Nashville isn’t just about country music and honky-tonks; it’s a city with a remarkable culinary scene that’s worth exploring. Whether you’re craving spicy hot chicken, smoky barbecue, or inventive bites, Nashville’s food tours offer a delicious way to see the city. We particularly like the Nashville 12South Walking Food Tour for its insider guides and secret tastings, as well as the Downtown Nashville Food Tour for a comprehensive taste of the city’s iconic eateries. These tours not only satisfy your appetite but also give you a true flavor of Nashville’s local culture and history.
Nashville’s food tours come in many flavors—neighborhood strolls through East Nashville or Germantown, downtown adventures along Broadway, or private outings for personalized experiences. Whether you want a quick 3-hour snack crawl or a full afternoon eating fest, there’s something for every type of traveler. The variety of offerings ensures you can pick a tour that suits your budget, time constraints, and culinary interests.
1. Nashville 12South Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
At number 1, this Nashville 12South Walking Food Tour offers an insider look into one of Nashville’s trendiest neighborhoods. For about $99, you’ll spend roughly three hours nibbling your way through local favorites like a breakfast taco, a famous gourmet cookie, and a hearty burger. What makes it stand out is the “secret tasting” that the guide reveals only during the tour, adding an element of surprise.
The small group size means a relaxed pace, plenty of questions, and personalized recommendations. Guests praise guide Scott for his upbeat, friendly manner and knowledge of Nashville’s food scene. One reviewer noted, “Upbeat, knowledgeable, and friendly,” which sums up the experience. This tour is perfect for those who want a guided, authentic taste of Nashville’s culinary vibe without the hassle of research. Expect a mix of savory and sweet, with standout stops at renowned local spots.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a neighborhood-focused tour with insider secrets, great food, and friendly company.
2. Music City Food, Drink, Sightseeing Walking Tour along Broadway
At number 2, this Music City Food, Drink, Sightseeing Walking Tour takes you through the heart of downtown Nashville, mixing historic landmark sightseeing with bites of the city’s best food. For around $108, you’ll walk about 1.2 miles over three hours, sampling signature dishes like Nashville Hot Chicken, smoky barbecue, and sweets from local shops.
What sets this tour apart is the rich blend of architecture, music history, and lively street scenes, often accompanied by some live tunes. Guides like Kristi and Scott receive glowing reviews for their friendly, knowledgeable style—one caller said, “She gave us insider tips we’ll use forever.” It’s an ideal choice for those who want to combine sightseeing with a hearty introduction to Nashville’s culinary and musical culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who enjoy walking, history, and a lively downtown atmosphere with plenty of food and fun stories.
3. East Nashville Walking Food Tour with 5+ Tastings
Number 3 on our list is the East Nashville Walking Food Tour, where you can enjoy a lively taste of one of Nashville’s most artistic districts. For $97, the three-hour tour takes you through vibrant streets filled with local art, music, and food. You’ll sample Memphis-style BBQ at a food hall, try dishes featured on Netflix, and end with a Southern secret dish—think smoky, flavorful, and hearty.
What makes this tour special is its focus on art and music culture, alongside incredible food. Guests love exploring the neighborhood’s hidden gems, with one reviewer praising the “vibrant art scene” and “authentic flavors.” It’s ideal for those who want a deeper dive into East Nashville’s creative and culinary mix.
Bottom Line: Great for culture lovers and foodies who want a full experience of Nashville’s most bohemian neighborhood, with plenty of smoky bites.
4. Downtown Nashville Food Tour With Sidewalk Food Tours
Number 4, the Downtown Nashville Food Tour, introduces you to the culinary delights of The Gulch district. For $99, you’ll visit five different restaurants, sampling everything from fried chicken to donuts in about three hours. The tour emphasizes storytelling—your guide shares local stories and the history behind Nashville’s iconic neighborhoods.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local food stories and intimate small-group atmosphere. Reviewers praise the “friendly, knowledgeable guide” and the generous portions—one notes, “We felt like we had a full lunch by the end.” It’s perfect for those interested in both Nashville’s history and its modern culinary scene.
Bottom Line: Excellent for visitors wanting a mix of history and hearty Nashville food in a small, friendly setting.
