Nashville 12South Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

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A Taste of Nashville: The 12South Walking Food Tour Experience

Imagine wandering through one of Nashville’s trendiest neighborhoods, sampling some of the city’s most beloved eats, all with an expert guide leading the way. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the rave reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a fun, flavorful, and authentic journey through the 12 South area.

What really catches our eye? First, the diversity of food, from breakfast tacos to secret dishes—each stop promises a unique bite. Second, the knowledgeable guides like Patti and Courtney, who make the experience both fun and informative. Third, the small group setting ensures a relaxed vibe, perfect for conversations and insider tips.

A potential consideration? The tour is quite filling, so you’ll want to pace yourself to avoid missing out on the last stops. Also, the menu tends to lean toward savory options, with many stops featuring tacos or quesadillas, which might not suit vegetarians or those with specific dietary needs unless you communicate in advance.

This tour suits food lovers eager to explore Nashville’s local dining scene, travelers who appreciate insider insights, and anyone wanting a leisurely, social way to discover the 12 South neighborhood. If you’re after a blend of delicious bites and local culture, this experience is worth considering.

Key Points

Authentic Neighborhood Flavor: Focused on 12 South, known for its lively cafes, boutiques, and local eateries.
Variety of Tastes: From breakfast tacos and Southern casseroles to gourmet cookies and a secret dish.
Expert Guides: Guides like Patti, Courtney, and Tyler offer insider tips, history, and personal connections, enriching the experience.
Small Group Vibe: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a relaxed pace and easy interaction.
Value for Money: At $99, the tour covers multiple stops with generous tastings, plus water and insider recommendations.
Ideal for Food Enthusiasts: Especially those who enjoy guided experiences that combine eating with local stories.

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The Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point: 2229 10th Ave S

The tour kicks off in the vibrant 12 South neighborhood at a highly sought-after restaurant. Here, you’ll get to indulge in what many consider Nashville’s signature breakfast— a delicious breakfast taco. The reviews tell us Scott, the guide, is upbeat, knowledgeable, and friendly, setting a positive tone right from the start. Expect about 30 minutes at this first stop, giving enough time to savor your taco and soak in the neighborhood buzz without feeling rushed.

Second Stop: 2706 12th Ave S

Next, the group moves toward a restaurant loved by locals for its Southern hot pork and grits casserole. This dish has earned a reputation for its outstanding flavors, offering a hearty taste of Nashville’s culinary roots. Reviewers mention the authenticity and quality of the food, with one noting the restaurant as a local gem cherished by both residents and visitors. Again, expect a 30-minute tasting session that balances flavors with some relaxed chatting and exploration.

Third Stop: 2606 12th Ave S

No food tour in Nashville would be complete without something sweet, and this stop delivers. You’ll sample one of Nashville’s most famous gourmet cookies—a treat that delights visitors and locals alike. Reviewers highlight how this sweet bite offers a nice contrast to the savory dishes, and many mention returning to the cookie place afterward to buy more. This stop is about 30 minutes, perfect for enjoying the treat and possibly chatting with fellow foodies.

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Fourth Stop: 2403 12th Ave S

Here, the focus shifts to a comforting, juicy burger at a well-known spot. Reviewers describe it as a culinary highlight, elevating simple comfort food to something special. The relaxed pace allows for savoring the burger and spicy green beans, with some guests noting how satisfying it is after a long walk and tastings.

Final Stop: 1110 Caruthers Ave

The tour’s crescendo is a secret dish—an insider surprise that keeps the experience exciting and memorable. It’s a fitting finale, leaving guests with a taste of Nashville’s creative culinary side. The last stop is about 30 minutes, giving ample time for tasting and conversation, and many reviews mention how this surprise rounds off the tour nicely.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers a generous lineup of delicious bites: breakfast taco, seasonal donut, brisket quesadilla with green beans, hot pork with grits, and the secret dish. Water is also provided. This variety ensures you’ll go home with a full stomach and plenty of new favorites.

However, it’s worth noting that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so plan your transportation accordingly. The meeting point is centrally located, and public transit options are nearby, making it easy to access. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable yet fulfilling experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Food Quality and Variety

Multiple reviews emphasize the high quality of the food, with many spots offering local favorites and specialties. Guests consistently mention how much food there is—some even take leftovers home! The inclusion of a secret dish adds an element of surprise that many find delightful.

