How to Find Food Tour Groups in Memphis

Memphis, Tennessee, is more than just the birthplace of the blues—it’s a culinary powerhouse where smoky barbecue, soulful Southern comfort food, and innovative fusion cuisine converge on every corner. For food lovers, exploring Memphis isn’t just about eating—it’s about experiencing culture through flavor. But with dozens of restaurants, hidden gems, and legendary eateries scattered across the city, navigating the food scene on your own can be overwhelming. That’s where food tour groups come in.

Food tour groups in Memphis offer curated, guided experiences that take you beyond the tourist traps and into the heart of the city’s most authentic dining traditions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover your hometown, joining a food tour is one of the most efficient, enjoyable, and educational ways to taste Memphis’s rich gastronomic heritage. But how do you find the right food tour group? This guide will walk you through every step—from researching options to evaluating quality, booking with confidence, and maximizing your experience.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Define Your Food Tour Goals

Before you start searching, ask yourself what kind of experience you’re seeking. Are you looking for:

• Classic Memphis barbecue with pitmasters’ secrets?
• A deep dive into soul food and Southern comfort classics?
• A mix of historic eateries and modern culinary innovators?
• A family-friendly outing or an adult-only tasting experience?

Your goals will shape your search. For example, if you’re passionate about barbecue, you’ll want a tour that includes iconic joints like Central BBQ, Rendezvous, or The Bar-B-Q Shop. If you’re interested in cultural history, look for tours that incorporate stories about the Civil Rights Movement, Beale Street’s musical legacy, or the influence of African, Creole, and Appalachian culinary traditions.

Step 2: Search Online Using Specific Keywords

Use precise search terms to avoid generic results. Instead of typing “food tours Memphis,” try:

• “Best food walking tours Memphis Tennessee”
• “Memphis barbecue tour with local guide”
• “Soul food and blues food tour Memphis”
• “Small group food experiences Memphis”

Google prioritizes content that matches user intent, so specificity increases your chances of finding relevant, high-quality tour operators. Look for results on the first page—these are typically the most reputable and frequently visited sites.

Step 3: Explore Local Tourism and Travel Websites

Official tourism platforms are reliable starting points. Visit:

• VisitMemphis.com – The city’s official tourism site lists vetted food tour partners.
• VisitTennessee.com – Offers regional guides that include Memphis food experiences.
• TripAdvisor’s Memphis Food Tours section – Features reviews, ratings, and photos from real participants.

These sites often partner directly with tour companies, ensuring legitimacy. They also provide details like tour duration, group size, dietary accommodations, and pricing—all critical for decision-making.

Step 4: Check Social Media Platforms

Instagram and Facebook are goldmines for discovering food tour operators in Memphis. Search hashtags like:

• MemphisFoodTour

• EatMemphis

• BarbecueTourMemphis

• MemphisFoodie

Look for posts with high engagement—comments, shares, and tagged locations indicate active, popular tours. Many tour operators post real-time updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses of stops, and testimonials from recent guests. Pay attention to the quality of photos: crisp, well-lit images of food and guides suggest professional operation.

Join local Facebook groups like “Memphis Food Lovers” or “Best Eats in Memphis.” Members often share firsthand recommendations and warn against low-quality or overpriced tours.

Step 5: Read Reviews and Evaluate Ratings

Don’t skip reviews. A tour with 4.8 stars on TripAdvisor or Google may still have red flags if most reviews mention:

• Long wait times between stops
• Overpriced portions
• Uninformed or disengaged guides
• Too many tourists crammed into small spaces

Read both positive and negative reviews. Look for patterns. If multiple reviewers mention the same issue—say, “the guide didn’t know the history of the restaurant”—that’s a warning sign. Conversely, if several people highlight a guide’s storytelling ability or the uniqueness of the stops, that’s a strong indicator of quality.

Also check for recent reviews. A tour that was excellent five years ago may have declined in quality. Focus on reviews from the past 6–12 months.

Step 6: Contact the Tour Operator Directly

Once you’ve narrowed down 2–3 options, reach out via email or contact form. Ask questions like:

• How many food tastings are included, and what are they?
• Are beverages included, or are they extra?
• Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
• Do you accommodate dietary restrictions (vegetarian, gluten-free, halal)?
• What’s the group size limit?
• Can I see a sample itinerary?

