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The 15 best foodie tours in the usa.

Savor fresh seafood, authentic Tex-Mex and more during one of these highly regarded outings.

(Getty Images) |

Consider these gourmand-approved excursions when visiting America's top culinary spots.

Savannah Taste Experience: Savannah, Georgia

Sonoma Food Tour: Sonoma, California

Austin Eats Food Tours: Austin, Texas

Bite San Diego: San Diego

Walk Eat Nashville: Nashville, Tennessee

Taste of Houston Food Tours: Houston

(Jamie Francis | Courtesy of TravelPortland.com)

Forktown Food Tours: Portland, Oregon

Savor Seattle Food Tours: Seattle

Charleston Culinary Tours: Charleston, South Carolina

Gourmet Food and Wine Tours: Napa Valley

Melting Pot Food Tours: Los Angeles

Foods of New York Tours: New York City

Chicago Food Planet: Chicago

Doctor Gumbo Tours: New Orleans

Local Tastes of the City Tours: San Francisco

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How To Book A Food Tour – Culinary Tours 101

Part of being professional eaters means that we’ve taken dozens of food tours over the years. We are sort of experts at taking culinary tours. For some food travelers, this is a new experience. That’s why we wanted to share tips on booking a food tour and making the most of your experience.

*This post contains compensated links. Find more info in my  DISCLAIMER . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

How To Book A Food Tour

Our network of contributors have been on food tours from Buenos Aires to Bangkok to Bristol to Barcelona . We’ve taken private tours and group tours. Walking tours and driven tours. Wine tastings and cooking classes.  Tapas  tours. Pintxos tours . Neighborhood tours. Market tours. We’ve done it all, at least it seems.

Some of these tours were amazing, a few were flops. It’s why we think it’s important to understand what you are getting into before booking a tour.

If you travel for food as we do, and you have some flexibility in your budget, we definitely recommend booking a food tour. This kind of tour can be the best way to taste new dishes and to learn about a new destination. In this post, we will share our tips on how to book the best food tour for your needs.

What You Will Learn In This Food And Travel Blog Post

• You will learn what is a food tour and how to book one
• You will learn what to expect on a culinary tour
• You will learn how to book the best food tour for you and how to make the most of the experience

What Is A Food Tour

At its most basic, a food tour or culinary tour will help you discover a town or region through food and drink. But, it’s more than that. A foodie tour is a professionally guided tour of a local city. They can include tours of a local market, stops at various food producers or restaurants, or even a cooking class.

Some include wine or drink tastings as well. The most important thing about a food tour is that it is not only a few hours of eating and drinking, but it’s a great way to learn about the local food culture.

The best food tours are a great way to not only taste local ingredients but to better understand the history of a city through its food and drink. We provide loads of  Food Guides  on this site, which help to suggest what and where to eat when exploring a new destination.

A tour, though, does something more. It helps to educate food travelers to help them dig deeper, and learn more about their foodie destination.

Food And Drink Travel Pro Tip

What is food culture? Food culture refers to the practices, thoughts, and beliefs surrounding not only the consumption of food but the production and distribution as well. It helps to explain the identity of the culture of a destination through what and how people eat.

What Is The Difference Between A Traditional Tour And A Culinary Tour

A traditional city tour often focuses on the history of a city as told through its famous landmarks, attractions, and architecture. A culinary tour sometimes offers insight into the history and culture of a city in a similar way but told differently.

Although the tour often walks through some of the most popular neighborhoods in a city, the history and culture of the city are told through food, drink, or hands-on workshops. The tour might include tastings of local ingredients as well as dishes.

What Are The Benefits Of Booking A Culinary Tour

Here are just some of the benefits of booking a food tour. You will receive personalized tips from guides that are passionate about food. These tips can also include where to eat like a local during the rest of your stay. The guide is normally a local, or someone who has lived in the destination for quite some time.

You can also discover places you wouldn’t find on your own. This is particularly true in cities with a big street food culture, which can be intimidating for culinary travelers.

If you are short on time, it’s a great way to learn about the food of a destination in a short amount of time. It’s the perfect option for people in a city for a layover or an overnight stay. It’s not only a way to taste the food, but to walk the city.

Booking a culinary tour is also a great way to meet other food travelers. We met some really interesting people through food tours. We’ve met people on food tours who ultimately subscribed to our blog, so you never know!

What To Expect On A Typical Food Tour

Most food tours are walking tours. You will meet your guide in a set location and then walk from stop to stop, learning about the city along the way. Some food tours are a little more active. A wine tour often includes driving by car or bus between wineries. Some food tour companies offer tours by bicycle, segway, or even tuk-tuk.

Learn About Local Ingredients

It’s not just about tasting new dishes, a well-trained food tour guide will help you understand the local ingredients. This includes the importance of a local ingredient to the history and culture of the city.

Learn How To Eat Like A Local

The best food tours explain what locals eat. But, they also share information about when people eat and where they eat. It’s a way to learn about how the locals live their daily lives, through food.

Book a Hands-On Workshop To Learn A Skill

Sometimes a food travel experience could include a hands-on workshop. Often times this is a cooking class. Many cooking classes involve tours of the local market, cooking a meal, and then eating that meal.

As an alternative to cooking classes, some other hands-on workshops could include baking, chocolate making, or cocktail making experiences. Again, the idea is to not only taste local dishes but to learn a skill while learning about the history and food culture of the destination.

Booking a Culinary Tour Pro Tip

If you have food allergies or special dietary needs discuss your requirements before booking when possible, or review the website to see if they can cater. Most tours can cater if there is enough advanced notice. In some destinations, this is harder than in others.

How Much Does a Food Tour Cost

The price of a food tour will range, often between $30-$100, but some can be more. The price range will depend on whether the culinary tour is private or in a small group. It will also depend on the destination.

Food tours in  Southeast Asia  will often be less expensive than European culinary tours. Another distinction is how long the tour will be, a full-day tour will be more expensive than a half-day tour. On average, expect to spend at least $50 a person for a high-quality culinary tour.

How Long Is a Typical Food Tour

The duration of a food tour will vary. Most tours are between two and four hours. Some of this is driven by the destination, but most times it is because it’s hard to eat for too many hours straight. Cooking classes and other hands-on food workshops are often longer.

Will A Food Tour Be A Private Or Group Tour

Many food tours are conducted in groups. Some of the best food tours are limited in size because it is hard to eat at some of the best places when the groups are too big. A private culinary tour or experience will generally cost more than a group tour, but there is a benefit to having a unique and customized private tour.

How Do I Know a Culinary Tour Is A Good Value?

Many food travelers who take a food tour look back on their experience and wonder whether the tour was a good value. When we first started taking food tours, years ago, I would add up the amount of food we ate and wonder if it was worth it. Then, I realized, this was the wrong way to look at it.

The best food tours will be more than just the food eaten. The value comes from having a great food tour guide, who knows the history of the city, the food culture, and how to explain it all in a way that makes sense.

The best food tours we’ve taken have left a mark on us and helped us to understand the city we are visiting in a way that we would not have been able to do otherwise.

The amount invested in a good culinary tour not only depends on the cost of food in that city, but also on the quality of the information shared with travelers before, during, and after the tour. Many food tours provide travelers with additional information on where to eat during the rest of their stay.

How To Make The Most Of Your Culinary Tour

We recommend booking a tour on your first full day in a destination. We’ve taken tours on the first night, hours after arrival. By booking the tour early in your trip you are best able to learn from the tour and use that information to make the most of the rest of your stay. We often return to some of the restaurants or bars we visit on a tour again because we know how good the food will be.

FAQs – How To Make The Most Of Your Tour

You shouldn’t eat before a tour, but also don’t show up starving. In some cases, the tour might start with a little history, or involve some walking. Sometimes the first stop involves alcohol and you don’t want to get tipsy too quickly.

Most food tours expect casual clothing. Dress for the weather. That could mean bringing a rain jacket or umbrella, or a hat to cover the face from the sun. Many tours are offered rain or shine, so be prepared. The most important thing is to wear comfortable shoes. Some of our tours have covered a few miles of walking by the end of the day. Many of the stops might not involve sitting down either. If you have issues with mobility, let your tour guide know ahead of time and they can make arrangements.

This depends on the tour operator. There will always be food or drink. Sometimes the tour will include samplings along the way. Some involve larger amounts of food or end with a sit-down meal. Before booking a tour, check the description of what is included or not included. Some cheaper tours or free food tours might expect people to pay for their own tastings. This is not the norm, but it does happen.

Amber Hoffman

Amber Hoffman, food and travel writer behind With Husband In Tow, is a recovering attorney and professional eater, with a passion for finding new food and drink destinations. She lives with her husband, Eric, in Girona, Catalonia, Spain. Together over the last 20 years, they have traveled to over 70 countries. Amber is the author of the Food Traveler’s Guide to Emilia Romagna. She regularly lectures on social media marketing to travel professionals throughout Europe.

What is a Food Tour? Plus Practical Tips to Book One

What is a food tour? They’re your ticket to diving deep into the soul of a new place, where its flavors and stories come alive. Think of them as your culinary compass, guiding you through the streets with bites and sips that define the local culture.

Here’s some advice we swear by: schedule a food tour for the first day you’re in town. It’s like meeting a new friend who shows you around, letting you in on all the secret spots while you feast on dishes you wouldn’t have stumbled upon otherwise.

Our foodie travels in Modena , Bologna , and Mazatlán were game-changers, filled with unforgettable tastes like those legendary drunken tacos and the best Parmigiano Reggiano ever.

Food tours aren’t just about eating up local delicacies. They’re a bridge to understanding the place’s heritage and heartbeat, all through the eyes of passionate local guides.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

Thinking of adding a food tour to your tasty itinerary? Stick around. We’re about to unravel the what, how, and why of food tours, plus our tips for picking the perfect one.

Table of Contents

What is a Food Tour?

A food tour is an adventure for your taste buds, guided by a knowledgeable local passionate about their city’s cuisine and traditions. It’s a journey through the heart of a destination, exploring themes like markets, bakeries, or even wine tasting, depending on your interests. Often including tastings of food, wine, or liquor and insights into food production, food tours are a deep dive into local flavors and culinary practices. 

At Tasty Itinerary, we think of it as a “foodie adventure” – a unique opportunity to sample, learn, and fall in love with local eats and drinks you might otherwise miss, all while having fun and trying new things.

A Food Tour Looks Like This

• Meet and Greet : Your guide will welcome you at your meeting point, provide an overview of the tour you’re about to take, and introduce the city’s highlights.
• First Bite : You’ll have your first taste, usually at a local bakery or café, sampling the city’s typical breakfast fare. Unless it’s an afternoon or evening tour.
• Culinary Exploration : Part of a food tour is embarking on a walking tour through the city, stopping at local markets, eateries, and specialty shops to taste a variety of local specialties.
• Diverse Dining : Experiences may include on-the-go street food tastings and-or sit-down meals at restaurants.
• Learn and Taste : The food they introduce all comes with a story—learn about its history, production, and cultural significance.
• Insider Tips : This is one of the most valuable parts of a food tour. Your guide will provide personal recommendations at other must-visit spots to eat, drink, and local gems to explore.

Practical Tips to Book a Food Tour

Now that we know what a food tour is, here are some practical tips to help you book and take a food tour during your next vacation.

