Savannah isn’t just about historic squares and moss-draped oaks; it’s also a city where the food scene shines. Whether you’re craving a relaxing waterfront meal or an interactive cooking class, Savannah offers a variety of lunch experiences that showcase its culinary charm. We especially like the Savannah: Sightseeing Lunch Cruise, which combines a scenic boat ride with a delicious Southern buffet, and the True South Lunch Tour, which blends walking and tasting for a true flavor of the city. These tours give you a taste of local cuisine intertwined with the city’s unique character, making them perfect for those who want to eat well while exploring.
For travelers interested in hands-on fun, the Hands-on Mojito Class with Taco Lunch at Speakeasy offers a lively mix of bartending, Latin bites, and a cool speakeasy vibe. And if you prefer a more relaxed, culinary-focused walk, the True South Lunch Food Tour combines sightseeing with sampling iconic dishes across Savannah’s historic streets. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each experience to help you pick the perfect lunch outing for your trip.
1. Savannah: Sightseeing Lunch Cruise
This Savannah: Sightseeing Lunch Cruise has earned a solid 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 650 reviews, and it’s easy to see why. For $63 per person, you get a two-hour cruise down the picturesque Savannah River with a focus on relaxation and local storytelling. The highlight is the Southern-style buffet, featuring classic dishes that showcase the region’s flavors—think fried chicken, seasoned greens, and sweet tea.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of scenic water views with engaging commentary from the captain. As you drift past historic ships and waterfront mansions, you’ll hear stories about Savannah’s past and present, making the experience both tasty and educational. It’s a good choice if you want a laid-back way to enjoy Savannah’s waterfront while indulging in a hearty, traditional meal. The cruise’s balance of comfort, culture, and cuisine makes it a top pick for visitors wanting a relaxing lunch with a view.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely ride with good food and a touch of local storytelling, all in a two-hour window.
2. True South Lunch Tour
The True South Lunch Tour offers a more immersive experience, rated at a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 37 reviews. Priced at $99.99 per person and lasting about 3.5 hours, this tour combines walking, eating, and storytelling. Meeting at the Rousakis Riverfront Plaza, your guide will lead you through Savannah’s historic district, stopping at several restaurants to sample iconic Southern dishes like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and beignets.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on connectivity between food, culture, and history. Your guide isn’t just about the bites—they share stories about Savannah’s architecture, squares, and neighborhoods. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, and reviews rave about the personable guides, especially noting how each restaurant offers unique Southern dishes. Plus, one reviewer happily noted, “The food was delicious, and the restaurants very good,” making it clear this tour satisfies both the palate and curiosity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food lovers who want to sample Savannah’s culinary staples while learning about its past, all in a relaxed, walk-and-talk format.
3. Hands-on Mojito Class with Taco Lunch at Speakeasy
For about $54, this Hands-on Mojito Class with Taco Lunch at Speakeasy offers a lively, interactive break from traditional dining. Located in La Aparicion, Savannah’s Latin American speakeasy, this 1-hour-15-minute experience begins with a welcome cocktail and a delicious Latin Chicks taco lunch. The real highlight is learning how to craft the perfect mojito—under the guidance of a knowledgeable bartender who shares mixology techniques and fun stories.
Guests rave about the fun atmosphere and the personable guides. Ian, the bartender, is praised for being hilarious and skilled — making the experience feel both educational and entertaining. The small-group setting emphasizes personal attention, and the Latin-inspired menu adds a flavorful twist to your lunch. This tour suits those looking for a casual, memorable activity that combines drinks, bites, and craft skills in a cool, hidden bar.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or friends seeking a fun, relaxed activity with tasty tacos and a chance to learn a new skill.
4. True South Lunch Food Tour
The True South Lunch Food Tour ranks at #4 on our list thanks to its comprehensive approach to Savannah’s flavors. It costs $125 per person and lasts about 3.5 hours, making it a longer, in-depth exploration. This tour emphasizes walking through Savannah’s historic neighborhoods, stopping at several restaurants to enjoy enough food for a full meal. It includes one alcoholic beverage (or mocktail) and covers top landmarks and city squares, with entertaining stories about Savannah’s quirks and culture.
What makes this tour appealing is its focus on local cuisine and storytelling, offering insights into how Savannah’s history influences its food. Guests often leave feeling more confident navigating the city’s food scene, thanks to the knowledgeable guides. The reviews are positive, highlighting how the tour combines historical context with culinary delights. Although it’s slightly pricier, the extensive food and cultural insights make it a value for those who want a comprehensive experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a hearty, well-rounded culinary adventure.
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience in Savannah
Picking the best lunch experience depends on what kind of day you want to have. If you’re after a relaxing, scenic ride with a tasty buffet, the Savannah: Sightseeing Lunch Cruise is ideal. For a deeper dive into Savannah’s food and history, the True South Lunch Tour offers a walking, tasting journey through the city’s iconic dishes. If you’re looking for a fun, hands-on activity, the Mojito Class combines mixology with Latin American cuisine, perfect for a casual afternoon. Finally, if you want a longer, more comprehensive culinary exploration, the True South Lunch Food Tour offers the most extensive tasting and sightseeing.
Consider your budget, interest in walking versus relaxing, and whether you prefer a structured tour or a more interactive experience. Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, as these popular tours fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Savannah offers a range of fantastic lunch experiences, from scenic river cruises to immersive culinary walks and lively cocktail classes. For a relaxed waterfront meal, the Sightseeing Lunch Cruise delivers scenic views and hearty Southern fare. If you want to connect with Savannah’s food and culture, the True South Lunch Tour offers a personable, in-depth taste of the city’s signature dishes. For something a bit different, the Mojito Class combines drinks, bites, and fun, making it perfect for small groups or couples. And for those eager to combine sightseeing with a full culinary exploration, the True South Lunch Food Tour is hard to beat.
Whatever your choice, Savannah’s vibrant food scene and warm hospitality will leave you with memorable flavors and stories. Be sure to book early, plan around your interests and schedule, and get ready for some of the best lunches the South has to offer.