Yes, according to Jain teachings, Tirthankaras did eat, but with great discipline and according to strict spiritual guidelines. Before attaining kevala jnana (omniscience), Tirthankaras lived as ordinary human beings and followed the vows of Jain ascetics.

During their ascetic lives, Tirthankaras practiced severe austerities and followed the practice of taking food only after proper alms-seeking (gochari). They accepted only pure, vegetarian food offered with respect, and adhered to the principle of ahimsa (non-violence) even in their eating habits.

After attaining kevala jnana, Tirthankaras no longer had any worldly desires, including the need for food, but they continued to accept alms from devotees as a demonstration of their detachment and to set an example for others. The last meal of each Tirthankara, before they stopped eating altogether, is considered significant in Jain tradition.

For example, Bhagwan Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, is said to have taken his last meal from a householder named Candanbala, after which he gave up eating and lived in a state of pure meditation until his liberation (moksha).