During a private food tour in Girona, Spain , hubby got a lesson on how to slice jamón. And I fell in love with one of my favorite pastries to date, the local pastry of Girona called a Xiuxo.

1. Do Your Research

First things first: do some homework. 

• Ask friends or family who’ve visited the destination about their food tour experiences.
• Read reviews on tour companies and individual guides on platforms like Viator , WithLocals , and Devour Tours .
• Join travel Facebook groups for insider recommendations.
• Aim for high-rated tours and rave reviews because these tours are vetted for.

2. Check What’s Included

Not all food tours are created equal. 

• Read the description of the itinerary. See how many stops are planned and what kind of tastings are in store. 
• Are you into paying for the guide and then paying for the food you choose to eat during the tour, or does an all-included fee sound more cost-effective? 
• Sometimes, splurging a bit on a private tour can offer a different perspective, and you can tailor it as you wish.

Foodie Tip: Above all, embracing new flavors and experiences is at the heart of what makes a food tour truly memorable.

3. Find a Tour That Fits Your Budget

Cheese and bread samples with toppings on a food tour in Florence, Italy, at the Mercato Centrale.

Your budget will dictate a lot of your choices. Food tours can range from modest to extravagant, especially in cities like Rome, Paris, or New York, where the cost of living (and dining) is higher. Weigh the experience against the expense to find your sweet spot.

4. Check the Meeting Point and Schedule

We tried Tigella, a typical food from Modena, for the first time during a food tour. We had never heard of it until then.

Logistics matter. Look at where your food journey starts and ends and how it fits your accommodation and transportation plans. Timing is just as crucial; you want a tour that syncs up with your day without making you rush or miss out.

Pro Tip: Book your tour around breakfast or lunchtime, or make it a dinner adventure. That way, it doubles as a meal, filling you up with delicious experiences.

5. Communicate With Your Tour Company and Guide

On a food tour in Bologna, we visited a pasta factory where several ladies made tortellini by hand.

Got questions? Dietary restrictions? Need to cancel or reschedule? Get in touch with your tour provider early on to smooth out any wrinkles before they become crinkles. A little pre-tour communication goes a long way in ensuring your food tour is as seamless as it is scrumptious.

Foodie Tip: We recommend touching base with your guide before you arrive; their insider tips on where to eat and what to see can be as valuable as the tour itself. You can start planning and making reservations.

Where to Book a Food Tour?

We always start our research and book most of the tours on these sites with great success. It’s a great starting point in finding one that fits your needs.

• Get Your Guide

What is a food tour called?

A food tour goes by many names: culinary tour, foodie tour, gourmet tour, but here at Tasty Itinerary, we prefer “foodie adventure.”

How would you describe a food tour?

A food tour is an exciting experience for food enthusiasts, guided by a local expert passionate about showcasing their city’s best culinary offerings and traditions. It’s a chance to immerse oneself in the distinctive flavors of a location, accompanied by a fellow food lover.

It’s common to visit fresh local markets and specialty stores during food tours.

Why do people go on food tours?

People go on food tours to sample and learn about local eats and drinks they might miss if they were exploring on their own. Spending time with a local foodie makes the experience unique, as who better to learn from than someone passionate about local cuisine? Plus, it’s just fun to eat and try new foods!

How does a food tour work?

A food tour typically starts with meeting your guide, who leads you through 5 to 8 culinary stops, offering tastes and sips of the locale’s specialties. These tours can be private or in small groups of 6 to 10 people, lasting about three to four hours to ensure a more personal and manageable experience. The goal is to keep things intimate, making navigating and soaking in every delicious moment easier.

What is included in a food tour?

What you’ll get on a food tour varies with each company or guide. Typically, tours include a mix of guided walks and tastings of local foods and drinks, ensuring you get a hearty experience of the local cuisine. The amount and variety of food depend on the tour and location, but the aim is always to leave you happily satisfied.

Be aware that some tours offer just the guide’s expertise, leading you through the city’s culinary spots, where you pay for what you eat as you go. This approach lets you pick what tempts your taste buds but requires more flexibility and budgeting. Always check the tour details to know exactly what’s included and make the best choice for your appetite and curiosity.

Are food tours worth it?

Yes, we believe food tours are worth it and a great way to learn about a destination through its food, as it is part of its culture. The value you get from what you eat and drink and the bonus of having a great guide to show you around make it an amazing and worthwhile experience.

It was hot in Mazatlan, so I wore a tank top, shorts, and a hat on our food tour.

What do you wear to a food tour?

Unless specified, be comfortable and stay casual. Always wear comfortable shoes as you will walk a lot during the tour when you’re not sitting down to eat.

Do you tip your food tour guide?

Always tip your food tour guide, especially if they’ve done a fantastic job.

BEFORE YOU GO ON YOUR FOODIE ADVENTURE, CHECK OUT THESE RELATED READS:

• Travel and Food Quotes That Speak to a Foodie Traveler’s Soul
• Tips for First-Time Travelers
• Avoidable Travel Mistakes: Travel Smarter
• What to Pack in Your Carry-On Backpack
• Pros and Cons of Airbnb Stays

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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What is a food tour and how to choose the best one

If something really distinguishes a trip, it is getting a taste of local life. The feeling of knowing places that only the locals frequent and delicious restaurants that are usually off the tourist route and therefore go unnoticed by the eyes of outsiders.

These discoveries make any trip an authentic journey into the local culture. It is pure excitement and undoubtedly one of the best ways to learn about a destination.

The thing is that we don’t always know someone to be our local guide. Even when we have friends at the destination, we should not expect that they know all the stories, traditions, and the best places to eat and drink in the region. That is why we love to go on food tours!

Taking a food tour is having an expert by your side to help you explore the city in the most tasteful and informative way possible. A complete experience with taste, scents, knowledge, and memories!

This article explains what a food tour is and how to choose the best one for your itinerary.

What is a Food Tour 

A Food Tour, also known as Culinary Tour, is a guided tour designed to introduce you to the history and traditions of a people through their food culture.

A Food and Drink Tour includes food and beverage tastings related to a theme. It can be about the local culture or a specific region of the city, for example, street foods or typical items from the Municipal Market.

Of course, enjoying the food and drinks included in the tour is the central point of a food tour, but there is more than that. A food tour involves a mix of history, context, and flavors. The culinary experience becomes a means to explore the destination. Between bites, the guide shares information about local traditions, sightseeing spots, etc.

Most common examples of Food Tours:

The tours can be private or in groups. In general, it takes 2 to 4 hours with stops for tasting in various gastronomic establishments (restaurants, stores, markets, cafes, etc.). Food tours are usually done on foot, but you can also find tours by bicycle, tuk-tuk, scooters, and other means of transportation.

The most common types of food tours can involve:

• Typical Dishes
• Street Food
• Drinks and Cocktails (e.g., beers, wines, whiskies, coffees and teas)
• Traditional Sweets
• Indigenous Food
• Regional Markets or Street Fairs
• Historical Centers
• Immigrants Quarter
• Food Foraging

Also read: Learn about the main food tourism activities

Who are the Food Tours for 

Food Tours are eclectic tours that satisfy the hunger and curiosity of a wide variety of travelers. For those traveling alone, taking a shared group tour is a great way to meet people during a trip. However, if you are traveling with friends, hiring a private tour is guaranteed fun. Families with children also love food tours, but in this case, it is important to find out in advance if the tour is suitable.

If you are a foodie and have never been on a food tour, you should add this type of activity to the top of your itinerary. Now, even if food is not your primary motivation, but you love to get to know the culture and history of destinations, taking a food tour is an enriching experience. That is because the cuisine and food traditions are based on historical influences and reflect the uniqueness of the environment.

And of course, for those who are professionals in gastronomy, culinary tours are an excellent opportunity to improve techniques and knowledge about typical dishes and foods.

Why take a Food Tour

Besides learning about the history and culture of the place, there are many reasons why you should take a food tour on your next trip:

• It is a good introduction to the destination;
• It gives you a safe way to explore the region’s gastronomy;
• You have the opportunity to interact with local people and establishments genuinely;
• Get to know places frequented only by locals;
• Contribute to the appreciation of the regional cuisine; 
• Get extra tips from the guide for your trip and other meals.

Read more: The positive impacts you create by doing local gastronomy tourism

How to find a Food Tour

With the boom in food tourism , you can find food tours in many cities worldwide. That is very good, but it also poses a challenge when choosing which is best for your itinerary.

To make your travel planning easier, we’ve been carefully curating amazing culinary experiences to offer in our Food Tourism Marketplace , including food tours.

You will find a selection of the best food tours in many different countries, and the list will just keep on growing. There, you can search for the experiences by destinations, see if it meets your needs, and make a reservation.

Check out the main tips for choosing a food tour:

• Pay attention to what is included in the price of the tour and how long the tour lasts;
• Check the departure and arrival location;
• Accessibility – if it is a walking tour and you have some mobility restrictions, verify if the route is accessible according to your conditions;
• Special diets and dietary restrictions – not all tours can adapt to special diets. If this is your case, check with the organizer in advance;
• Don’t plan large meals before the tour – it is better to guarantee space to enjoy the gastronomic experience.
• Minimum age to participate in the tour – not all experiences accept children;
• Minimum number of participants – some tours require a minimum number of participants to take place; 
• Maximum number of participants – we only select tours in small or private groups, but it is always good to inquire about the maximum number of participants; 
• Languages available in the tour;
• Cancellation policy – refund or rescheduling option.

More tips: Learn how to plan a food trip

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Kenai's Tutka Bay Lodge serves beignets of king crab with aioli sauce.

15 Food Tours Worth the Travel

Treat your taste buds to a global tour of flavors with these food itineraries. The only prerequisite: a healthy appetite.

Craft Beer Calling in Asheville, North Carolina

Combine mineral-rich mountain water and a cool-kid community hopped up on the latest in artisanal suds, and you have craft beer mecca Asheville. With more than 25 breweries, this mountain town makes finding a favorite ale daunting. Guide Cliff Mori leads beer enthusiasts on walking tours of the small-batch brewers in the downtown South Slope area. Come thirsty: You’ll try seven to 10 beers, from IPAs to barrel-aged sour beers. “Brewery Tours of Asheville,” Brew-Ed , 2 hours $37, or 3 hours $50.

Sashimi and You in Japan

Ask worldly chefs to name their favorite food city, and the answer always seems to be Tokyo. Japan’s capital bookends this private food-centric odyssey that includes sake tastings in the old town of Takayama, picking tea leaves in Kyoto Prefecture, and a crash course in ramen prep in Osaka. “Japanese Culinary Exploration,” Global Basecamps , 14 days, $9,378.

Cuisine Revolution in Cuba

Cuba has been forging new culinary paths and celebrating its traditional foods as it opens its doors to the wider world. This gastronomic survey of the island samples the Cuban-Mediterranean fare at Atelier, a paladar , or privately owned restaurant, in Havana’s Vedado neighborhood, and such plates as seafood-papaya lasagna at the paladar La Guarida. Work up an appetite between bites by learning salsa moves from a local pro and how to make the perfect daiquiri with a bartender from the famed El Floridita. A bonus: Your ride is a ’57 Chevy. “Cuba Culinary Tour,” Access Trips , 8 days, starting at $3,590.

