Savannahs Palate A Culinary Journey Through History

If you’re visiting Savannah and want to combine some local flavor with a touch of history, the Savannahs Palate culinary tour might catch your eye. Priced at around $325 per person for an approximately two-hour adventure, it promises to take you through the city’s historic districts, squares, and riverfront, exploring both traditional Southern dishes and the city’s contemporary culinary scene.

What we appreciate about this experience is how it offers a walkable introduction to Savannah’s food culture, starting in the Historic District and ending along E River Street. It’s especially appealing if you’re a curious eater or a history buff who loves stories behind the food. We also like that it’s a private tour, meaning your group gets a more personalized experience, with only your party participating.

However, some travelers have expressed concerns about food portions and timing confusion. It’s worth noting that the price point might seem high for what’s offered, especially considering some smaller servings reported by past guests. This tour is best suited for those who are flexible, keen to learn about Savannah’s culinary roots, and enjoy walking through scenic historic areas.

If you’re looking for a light, culturally rich introduction to Savannah’s food scene—rather than a full-blown tasting tour with large portions—you’ll likely find some value here. But if you’re expecting a gourmet feast or substantial bites, you might want to manage your expectations.

Key Points

• Historic & Modern Tastes: Combines traditional Southern dishes with contemporary Savannah eateries.
• Walkable Route: Strolls through Savannah’s historic squares and riverfront, with plenty of scenic photo ops.
• Guide’s Knowledge: Recognized for having engaging, fun guides who add value to the experience.
• Food Portions: Some guests find the servings small and not representative of a full meal.
• Pricing & Value: At over $300, some find it pricey for the food offered, but it’s more about the experience and storytelling.
• Flexibility & Private Setting: Personalized experience with only your group, accessible near public transportation.

What to Expect from Savannahs Palate: A Detailed Breakdown

Starting Point: Savannah Historic District

The tour kicks off in Savannah’s iconic Historic District. Here, you’ll likely encounter a variety of traditional Southern flavors—think classic fried chicken, shrimp and grits, or perhaps some Creole-inspired dishes. Past reviews mention confusion over start times and a guide named Bethan, but generally, this first stop aims to set the tone with local culinary staples.

What’s appealing is how this segment gives you a taste of both tradition and modern interpretation in Savannah’s diverse eateries. We loved the way guides often share stories behind the dishes, adding context that makes each bite more meaningful. Yet, some guests found the food portions small—like a quarter of a sandwich or a single empanada—raising questions about the value for the cost.

Johnson Square: A Crossroad of Food & History

Next, the tour moves to Johnson Square, the city’s oldest square, where the scene shifts to a more casual, diverse food environment. Expect to see food stalls, quick bites, and local cafes offering everything from Southern delicacies to contemporary fare. The walk here is relaxed, and guides tend to add engaging stories about Savannah’s history intertwined with its food culture.

While we enjoyed the informative commentary and the chance to sample various dishes, reviewers note that the food served here can be quite modest in size. One guest mentioned, “Eat before you go,” highlighting that this isn’t a tour for filling up, but rather for tasting and learning.

Reynolds Square: Cozy Cafes & Street Food

The third stop takes you to Reynolds Square, a picturesque spot marked by its small cafes and street vendors. Here, expect to sip coffee or nibble on street food, each with a story—perhaps a local favorite or a family recipe. The ambiance is relaxed, making it ideal for soaking in the local vibe.

However, the short duration (around 20 minutes) at this stop means quick bites and little time for lingering. Past guests appreciated the guide’s enthusiasm but expressed disappointment that the food was minimal—not quite enough to satisfy a hungry traveler.

The Grand Finale: East River Street

The tour concludes on E River Street, Savannah’s bustling waterfront lined with gourmet restaurants and artisanal shops. This area is perfect for exploring on your own afterward, whether to grab dinner or browse local food products. The final part aims to showcase Savannah’s culinary arts at its best.

