Charleston Historic Downtown Food Tour

1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Savor the very best of the Lowcountry on a unique Charleston food tour designed for true foodies. Our family-run business has crafted a curated culinary experience giving you guaranteed line-skipping access to top restaurants in Historic Downtown.

Indulge in iconic Southern classics, including:

- Rich and creamy She-Crab Soup
- A slow-cooked, savory BBQ Slider
- Tender, seasoned Collard Greens
- Warm, golden Cornbread
- A decadent Daily Special Cake

As you walk off your tastings along beautiful cobblestone streets, an expert local guide uncovers the deep history behind landmarks like the Old Exchange Building and the Pineapple Fountain at Waterfront Park. Discover where locals actually eat, learn the complex history of Southern spices, and enjoy a full meal's worth of world-class cuisine.

(Note: Child tickets ages 0-6 does not include food).

What's Included

Food stop 1: Silky Lowcountry Rich She-Crab Soup
Expert tour guide
Food stop 2: Tender BBQ slider with collards & warm cornbread
Food stop 3: A fresh, sweet Southern dessert of the day to finish.
Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
195 E Bay St

Your guide will meet you underneath the awning in front of the Charleston Tours and Activities windows. Please arrive 15 minutes before, ready to be checked in!

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    195 E Bay St

    Starting at 195 East Bay Street, set out to explore the rich history, vibrant charm, and stunning historic architecture of downtown Charleston

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    St. Philip's Church

    As we digest and stroll to your next culinary destination, we'll stop by the breathtaking St. Philip's Church. Known for its majestic steeple that defines the Charleston skyline, this historic site offers a beautiful, shaded photo opportunity and a fascinating glimpse into the city's colonial past

    12 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Head to Poogan's Smokehouse on East Bay Street for a quintessential Southern barbecue experience. You'll dig into a hearty tasting of tender, slow-smoked BBQ paired with classic collard greens and freshly baked cornbread."

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Philadelphia Alley

    Take a scenic stroll through Philadelphia Alley, one of Charleston's most picturesque hidden gems. We'll pause our food tastings to admire the historic brick walls and shaded cobblestones while uncovering the fascinating history of this centuries-old pathway.

    12 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Satisfy your sweet tooth at Carmella's Cafe and Dessert Bar on East Bay Street. Here, you'll finish off the food tour with a decadent slice of their famous, rotating 'Cake of the Day' in a cozy, vibrant cafe setting.

    13 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 6

    Sit back and savor a bowl of authentic She-Crab Soup—a rich, savory bisque that is synonymous with the region. Your guide will share the fascinating story behind this famous Lowcountry delicacy while you enjoy the lively market atmosphere

    18 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Gluten-free options are available upon request, please reach out prior to the tour to arrange this. Note: This tour is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Supplied by Empire Tours - Charleston

Tags

Private and Luxury
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Food & Drink

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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