Say Cheese—and Chocolate in Switzerland

Travel from the 800-year-old lakeside town of Lucerne to the ski resort of Zermatt for an immersion in Alpine culture and cuisine, including a visit to Maison Cailler, the home of Switzerland’s oldest milk chocolate brand; a tour of the walled medieval cheese village of Gruyères; and a raclette tasting at the 16th-century Château de Villa, east of Geneva in the canton of Valais. “Cheese, Chocolate, and the Scenic Alps,” Alpenwild , 9 days, $3,795.

Mint tea is poured from on high in Fes, Morocco, to form a surface foam.

Tilework decorates the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, in nearby Meknès, a town known for its wineries.

Fiesta Fare in Oaxaca, Mexico

Chef Susana Trilling shows off the flavorful heritage of Oaxaca, her adopted home, by guiding cultural tours and leading classes in everything from making queso to mastering mole sauces. Her seven-day “Dia de Muertos” course combines culinary lessons with field trips to learn about Day of the Dead customs. “Dia de Muertos Course,” Seasons of My Heart , 7 days, $2,300.

Backcountry Bounty in Kenai Peninsula, Alaska

Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula is the land of king salmon, Kachemak Bay oysters, and a wide variety of wild edibles, from berries to mushrooms to seaweed. Visit a bivalve farm, forage in a forest of Sitka spruce trees, and learn to cook such local dishes as salmon bacon in rhubarb lacquer with chef Kirsten Dixon of the Tutka Bay Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World. “Tutka Bay Lodge Culinary Retreat,” Within the Wild , 4 days, $2,185.

Curry in Context in India

Spectacular sites such as the Taj Mahal combine with flavor-packed dishes on this “real food adventure” that has you sampling parathas (flatbreads), chaatsnacks , and Goan fish curry; preparing a traditional meal in Udaipur; and visiting a spice farm in Goa. “Real Food Adventure: India,” Intrepid Travel , 15 days, from $2,170.

Tomato Queen in Sicily, Italy

The Anna Tasca Lanza cooking school, based in a farmstead east of Palermo, has been teaching the finer points of Sicilian cooking for more than 25 years. Fabrizia Lanza offers a workshop around that Italian kitchen staple, tomato paste. Breaks from canning include jaunts to a local cheesemaker and a coffee roaster. “Preserving August,” Anna Tasca Lanza Sicilian Cooking Experience , 6 days, $2,500.

Sidewalk fare in Hoi An, Vietnam, includes an array of tropical fruits.

Chilling With Master Chefs in Chile

Lauded in the food world as the latest star in South America’s culinary constellation, Chile finally is getting the love it deserves. Find out what the fuss is about on one of a series of tours inspired by the television series MasterChef . Browse the Central Market in the capital city, Santiago, where you can try conger eel chowder that inspired Pablo Neruda’s ode to caldillo de congrio ; sip Carménère wine in the cowboy country of the Colchagua Valley; and cook lunch with Chilean food ambassador Pilar Rodriguez. “Chilean Wine and Cuisine: Inspired by MasterChef,” Cox & Kings , 9 days, $4,995.

Medina Dining in Fes, Morocco

Your base is a traditional riad (courtyard residence) in the old quarter of Fes, Morocco’s cultural heart. From here, explore Roman ruins and the Berber town of Azrou when not cooking North African classics such as tagine , couscous, and zaalouk , a dip made with eggplants and tomatoes. “A Feast for the Senses in Morocco,” International Kitchen , 7 days, $2,550.

Toasting the Caucasus in Georgia

With its ancient winemaking culture and hearty cuisine anchored by khachapuri (cheese-stuffed bread) and khinkali (brothy meat dumplings), the republic of Georgia has been wooing visitors to the Caucasus Mountains. This itinerary explores four regions of the country, including the wine country of Kakheti, where ceramists make qvevri, the huge earthenware vessels used to ferment wines. “A Taste of Georgia: Wine, Cuisine & Culture,” MIR Corporation , 12 days, $4,795.

"White rose" shrimp dumplings are a Hoi An special.

The Ways of Wonton in Hong Kong

Traveler contributor Daisann McLane designs private food tours (three people max) that reveal the culinary nuances of such culturally vibrant Hong Kong neighborhoods as Wan Chai, Sheung Wan, and Sham Shui Po. Tastes run from egg custard tarts to pork and dim sum. Little Adventures in Hong Kong , 4 hours, $115.

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Where Great Flavors Converge in Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy

A series of treks from Zagreb, Croatia, to Venice, Italy, traverses one of the richest culinary corners of Europe. Highlights include the Istrian Peninsula, known for its olive oil and truffles, and the Collio wine country that straddles the hills of Slovenia and Italy, famous for its bottles of big reds. Also on the itinerary: day-trips to the Škocjan Caves, a World Heritage site, and Slovenia’s capital of cool, Ljubljana. “Istria to Venice: A Culinary Route,” Mountain Travel Sobek , 9 days, $4,595.

To Market to Market in Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An, a town on Vietnam’s central coast, is considered one of the country’s food hubs. Learn why on a guided walk through the Tan An markets, meeting vendors and tasting dau hu , a warm tofu custard served with ginger syrup, and sinh to trai cay , a shake made with fruit, condensed milk, and ice. “The Original Taste of Hoi An Food Tour,” Taste of Hoi An , 4 hours, $65.

Bikes and Bottles in Western Cape, South Africa

This cycling tour of the wine country outside Cape Town routes you to producers in Robertson Valley and the Stellenbosch region, such as Kanonkop, known for its Pinotage. Also on offer: a visit to the Klipdrift brandy distillery and a whale-watching excursion. “Cycling South Africa’s Winelands: The Cape’s Boutique Producers,” Immersion Journeys , 7 days, from $3,295.

Charleston-based Margaret Loftus is a frequent writer and contributing editor for National Geographic Travel. Follow her on twitter @pegloftus .

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What is a Food Tour?

A culinary or food tour is a professionally guided tour of the local food and beverage scene and may include hands-on workshops. Food tours can be a great way to get a taste for local ingredients and artisan products as well as to learn the history and culture of the region , particularly with respect to how it influenced the development of the cuisine.

The nature and duration of the tour will vary. They are typically conducted in groups, though private or small group tours may also be available. Common examples are a walking tour of the restaurants and shops in a particular neighborhood or a bus tour of a city’s ethnic neighborhoods City or country tours may also be conducted by bicycle, Segway, or private car service.

Find a Food Tour

1. How long does a culinary tour last?

A typical food tour will last 2-4 hours . Some tour agencies also offer all-day or multi-day culinary excursions.

2. How much does a food tour cost?

Often food tours will cost between $35-70 per person. Longer tours or tours with additional amenities may cost more.

3. Will food be provided?

Usually. This will depend on the particular food operator. Many food tours include meals or tasting samples that will more than satisfy as a meal alternative. You may be responsible for purchasing your own food and beverages from the locations being visited. This will typically be specified on the travel agency’s website. Before booking any tour, feel free to ask the tour provider to clarify what is included and how much additional spending you can expect during the tour.

4. Get Our Best Food & Travel Articles

Sign up for email newsletter, and once a month we'll send you our best food and travel articles.

5. What should I wear?

Food tours are often conducted on foot, so wear comfortable walking shoes . You may also wish to bring a backpack or tote for carrying personal items and purchases made along the way. The weather will depend on the area being toured and the time of year; however, it is generally advisable to wear layered clothing , use sunscreen , and bring sunglasses and a hat . Many tours are offered “rain or shine”. Be sure to check with the tour operator regarding the expected weather conditions and their cancellation policies.

6. Can I bring my kids?

Maybe. Well-behaved children are welcome on many tours. Beverage facility tours are generally limited to persons of legal drinking age and some walking tours may be too strenuous for small children. Check with the tour provider on their policies and age recommendations.

7. What if I have food allergies or special dietary needs?

First, consider the nature of the tour and determine if it is a good fit for you, then discuss your needs with the tour operator prior to booking. Some locations will be able to make substitutions; others may not. You may elect not to sample products that do not meet your needs.

8. Should I tip my tour guide?

Within the United States, unless included as part of the tour cost, it is customary to tip private tour guides 15-20% depending on the duration and quality of the tour. For public tours, a tip of $1-2 is appropriate for the guide and another $1-2 for the driver is also appreciated. Outside the United States, tipping customs vary from country to country. International tour agencies may include gratuities in the tour costs and can advise on what is appropriate for the area you are visiting.

9. What should I ask before I book my tour?

• What is included and not included (samples, gratuities, etc)?

What is the mode of transportation and what accommodations can be made for persons with mobility issues or small children?

Does the tour end in the same location that it begins?

What accommodations can be made for special dietary needs?

What can I expect from the weather?

What is your cancellation and refund policy?

Can I take photographs or video?

What should I bring (or not bring) with me?

Where should I park?

10. Where can I learn how to start my own food tour?

We recommend that you call the folks at Food Tour Pros . They've helped dozens of people launch their own food tour businesses.

• State of New York
• New York City
• United States

19 Best Food Tours in NYC that Every Foodie Must Experience

• 3 Pinterest

Taking you deep into multicultural, historic enclaves, these delicious locally-led tours highlight the top eats around town — from pizza in Little Italy to pierogis in Brooklyn and soul food in Harlem, you’ll get to taste your way around the most eclectic neighborhoods in New York City .

So come hungry, and prepare for one of the best things to do in NYC : eat! If you don’t know where to start, find my top 3 picks in the table below, or scroll down to see the entire list of the best food tours in NYC !

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• food tours in NYC

1 – Guided Food Tour of Chinatown and Little Italy

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1586 reviews )

“The entire tour was awesome and Elizabeth was a very knowledgeable tour guide! Special diet restrictions were handled very well.” Harrison. Viator

Two Manhattan neighborhoods that overflow with flavor thanks to their distinct immigrant heritage, both Little Italy and China are culinary Meccas.

But as many run-of-the-mill tourists will attest, there’s almost an overwhelming amount of eateries to choose from. That’s why it helps to have someone from the Ahoy New York Food Tours team leading the way.

Living locally, the tour guides can take you on a beeline to the most historic, most delicious haunts around town — not just the famous names, but the little hole-in-the-wall joints that not even all New Yorkers know about.

Summary of the activity:

• Start the tour in Chinatown with a cup of tea, Chinese pastry, and Beijing-style dumplings
• Explore Little Italy and sample fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, olives, and fresh pasta
• Vegetarian tastings are available upon request
• book this food tour

This tour is exceptionally well organized and run by a fantastic guide (usually Patrick, Hannah or Valerie). You get a lot of food and you learn a huge amount about the local history as well.

The Tenement Museum at the end is a nice touch too. It comes highly recommended!

2 – The Original Best of Brooklyn Half-Day Food and Culture, Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 734 reviews )

“This was a great tour of Brooklyn. We learnt so much about the culture and history from our amazing tour guide Laurie. And to top it all off, the food stops were absolutely delicious! Definitely recommend this trip.” Ian. Viator

Move over, Manhattan! The Big Apple’s most hipster borough is rapidly proving to be a foodie paradise, and this tour shows you exactly why.

Combining all the best flavors from trendy enclaves like Williamsburg, DUMBO (a haven for sweet tooth and one of the top things to do in Brooklyn ) and Greenpoint, this New York Fun Tours foodie adventure will bless you with at least 7 different local staples.

Think Neapolitan pizza, traditional Polish kielbasa, French chocolate bon-bons and a melt-in-your-mouth Italian cannoli. Hungry yet?

