Taste of History A Private Charleston Culinary Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Charleston at a relaxed pace with this private, elevated culinary experience that blends food, culture, and history. Starting in the historic French Quarter, your group will enjoy a curated journey through Lowcountry classics and modern interpretations, with stops at three top restaurants for generous tasting portions—more than a full meal.
Your experience is fully tailored: before the tour, your guide will connect to learn your preferences and dietary needs, ensuring every dish suits your taste. The final stop is your choice—savory, sweet, or a surprise delight.
As you dine, your City of Charleston-certified guide shares stories of the city’s past and its influence on today’s cuisine. Light walking between locations keeps the focus on food and culture. Alcoholic beverages can be purchased or added with an optional libations package.
Perfect for special occasions, couples, or friends, Taste of History offers an immersive way to savor Charleston’s culinary heritage.
Available options
Taste of History A Private Charleston Culinary Tour
What's included
Photo-worthy moments along iconic Charleston streets
A relaxed, leisurely stroll through Charleston's French Quarter between stops
Private experience led by a City of Charleston-certified guide
Local stories, history, and neighborhood insights along the route
Three sit-down tastings of Lowcountry classics and modern dishes inspired by Charleston’s heritage.
Water, soft drinks, iced tea and coffee are included
Food & Drinks
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin your exclusive culinary journey in the elegant lobby of The Loutrel Hotel, where you’ll meet your City of Charleston-certified guide. Before the tour, your guide will reach out to learn about your group’s dietary preferences and any allergies, ensuring a personalized experience tailored just for you.
After a warm introduction, set off on foot through Charleston’s historic French Quarter, uncovering the city’s rich heritage through its food and stories. Along the way, you’ll make your first restaurant stop and continue exploring Charleston’s culinary traditions and architectural beauty.
This private tour offers an intimate look at the flavors and history that define the Holy City—perfect for food lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
2
Departing The Loutrel, your private group will wander through Charleston's historic French Quarter as your guide shares how geography trade and culture shaped the city's distinctive Lowcountry cuisine. This experience blends both classic Lowcountry flavors and modern elevated interpretations, highlighting how Charleston's culinary scene continues to evolve while staying rooted in its history. Along the way you'll stop at carefully selected restaurants for generous tastings inspired by regional ingredients in time-honored traditions. Each stop features multiple dishes served in tasting style portions to gather offering more than a full meal, so guests are encouraged to arrive hungry. Alcoholic libations may be purchased separately at each stop or added in advance as an optional libation package during booking. As you dine, stories of Charleston's past are woven into each course, creating a seamless connection between history, culture, and cuisine
3
The final stop of your Taste of History experience fully tailored to your preferences. Prior to the tour, guests may choose to conclude with a savory dish, a sweet finale, or allow your guide to surprise you with a thoughtfully selected option. Located within the historic French Quarter, your final restaurant is just a short walk from original meeting point, creating a relaxed and convenient conclusion to the tour. As with each stop, the final tasting highlights the connection between Charleston's culinary traditions and the history that shaped them. This last course serves as a satisfying and memorable close to the experience, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation of Charleston's food, culture, and stories-and plenty of delicious memories to take home.
What's not included
Alcoholic beverages not included
Gratuity for the guide (optional and appreciated)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
ALLERGIES/DIETARY RESTRICTIONS: Allergies and dietary restrictions must be communicated during booking; same-day accommodations cannot be guaranteed
MOBILITY CONCERNS: This experience includes light, leisurely walking between nearby restaurants. Guests with mobility concerns are welcome, but must communicate any needs or limitations during booking so accommodations can be considered
PARKING: Downtown Charleston has paid parking only; guests should plan to arrive via rideshare, taxi or paid parking nearby
WHERE TO PARK: Please plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before tour time to allow extra time for parking, nearby parking garages include Concord Parking Garage (1 Cumberland St) and Charleston County Parking Garage (90 Cumberland St)
EXTREME WEATHER POLICY: Tours will operate rain or shine, (with the exception of extreme weather). Ponchos will be provided in the event of light rain. For the safety of guests and guide, tours will NOT operate during extreme weather conditions, including, but not limited to: Temperatures above 97degrees, heat index above 110 degrees, below freezing and icy conditions, tropical storms or hurricanes. In cases of extreme weather, cancellation decisions are made at the discretion of the guide to ensure the safety of both guest and guide. In the event of unsafe weather, guest will be contacted to reschedule or receive a refund
SERVICE ANIMALS: Only ADA certified service animals are permitted; therapy or emotional support animals are not allowed in restaurants per DHEC regulations
Meeting point
All tour begin in the lobby of The Loutrel Hotel, unless otherwise specified by your guide.
Important notes
Please take note of the things to bring:
>There is no dress code for this experience. Guests are welcome to dress up or dress down based on personal preference. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour includes light, leisurely walking between by restaurants.
>Weather-appropriate gear if needed
>Valid ID if you plan to purchase alcohol
ALLERGIES/DIETARY RESTRICTIONS: Allergies and dietary restrictions must be communicated during booking; same-day accommodations cannot be guaranteed
About Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic coastal city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant food scene. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and picturesque waterfront, Charleston offers a unique blend of history, charm, and Southern hospitality.
Top Attractions
Historic Charleston City Market
One of the nation's oldest public markets, featuring local artisans, food vendors, and unique souvenirs. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and history.
Market
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for goods
Fort Sumter National Monument
The site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Visitors can take a ferry to the fort and learn about its historical significance.
Historical
Half-day
$24 for adults, $15 for children (includes ferry ride and park entrance)
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, nature trails, and a zoo. It's one of the oldest public gardens in America.
Nature
Half-day to full day
$24 for adults, $12 for children
Must-Try Local Dishes
Shrimp and Grits
A classic Lowcountry dish featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a flavorful sauce
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free
She-Crab Soup
A rich, creamy soup made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a touch of sherry
Appetizer
Contains shellfish
Popular Activities
Surfing at Folly Beach
Kayaking in the Charleston Harbor
Sunbathing and swimming at local beaches
Spa treatments and wellness retreats
Visiting historic sites and museums
Attending local festivals and events
Boating and sailing in the Charleston Harbor
Fishing and crabbing
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and events.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) - GMT-5 (EST) or GMT-4 (EDT during daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Charleston is generally a safe city for travelers, but as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Charleston International Airport • 12 miles (19 km) from city center
By bus
Charleston Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates a network of buses. The system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic District
Mount Pleasant
Day trips
Folly Beach
8 miles (13 km) • Half-day to full day
A popular beach destination known for its laid-back atmosphere, surfing, and seafood restaurants. Folly Beach offers a great escape from the city with its wide sandy shores and ocean views.
Middleton Place
12 miles (19 km) • Half-day
A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, a museum, and a restored rice mill. Middleton Place offers a glimpse into the lives of plantation owners and enslaved people.
Festivals
Spoleto Festival USA • Late May to early June
Charleston Wine + Food Festival • Mid-February
Pro tips
- Visit the Historic District early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cobblestone streets and architecture in a more relaxed atmosphere
- Take a food tour to sample the best of Charleston's culinary scene and learn about the city's rich food history
- Explore the local markets, such as the Charleston City Market, for unique souvenirs and to support local artisans
- Consider a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Folly Beach or Middleton Place, for a change of pace and to experience the natural beauty of the Lowcountry
- Attend a local festival or event, such as Spoleto Festival USA or the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, for a unique and memorable experience
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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