A professional operator will respond promptly and with detailed, thoughtful answers. Vague or delayed replies may indicate poor customer service or disorganization.

Step 7: Compare Pricing and Value

Memphis food tours typically range from $50 to $120 per person. Price alone shouldn’t determine your choice, but it should prompt evaluation:

• A $50 tour with 3 tastings may be a bargain—but if the portions are tiny or the locations are generic, you’re not getting value.
• A $110 tour with 6 tastings, a local historian guide, and exclusive access to a behind-the-scenes kitchen is likely worth it.

Check what’s included: transportation, tips, souvenirs, or drink pairings. Some tours include a complimentary bottle of local hot sauce or a recipe booklet—small perks that add memorable value.

Step 8: Book and Confirm Details

Once you’ve selected a tour, book directly through the operator’s website. Avoid third-party resellers unless they’re well-known platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide with verified reviews.

After booking, you should receive a confirmation email with:

• Meeting point and exact address
• Start and end times
• What to wear and bring (comfortable shoes, cash for extras, weather-appropriate gear)
• Guide’s name and contact info

If any of this is missing, follow up immediately. A well-run tour company provides clarity before the experience begins.

Step 9: Prepare for the Tour

On the day of your tour:

• Arrive 10–15 minutes early.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes—Memphis tours often cover 1–2 miles.
• Bring a small bag for souvenirs or leftovers.
• Stay hydrated; some tours don’t include water.
• Be open-minded. You might try something unfamiliar—like fried catfish with pickled okra or banana pudding with bourbon sauce.

Engage with your guide. Ask questions. The best tours are interactive, not just observational.

Step 10: Share Your Experience

After your tour, leave a review on Google, TripAdvisor, or Yelp. Your feedback helps future food lovers and supports the operators who deliver quality experiences. Include specifics: “Our guide, Marcus, explained the history of the dry rub at Central BBQ—it changed how I understand barbecue!”

Tag the tour company on social media. Many operators repost guest content, and your post might even be featured on their page.

Best Practices

Choose Small Group Tours

Groups of 8–12 people are ideal. Smaller groups mean more interaction with the guide, better access to restaurants, and less waiting. Large groups (15+) can feel rushed and impersonal, especially in tight historic spaces like Beale Street storefronts.

Look for Local Guides

Memphis food tours led by residents—rather than temporary hires—are far more authentic. Locals know which chef uses heirloom cornmeal, which bakery still uses a 1940s oven, or which family-run spot serves the best tamales in the city. Ask if the guide grew up in Memphis or has worked in the local food industry.

Verify Food Safety and Licensing

Legitimate tour operators partner with licensed restaurants and follow health department guidelines. If a tour includes sampling from unlicensed street vendors or pop-ups without clear permits, proceed with caution. Reputable companies list their restaurant partners on their website.

Opt for Tours with Cultural Context

The best Memphis food tours don’t just serve food—they tell stories. Look for tours that connect dishes to history: the Great Migration’s influence on soul food, the role of church suppers in community building, or how blues musicians fueled late-night diner culture. These layers transform a meal into a meaningful experience.

Avoid “All-Inclusive” Deals That Sound Too Good to Be True

A $30 “all-you-can-eat” Memphis food tour likely means small, low-quality portions or stops at tourist traps. Authentic food tours invest in quality ingredients and established establishments. You’re paying for access, knowledge, and curation—not volume.

Book in Advance, Especially During Peak Seasons

Memphis sees high tourism during spring (March–May) and fall (September–November), as well as during the Beale Street Music Festival and Memphis in May. Popular tours sell out weeks ahead. Book at least two weeks in advance, and consider weekend slots for the most immersive experiences.

Ask About Flexibility

Life happens. What if you’re sick? What if the weather turns bad? Reputable operators offer rescheduling or partial refunds. Check their cancellation policy before booking.