Eats aside, you can also expect fantastic views of the Manhattan skyline, with plenty of history, culture and local insights thrown in the mix.

• The tour includes transportation by bus
• Enjoy 7 tastings, including Falafel, Shawarma, Pierogies, Kielbasa, and others
• check this offer

Make sure you start this tour with an empty stomach because a smorgasbord of delicious food is in store! Not only are you taken on a culinary journey through Brooklyn, but Laurie, Rick and the team also teach you a lot about local culture and history. A truly A+ tour.

3 – Greenwich Village Walking and Food Tasting Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1220 reviews )

“Ian’s information sharing really made this trip interesting and eye opening. The food was all very good – as expected. We’ll go back and eat at most of these in the future.” Sam. Viator

While Greenwich is best known for being the home of New York’s counter-culture and bohemian community, it’s also a foodie haven. After some serious gentrifying, the Village has become a hotspot for everything from New York pizza to falafel and artisanal cupcakes.

While you could walk around and discover the street food on your own, the Nice Guy Tours team reveal all of the hidden gems that only the locals know about.

If you’re after the perfect blend of history, culture (you’ll even get to see the Friends apartment), and delicious eats, add this one to the itinerary.

• Sample New York’s specialties and discover hidden landmarks in the city
• Enjoy 7 tastings, including Falafel, Cupcakes, Pizza, Fries, and others
• check offer

Come hungry, leave happy. That’s the gist of this Greenwich tour.

Not only will you get to sample some of NYC’s most famous dishes, but thanks to the friendly guides, you’ll also learn about the fascinating history and culture that has shaped this charming neighborhood. Worth booking!

4 – Greenwich Village Italian Food Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 584 reviews )

“Greg was a wonderful guide, a complete Wealth of knowledge of the city, food and restaurants and shops we visited. I would recommend to anyone looking at food tours in NY”. Vince. Viator

While the next-door neighbor, Little Italy might draw most of the spotlight when it comes to mouthwatering Italian food, it’d be a sin to overlook Greenwich .

Not only is this hipster enclave the home of NYC counterculture, but it’s also developed a reputation in recent years for its outstanding foodie scene . And with the Greg Walks NYC team, you can learn all about it from the perspective of a local.

With over half a dozen stops including bakeries , century-old coffee shops and ravioli joints — and photogenic landmarks in between — it’s a couple of delicious hours well-spent.

Greg knows his neighborhood down to the inch! Since it’s a relatively small group, he can give personal attention to everyone on the tour.

The food, of course, is absolutely delicious, and the landmarks seen along the way are beautiful as well. A great way to discover the Village!

Read more: Best NYC city tours

5 – The Story of the Lower East Side’s Food Culture

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 271 reviews )

“Mickey was the best! She knew so much history and she was very friendly 🙂 we enjoyed the tour and we had a 12 and 13 year old in our family.” Dee. Getyourguide

Home to 100-year-old bakeries, pizza joints that have passed down generations, and some of the best dumplings this side of the Hudson, the Lower East Side is a coveted smorgasbord of flavors.

Combining areas like Little Italy, Chinatown, and Nolita, the Intrepid Urban Adventures tour shines a spotlight on how multicultural immigration has made Manhattan the foodie paradise it is today.

Expect to try Ashkenazi Jewish snacks, classic Italian dishes and Chinese staples, with stops at landmarks like the Tenement Museum, the New York Supreme Court and St Patrick’s Old Cathedral adding that extra sightseeing touch.

Bruce, Mickey and the Intrepid team are so welcoming and so knowledgeable! Since they’re locals, you’ll get to see areas of NYC that most tourists miss.

All the food is delicious, but the fried dumplings are to die for! For a mix of history and food, lock this in.

6 – New York Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 917 reviews )

“This was one of the highlights of our trip to New York. Such a great neighbourhood to explore and the food tastes were just perfect.” Michael. Viator

Everyone knows about Katz’s Deli and Lombardis. This tour takes you away from the usual tourist hot spots and introduces you to the real New York cuisine ; the hole-in-the-walls, the mom-and-pop shops and the hidden gems that you won’t find in the mainstream guidebooks.

With two equally fantastic choices — Greenwich Village or Chinatown and Little Italy — you will get to wander through historic, multicultural streets tasting everything from dumplings to bagels, falafels, cupcakes, New York-style cheesecake, donuts and fresh mozzarella .

With a knowledgeable Secret Food Tours guide leading the way and revealing the city’s best-kept foodie secrets, this tour is not one to miss.

Regardless of whether you choose the Greenwich or Little Italy/ Chinatown tour, you’re in for a treat. The dishes aren’t only delicious, but they reveal the history and culture of their respective neighborhoods.

The guides are so passionate about sharing their love for food and NYC — certainly recommended!

Read more: 35 Best Walking Tours in NYC

6 – Half-Day Hell’s Kitchen Food Tour and Central Park Stroll

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 283 reviews )

“The information on the rich cultural history of Hells kitchen, food selections, and unique trivia about central park created a fantastic experience.” Carol. Viator

While Hell’s Kitchen and Central Park may not sit side by side, they represent two of New York City’s most coveted destinations for first-time (and returning) visitors.

On this particular Manhattan Walking Tour , you get to combine taste-testing with sightseeing — a perfect introduction to the multifaceted city that is New York.

You’ll start by eating your way through international specialties in Hell’s Kitchen , with a mouthwatering ice cream sandwich for dessert . From there, you’ll check off some of the relaxing things to do in Central Park and get a much-needed change of pace.

An unexpected but fantastic combination, the Hell’s Kitchen Food Tour and Central Park Stroll is widely regarded as one of the top food tours in NYC.

You get to learn about the rich cultural history of the area, making it so much more than just a taste-testing session. A+.

8 – NYC Food Tour: Flatiron & Union Square by Like A Local Tours

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 200 reviews )

“Wonderful day! The food stops were fabulous and our tour guide Justin was really fun and knowledgeable! Tons of great stories about the local architecture. I highly recommend this tour!” Deborah. Viator

An often overlooked enclave of Midtown – yet only to the detriment of those who choose to walk past it – the Big Apple’s Flatiron District is home to an amazing array of delicious foods and drinks .

On the Like A Local Tours walkabout, you’ll quickly realize that this slice of Manhattan boasts so much more than just a triangular skyscraper; Flatiron and Union Square are melting pots of New York City’s history, culture and of course, gastronomic delights.

As you explore the two neighborhoods, you’ll sample everything from classic New York pizza to award-winning bagels and the famous Caffe Lavazza brew at the Eataly Market .

If you want to explore off-the-beaten-path foodie spots in NYC, then this Flatiron tour is a wonderful option. The guides deliver a great balance between fun facts and history, and are always so friendly and helpful.

So long as you don’t mind a lot of (delicious) carbs, it’s a brilliant tour!

9 – High Line Park and Greenwich Village Food Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 370 reviews )

“Our tour guide Clare was excellent, very knowledgeable and friendly. She took us to places we would have normally just walked past. The various food stops again were very good.” Barry. Viator

A former railway turned urban park, the High Line has evolved to be one of Manhattan’s most spectacular attractions, regularly sitting high on visitors’ lists of things to do in Manhattan . This 1.45-mile-long stretch of elevated greenery dishes up stunning views of the city, away from the chaotic streets.

Combine that with a walkabout of Greenwich Village, one of NYC’s most charming and avant-garde neighborhoods , and this Manhattan Walking Tour activity makes for a fantastic half-day adventure.

You’ll sample delicious bites along the way like pizza, chocolate, and Italian specialties , popping into a couple of underground jazz clubs and independent bookstores in between.

Taking two very good tours and combining the highlights into one great adventure, this foodie walkabout is a fantastic way to blend sightseeing with taste-testing.

Alex, Jonathan, Tim, Claire and Jake are all locals who are passionate about New York food and history. One of the top-tier choices.

10 – New York’s West Village Food Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 120 reviews )

“Adam was awesome!! This was by far our favourite tour on our trip. The food tastings were really good and substantial.” Rossella. Viator

Ask any New Yorker and they’ll agree: Manhattan’s West Village is one of, if not the go-to spot for finding the best food in New York City . Its quaint cobblestone streets and charming old-world architecture make it the perfect backdrop for a day of feasting with Sidewalk Food Tours .

As you wander through this beloved neighborhood, you’ll taste your way through some of its most renowned dishes — the pizza slice named best pizza in NYC 3 years running, award-winning cupcakes , and a real boiled-then-baked New York bagel . It’s a popular tour for a reason!

Talk about a foodie paradise! The West Village overflows with delectable eateries, and the Sidewalk team knows exactly where to go.

The food tastings are substantial and the guides are so sweet. Takeaway? The West Village Food Tour is a must for any self-proclaimed food lover visiting NYC.

11 – Williamsburg Food Tasting & Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 165 reviews )

“Paul’s interesting knowledge of Williamsburg and beyond and the many selections of foods to try. Really loved Pies and Thighs, Joes Pizza and the best doughnut Ive ever had, from Doughnut Plant.” Alexa. Viator

Quickly rising the ranks in the NYC foodie scene, Williamsburg brings together all of the best flavors of the city — pizzas, bagels, classic delis and so much more, all wrapped up in an up-and-coming, eclectic neighborhood vibe.

With the It’s All Good Tours walkthrough of Williamsburg, you’ll get to taste a half-dozen local specialties while passing through some of the trendiest boutiques, galleries and waterfront views in Brooklyn .

Throw in some vibrant street art and postcard-worthy Manhattan skyline panoramas from Domino Park, and you’ve got yourself quite the envy-evoking adventure!

No trip to NYC would be complete without a wander around this artsy neighborhood, and there’s no better way to do it than on a food tour like this one. Paul and the guides are terrific, and so is the food – you’ll be very full by the end of it!

12 – Chelsea Market and High Line Food Tour by Like A Local Tours

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 373 reviews )

“Great food at all stops. Ethnic choices. Guide Seth was fabulous and personable. Highly recommend. Beautiful walk along the Highline.” Kathleen. Viator

One of Manhattan’s most gentrified enclaves, Chelsea and the Meatpacking District have evolved into a collective foodie paradise. That’s thanks largely to the market at its center, a coming-together of dozens of international flavors.

Combined with a wander along the High Line (considered one of the best places to visit in New York City ), this Like A Local Tours adventure promises a delightful mix of food, history, and culture.

After sampling Sicilian-style pizza , a Doughnuttery doughnut , some halva , and some homemade honey (to name a few), you’ll gain a whole new appreciation for New York’s buzzing food scene.

This tour is very informative, enjoyable, and delivers a great balance of classic and modern sights. All the market food is fantastic, but the pizza and the mini doughnuts are particularly delicious. Laura, Svetlana and the team are patient, personable, and make you feel so welcome.

Definitely worth doing!

13 – Midtown Manhattan Street Food Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 12 reviews )

“Very nice Guide with lots of insides of street food. The food was very tasty. Don’t eat before that tour. Would recommend this tour to everyone visiting New York.” Torsten. Viator

Run by Turnstile Tours , this Midtown Manhattan foodie adventure is all about showing off the tastiest gourmet food in NYC .

Joined by a knowledgeable New Yorker guide, you’ll be led through the bustling streets of Midtown Manhattan, known for its endless options of delicious street food .

