Undiscovered Charleston: Half Day Food, Wine & History Tour With Cooking Class

Explore Charleston’s rich Lowcountry culinary heritage on this immersive food, wine, and history tour. Guided by a renowned local chef, guests explore the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the region’s iconic dishes over centuries. From Native American techniques to African, European, and Caribbean flavors, the tour showcases the evolution of Charleston’s culinary identity through hands-on cooking demos, expertly-paired wine tastings, and a delectable multi-course lunch. But there’s more to uncover as the tour weaves in insights into the city’s storied past, leaving participants with not just full stomachs, but a deeper appreciation for Charleston’s vibrant food culture.

Just The Basics

• Explore the rich culinary heritage of Charleston’s Lowcountry, with diverse influences from Native American, African, European, and Caribbean cultures.
• Participate in a hands-on cooking demonstration by Chef Forrest Parker, learning signature Lowcountry dishes and techniques.
• Indulge in a delectable lunch featuring Charleston classics like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and she-crab soup, paired with local wines.
• Gain insights into Charleston’s food history, from early Native American and European settler traditions to the impact of enslaved Africans.
• Receive a takeaway recipe booklet to recreate the flavors of the Lowcountry in your own kitchen.

Exploring Lowcountry Food Influences

The tour delves into the rich culinary heritage of Charleston’s Lowcountry, exploring the diverse food influences that have shaped the region’s iconic cuisine over centuries.

From the indigenous Native American techniques to the African, European, and Caribbean flavors introduced by settlers, the walking tour sheds light on how this unique blend of cultures has created the vibrant Lowcountry fare.

Guests learn about the significance of ingredients like rice, okra, and she-crab, and how they’ve been integrated into beloved local dishes.

The historical insights provide a deeper appreciation for the evolution of Charleston’s food landscape, setting the stage for the hands-on cooking demonstration led by Chef Forrest Parker.

Cooking Demonstration by Chef Forrest

During the cooking demonstration, Chef Forrest Parker shares his expertise and guides guests through the preparation of signature Lowcountry dishes, providing step-by-step instructions and insights into the regional culinary traditions.

Guests have the opportunity to learn from the chef’s wealth of knowledge as he demonstrates the techniques and flavors that define Charleston’s unique cuisine. From seasoning blends to cooking methods, Forrest’s hands-on instruction offers a behind-the-scenes look at the city’s vibrant food scene.

Delectable Lunch and Wine Pairings

Following the walking tour and cooking demonstration, guests indulge in a delectable lunch paired with carefully selected wines that complement the Lowcountry flavors. The menu features a curated selection of regional specialties, expertly prepared by Chef Forrest Parker to showcase the diverse culinary heritage of Charleston.

The lunch highlights may include:

1. Shrimp and grits, a Charleston classic with creamy stone-ground grits and sautéed shrimp.
2. Fried green tomatoes topped with crab remoulade, a delightful blend of tart and sweet.
3. She-crab soup, a rich and velvety take on the local favorite.
4. Pecan pie with bourbon whipped cream, a decadent Southern dessert.

The wine pairings elevate the experience, allowing guests to savor the nuanced flavors of the Lowcountry cuisine.

Insights Into Charleston’s Food History

Chef Forrest Parker, the culinary guide of the tour, imparts a wealth of insights into Charleston’s rich food history, delving into the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the city’s iconic culinary landscape.

From the early Native American and European settler traditions to the impact of enslaved Africans, he expertly weaves together the unique threads that have contributed to the city’s renowned Lowcountry cuisine.

Guests are captivated as he shares stories of how ingredients, techniques, and recipes have evolved over time, reflecting the region’s complex past.

With each historical anecdote, the tour offers a deeper appreciation for the layers of culture and tradition that infuse Charleston’s vibrant food scene.

Takeaway Recipes From the Chef

As part of the tour, guests receive Chef Forrest’s coveted recipes to recreate the delectable dishes enjoyed during the cooking demonstration. These carefully curated recipes allow participants to bring a taste of Charleston’s Lowcountry cuisine into their own homes.

The tour’s highlight is the opportunity to learn directly from the chef, who shares the secrets behind his signature dishes:

1. Shrimp and Grits: A Charleston classic featuring succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and a savory sauce.

2. Hoppin’ John: A traditional rice and bean dish with a unique blend of spices and flavors.

3. She-Crab Soup: A rich and velvety seafood soup with a touch of sherry.

4. Pecan Pie: A decadent Southern dessert with a gooey filling and a perfectly crisp crust.

Cozy Bistro Finale to the Tour

At the tour’s conclusion, guests are escorted to a cozy bistro, where they can savor the flavors of the day’s culinary exploration in a relaxed setting.

Seated in the warm, inviting atmosphere, they’ll enjoy a delightful meal that showcases the regional cuisine they’ve learned about during the tour. The chef’s creations are perfectly paired with a selection of local wines, allowing guests to truly enjoy the Lowcountry’s vibrant food culture.

It’s a fitting end to a day filled with historical insights, hands-on cooking experiences, and a deeper appreciation for the flavors that define Charleston’s unique culinary identity. Guests leave the tour with full stomachs, newfound knowledge, and a longing to return to this delightful city.

Accessibility and Group Size Details

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, accommodating guests with special needs. A maximum of 12 travelers are permitted on the experience, ensuring an intimate and personalized exploration of Charleston’s culinary history.

The tour is near public transportation, making it easily accessible for all guests.

Service animals are allowed, ensuring those with disabilities can fully participate.

The small group size of 12 travelers or less allows for a more personalized experience with the knowledgeable chef.

This intimate group setting enables deeper discussions, allowing guests to ask questions and engage more actively with the historical and culinary content.

Cancellation Policy and Weather Considerations

This tour is a weather-dependent experience, so participants should be aware of the cancellation policy.

If inclement weather forces the cancelation of the tour, guests will receive a full refund. The tour operates rain or shine, but the company reserves the right to cancel if conditions pose a safety risk.

Guests are advised to dress appropriately for the weather and be prepared for walking. In the event of a cancellation, the company will make every effort to reschedule the tour for a later date.

Refunds will be issued if a rescheduled date isn’t possible. The tour’s cancellation policy ensures a seamless experience, regardless of the weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Participants Bring Their Own Alcoholic Beverages?

Participants cannot bring their own alcoholic beverages to the tour. The tour includes alcoholic beverages as part of the tour package, so outside alcoholic drinks are not permitted. The tour give you a complete culinary and beverage experience.

Is There a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Menu Option?

Yes, the tour offers vegetarian and gluten-free menu options. Participants with dietary restrictions can notify the tour provider in advance, and the chef will accommodate their needs during the cooking demonstration and lunch.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Dietary Needs?

The tour can be customized to accommodate special dietary needs, such as vegetarian or gluten-free options. Guests should communicate any dietary restrictions when booking the tour, so the chef can prepare suitable meals and make necessary adjustments.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator does not currently offer any discounts for seniors or students. The tour price remains a flat rate of $250 per person, regardless of age or student status. Special dietary needs may be accommodated with advance notice.

Can Participants Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?

The tour operator may allow participants to extend the tour duration for an additional fee, subject to availability and guide scheduling. Interested travelers should inquire directly with the operator about this possibility and any associated costs.

Sum Up

This immersive Charleston food tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into the city’s rich culinary heritage.

From hands-on cooking demos to expert-led wine tastings, guests will savor the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Lowcountry cuisine over centuries.

The tour culminates in a delectable multi-course lunch, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for the region’s iconic flavors and a collection of chef-curated recipes to recreate at home.