Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour

Exploring Atlanta’s history and food scene has never been more engaging than on the Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour. For around $95, you’ll spend approximately two and a half hours strolling through the vibrant Grant Park neighborhood, sampling Southern dishes, and learning about the city’s past—and its present—alongside a knowledgeable guide. Led by friendly local experts, this small-group experience promises a blend of tasty bites, fascinating history, and scenic views, making it a compelling choice for curious travelers.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the quality of the food tastings—which are more substantial than typical samples—and the mix of history and local insights shared by guides like Courtney and Leigh. Their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge really elevate the experience. The stops at renowned eateries like Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House and the Little Tart Bakeshop add a satisfying culinary dimension.

A possible consideration is the walking involved—about 1.2 miles on uneven sidewalks—so comfortable shoes are essential. Also, since the tour operates rain or shine, it’s wise to dress for the weather, especially if you’re visiting during unpredictable months.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy authentic local flavors combined with cultural stories. Food lovers, history buffs, and those interested in discovering Atlanta’s off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods will find plenty to love here, especially given the positive reviews praising the guides’ storytelling and the quality of the food.

Key Points

Authentic Southern Cuisine: Tasting dishes like shrimp and grits, fried catfish, and pork belly toast provides genuine insight into Atlanta’s culinary roots.
Historical Context: The guide shares engaging stories about Oakland Cemetery and Victorian homes, making history come alive.
Scenic Neighborhood: Walking through Grant Park offers views of Victorian architecture and lush streets that make the tour more than just a food tasting.
Small Group Atmosphere: Intimate tours ensure personalized attention and a friendly environment for questions.
Delicious and Generous Tastings: Expect enough food for a full meal, with plenty of time to savor and chat.
Convenient Location: Meeting point across from Oakland Cemetery is accessible by car and public transit, with street parking nearby.

A Detailed Look at the Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour

Starting Point at Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House

Our journey begins outside Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House, a beloved seafood spot with a patio that offers a striking view of Oakland Cemetery and the city skyline. Meeting the guide here, usually a friendly local like Courtney or Leigh, sets a relaxed tone. The initial tasting of shrimp and grits along with fried catfish and okra is a hearty welcome. Guests often remark that the portions are surprisingly generous—many say it’s more than enough for a lunch, and some find themselves too full to move afterward, as one reviewer happily noted.

This first stop provides a perfect introduction to Atlanta’s seafood traditions, especially in the South, where fresh catch and bold flavors define the cuisine. The outdoor patio, with its historic views, makes for an inviting start, and the casual setting encourages conversation and curiosity about Atlanta’s food scene.

Exploring Victorian Homes and Neighborhood Charm

From the restaurant, the tour meanders through Grant Park, showcasing some of the most impressive Victorian-era homes in Atlanta. These stately houses set the scene for understanding the city’s late 19th-century growth. The guide shares stories about early residents and how Atlanta evolved economically, especially through food and commerce.

While this part of the tour isn’t a full neighborhood walk, it’s enough to appreciate the historic architecture and get a sense of the area’s upscale past. Reviewers often mention how the guides’ storytelling makes the homes come alive, weaving in facts about notable residents and the area’s development.

Oakland Cemetery: Atlanta’s Historic Graveyard

The next stop is Oakland Cemetery, a peaceful spot that’s more than just a graveyard. It’s a living museum filled with statues, history, and stories of Atlanta’s early notables. The 40-minute guided walk here is particularly popular for its blend of history and personal stories about the residents—ranging from Civil War figures to local celebrities.

The guide explains how food influenced Atlanta’s growth—an unexpected but fascinating angle that keeps the narrative fresh. Visitors often comment that the cemetery tour is surprisingly engaging, with some saying it’s “a very cool way to check out the cemetery,” and others mentioning how the stories of notable residents stick with them long after the tour ends.

A small donation to the Oakland Foundation is included, helping preserve this historic site. It’s a meaningful addition that adds a layer of purpose to the visit.

Firepit Pizza Tavern: Comparing Old and New

Back in Grant Park, the tour visits Firepit Pizza Tavern, where you’ll taste a modern take on a dish that Atlanta’s early residents might have eaten—though now elevated with creative toppings and techniques. You’ll also sample a cocktail from a local distillery, adding a little extra flair to your culinary journey.