In between no fewer than 6 generous tastings (Mexican tacos, Greek souvlaki, Bengali kati rolls and more), you’ll get to check off landmarks like Bryant Park while meeting local food truck vendors and hearing fascinating tales of the city’s big-name chefs.

Appropriate for all ages , it’s considered one of the top family things to do in New York City with kids .

• book this tour

You will learn a lot more on this tour than you’d expect! Besides getting to taste local staples, the friendly guides share the history of street food vending in the city – a topic you wouldn’t hear about on most other tours.

The food is delicious and diverse, so come hungry!

• Manhattan food tours

14 – New York City Mafia Experience & Local Food With Former NYPD Guides

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 164 reviews )

“The stories were brought to life by our guide, Jonathan. He made sure to connect with each person in our group bringing us together giving the tour a friendly, personal feeling. Our dinner at Benito One was authentic and absolutely delicious!” Suzan. Viator

Why take a mob tour and a food tour separately when you can combine them into one unforgettable experience? That’s exactly what Mafia Food Tours have done — this unique adventure takes you through the East Village, Little Italy and Chinatown neighborhoods, highlighting their controversial history of organized crime with delicious treats along the way.

What makes this tour particularly special is its guides; besides being experts in the local food scene , they’re also former NYPD members ! With their insider knowledge and personal experiences, you’ll get a much more authentic rendition of the city’s dark side and infamous mobsters.

The fact that this tour is run by a former NYPD officer who was born and bred in Little Italy is incredible. Not only will you get insider knowledge about the city’s underworld, but you’ll also delight the tastebuds.

This food tour is definitely one of our top picks for NYC.

15 – From Manhattan: Half-Day Brooklyn Food and Culture Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 58 reviews )

“Laurie was incredible both in personality and knowledge. We loved every minute! This tour is a must when visiting NYC.” Joseph. Getyourguide

A great option for anyone staying in Manhattan who wants to explore beyond the skinny borough, this particular New York Fun Tours  excursion covers all the logistics to ensure you have a seamless, utterly delicious day in Brooklyn !

Covering areas like Williamsburg, Greenpoint (where the best pierogies in town await), and DUMBO (for a sweet treat at the Jacques Torres chocolate factory), you’ll be treated to deep dives into food, culture and history all rolled into one.

Being a region renowned for its ethnic diversity, you’ll get to taste staple dishes that originate from all corners of the world.

Rick and the team are very informative and have a great sense of humor. While it’s a little pricier than other NYC food tours, the fact that all the transport and food are included makes it worth the price.

The food is absolutely delicious and full of history too.

16 – NYC East Village Pierogi Food Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 26 reviews )

“Great guide, great food, great time! A variety of delicious perogies! Very knowledgeable guide! Lots of fun!” Antone. Viator

If you’re hunting for a good old Polish pierogi , NYC boasts two standout destinations: Greenpoint in Brooklyn, and the East Village in Manhattan.

Greg Walks NYC takes you on an in-depth walkthrough of the latter – an amazing neighborhood known for its multicultural enclaves (Little Italy, Chinatown and, of course, Little Poland) and rich food culture.

On this tour, you’ll get to experience firsthand the variety of Polish staples; far more than just pierogies , the menu also features traditional favorites like kielbasa, egg cream, and rugelach .

With five eateries included in between sightseeing, it promises to be a couple of hours well spent.

Great food, great times. The pierogies on this tour are some of the best in the city. Tour guide Greg is an expert in the local culture and also points out some amazing buildings along the way.

If Eastern European cuisine is one of your guilty pleasures, then the Pierogi Walk food tour is one for the ages.

17 – Private Harlem Soul Food and Jazz Evening Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 ( 127 reviews )

“This tour was one of the highlights of my holiday, what a wonderful night and great tour guide. The food was fabulous.” Linda. Viator

With a reputation that precedes it, Harlem has long been known as a hub for music (jazz and hip-hop, in particular) and delicious food .

This private evening tour by Harlem Spirituals combines the best of both worlds, allowing you to experience the intricacies of Harlem’s soul food scene (think: cornbread, spare ribs, collard greens and tender fried chicken ) while notching up some jazz riffs along the way.

Thanks to stops at quintessential tourist attractions in New York City like the Cotton Club , Minton’s Playhouse and the Apollo Theater , and a live jazz performance to boot, this highly educational tour is guaranteed to have you tapping along.

It’s not the cheapest tour going around, but if you’re traveling as a large group of music lovers, it can be a marvelous evening.

By the end of the night, you’ll be stuffed, you’ll be dancing, and you’ll have learned so much about Harlem’s history.

18 – Retired NYPD Guided Gangster, Crime and Food Walk

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 17 reviews )

“Grear dollar value, great experience, and a great history tour that is cleverly combined with some great food stops. Go for it!.” Rod. Viator

Rolling back the curtain on the gritty underbelly of New York City, this Like A Local tour dives into crime, corruption, and the seedy side of the Big Apple. And thanks to the retired NYPD guide , the stories are all the more authentic. But don’t worry, it’s not all cemeteries and shady characters — the walkabout also includes stops at some of the best food joints in town .

Come hungry — you’ll get to indulge in some red sauce pizza at John’s of 12th Street , try some of Russo’s handmade cheese , dig into a mouthwatering cannoli for dessert , and a handful more.

Ideal for history buffs who want to ditch the run-of-the-mill food tours and go beyond the more touristy neighborhoods, this tour promises a rare, brilliant insight into the lesser-known side of NYC.

Dennis’s warmth, knowledge and passion are second to none. Highly recommended!

19 – NYC Greenwich Village Music And Food Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 35 reviews )

“It was really a unique tour combining food, music and other historical elements of the Village. The food was great and provided a lot of variety.” John. Tripadvisor

Besides being the home of artists and writers (and the wider counterculture movement), Manhattan’s eccentric Greenwich Village is also known for its lively music scene and delicious food . And this Greg Walks NYC tour combines both!

Following behind a Manhattanite local, you’ll wander through the Village streets, passing postcard-worthy landmarks and discovering all the hidden gems along the way.

En route, you’ll stop at iconic music venues and cafés, and learn all about the famous musicians who called Greenwich home. With delicious treats like pizza and spring rolls thrown in, you get a real taste of the local flavors too.

Combining 450 years of neighborhood history with a splash of music and plenty of delicious, big-portion food, this tour is excellent if you want to learn a little bit about everything.

Stops at Pete Seeger’s Home and Cafe Wha! really show off the rich culture. The guides are great too!

How to book food tours in NYC?

Being a foodie city on the world stage, NYC is home to a plethora of amazing food tours. But with countless options on the menu, it can be hard to know which one to choose – and at what price.

That’s where the TourScanner search engine can be a lifesaver. It compares all the available food tours in NYC, and their reviews and prices, allowing you to nail the best deal possible.

• compare food tours in NYC

Uncover a world of authentic, mouth-watering food.

Food brings people together. It anchors you in the present moment. That’s why, years after a trip, you can still remember the taste of fresh, juicy olives in  Greece , or the fragrant smell of pho simmering on the stove in  Vietnam . By pairing the classic grassroots Intrepid Travel style with a focus on food, you’ll get up close and personal with the world's most exciting food cultures. It might be spoiling your tastebuds with flavor-filled curries in  Sri Lanka , mastering the art of making soba noodles in  Japan  or sharing a meal with Buddhist monks in  South Korea .

Created with the culinarily curious in mind, these are real, local experiences with a foodie twist: one part culture, one part adventure and three parts delicious. From bite-sized trips to gastronomic odysseys, we’ll get you munching, crunching, sipping and slurping just like the locals. Hungry?

Ceviche is the unofficial national dish of Peru. It's made by marinating cubes of raw fish and seafood in lime juice, onions, salt and aji amarillo chilli peppers, and is served cold with sweet potato chunks, plantain chips and corn on the cob.

This saffron-flavored rice dish originated in Valencia hundreds of years ago when hungry servants would combine rice with leftovers from Moorish kings' lavish banquets. The dish varies across the regions, but the mixed version with chorizo, mussels and prawns is the most popular internationally.

Struggling to choose just one curry? Fear not. A thali comprises several eye-popping dishes served on a large plate. The dishes typically include grains, lentils, vegetables or meat curries, chutney, raita, pickles and pappadum – creating the perfect balance of sweet, salty, bitter, sour, astringent and spicy flavors.

When traveling through the Balkans, treat your tastebuds to delicious charcuterie boards loaded with traditionally preserved meats, cheeses, vegetables and bread. Some of the most popular Balkan meats to try include cevapi (homemade grilled sausage), njeguši (dry-cured ham) and pljeskavica (Balkan burger).

There’s a whole world of Thai noodle dishes to discover beyond the obvious (and delicious!) pad thai. Khao soi is a chicken and coconut noodle soup from northern Thailand. It’s packed with vibrant aromatics and is served with crispy fried noodles, shallots and fresh lime wedges on top.

Considered to be Israel’s national dish, these balls of deliciousness (made with ground chickpeas, herbs and spices) are a must-try plant-based dish. They’re usually served on a platter or in a warm pita pocket filled with pickled vegetables, crunchy cabbage salad and generous lashings of creamy tahini sauce.

We love the highlights, but for us, the real magic is found off the tourist trails. Our trips combine iconic sites with hidden gems that you’ll only discover with Intrepid. We’re talking mornings exploring the Taj Mahal, followed by a Mughlai cooking class with a passionate home cook.

Whether you’re perusing markets, hunting down the best street food bites or learning how to cook centuries-old family recipes at a homestay, there’s no better way to get the inside scoop on a destination – and its culinary traditions – than with an expert local leader by your side.

Big coaches and flag-toting tour guides don’t cut it for us. With a maximum group size of 12, our groups blend in with the locals and have plenty of opportunities to interact with chefs, street food vendors and group leaders. It also means you can really connect with your fellow foodies.

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South Korea Real Food Adventure

Japan Real Food Adventure

Vietnam Real Food Adventure

Turkey Real Food Adventure

What food can I expect?

Expect to eat the local way. We didn’t call these trips ‘food adventures’ for nothing. Forget Michelin stars and 20-course degustations – our local leaders will help you get behind the scenes of local food culture, track down the freshest street food, discover the most authentic local restaurants and reveal the traditions and techniques that make these destinations so deliciously mouth-watering.

From lining up with locals for fresh tortillas in a Mexican market to hopping between Logrono’s thriving tapas bars, they’ll show you local food from the perspective of those who eat it every day.

How does a Food Adventure differ to a regular Intrepid trip?

All of our food trips have been designed with one thing in mind – experiencing the best local food on the planet. But we all know that there’s much more to food than just eating it – so whether it’s browsing markets for fresh produce, sizzling up a storm in a cooking class or meeting a local street-food legend, we’ve stuffed your plate to the brim.

And once you’ve devoured all the local food you can handle, we’ve made sure our Food Adventures are rolled up into a burrito with the lot so you won’t miss out on the iconic sights and authentic cultural experiences that are found on all our Intrepid trips.

Is there any freedom & flexibility in the itineraries?

Like all Intrepid itineraries, we’ve made sure our food trips provide free time between activities, allowing you to digest a destination either with your group or on your own.

You might spend the morning exploring a buzzing local market with your guide and cooking a delicious local dish with your group before heading off on your own to wander the marbled halls of a museum or cycling through ancient alleys.

We’ve also left plenty of mealtimes free of organized activities, which gives you the flexibility to ‘get your gourmet on’ at a fine dining restaurant or simply seek out your own ‘real food’ adventure.