5. Nashville Beer, Bourbon, and Barbecue Guided Food & Drink Tour
At number 5, this Nashville Beer, Bourbon, and Barbecue Tour combines Nashville’s love of smoked meats with its craft spirits. For $189, the four-hour small-group experience includes visits to a distillery for whiskey, a brewery for craft beer, and a barbecue joint. It’s a true taste of Southern hospitality, paired with regional spirits and bites.
Guests consistently praise the tour for its variety and insider access. One reviewer mentions, “The whiskey tasting at Far Better Distillery was fantastic,” highlighting the quality of the experience. This tour suits those who want to indulge in Nashville’s drink culture alongside classic BBQ.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food and drink aficionados who want a comprehensive, multi-sensory experience of Nashville’s smoky and spirited side.
6. Nashville Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Number 6 offers the Private Nashville Walking Food Tour, perfect for travelers seeking a personalized experience. For $335, your small group (up to 3 people) explores the 12 South neighborhood for about three and a half hours, tasting pulled pork, hot chicken, and banana pudding, with the added bonus of a “secret dish.”
The private setting means more direct interaction with the guide, all while avoiding large crowds. Reviewers love the “tailored experience” and the variety of tasty bites across different venues. If you’re after a flexible, intimate food adventure, this is your best bet.
Bottom Line: Best suited for small groups or couples wanting a fully customized food tour with insider tips and exclusive tastes.
7. Private Small Group Nashville Food & Sightseeing Tour
Number 7 is the Private Small Group Nashville Food & Sightseeing Tour, costing around $483 for up to three people. This tailored experience combines Nashville’s top sights with enough food for a full meal in about three hours. Traveling in a climate-controlled van, your guide will take you past landmarks like the Parthenon, Music Row, and the Farmer’s Market while stopping at five eateries for tastings.
Reviewers highlight the excellent logistics and the diverse sampling, such as Nashville hot chicken and local barbecue. If you prefer a flexible, private tour with comfortable transportation, this fits the bill.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups seeking a private, comfortable, and comprehensive tasting of Nashville’s culinary and cultural highlights.
8. Downtown Nashville: Food Tour
Number 8 features the Downtown Nashville Food Tour, a three-hour exploration of the city’s core. For $145, you’ll visit five stops with seasonal fare, including a famous “combination candy bar.” The tour emphasizes local stories and the city’s musical roots, making it engaging for history buffs and food lovers alike.
Guests appreciate the excellent storytelling and the variety—one reviewer notes, “The food was fantastic, and the guide’s stories made it even better.” It’s especially well-suited for those wanting a mix of food, culture, and city landmarks.
Bottom Line: An engaging choice for travelers interested in Nashville’s history, music connections, and a solid sampling of downtown eats.
9. Nashville: The Gulch Walking & Tasting Food Tour
At number 9, the Gulch Walking & Tasting Food Tour showcases Nashville’s trendy district with a focus on barbecue, hot chicken, and pastries. Over three hours, you’ll taste local favorites while enjoying murals and murals along the way. The tour is ideal for those wanting to see Nashville’s modern side with authentic bites.
Reviewers mention the “delicious flavors” and the chance to see iconic Nashville murals. It’s best suited for visitors wanting a compact, flavorful overview of The Gulch’s culinary scene.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a quick, tasty look at Nashville’s contemporary food and street art.
10. Germantown Neighborhood Food & Sightseeing Walking Tour
Number 10, the Germantown Neighborhood Food & Sightseeing Tour, combines history and local food in Nashville’s most historic district. For $86, the three-hour tour starts at Bicentennial Mall and visits the Farmer’s Market, sampling BBQ, craft beer, and chocolates.
Guests praise the small-group atmosphere, which ensures personal attention. The tour is excellent for those interested in Victorian architecture, local history, and hearty bites like Gulf seafood and specialty wines.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history and architecture buffs who want to taste authentic Nashville flavors in a compact, engaging walk.
11. Nashville: Taste of Nashville Food and Sightseeing Van Tour
Number 11 offers the Taste of Nashville Food and Sightseeing Van Tour, a three-hour ride that combines culinary stops with city landmarks. For $114, you’ll visit five eateries including hot chicken and barbecue, all while traveling comfortably in a high-roof van.