Guests love the opportunity to compare the traditional and contemporary cuisines in one stop. Leslie Cohen’s ownership, and her background as a Cutthroat Kitchen winner, bring a personal touch and a sense of innovation. The guide’s commentary helps connect these modern dishes to Atlanta’s culinary evolution.

Sweet Endings at The Little Tart Bakeshop

The tour wraps at The Little Tart Bakeshop, a James Beard-nominated bakery known for its community involvement and high-quality desserts. Here, you’ll sample two to-go desserts, which are often enough to satisfy a sweet tooth without overdoing it. Reviewers frequently mention how “delicious” and “generous” the portions are, and some say they’re so stuffed they need a nap afterward.

This stop provides a perfect way to end the tour on a sweet, memorable note. It also highlights Atlanta’s thriving bakery scene and the city’s commitment to supporting local businesses.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This tour isn’t just about eating—it’s about learning and experiencing Atlanta through its food, history, and neighborhoods. The guides’ knowledge and storytelling skills bring the city’s past to life, making it engaging for both locals and visitors alike.

The flow of the tour, with multiple seated tastings and plenty of walking, offers a well-balanced experience. You get enough food to feel satisfied—often more than a light lunch—and ample time to absorb the stories and enjoy the scenery. The small group size means you can ask questions freely and get personalized insights, which many reviewers praise.

Pricing at $95 offers good value considering the number of stops, the quality of the food, and the inclusion of a guided historical tour. The fact that all the tastings, the guide, and the cemetery donation are included makes it a straightforward, worry-free experience.

Practical Considerations

While most travelers find the tour accessible and suitable for a wide range of ages, it does involve about 1.2 miles of walking on uneven sidewalks. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially in Atlanta’s hot or rainy weather. The tour runs rain or shine, so packing an umbrella or raincoat is a good idea.

Since parking is available nearby, and the start point is within walking distance of MARTA stations, transportation is convenient. The tour is suitable for children, though they should be prepared for a mix of food and history content.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you love local flavors, engaging guides, and a chance to see Atlanta’s historic neighborhoods, this tour is ideal. Foodies will appreciate the generous tastings and the opportunity to sample dishes from top local eateries. History buffs will enjoy the stories behind the cemetery and Victorian homes, and anyone curious about Atlanta’s past and present will find this a rewarding experience.

Final Thoughts

The Atlanta Food and Cemetery Tour offers a well-rounded look at one of the city’s most charming neighborhoods. It combines delicious food, scenic views, and engaging stories in a relaxed, small-group setting. The quality of the tastings, paired with the depth of historical insights, makes this tour stand out among city outings.

Whether you’re a visitor wanting a taste of local culture or a local looking to see your city through fresh eyes, this experience provides a meaningful and tasty slice of Atlanta life. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon—full, entertained, and a little more connected to Atlanta’s unique character.

FAQ

Where do we meet for the tour?
The tour departs from 437 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30312, right outside Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House, which is easy to find and accessible by car and public transit.

Is there parking available?
Yes, there is street parking nearby. The tour providers also mention free parking, making it easy to start your experience without worrying about fees.

Can I use public transportation?
Absolutely. The starting point is within a 10-15 minute walk from a MARTA station, so public transit is a convenient option.

What eateries will we visit?
The typical stops include Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House, Firepit Pizza Tavern, and The Little Tart Bakeshop. However, locations can sometimes change, but the focus on quality and local flavor remains.

How much food will I get?
Most guests find the tastings enough for a full meal. The portions are described as generous, with some saying they were “so stuffed they needed a nap.”

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the tour can accommodate vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free, shellfish, and nut allergies, but you should specify these when booking.

Is alcohol included?
Yes, sample sizes of alcoholic beverages are included at certain stops, such as cocktails from a local distillery. Non-alcoholic options are also available.

This tour strikes a careful balance between informative storytelling and tasty experiences, making it a standout way to explore Atlanta’s cultural and culinary landscape in one enjoyable outing. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local rediscovering your city, you’ll walk away with new knowledge—and a full belly.