Needless to say, your leader will be there every step of the way with suggestions and recommendations.

What transport is used?

Sometimes, the best way to eat like a local is to travel like one too. That could mean jumping on a boat to discover the flavors of the Mekong Delta, riding the Tokyo subway to a sake bar or rattling along in a rickshaw in pursuit of Agra’s finest chaats. We love to use local transport because it gives us a chance to experience everyday local life from a new perspective.

What is the accommodation like?

Whether you’re spending the night in an ancient fortress or in the home of a local family, most of our trips include a memorable overnight stay that is designed to make your trip extra memorable. When we do choose to use hotels, all of our accommodation options are in our Original style, which means a mix of 2-3 star establishments that are safe, clean and comfortable.

How do Food Adventures benefit local communities?

We help support local economies by purchasing snacks and meals from street-side vendors, dining in local restaurants, eating seasonal produce from the destination, and using local guides throughout our itineraries.

Many of our trips incorporate visits to community projects, and we choose locally-owned accommodation wherever possible. We are committed to a style of travel that is culturally, environmentally and socially responsible.

Why does every Food Adventure include a plant-based meal?

Plant-based foods generally have a much lower carbon footprint than animal-based foods, and incorporating more plant-based eating into our diet is a major opportunity to mitigate and adapt to climate change. As Intrepid continues to innovate in ways to reduce our impact on the environment, including a delicious meal that showcases local fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds is just one way that we are investing in the health of our planet.

What about vegan travelers?

We do our best on all our trips to accommodate dietary requirements (including vegan diets), and our Real Food Adventures include at least one plant-based meal. If you want a more tailored experience, that's where our  Tailor-Made team  can step in. We can use our 30 years of experience and regional specialists to help you create your perfect vegan food adventure.

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13 Absolute Best Food Tours In New Orleans

The city of New Orleans can best be described as a food lover's paradise. Its rich and cultured past has paved the way for an eclectic and diverse food scene to rival all others in the country. In the Big Easy, everything is iconic, from fresh seafood out of the Gulf Coast to delicious drinks that fuel the festivities and sweet treats that many tourists travel far and wide to sample. The city's unique blend of cultures gives rise to exclusive dishes, drawing visitors from across the globe to savor unforgettable cuisine and create lasting memories.

When visiting a new city, it's often wise to let a tour guide tote you around to the most serene, signature spots on your checklist. When New Orleans is the destination, tourists should never leave before booking a food tour to open their eyes to tastes outside the tourist district. We all know to indulge in cajun gumbo and beignets. However, lesser-known New Orleans classics like hearty red beans and rice and yakamein soup are often overlooked by travelers. A food-focused tour ensures a taste of the renowned favorites of the city, while unveiling hidden gems beyond the staples of The French Quarter, where authentic Cajun and Creole flavors come to life. Using personal experience and research methods, this list sums up the best food tours to make your New Orleans vacation unconventional and, therefore, spectacular.

Doctor Gumbo

Ever been on a boring tour? Doctor Gumbo Tours  implore guests to forget their preconceived notions about standard tours, with bored, blasé tour guides reading off lists and going through the motions. Doctor Gumbo boasts "a cure for the common tour" with food-focused walking tours that are designed to be both fun and informative. Meet new friends and explore the ins and outs of the most vibrant city in America. Whether you choose the food history tour or strictly cocktails while you walk along the streets of New Orleans' revered French Quarter, you're in for an experience that will have you swooning over the Big Easy.

Doctor Gumbo's food history tour allows visitors to dine in five iconic New Orleans locations, including some centuries-old establishments that are household names in the city. You'll discover dishes like seafood-rich gumbo, savory boudin balls, and the best muffuletta in Nola . Enjoy your leisurely stroll through the city streets, enjoying jazz performances and exploring various restaurants. There are plenty of opportunities for candy shop stops and hot sauce store tours so that you can pick up some classic New Orleans souvenirs along the way.

Sidewalk Food Tours

Food is the name of the game for Sidewalk Tours . The company specializes in a variety of food-themed tours to accommodate all visitors. Learn about the neighborhoods of The French Quarter and the Lower Garden District while you sample the flavors that put the city on the map as a culinary hotspot. Sidewalk tour guides are friendly and laidback, so instead of feeling like a structured tour with a strict itinerary, this experience is more like a casual stroll through a beautiful city that leaves guests with a full belly and fond memories to last a lifetime.

Choose whether you'd like to explore The French Quarter or the less famous but equally impressive Lower Garden District with Sidewalk tours. For The Quarter tour, choose five locations, including Leah's Pralines — arguably the best place for iconic sweets in New Orleans — and Felix's Oyster Bar, where you can sample freshly shucked oysters fresh from the Mississippi River. Opt for the Garden District tour to explore locations such as the famous sandwich shop Turkey and the Wolf and Juan's Flying Burrito, the world's first Creole taqueria. Sidewalk Tours also offers private and corporate tours.

Let a bona fide local tote you around the Garden District with Bon Moment tours. Whether you'd like a guided bar crawl or a tour that will satiate your appetite, Bon Moment is an ideal choice for a small group looking for an intimate, in-depth New Orleans culinary experience. This tour focuses heavily on small businesses, meaning you might sacrifice stops at some famous chains. Still, in exchange, you'll be supporting the local economy of the city you've been longing to visit.

Bon Moment's tour guide will educate you on the history of the neighborhoods that you're touring before and after you indulge in some iconic NOLA food and beverages. Take the company's Bywater food and drink tour to do New Orleans like a local. Drink in a dive bar and grab po '  boys at the corner deli while you admire street art and listen to live music in this up-and-coming part of town. Bon Moment also offers tours of The Garden District and a nightlife tour on Frenchman Street, where you can party like the locals do.

Guided Underground Donut and Beignet Tour

Those who are unfamiliar with the city may not think of donuts and sweet treats when they think about the culinary scene of New Orleans (usually fishy food and booze are what come to mind). But locals know all too well the addictive nature of New Orleans-style beignets and other soft and sugary NOLA treats. On the  Guided Underground  donut and beignet tour, you'll get to indulge in a different way than everyone else partying in the French Quarter on Fat Tuesday. Guided Underground's tour takes visitors through the neighborhoods of Magazine Street — an area to explore that tourists don't often add to their itinerary. Yet for New Orleans locals, Magazine is the go-to spot for culinary delights, refreshing drinks, lively parties, and an all-encompassing good time.

On the tour, you'll visit four pastry shops, enjoying the best beignets the city has to offer with a cup of chicory-laced café au lait in hand. You'll try the classics as well as seasonal donuts loaded with local ingredients unique to the city. The tour promises to finish with a fun surprise, so book this distinguished food tour on your next New Orleans excursion to enjoy something off the beaten path.

New Orleans Secrets

So you've tried gumbo, beignets, and rum-rich hurricanes — now what? There's a lot more to the New Orleans foodie scene than just the classics that we can all name off the top of our heads. New Orleans Secrets aims to shed some light on the lesser-known delights that the city has to offer and leave the gumbo to the novices. The company's Magazine Street Foodie Tour  includes six stops with seven menu items to enjoy. The experience is anything but a tasting tour and more like a full day of indulgence. You can certainly check this eclectic meal off as one of the best you'll ever have in New Orleans and beyond.

The New Orleans Secrets foodie tour leaves guests in suspense by staying true to its name and keeping the restaurants a surprise until the tour begins. So for an adventurous foodie who loves to throw all caution to the wind and embrace a mouth-watering, savory meal in any and all forms, this tour is a must-experience. Guests will stroll for a half mile down Magazine Street, enjoying the sights, sounds, and — most importantly — flavors of the city.

Destination Kitchen

Considered one of the best in the Crescent City, Destination Kitchen offers tours to suit any group. Whether you're on a cocktail-laden girl's trip or a family-friendly vacation, a culinary tour by Destination Kitchen will please everyone in your group by showcasing the best of the best in New Orleans cuisine. Amble through The French Quarter during Destination Kitchen's walking food tour, perfect for first-time visitors. On this tour, you can sample gumbo and other iconic dishes, as well as "make groceries" (otherwise known as "shop for tasty treats" in New Orleans language). This tour includes a stop at the city's famous French Market, where you can choose any seafood meal you can fathom and grab a cold beverage to ease the sticky Louisiana heat.

For a more intimate and unconventional experience, opt for Destination Kitchen's walking tour and cooking class. At nearly six hours, this tour turns the culinary world of New Orleans into a fun day of gastronomic bliss. Visit the most famous eateries in the city and learn about their impact on New Orleans culture, all while sampling beloved dishes. Then, enjoy an entertaining and informative cooking demonstration at the New Orleans Cooking School, complete with a full lunch.

Taste of Nawlins

Let Taste of Nawlins  take you on an educational epicurean excursion through the French Quarter. Don't let the quirky phonetic spelling in this tour's name fool you — the company promises to take you and your guests on a dignified journey through the famed culinary landscape of New Orleans as it was meant to be experienced. You'll learn the history of iconic dishes like jambalaya and gumbo , as well as the story behind the historical buildings that line the streets of The Quarter. On this tour, you'll meet the locals who keep New Orleans's food scene alive and thriving, providing a hearty dose of sweet Southern culture to accompany the savory meals you'll enjoy.

If you're after a tour that offers a little something beyond the classics, take the Taste of Nawlins breakfast tour. On this excursion, you'll start your day with a full New Orleans-style breakfast in a popular restaurant on Decatur Street before you head out for an early morning educational adventure. You'll learn about food, architecture, and the French history that made this Gulf Coast cuisine among the most revered in the country.

The Premier New Orleans Food Tour

Lead by two New Orleans locals with a fiery passion for The Big Easy's eclectic charm, the Premier New Orleans food tour is sure to impress even the pickiest of palettes. Naif and Sandy — two lifelong Louisiana residents — will be your knowledgeable and quirky guides on the culinary circuit. Both Naif and Sandy are former educators and cooking aficionados, making them the perfect guides for those who want to learn about New Orleans food history with delightful Southern friendliness.

The Premier New Orleans French Quarter tasting tour leads guests along the historical streets to taste the best po' boys in New Orleans — stuffed with meat or seafood and dressed to the nines — all while learning the myriad differences between Cajun and Creole cuisine. Tour five different locations in the French Quarter at a leisurely pace while your guide answers any questions you may have about the food or historical sites that you'll visit. The Premier New Orleans Food Tour offers tours for small and large groups, as well as private tours.

Intrepid Urban Adventures

Intrepid Urban Adventures  employs a network of tour guides all over the world to host food-centric and other themed excursions in cities spanning every continent. In New Orleans, Intrepid Urban Adventures hosts a small tour that brings out the foodie in every Big Easy visitor. Meet your tour guide at Jackson Square, and then stop at four mouth-watering stops in the French Quarter. On this tour, the more famous eateries are cast aside in favor of New Orleans's hidden gem establishments. Enjoy dishes from restaurants that tourists otherwise would overlook if not for a knowledgeable, local guide to show them how to eat like a resident in The Quarter.

Intrepid Urban Adventures tour guides are full of energy and dedication to their city, and their passion is reflected in their tour. You'll learn historical facts about the French Quarter that many locals aren't even aware of. Even if you've lived in NOLA all your life, this tour makes for a worthwhile adventure for anyone who wants to learn about the famous heart of New Orleans while enjoying some unconventional eats.

