides. Be aware that this is a longer, more expensive option, best suited for those with a particular interest in regional beverages. Bottom line: a rich, full-flavored experience for connoisseurs.
6. Chattanooga: Downtown Food Tour with 3-4 Tastings
Number six, the Downtown Food Tour, offers a classic city experience. With a price of $139 and an average rating of 4.8/5, this 3-hour tour takes you to four curated locations in the city’s core.
What sets this tour apart is its inclusion of transportation, making it easier to cover multiple spots without tiring. It’s rated highly for its variety of food and the opportunity to explore local eateries with a small group. This tour is best if you want a comprehensive downtown taste with a touch of convenience. The company is recognized as a Top 10 Food Tour Company, adding credibility. Reviewers love the well-organized aspect and the chance to sample different cuisines in a manageable timeframe. Bottom line: an excellent choice for visitors wanting a balanced, city-wide food experience.
7. Chattanooga: Southside Food Tour with Lunch
Finally, number seven is a more extended Southside experience, offering lunch and a more relaxed pace. With a price of $129, it’s the only tour rated at 5 stars from a single review, highlighting its personalized nature. The tour explores Southside’s history and culinary scene, with visits to local establishments including a distillery, plus mocktail and kombucha tastings.
This tour is ideal if you’re interested in combining historical insights with food sampling in an area known for its creative culinary scene. It’s suited for travelers wanting a more leisurely pace and personalized storytelling. The review mentions how much they appreciated the local guide’s knowledge and the variety of food and drink options. Bottom line: an excellent pick for those who value in-depth local stories paired with good food.
$129 per person
How to Choose the Best Food Tour in Chattanooga
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and culinary interests. If you want a comprehensive downtown experience, the Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour offers excellent value for a 3-hour guided walk. For those interested in local history and craft beverages, the Southside Food Tour with Lunch combines storytelling and food in a relaxed setting.
If your focus is on regional flavors and Southern traditions, the Southern Food and Whiskey Tour offers a full-day journey, perfect for connoisseurs. For supporting small businesses and exploring hidden neighborhood gems, both the Historic Southside Food Tour and ChattaBrunch provide authentic, story-rich experiences.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons. Consider group size and special dietary needs when choosing a tour, and don’t be shy about asking guides for more local stories or dish recommendations.
Chattanooga’s diverse food scene offers something for all—from historic neighborhoods and local breweries to vibrant downtown eateries. Whether you want a quick city taste or a full-day culinary adventure, these tours will help you experience Chattanooga’s flavors firsthand. For a balanced mix of local culture and delicious food, I recommend starting with the Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour or the Southside Food Tour with Lunch. Whichever you pick, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these flavorful experiences.