Knowledgeable Guides

Tour guides like Patti, Courtney, and Tyler receive high praise for their enthusiasm, local knowledge, and friendliness. One reviewer noted Patti’s personal connections and pre-arranged visits, which added a layer of authenticity and insider access. Guests often mention feeling welcomed and learning not just about the food but also about the area’s culture and history.

Authentic Neighborhood Vibe

The tour showcases 12 South’s charm, with stops at independent eateries, boutiques, and hidden gems. The relaxed, small-group setting allows for meaningful interactions and a true neighborhood feel. Guests appreciate the opportunity to explore at a gentle pace, with time for shopping or taking photos along the way.

Value for Money

At $99, this tour offers a significant taste experience—covering multiple dishes, insider tips, water, and the chance to explore a vibrant Nashville neighborhood. Reviewers have pointed out the generous portion sizes and the quality of the food, making it a worthwhile investment for food lovers.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

In practice, expect a leisurely walk through the streets of 12 South, punctuated with stops at some of the neighborhood’s best eateries. The pace is relaxed, with about 30 minutes allotted per stop, allowing for ample sampling and conversation.

The experience is as much about learning and exploring as it is about eating. Guides share stories about Nashville’s food scene, local businesses, and some personal anecdotes, making it more engaging than just a series of tastings. The small group size fosters an intimate vibe, perfect for asking questions and making new friends.

While most stops focus on savory dishes, the inclusion of sweet options like donuts and cookies offers a good balance. Be prepared for a substantial amount of food—some guests have mentioned needing a moment to digest or opting to save some treats for later.

Practical Tips

Arrive on time at the meeting point; the tour starts promptly.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Communicate dietary restrictions in advance; some reviews mention vegetarian options being limited, though the tour can accommodate dietary info if communicated ahead.
Bring a water bottle—although water is supplied, staying hydrated is key during a busy tasting day.
Photographers will love the vibrant streets and colorful storefronts.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies who love exploring neighborhoods on foot and enjoy tasting a variety of local dishes. It’s perfect for travelers wanting an authentic, relaxed way to discover Nashville’s culinary scene without the hassle of research.

Great for small groups, couples, or friends who appreciate insider tips and local flavors, this tour also works well for first-time visitors eager to get a feel for the neighborhood. If you’re vegetarian or have specific dietary needs, reaching out ahead to clarify options is advised.

The Sum Up

The Nashville 12South Walking Food Tour offers a well-rounded, flavorful glimpse into Nashville’s vibrant food scene. It combines delicious tastings, local stories, and insider secrets in a fun, relaxed setting that’s accessible for most travelers. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Nashville local looking to revisit your favorite spots, this tour delivers a satisfying experience that’s both authentic and memorable.

The guides’ enthusiasm and deep knowledge truly elevate the experience, making you feel like a local discovering hidden gems. The variety of dishes ensures you’ll leave full, happy, and armed with recommendations for your next Nashville adventure.

All in all, if you’re after a tasty, social, and insightful way to explore Nashville’s coolest neighborhood, this tour is a great choice—especially if you appreciate good value for money and genuine local flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Most stops feature meat-based dishes like tacos, pork casseroles, and burgers, but vegetarian options may be available if you communicate your needs in advance. The tour’s menu primarily highlights savory dishes, so check ahead if you have specific dietary restrictions.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 3 hours, with about 30 minutes at each of the five stops. It’s designed to be a relaxed walk, giving plenty of time to enjoy the food and chat.

What is included in the price?
The $99 fee covers a variety of tastings, including breakfast tacos, donuts, quesadillas, a secret dish, and water. No transportation or hotel pickup is included.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is usually booked about 33 days in advance on average, and spots are limited to 12 travelers, so booking early is recommended.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking through the neighborhood. The tour takes place outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Is this tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit options, making it easy to reach without a car. Just plan your route to arrive on time.

This Nashville food tour offers a genuine, tasty, and relaxed way to explore the neighborhood, perfect for anyone eager to taste local favorites while learning about Nashville’s culinary culture.