Tastebud Food Tours

Whether you're on the hunt for a taste of the best seafood in the city, a strong and refreshing cocktail, or the most iconic flavors of Cajun and Creole cuisine, Tastebud Tours has you covered. The company offers seven distinct food tour options, as well as options for private tours and large group tours. Learn to craft three famous New Orleans cocktails and discover the history behind them with Tastebud Tour's cocktail class. Or, tour the famous foods of the French Quarter and enjoy a boozy bourbon brunch followed by a bourbon-focused cocktail class.

We recommend a seafood-centric tour that showcases the best fish dishes in the city. Visit the Court of Two Sisters, famous for its enticing brunch offerings and lively jazz accompaniment. You'll stop at Cornet Restaurant, home of the largest balcony in The Quarter, perfect for celebrating Mardi Gras and treating yourself to some fresh and steamy crawfish étouffée. Next, you'll visit New Orleans Creole Cookery, a NOLA staple offering chargrilled oysters and shrimp remoulade. These restaurants are steeped in history and contribute to the diverse culture that makes New Orleans such an enticing spot for travelers.

Nola Detours

Nola Detours  boasts off-the-beaten-path sightseeing — a tempting option for travelers who want to experience a city in all its glory. The company hosts backstage music tours, sight-seeing drives, haunted tours, and, most importantly, culinary excursions. Embark on a cocktail tour as you take in the view of the centuries-old city from the rooftop bar of the esteemed Royal Orleans Hotel — an experience that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on every newcomer to New Orleans.

Choose Nola Detours' street food tour, where you'll be led to low-key spots that are usually only frequented by locals. Here, you can get the real Nawlins treatment. Experience some of the most authentic cuisine in the city, including a stop where guests can try alligator meat — a Louisiana delicacy . The tour is led by a former New Orleans restaurant owner, so you know you're getting first-hand knowledge and experience on the bayou fare that makes New Orleans a coveted culinary haven. As you scour the streets in anticipation of the next delicious treat, you'll visit the famous St. Louis Cathedral and other historical sites to check off your travel itinerary.

WeVenture Taste of Gumbo

If there's one dish in New Orleans that deserves a tour solely in its honor, it's gumbo. WeVenture  offers tours in top urban destinations around the country, including a New Orleans culinary tour with a heavy focus on the rich, savory, and controversial dish native to the distinctive city. No two gumbos are alike, which is why on this tour, visitors experience several variations of the acclaimed dish. Experience fresh seafood and veggies melded together thanks to an expertly prepared roux accompanied by a hearty scoop of rice, making it filling enough to grant it dinner status. You can then decide for yourself if you're team tomato in gumbo or prefer to pass on the tart flavor, and whether you prefer a light or dark roux .

On The Taste of Gumbo Tour, you'll meet your guide in Jackson Square and stroll through the French Quarter sampling various gumbos, each with a distinct style and made with different meats and seafood. Discover each immigrant culture's contributions to the gumbo recipe that we know and love today, and learn about all of the different styles of the dish throughout history. New Orleans's storied past is reflected in this iconic dish, so let WeVenture be your gourmet gumbo guru on this French Quarter quest.

New Orleans School of Cooking

Our list concludes with an unconventional and compelling tour experience. Learn to cook Louisiana's renowned dishes under the tutelage of skilled chefs. Fueled by a passion for the Cresent City and a love for the bounty of the Gulf Coast, the chefs of the New Orleans School of Cooking  delight in educating and entertaining tourists. You'll be given a brief history of the city as well as a list of fun facts and tidbits about the food before you witness it come to life before your eyes.

New Orleans School of Cooking offers cooking demonstrations where guests can witness first-hand the skill and expertise required for crafting NOLA's favorite dishes. For a more hands-on experience, guests can opt for a cooking demonstration and class. Here, you'll get to prepare from scratch a New Orleans staple meal with a highly skilled chef by your side to guide you through the fun and informative journey. After the class, sit down and enjoy a family-style meal over chatter about the New Orleans experience. This culinary adventure is bound to leave a lasting impression. Now that you've obtained the skill necessary to cook top-tier Louisiana fare, you can prepare the perfect meals for Mardi Gras back home to impress friends at a NOLA-themed party.

Best Food Tours

Start on a culinary adventure with our selection of the best food tours from around the world. These tours take you through diverse cuisines, allowing you to savor local flavors and traditions in each destination.

From street food escapades to gourmet experiences, our curated list features top-rated tours that promise to tantalize your taste buds and enrich your travel experience.

Discover the most mouthwatering food tours globally and indulge in the ultimate gastronomic exploration.

A food tour is a guided experience where participants explore a city’s or region’s culinary scene by visiting various eateries, markets, and food-related establishments.

These tours provide an opportunity to sample a wide variety of local dishes, learn about the culinary traditions and history of the area, and often meet the chefs or food artisans behind the creations.

For a food tour, wear comfortable, breathable clothing and supportive, cushioned shoes. Layer up to adapt to changing weather and bring a light jacket or raincoat.

Protect yourself from the sun with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Carry a small bag with essentials and respect local dress codes.

Food tours from around the world

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Food Tours in Oahu, Hawaii – Complete Guide to Tickets, Prices, Inclusions, and Timings

Food Tours in Cleveland – All You Need to Know About Tickets, Prices, Inclusions, and Timings

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Food Tours in Baltimore – Comprehensive Guide to Tickets, Prices, Inclusions, and Timings

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Florence Food Tours: All You Need to Know About Tickets, Prices, Inclusions, and Timings

Boston Food Tours: Complete Guide to Tickets, Prices, Inclusions, and Timings

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Los Angeles Food Tours: Comprehensive Guide to Tickets, Prices, Inclusions, and Timings

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions visitors usually ask before booking a food tour.

Depending on the place where your food tour is happening, you’ll sample a variety of local dishes, from traditional meals to street food favorites.

Many tours offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. It’s best to check with the tour operator in advance.

Transportation is usually not provided. Tours are designed to be walkable so that visitors can fully experience the local neighborhoods and eateries.

Some tours include drinks, such as local beverages or a glass of wine, while others might not. It’s best to check the specific tour details.

Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. It’s also a good idea to bring a bottle of water, sunscreen, and a small bag for any purchases.

Many food tours are family-friendly, but it’s best to check the tour’s specific policies and suitability for children.

Prices vary by location and tour length. The cost usually includes all food tastings, and sometimes drinks, guide services, and any additional experiences like cooking demonstrations.

Many food tours include opportunities to meet local chefs, artisans, or shop owners, which enhances the experience.

Tours usually proceed rain or shine. Be prepared with appropriate clothing and check the tour operator’s policy for severe weather conditions.

Food tours typically last between 2 to 4 hours, but the duration can vary by tour.

Most food tours involve moderate walking, usually around 1 to 3 miles, spread out over the duration of the tour.

Group sizes vary, but most tours keep groups small, usually between 8 to 15 participants, to ensure a personalized experience.

Many tours can accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions with prior notice. After booking your tour tickets, contact the tour operator to discuss your needs.

Tours typically include a mix of well-known spots and hidden gems, offering a comprehensive taste of the local food scene.

Yes, there are usually breaks where you can sit down, especially at certain eateries.

Tipping the tour guide is generally appreciated but not required. Tips for staff at food stops are usually included in the tour price.

Still have more questions? email us at [email protected]

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Enjoy Your Favorite Foodie Cities With These 10 Food Tours

Get a true taste of the city with fun and expert guidance.

Veronica Stoddart,

Calling all foodies: Are you one of the growing numbers of travelers who plan their trips around culinary experiences ? If so, consider taking a walking food tour with a knowledgeable guide. It’s one of the best ways to enjoy the cuisine of a city .

Here are great culinary tours to consider across the U.S. Bon appétit!

Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine. Find out how much you could save in a year with a membership.  Learn more.

1. NYC Food Tour: Chinatown and Little Italy

Enjoy specialties such as pizza , dim sum and cannoli while you explore two of New York’s historic neighborhoods: Chinatown and Little Italy. Join a historian guide on Viator’s New York food tour (viator.com) as you stroll through the winding backstreets of these iconic areas. Listen to stories about the history, food customs and traditions as you sample representative dishes. The tour focuses on family-owned eateries for a genuine experience.

Length: 2 hours

Cost: from $79

More tours:  New York Chinatown & Little Italy Food Tour (secretfoodtours.com; $79); Chinatown and Little Italy Food Fest Walking Food Tour (ahoynewyorkfoodtours.com; $105)​

2. New Orleans Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter

Enjoy some of the most famous and popular food venues in the storied French Quarter — from Cajun eateries to the gourmet food stalls of the French Market — on this tour with Destination Kitchen (destination-kitchen.com). The itinerary features six to seven tastings of iconic dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, muffaletta, pralines, alligator bites and char-grilled oysters. Learn about the history and culture of the Big Easy as you explore its colorful oldest neighborhood, dating to 1718.

Length: 3 hours

Cost: $76-$86

More tours: New Orleans Food and History Walking Tour (viator.com; $75); French Quarter Food Tour (sidewalkfoodtours.com; $89)

3. Chinatown Food Tour, San Francisco

What’s more representative of San Francisco’s food scene than its Chinatown, the oldest in the country? Sidewalk Food Tours of San Francisco (sidewalkfoodtours.com) helps you explore the unique culture and cuisine that define Hong Kong and mainland China, transplanted to the City by the Bay. On this walking tour, taste authentic Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan dishes from five restaurants and bakeries.

Tuck into buttery buns filled with barbecue -flavored cha siu pork, handmade noodles and dumplings, pillowy dim sum, Hong Kong–style egg tarts and other specialties as you discover the history of their respective eateries. The tour includes stops at the city’s oldest Buddhist temple, a Chinese market and the legendary Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory.

More tours: San Francisco Chinatown Food Walking Tour (sffoodtour.com; $74); “I Can’t Believe I Ate My Way through Chinatown” Tour (wokwiz.com; $95)

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4. Chicago Favorites Walking & Food Tour

Food and architecture go together like bacon and eggs on the Bobby’s Bike Hike–organized tour (bobbysbikehike.com) featuring Chicago’s most famous dishes and must-see landmarks. Learn about the Windy City’s architectural and culinary history while feasting on classics such as deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwich, Chicago-style hot dog (hold the ketchup) and brownie (invented at the storied Palmer House Hotel). During the tour you’ll get a street-level view of Millennium Park, Michigan Avenue, i.e., “the Magnificent Mile,” the Chicago Riverwalk and more.

Length: 2.5-3 hours

Cost: from $70

More tours: Taste of Chicago Food Tour (tastebudtours.com; $59.50); Iconic Foods of Chicago Food Tour (chicagofoodtours.com; $75)

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5. Food Tour of Downtown Houston

Head underground into the extensive downtown tunnel system to sample some of Houston’s  favorite foods. This Astroville tour (astrovilletours.com) takes you to three restaurants both below and above ground to try the city’s diverse options, including Mexican, Asian and Italian American cuisine. Start at Market Square Park in the historic district, where you’ll learn about Houston’s history and noteworthy architecture. Then check out the tallest building in Texas, JP Morgan Chase Tower, and the state’s largest theater district as you munch your way along.