Support Women- and Minority-Owned Businesses

Memphis has a rich legacy of Black-owned restaurants and female-led culinary ventures. Many food tours now highlight these businesses. Prioritize tours that intentionally include establishments like:

• Greasy Spoon (owned by a third-generation Memphis family)
• Ms. Jean’s Kitchen (a soul food institution)
• Wings & Things (a beloved local favorite)

Choosing these tours supports economic equity and preserves cultural heritage.

Tools and Resources

Website Tools

• Google Maps – Use the “Food Tours” filter to see locations of tour meeting points. Zoom in on Beale Street, Midtown, and the South Main Arts District to visualize tour routes.
• Yelp – Search “food tours” and sort by “Highest Rated.” Read photos and detailed reviews.
• TripAdvisor – Filter by “Top Rated” and “Most Reviewed.” Use the “Q&A” section to ask past participants questions.
• Resy or OpenTable – Some tours partner with restaurants that also accept reservations. Cross-reference to see if tour stops are popular local spots.

Mobile Apps

• Foodie Tours App – A niche app listing curated food experiences in U.S. cities, including Memphis.
• Instagram Explore Page – Follow local food bloggers like @memphiseats or @eatmemphistn for real-time tour recommendations.
• Google Lens – Snap a photo of a menu or dish you see on a tour and use Google Lens to identify ingredients or similar dishes nearby.

Local Publications and Blogs

These sources often feature in-depth articles and interviews with tour operators:

• The Commercial Appeal – Memphis’s primary newspaper regularly publishes “Best of Memphis” food lists and tour features.
• Memphis Magazine – Offers seasonal guides to food experiences, including hidden gems not found on mainstream tours.
• Memphis Foodie – A blog dedicated to local eats, with detailed reviews of tour operators and exclusive interviews.
• 10Best.com (USA Today) – Lists top food tours in Memphis based on reader votes and editorial picks.

Podcasts and YouTube Channels

For deeper context:

• “The Memphis Food Podcast” – Episodes feature interviews with chefs, tour guides, and food historians.
• “Eat the South” YouTube Channel – Has a full video tour of Memphis with stops at multiple food tour destinations.
• “Taste of Memphis” on Spotify – Audio guides that can be listened to before your tour to prime your palate.

Community Resources

• Memphis Public Library – Offers free cultural programs on Southern cuisine and sometimes hosts food tour Q&A panels.
• Local Chambers of Commerce – The Memphis Chamber and Downtown Memphis Commission often promote food tourism initiatives.
• University of Memphis Culinary Program – Students and faculty sometimes lead educational food walks open to the public.

Real Examples

Example 1: Memphis BBQ & Blues Food Tour by Taste of Memphis

This 3.5-hour tour, rated 4.9/5 on TripAdvisor, includes six tastings across three historic barbecue joints and one soul food diner. The guide, a third-generation Memphian named Darnell Jackson, shares stories of how his grandfather worked at the original Rendezvous in the 1960s. Stops include:

• Central BBQ – Dry-rub ribs with house-made sauce
• Rendezvous – Legendary dry ribs, served with pickled okra
• Bar-B-Q Shop – Pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw
• Ms. Jean’s Kitchen – Fried chicken and cornbread
• Beale Street Candy Co. – Sweet potato pie bites
• Peabody Hotel – Miniature pecan tart

Includes a complimentary bottle of Memphis hot sauce and a printed map of all stops. Group size capped at 10. Booked through their website with a 72-hour cancellation policy.

Example 2: Soul Food & Street Art Tour by Memphis Culinary Collective

A unique blend of food and culture, this 4-hour tour starts in the South Main Arts District and ends on Beale Street. Led by a local artist and food historian, guests sample:

• Collard greens with smoked ham hock
• Black-eyed pea salad
• Chitterlings (for the adventurous)
• Red velvet cake from a 100-year-old bakery

Along the way, participants learn about the role of food in Civil Rights sit-ins and how murals in the neighborhood reflect culinary heritage. Includes a free art zine and a guided walk through three murals. Only offered on Saturdays. Limited to 8 people. Highly recommended for cultural travelers.