Guests note that this is an excellent spot to see Savannah from a scenic vantage point while contemplating the stories you’ve heard and the flavors you’ve sampled. Some reviews mention that this ending provides a nice balance to the previous stops, though the short visit (around 20 minutes) may leave some wishing for more time to savor the atmosphere.

The Practical Side: Logistics & Experience

The meeting point is at the Savannah Historic District, easily accessible, near public transportation, which is convenient for most visitors. The entire tour is private, making it more tailored and intimate—good if you dislike large groups.

The duration is approximately 2 hours, which is quick but packed with walking and tasting. The price, at around $324.96, is on the higher side for what is essentially a tasting and sightseeing experience. If you’re looking for a full meal or large portions, this may not satisfy, but if you value storytelling, local insights, and a leisurely stroll through Savannah’s streets, it could be worthwhile.

Food & Beverage Expectations

Several reviewers mentioned that the food portions were quite small—sometimes just a bite or two. One reviewer even said, “Eat before you go,” emphasizing that this isn’t a tour designed for filling up. Instead, it’s about sampling a variety of flavors and understanding their cultural significance.

Guide & Atmosphere

A consistent positive note is the knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging. Their stories and explanations enrich the tasting, transforming it from a simple food walk into a mini-history lesson. One reviewer pointed out how the guide “added a lot to the experience,” which is a promising sign.

Price & Value

While the cost might seem high, it’s essential to consider that you’re paying for private guidance, local stories, and the opportunity to taste multiple spots without the hassle of planning. That said, the small servings do lead some guests to feel the value is limited unless you’re mainly interested in the cultural narrative.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history lovers who enjoy learning stories behind food, casual eaters interested in trying small bites in a scenic setting, and those who appreciate guided storytelling. It’s less suited for large appetites or anyone looking for a full-on culinary feast.

If you’re traveling with a smaller budget or want a more substantial tasting experience, you might prefer other options. However, if you value local insights and a relaxed pace while exploring Savannah’s historic squares, this tour can be a charming addition to your trip.

The Sum Up

In the end, Savannahs Palate offers a light, informative glimpse into Savannah’s culinary scene. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting to combine a walk through history with small bites and stories rather than a full meal. The knowledgeable guides do a lot to enhance the experience, making it engaging and personal.

That said, the small food portions and price point mean you shouldn’t expect a gourmet feast. Instead, view this tour as a cultural snack—a chance to explore the city’s flavors while soaking in its historic ambiance. It’s perfect for those who enjoy storytelling, scenic walks, and trying a few local specialties in a relaxed setting.

If you’re after more substantial tastings or a broader culinary experience, consider other options, but for a focused, scenic, and educational look at Savannah’s food scene, this tour offers a charming, if modest, introduction.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
While specific dietary options aren’t detailed, most food tours can accommodate dietary restrictions if informed in advance. Expect some traditional Southern dishes that may include meat, but guides may suggest vegetarian-friendly options.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 2 hours, with stops in different squares and along the riverfront.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the starting point is near public transportation, making it convenient for most visitors.

Are food portions large enough to satisfy a hungry traveler?
No, past guests mention the servings are quite small—often just a bite or two—so it’s more about tasting than filling up.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, and the booking is private, so rescheduling isn’t typically an issue.

Is this a family-friendly experience?
Yes, most travelers of all ages can participate, especially since it’s a walk and tasting tour. Just keep in mind the small servings and walking involved.

Will I need to walk a lot?
The tour involves walking through several historic squares and along the riverfront, but it’s generally manageable for most fitness levels.

Does the guide share historical context?
Absolutely, guides are known for their engaging storytelling, adding depth to each stop’s culinary offerings.

Is this tour good for food lovers wanting a full meal?
Probably not. Expect a sampling experience rather than a complete meal—better suited for those interested in local stories and small tastes.

In our view, Savannahs Palate is a charming, relaxed way to taste Savannah’s flavors while soaking in its historic charm—ideal for explorers who enjoy stories as much as bites.