Nashville: 12 South Secret Walking Food Tour

If you’re looking to explore Nashville beyond the usual tourist spots, the 12 South Secret Walking Food Tour offers a delightful way to taste the city’s culinary soul. This three-hour excursion combines a relaxed walk through a lively neighborhood with the chance to savor some of Nashville’s best local dishes—perfect for food lovers and curious travelers alike.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the variety of delicious food and drinks from local eateries provides a well-rounded taste of the region’s flavors. Second, the knowledgeable guides bring an insider’s perspective, sharing stories behind each dish and spot. Third, the hidden culinary gems, like the secret gourmet cookies at a renowned hotel, add an element of surprise. However, one potential consideration is that it’s primarily a walking experience—so comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour is best suited for those who want an authentic, laid-back introduction to Nashville’s food scene, especially if they enjoy walking and exploring neighborhoods on foot. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local wanting to dive deeper into Nashville’s culinary culture, this experience offers both fun and flavor.

Good To Know

• Authentic Nashville flavors: Taste local dishes with regional influences.
• Guided insider knowledge: Learn about Nashville’s culinary heritage from friendly guides.
• Hidden gems: Discover secret spots and lesser-known local favorites.
• Balanced experience: Savor a variety of dishes without feeling overwhelmed.
• Walk and explore: See the neighborhood while enjoying your tastings.
• Value for money: The $105 price includes multiple tastings, a guide, and a memorable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Nashville’s 12 South Neighborhood

The 12 South Secret Walking Food Tour is designed to give you an immersive taste of one of Nashville’s most vibrant districts. This area is renowned for its eclectic vibe, friendly neighborhood feel, and a strong sense of local pride. The tour kicks off in front of Ladybird Taco, where your guide will be holding an orange umbrella—easy to spot even in a crowd.

From the very first stop, you’ll be greeted with a locally renowned breakfast taco. This dish sets the tone, combining comfort food with a regional twist that makes it uniquely Nashville. As you walk through the streets, your guide will share stories about the neighborhood’s evolution, highlighting influences from Southern traditions and contemporary culinary trends.

The aim is to give you a balanced experience—walking through lively streets while stopping at carefully selected restaurants and food spots. Expect to experience Southern hospitality through hearty, flavorful dishes that embody the region’s culinary heritage.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Ladybird Taco

Your journey begins with a breakfast taco from a well-loved local restaurant. This breakfast favorite is a highlight, renowned for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. One reviewer mentioned that the guide’s local insight made the stop even more special, as they shared the story behind the dish and the restaurant’s legacy.

Flaky Pastry and Sweet Bites

Next, you’ll indulge in a flaky pastry, offering a delightful contrast to the savory start. This sweet treat kicks off the taste adventure, providing a perfect balance of buttery goodness. The tour’s pacing ensures you’re not overwhelmed, making each bite a true highlight.

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Hearty Southern Dishes

One of the most praised stops features a hearty club sandwich with a Southern twist, paired with crunchy fried dill pickles. This dish exemplifies how traditional Southern flavors can be elevated into something memorable. The guide will often point out the local ingredients or preparation styles that make these dishes stand out.

Another standout is Southern hot pork, accompanied by a widely acclaimed grits casserole. Reviewers have called the casserole “exceptional,” and the hot pork offers a satisfying savory punch. These dishes are served at a restaurant beloved by both locals and visitors, giving you a taste of the community’s culinary pride.

The Secret Gourmet Cookie

The tour wraps up with a gourmet cookie at a secret spot inside one of Nashville’s most famous hotels. This hidden dessert surprise adds a touch of exclusivity to your experience, with many guests noting it as a memorable finale. The guide’s storytelling often reveals fun facts about the hotel and its culinary secrets.

Food and Drink Tastings: What’s Included?

The $105 price covers a generous array of food and drink tastings that showcase the neighborhood’s culinary diversity. These include classic Southern dishes, regional specialties, and a sweet finale—making this tour value-packed.