Example 3: Vegan Memphis Food Tour by Plant-Based Memphis

Often overlooked, Memphis has a growing plant-based scene. This 2.5-hour tour, created by a local vegan chef, features:

• Jackfruit “pulled pork” sliders
• Black bean and sweet potato tacos
• Avocado hummus with cornbread
• Coconut milk banana pudding

Stops include The Green Room, a vegan soul food café, and a pop-up at a local co-op. The guide explains how Southern ingredients like okra, collards, and black-eyed peas are naturally vegan. Perfect for dietary-restricted travelers or those curious about plant-based Southern cuisine.

Example 4: Private Custom Food Tour with Chef Monica

For a personalized experience, Chef Monica offers private tours tailored to your preferences. Clients fill out a questionnaire: favorite cuisines, allergies, mobility needs, and interests. One client, a couple from Chicago, wanted to explore “the roots of Memphis soul food.” Monica designed a tour that included:

• A visit to a family-run market that’s been sourcing okra since 1947
• A cooking demo at a historic church kitchen
• A tasting of 1950s-style cornbread with honey butter
• A stop at a blues bar for a “food and tune” pairing: catfish with a glass of local bourbon

Price: $180 for two. Includes a recipe card and photo album from the day. Ideal for couples, anniversaries, or serious food enthusiasts.

FAQs

How much do food tours in Memphis typically cost?

Most food tours range from $50 to $120 per person. The price depends on the number of tastings, duration, guide expertise, and whether beverages or transportation are included. Private tours can cost $150–$300 for small groups.

Are food tours in Memphis suitable for children?

Many tours welcome children, especially family-friendly options like the “Memphis Kids Eat” tour, which includes kid-approved bites like fried green tomatoes and banana pudding. However, some tours are adult-only due to alcohol pairings or late hours. Always check age restrictions when booking.

Do food tours include alcohol?

Some do—especially those focused on barbecue or Southern cocktails. Tours may include local beers, sweet tea cocktails, or bourbon pairings. If alcohol is included, it’s usually limited to one or two samples. Always confirm if you’re under 21 or prefer non-alcoholic options.

Can I join a food tour if I have dietary restrictions?

Yes, most reputable operators accommodate dietary needs. Vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free options are commonly available. Notify the tour company at least 48 hours in advance so they can coordinate with restaurants.

How long do Memphis food tours last?

Most tours last between 2.5 and 4 hours. Walking tours typically cover 1–2 miles. Some full-day experiences, like “Memphis Food & Music All-Day Adventure,” last up to 6 hours with multiple transportation stops.

Is tipping expected on food tours?

Tipping is not required but appreciated. If your guide was knowledgeable, engaging, and went above and beyond, a tip of 10–20% is customary. Many tours include gratuity in the price—always check your confirmation email.

What’s the best time of year to take a food tour in Memphis?

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the best weather for walking tours. Summer can be hot and humid, but morning tours are still popular. Winter is quieter, making it ideal for smaller groups and more personalized attention.

Can I book a food tour as a solo traveler?

Absolutely. Many tours welcome solo travelers and even pair you with others if you’re the only one signed up. Some operators offer “solo traveler discounts” to encourage individual bookings.

Are food tours in Memphis wheelchair accessible?

Many are, but not all. Historic districts like Beale Street have uneven sidewalks and steps. Always ask about accessibility before booking. Some tours offer alternative routes or vehicle transport between stops.

What should I wear on a Memphis food tour?

Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Memphis is humid, so light layers are ideal. Bring a small bag for souvenirs, sunscreen in summer, and a light jacket in fall. Avoid flip-flops—many stops involve standing on concrete or uneven surfaces.

Conclusion

Finding the right food tour group in Memphis isn’t just about booking a meal—it’s about unlocking the soul of the city through its flavors. From the smoky ribs of a century-old barbecue joint to the sweet comfort of homemade banana pudding, every bite tells a story. The key is to approach your search with intention: define your interests, use trusted resources, read reviews critically, and prioritize experiences that honor Memphis’s cultural legacy.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—from using precise search terms to engaging with local guides—you’ll not only find a food tour but a meaningful connection to the people, history, and passion behind Memphis’s food. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, a well-chosen food tour transforms eating into an unforgettable journey.

So lace up your shoes, bring your appetite, and let Memphis’s culinary treasures lead the way. The city’s tables are waiting—and the best stories are served with a side of soul.