True South Lunch Tour

Experience Savannah’s culinary charm with the True South Lunch Tour. For just under $100 per person, you’ll spend about three and a half hours strolling through Savannah’s historic districts while tasting some of the best local cuisine. Led by friendly guides who blend history with food, this tour offers a delightful combination of storytelling and sampling Southern classics. Starting at the picturesque Rousakis Riverfront Plaza, it’s a journey that balances walking, eating, and learning—all in a small-group setting of no more than ten people.

Two things we love about this experience are the authenticity of the food—which is carefully curated to showcase southern and Lowcountry specialties—and the personal attention you receive from guides like Leslie and Pamela, who receive high praise for their personable approach. The inclusion of an alcoholic drink along with the tastings adds a relaxed, social element.

One potential consideration is that this tour involves about 2 miles of walking through the historic district, so it’s best for those with moderate physical fitness. Also, it’s a popular tour—book about a month in advance on average—so planning ahead is wise.

This experience is perfect for travelers eager to combine food, culture, and history in a casual, engaging way. If you enjoy sampling regional dishes while hearing stories behind their origins, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Savannah visit.

Key Points

• Authentic Southern Cuisine: Enjoy five iconic dishes, like Shrimp and Grits, She-Crab Soup, and beignets, that truly capture Savannah’s flavors.
• Personalized Experience: Small group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly, engaging atmosphere.
• Rich Cultural Context: Guides connect each dish with the region’s history and culture, adding depth to your tasting adventure.
• Flexible, Enjoyable Pace: About 2 miles of walking over 3.5 hours balances sightseeing with savoring food.
• Includes Alcohol: An alcoholic beverage is included with the tastings, making it a relaxed, social experience.
• Book in Advance: Tours are popular and typically booked 27 days ahead, so plan early for a spot.

A Closer Look at the True South Lunch Tour

The Itinerary and Its Charm

The tour begins at Rousakis Riverfront Plaza, a scenic spot along Savannah’s waterfront. Here, you’ll meet your guide—easily recognizable in a peach-colored shirt—and start with a sweet introduction to Southern flavors with beignets and coffee. This initial stop sets a warm, inviting tone, and it’s a great way to meet your fellow travelers.

From there, the journey takes you through the historic district—a walk of about 2 miles—where each stop introduces you to a different regional specialty. The guides do a superb job of weaving history and culture into the food narrative. For example, learning about how Shrimp and Grits became a Southern staple enriches the tasting, transforming it from mere nourishment to a story worth savoring.

You’ll visit up to five eateries, which showcase dishes like Fried Green Tomatoes, She-Crab Soup, and classic Southern desserts. The stops are carefully selected for their quality and authenticity, with each providing a glimpse into Savannah’s culinary heritage. Guests consistently praise the deliciousness of the food and the atmosphere of each restaurant—one reviewer notes, “Each restaurant offered unique southern dishes,” highlighting the diversity of flavors.

The tour concludes near the lively City Market, a perfect spot to continue exploring or relax with a drink after your flavorful journey. Guides are happy to help you find your way back to the starting point, making the whole experience smooth and stress-free.

Food Highlights and Authentic Flavors

One of the tour’s big strengths is its focus on iconic Southern dishes. From shrimp n’ grits to She-Crab Soup, each bite offers a taste of local history and tradition. Guests rave about these offerings—“The food was delicious,” one reviewer says—and appreciate that the sampling is enough to serve as a meal.

The inclusion of an alcoholic drink elevates the experience, making it more relaxed and social. Whether it’s a local beer, sweet tea with spirits, or a cocktail, it adds a fun, laid-back element that helps travelers connect over shared dishes.

Guides and Guest Experience

Guests frequently mention Leslie and Pamela as personable, knowledgeable guides who enrich the tour with their stories and enthusiasm. One reviewer describes Leslie as “awesome,” noting her ability to give a good overview of each restaurant and square. Such personalized attention makes the experience feel like a visit with a knowledgeable friend rather than a generic tour.

This personal touch is especially valuable in a city like Savannah, where the charm lies in its local flavor and storytelling. The small group size ensures everyone gets enough attention and the chance to ask questions, making it a very intimate and engaging experience.

Practical Details and Value

At $99.99 per person, the tour offers a balanced mix of food, culture, and walking. Given that it includes up to five tasting stops and an alcoholic drink, many find it to be excellent value for exploring Savannah’s culinary scene in a relaxed, unhurried way.

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it a substantial activity without feeling rushed. The moderate walk through historic Savannah, combined with the delicious food and engaging stories, creates a well-rounded experience.

Booking about 27 days in advance is typical, suggesting this is a popular choice. The small group limit (up to ten) ensures personal attention and a cozy atmosphere, which many guests find preferable over larger, more impersonal tours.

Who Will Love the True South Lunch Tour?

This tour is ideal if you’re a food lover keen on discovering regional dishes in an authentic setting. History buffs will enjoy how the guide weaves stories behind each dish, making the tasting more meaningful. It’s also perfect for small groups or couples wanting a more intimate experience.

If you’re someone who appreciates friendly guides, good conversation, and meals that are satisfying enough to serve as a standalone lunch, this tour will satisfy. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy combining walking with eating and want a flexible, relaxed way to explore Savannah’s culinary culture.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes long, providing plenty of time to enjoy each dish and explore Savannah’s historic district.

How many stops are included?
You’ll visit up to five eateries, sampling classic Southern foods at each location.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
The description doesn’t specify dietary accommodations, so if you have special needs, it’s best to contact the provider directly.

Does the tour include alcoholic drinks?
Yes, the price includes at least one alcoholic drink, adding to the relaxed, social atmosphere.

Is walking involved?
Yes, expect about 2 miles of walking through Savannah’s historic streets, so a moderate fitness level is recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for changing schedules.

To sum it up, the True South Lunch Tour offers a flavorful, culturally rich way to experience Savannah. The combination of authentic dishes, personable guides, and scenic walking makes it a compelling choice for foodies, history lovers, or anyone wanting a genuine taste of the South. With its small-group setting and focus on storytelling, it promises an engaging, memorable meal that’s worth planning ahead for. Perfect for those who enjoy delicious food, local atmosphere, and a relaxed pace—this tour makes exploring Savannah’s culinary heritage both fun and meaningful.