This is a practical choice for travelers who prefer a guided tour with less walking but still want to sample Nashville’s iconic foods. The inclusion of landmarks like Bicentennial Mall adds a cultural touch.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those who want a quick, comfortable overview of Nashville’s food scene with city sights.
12. Nashville: Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Food Tour
Number 12, the Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Food Tour, combines the city’s smoky barbecue with its thriving craft spirits scene. Over four hours, you’ll visit a distillery, a brewery, and a barbecue joint. Expect plenty of tasting and a lively atmosphere.
Guests mention that the full experience provides a good mix of food and drinks with informative guides. It’s a good pick for those who want a relaxed, social tasting tour.
Bottom Line: Suitable for lovers of barbecue, craft beer, and whiskey looking for a laid-back, engaging experience.
13. Food and Walking Tour in East Nashville
Number 13 is the East Nashville Food & Walking Tour, which takes you through the neighborhood’s eclectic eateries and historic streets. For $145, it covers about three hours exploring Victorian homes, street art, and local spots with outstanding food. You’ll taste chef-owned dishes, local baked goods, and visit breweries.
Reviewers appreciate the local knowledge and the chance to see East Nashville’s offbeat charm. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a mix of cultural sights and diverse food.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a relaxed, hands-on experience of Nashville’s creative side and its food.
14. Nashville Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Number 14, the Nashville Walking Food Tour, is the city’s most popular, with over 2,200 reviews. For $99, in about three and a half hours, you’ll visit 4-5 local eateries in either East Nashville or 12South, sampling Nashville hot chicken, pulled pork, and a “Secret Dish.”
The tour emphasizes small-group intimacy and storytelling. Guests love the variety and the insider knowledge, with one saying, “The food was delicious and the stories made it even better.” It’s perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive, relaxed food crawl.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a well-rounded, fun, and tasty city overview with plenty of local flavor.
15. Food and Music History Tour of Nashville’s Music Row
Number 15 combines Nashville’s culinary and musical legacies. For $145, this three-hour tour visits Music Row, RCA Studio B, and other landmarks, paired with tastings of Southern comfort food. The guide shares stories behind Nashville’s legendary music and food scenes, making it ideal for music fans who also love good food.
Guests highlight the entertaining storytelling and the ability to enjoy local flavors amid Nashville’s musical landmarks. It’s tailored for those who want a multi-sensory experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for music lovers who want a taste of the city’s vibrant sound and flavor combined.
16. Nashville: 12 South Secret Walking Food Tour
Finally, at number 16, this Nashville: 12 South Secret Walking Food Tour is a no-frills, focused taste of the neighborhood. For $105, it’s a one-stop shop for Nashville’s most loved breakfast taco, Southern casserole, and a gourmet cookie at a secret spot. About three hours of walking and eating make this a straightforward yet delicious experience.
Reviewers love the authentic local flavors and the opportunity to learn about Nashville’s culinary influences, making it a perfect quick immersion into 12 South.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a focused, flavorful experience with a bit of local secret magic.
$105 per person
How to Choose the Right Nashville Food Tour
When selecting a food tour, consider your interests, timing, and budget. Want a neighborhood vibe? The East Nashville Walking Food Tour or the 12 South Secret Walking Food Tour offer deep dives into local neighborhoods. Prefer a city-wide overview? The Downtown Nashville Food Tour or the Gulch walking tour are excellent choices. For a personalized experience, the Private Nashville Food Tour makes sense if you’re traveling as a small group or couple.
Budget-wise, tours range from around $86 to nearly $500 for private options. Think about how much food you want—some tours include enough for a full meal, while others are lighter bites. Time-wise, most last about three hours, but private or longer tours offer more flexibility.
Booking early is advised, especially for private tours or popular experiences, to lock in your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
To sum it up, Nashville’s food scene is as diverse as its music. Whether you’re after a neighborhood stroll with secret tastings, a downtown city crawl, or a private culinary adventure, there’s a tour tailored to you. For first-timers or those craving a deep dive into Nashville’s flavors, options like the Nashville 12South Walking Food Tour or Downtown Nashville Food Tour are excellent. For those wanting a personalized touch, the private tour keeps it intimate and flexible. With so many options, don’t wait too long—book early to secure your spot and ensure a memorable Nashville culinary experience.