Savannah: First Squares Food Tour & Historic City Walk

Summary

Savoring lowcountry flavors in savannah’s oldest squares with stories and laughter along the cobblestones

You’ll wander Savannah’s oldest squares with a local guide, sampling everything from sweet honey to savory Lowcountry classics. Expect laughter over new flavors, stories you won’t find in any brochure, and a lunch that lingers long after you leave River Street behind.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wonder what Savannah really tastes like? I didn’t expect my first bite of that honey—smooth, floral, almost warm on the tongue—to stick with me, but it did. We met up near Ellis Square, where the air had that sweet dampness you only get near the river. Our guide, Marcus, started right in with a story about live oaks and old ghosts (he swears he saw one once), then led us toward our first stop. The city was waking up slow—locals nodding at each other over coffee, someone humming as they swept their stoop.

I lost track of how many times I laughed trying to pronounce “benne wafer.” Marcus just grinned and said I sounded like his aunt from Atlanta. We wandered past those grand houses with ironwork balconies—some peeling paint, some perfect—and ducked into little shops for bites of pimento cheese or fried green tomatoes. There was this moment in City Market where a jazz saxophone spilled out onto the street and mingled with the smell of pralines. It felt like the whole city was leaning in to listen.

By the time we reached River Street, my feet were tired but happy—cobblestones are no joke—and my stomach was full enough to skip dinner. The group got quieter as we walked under those huge old trees in Johnson Square; maybe it was just the shade or maybe everyone was thinking about all those layers of history under our feet. I still think about that honey sometimes when I’m back home making toast. So yeah—if you want a real taste of Savannah (with plenty of stories and some very good company), this food tour is worth every step.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Savannah historic and culinary walking tour

• Meet group in Historic Downtown
• Learn about Savannah history and architecture
• Walk through four original squares
• Visit Ellis Square
• Pass by Savannah City Market
• Explore Savannah River Street
• See Haitian monument and First African Baptist Church
• Visit largest square with live oaks and monuments

Top questions

How long is the Savannah First Squares food tour?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and covers several stops for tastings along Savannah’s historic squares and waterfront.

Is lunch included on this Savannah food tour?

Yes, food tastings from six popular eateries are included and add up to a full lunch portion.

Does this tour include stops at River Street or City Market?

Yes, both River Street and City Market are part of the walking route during the tour.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?

Pescatarian, vegetarian, seafood allergies, and nut allergies can be accommodated at most locations; gluten-free, dairy-free or vegan options are not available.

How many people are on each tour group?

The group size is limited to 12 people for a more intimate experience.

Is this Savannah culinary tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for strollers as well.

Do I need to bring water or will it be provided?

Water is available at all tasting stops along the route.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is in Savannah’s Historic Downtown area near Ellis Square.

What’s included

Your day includes guided walking through Savannah’s original four squares with a professional local guide; tastings at six different eateries (enough for lunch); water at each stop; a map of your food route; plus stories about architecture, history, and culture woven into every bite before finishing along River Street’s cobblestones.