Your guide will also provide insights into Nashville’s influences and culinary heritage, enhancing your understanding of each dish’s origins. The tour’s pace allows for plenty of tasting without rushing, giving you time to savor each bite and ask questions.

Why This Tour Works Well

• Local Expertise: Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing personal stories and background behind each dish.
• Authentic Flavors: The stops focus on dishes that are beloved by Nashville residents, giving you a taste of both tradition and modern twists.
• Hidden Gems: The secret cookie at a famous hotel offers an unexpected highlight, making the experience feel exclusive.
• Balanced Pace: The three-hour duration allows for ample tasting and exploration without fatigue.
• Neighborhood Vibe: Walking through the vibrant 12 South area offers a glimpse into Nashville’s community spirit and local flavor.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour typically operates in the morning, making it a perfect way to start a day of exploring Nashville. It’s a walking tour—so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to stroll through the neighborhood. Since hotel pickup isn’t included, plan to meet your guide in front of Ladybird Taco—easy to find thanks to the orange umbrella.

Reservations are flexible with options to reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. If you have dietary restrictions, it’s worth contacting the provider beforehand to see if accommodations can be made.

The small group size ensures a relaxed and personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to chat with your guide and fellow travelers.

Authenticity and Value

This tour offers a solid balance of value and experience. For $105, you get to sample a variety of Nashville’s beloved dishes, learn the stories behind them, and explore a lively neighborhood—all guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals. Considering the quality of the food, the insider information, and the hidden treats, it’s a compelling choice for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Nashville.

The reviews reflect this. A traveler from the UK, Samantha, praised the variety of food and local knowledge, calling the guide “really friendly.” Such positive feedback underscores the tour’s appeal to visitors seeking genuine, well-rounded food experiences.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits foodies, neighborhood explorers, and those wanting an authentic Nashville experience without the fuss of large, commercialized tours. It’s ideal for visitors who enjoy walking, savoring local dishes, and learning stories behind the food. If you want a relaxed, engaging introduction to Nashville’s culinary scene, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also a great option if you’re traveling with someone who appreciates good food and casual exploration, or if you prefer the intimacy of a small group. The focus on local specialties makes it especially appealing for those interested in regional flavors rather than generic tourist fare.

The Sum Up

The Nashville 12 South Secret Walking Food Tour offers a genuine taste of Nashville’s vibrant neighborhood, combining delicious food, local stories, and a relaxed walking pace. It’s a fantastic way to discover regional favorites like Southern hot pork, grits casserole, and secret gourmet cookies—all while exploring a lively part of the city.

For travelers who want a balanced, authentic experience that emphasizes flavor, storytelling, and hidden gems, this tour delivers. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy trying a variety of dishes without feeling rushed, and who appreciate guides with local insights.

Priced at $105, it offers good value for the richness of experience, quality of food, and unique discoveries. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover Nashville’s culinary side, this tour makes for a memorable, flavor-filled morning.

FAQ

• What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and usually operates in the morning.
• Where do I meet the guide? Meet in front of Ladybird Taco, identifiable by the guide holding an orange umbrella.
• Is there any hotel pickup? No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.
• How much does the tour cost? The cost is $105 per person, which covers all tastings, guide, and the walking experience.
• Can dietary restrictions be accommodated? It’s best to contact the provider beforehand to confirm if specific dietary needs can be met.
• What’s included in the tour? Food and drink tastings, a guide, and a guided walking experience.
• Is the tour suitable for children? The information provided doesn’t specify age restrictions, but it’s generally suitable for those able to walk and enjoy food.
• Are tips included? Tips are not mentioned, but gratuities are typically appreciated for guides.
• Can I cancel the booking? Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour.
• Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues? The itinerary involves walking through the neighborhood; contact the provider for specific accessibility questions.

This tour is an excellent choice for enjoying Nashville’s local food scene, making flavorful memories while exploring one of its most beloved neighborhoods.

You can check if your dates are available here: