Eating Asheville is one of the longest-running culinary walking tour companies in western North Carolina, leading guided food experiences through the city of Asheville since 2009. The tour departs from Tupelo Honey at 1 College St in downtown Asheville and winds through the vibrant urban core, including Pack Square, the Historic District, and surrounding blocks that have anchored Asheville's reputation as one of the South's premier food cities.
Over approximately three hours, guests visit between five and eight locally owned restaurants, bakeries, breweries, and specialty food shops. The route balances savory and sweet stops — typical visits include tastings at a farm-to-table restaurant, a local craft brewery pouring regional ales, an artisan charcuterie or cheese shop, and a beloved dessert spot. One craft beer or cocktail sample is included in the standard ticket price, and water is available throughout. Transit between stops is on foot, covering roughly one mile of gentle downtown terrain.
Groups average ten to fifteen participants, keeping the pace relaxed and conversational. All tours are led by trained local guides who weave the history of Asheville's culinary renaissance — from its early 20th-century resort era to its current status as a nationally recognized food destination — into each stop. Tours are conducted in English; private tours may be arranged for non-English-speaking groups by contacting the operator in advance. Dietary substitutions, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, are accommodated at most stops when noted at the time of booking.
Ticket prices range from approximately $59 to $72 per person, covering all food tastings and one drink sample. Gratuity for the guide is not included in the base price. Booking is available directly through eatingasheville.com, which also lists specialty themed tours including brunch, cocktail, and evening chocolate walk variations. The company has been recognized by USA Today, Food and Wine, and Southern Living for its contribution to Asheville's culinary tourism scene.
What is included
- 5-8 food tastings
- Local beer or cocktail sample
- Walking tour of downtown and Pack Square
- Guide narration on Asheville food culture
Good to know
- Operator
- Eating Asheville (eatingasheville.com; booking at eatingasheville.com/tours; phone: (828) 489-3266)
Location
Departure from Tupelo Honey, 1 College St, Asheville, NC 28801
35.5787, -82.5512 View on map
Highlights
- Three-hour walking tour of downtown Asheville visiting 5-8 locally owned restaurants, breweries, and specialty food shops
- Includes one craft beer or cocktail tasting alongside a balance of savory and sweet food stops
- Expert local guides cover Asheville's food culture history from farm-to-table roots to national recognition
- Small-group format averaging 10-15 guests for a personal, unhurried pace through Pack Square and the Historic District
- Vegetarian and gluten-free substitutions available at most stops with advance notice at booking
Tips for visiting
- Arrive with only a light snack beforehand — a full meal before the tour reduces enjoyment of the generous tastings
- Wear comfortable walking shoes; the route covers roughly one mile of downtown Asheville sidewalk
- Book at least a week ahead, especially for weekend tours — Eating Asheville sells out regularly in spring and fall
- Gratuity for the guide is not included in the ticket price; $5-10 per person is customary
- Photography is welcome at most stops, but check with the guide before shooting in kitchen or production areas
Frequently asked questions
How much walking is involved in the Eating Asheville food tour?
The tour covers approximately one mile of mostly flat downtown Asheville sidewalks over three hours. The pace is leisurely, with stops every few blocks, making it manageable for most fitness levels.
Are dietary restrictions accommodated on the tour?
Yes. Eating Asheville asks guests to disclose vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free needs at booking. Most participating restaurants can provide substitutions, though not every stop guarantees an alternative for all restrictions.
What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers all food tastings (five to eight stops), one craft beer or cocktail sample, and the guided tour narration. Gratuities and any additional drinks purchased at stops are not included.
Can children participate in the Eating Asheville tour?
Children are welcome on most public tours. The one alcoholic beverage included in the ticket is for adults; non-alcoholic alternatives are provided for minors. Confirm age policies with the operator at booking.
How far in advance should the tour be booked?
Booking at least one week ahead is advisable for weekdays; two weeks or more for weekend slots and peak season (April through October), as popular time slots sell out quickly.