Length: 2.5-3 hours

More tours: Houston Bites & Sites Food Tour (bestbiteshouston.com; $65); Downtown Houston Food Tour (viator.com, $76)

6. Beyond the Italian Market, Philadelphia

Who better to guide you on a culinary tour of Philadelphia than a local food writer? Maddy Sweitzer-Lammé, who founded Tiny Table Tours (tinytabletours.com), leads you on an eating adventure in South Philly, a neighborhood of immigrant communities whose diverse food cultures produce a tantalizing array of delicious dishes in a relatively small area. Inspired by the afternoons she spent introducing friends and visitors to her favorite neighborhood, the itinerary features bá​nh mi from a family-owned Vietnamese eatery, tacos at a Mexican restaurant, an exploration of the Italian Market, a stop at a Jewish food store and something sweet from a 100-year-old bakery.

Length: 3 hours

Cost: $95

More tours: Flavors of Philly (phillysfoodtour.com; $49); Chef-Led Taste of the Italian Market Food Tasting Tour (streatsofphillyfoodtours.com; $85)

7. Las Vegas Food Tour

Las Vegas may be known for gambling and shows, but the entertainment capital of the world is also a temple to gastronomic excess and a wealth of restaurants from celebrity chefs — from José Andrés to Jean-Georges Vongerichten. On this Secret Food Tours–led itinerary (secretfoodtours.com) along the Las Vegas Strip , you’ll try signature dishes served at some big-name eateries. Start at one of Gordon Ramsay’s six outlets for his elevated take on traditional pub fare. Indulge in a scoop of Giada De Laurentiis’ handmade gelato or boozy sorbet. Savor gourmet pizza crafted by celebrity wellness doctor Andrew Weil. End with a delish secret dish at a hidden gem. You’ll take away insights into the culture and history of this extravagant city.

Length: 3-3.5 hours

Cost: $129 

More tours: Savors of the Strip (lipsmackingfoodietours.com; $199); Secrets of the Strip Foodie Tour (tastebuzzvegas.com; $149)

8. Undiscovered Charleston: Walking and Tasting Tour, Charleston, South Carolina

Don your apron for this interactive experience with the only certified chef-tour guide in the city, Forrest Parker, organized by Undiscovered Charleston (undiscoveredcharleston.com). Learn about the culinary influences that shaped Charleston into a food destination during a walking tour of its historic district. You’ll visit well-known landmarks as well as lesser-known sites. The tour concludes at a cozy bistro where Parker demonstrates how to prepare three Lowcountry classics. Then feast on those dishes at lunch with wine (or Charleston sweet tea). As a lasting memento of this foodie foray, you'll receive copies of Parker’s original recipes.

Length: 4 hours

Cost: $200

More tours: Downtown Charleston Culinary Tour (charlestonculinarytours.com; $95); Savor the Flavors of Charleston Tour (bulldogtours.com; $95)

9. Downtown L.A. Food Tour, Los Angeles

Who says nobody walks in downtown L.A. ? Lace up your walking shoes for this guided tour with Sidewalk Food Tours of Los Angeles (sidewalkfoodtours.com) as you hear stories of early settlers, Hollywood’s heyday and the transformation of the city’s evolving food scene. Savor the flavors from six bakeries, eateries and specialty food stores favored by locals. They may include the following: Pitchoun Bakery, an authentic French boulangerie; DTLA Cheese Superette for artisanal cheeses; Shiku, a mom-and-pop Korean restaurant; Guisados, a straightforward taco spot; Maccheroni Republic, an Italian trattoria with handmade pastas; and Donut Friend for artisan donuts. You’ll also stroll through the historic Grand Central Market, sampling from its best-known vendors. With your newfound knowledge, you’ll leave feeling like a true Angeleno.

More tours: Downtown LA Food Tour (sixtaste.com; $85); Secret Food Tour: Los Angeles (secretfoodtours.com; $79)

10. Little Havana Food and Walking Tour, Miami

What could be more emblematic of Miami’s cornucopia of cuisines than Little Havana, the capital of Cuban food culture? Experience the sights, sounds and tastes on this Viator tour (viator.com) of family-owned Cuban restaurants, whose recipes have been handed down through the generations. Sample a full lunch worth of specialties such as guava pastries, empanadas, croquetas, guava pastelitos, chicken-stuffed plantain cups, guarapo juice and flan ice cream, accompanied by a mojito cocktail. Learn about the neighborhood’s history and culture, too, by meeting Cuban artists in their studios, watching skilled cigar rollers at Havana Classic Cigars and listening to traditional Cuban music. You’ll leave full — and with a spring in your step.

Length: 2.5 hours

Cost: from $69

More tours: Little Havana Food & Cultural Tour (miamiculinarytours.com; $69); Miami Little Havana Food & Culture Walking Tour (bobbysbikehike.com; $65)

​Award-winning travel writer Veronica Stoddart is the former travel editor of  USA Today . She has written for dozens of travel publications and websites.​​​

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How to Find an Ethical, Authentic Food Tour

Marisel Salazar is a New York-based food, travel, and lifestyle writer and host. She has worked extensively with restaurants and chefs.

Rocío Vazquez Landeta takes a small group of travelers through the colorful, dahlia-lined streets of Jamaica, the local flower market in Mexico City , after loading up on café de olla and pan dulce in Condesa. They sample carnitas, fruit, corn, freshly made tortillas, mole, and warm chicharrón while taking in the perfume-scented streets and lush bouquets spilling from the market's stalls.

Vázquez Landeta's tours feature Indigenous food, like mixiote , a pre-Hispanic dish from the state of Hidalgo that is made by wrapping goat and beef with agave leaves and seasoned with chiles. It is a family recipe from local Indigenous cook Don César. Guests might try insects that belong to Mexico’s Aztec heritage and quesadillas from Lerma de Villada made by Doña Bertha, an Indigenous woman who has managed the same stall for 45 years in La Merced Market . The aforementioned coffee on the tour comes from a tiny Indigenous community in the Oaxacan mountains.

“Our food in Mexico is a mix of Indigenous and Spanish ingredients—we cannot separate both cultures," explained Vázquez Landeta. "Chicken, beef, pork, [and] goats all came from Spain, and both cultures are mixed together to create our dishes, so basically, the food we eat today was created in the 1500s and 1600s after the conquest,”

Tours like Vázquez Landeta's have become a fun and popular activity for travelers to book on vacation, offering a chance to discover a new place through its cuisine. But not all are created equal. How do travelers know they're booking a food tour that provides an authentic look at the destination's food scene while also refraining from whitewashing a destination's colonial past?

For travelers who want to be mindful and learn ways they can avoid booking food tours that are inauthentic (or run by companies that are not highlighting or giving back to native communities), we spoke with local food tour operators on examples of red flags, things that travelers should watch out for while on a food tour, and signs of an unethical experience—but also who is doing it right .

Do your research and ask questions—but also read between the lines.

Try to find locally owned tours from small companies. Although this may require a little bit of digging, it’s worth reading the prospective food tour’s owned website, checking their information and social media platforms if available, seeing if they are actually doing what they say they do, and searching for any published press. Also, send them an email and ask questions outright.

If you do choose to send a message, what questions should you ask? Ask if the owners and the vendors on the tour are local to the area and what their ethical practices are. Now is also the time to ask about anything important to you.

“Asking questions is key, and you’ll find a lot of unethical companies don't even take the time to reply or reply with evasive answers,” said Vázquez Landeta.

Avoid booking through large travel platforms.

While super convenient for booking flights and hotels, avoid booking food tours through platforms.

Brian Bergy of Lost Plate , a food tour company that runs tours in Portland, China, and Cambodia, says: “Don’t book on third-party sites where you can’t really see what the company is all about." (All of Lost Palate's tours in China are led by Bergy’s wife, who is native Chinese, and their guides, who are all of Chinese heritage.)

“They usually take 30 percent commission making it very difficult for companies to make a profit, pay good wages, and give you quality service,” Vázquez Landeta added.

Read the reviews.

If available, check out the reviews the way you would a restaurant or a movie. You can learn a lot from previous guests’ experiences. Bergy suggests looking at the photos that guests post on those reviews and at the food portions—it will be pretty easy to tell the difference between simple samples and the real deal.

“Lots of food tour companies visit big popular restaurants or local chains, and many only provide a small sample at each restaurant. This means they are probably getting the sample for free from the restaurant in order to encourage guests to come back later (or post about them on social media),” said Bergy.

Instead, you want to look for food tours that visit small, locally-owned restaurants—the kind where the owners are there every day and are likely the ones making and serving the food.

Check the price.

Vetting the price of your food tour before booking is a tell-tale sign of whether or not your food tour is playing fair, Vázquez Landeta explained.

"Really cheap tours tend to be abusive with the community, rely on discounts or commissions from the vendors, and they need to have big groups to make a profit," she told TripSavvy. "Big groups are very damaging for the places you visit; they disrupt local life and create conflicts within the community."

Opt for locally-owned and operated.

While many companies may seem local online, the owners may be from another country or belong to a bigger international company. Investigate to see where your food tour operator and the vendors on their planned tour come from.

Everybody from Vázquez Landeta's Eat Like a Local is local to Mexico or Mexico City. Vázquez Landeta was born and raised in Mexico City, as were her mother, father, and grandparents. She only hires women from Mexico City, specifically, and all the vendors she visits are locals—the majority of whom are second or third-generation Indigenous immigrants from elsewhere in Mexico who came to the city seeking better opportunities.

Local vendors are an absolute requirement for Vázquez Landeta, who aims to keep tourism money within the community. Since most of the stalls in the markets are owned by Indigenous people, Vázquez Landeta naturally leans towards them.

Find a tour that gives back.

Eat Like a Local charges extra fees to pay to their vendors above their products’ price, social programs for girls from the markets, English lessons, sex education, career programs, cultural programs, and gastronomic programs. Vázquez Landeta's tours also feed homeless people from the area—whoever approaches while on tour gets to eat what the group is eating.

While most tour companies rely on discounts, free stuff, or kickbacks, Vázquez Landeta believes tourism should be a source of economic growth for the city. “If a product is worth 2 pesos, we pay 20 pesos," she said. "This way, tourism money goes straight to the community, improving their lives and incomes. But we don’t give away money—we teach them that their time, knowledge, and service are worth something, and we are paying for that on top of their product price.”

Eat Like a Local gives back to the community in more ways than financial support. Pre-pandemic, they hosted free tours for local senior citizens to interact with others and get to know the city better, and Vázquez Landeta also collected money to rebuild several vendors' stalls at La Merced Market after a devastating fire.

Long-term vendor relationship development is important.

Ask your prospective food tour how long they have worked with the selected vendors or artisans featured in their tours.

"Most of the vendors have been in my life for a long time, way before I started doing tours," explained Vázquez Landeta. "We work with a limited number of vendors because we believe making a deep impact is better than giving a little here and a little there. We want to actually change their income and their way of living by providing extra money constantly each month."

Bergy added that many food tour companies don’t even know the restaurant owners at the places they visit—they just show up. Or, other times, they visit during off-peak hours and negotiate with the restaurant to provide free samples, so the tour company doesn’t need to pay anything for the food.

"A small owner-operated vendor is very unlikely to be able to provide services like this," he added.

Give a self-guided tour a go.

Don’t love being with a bunch of strangers, feeling like a tourist, or spending a lot of money on a small amount of food?

There are many (legitimate) reasons why travelers might want to opt for a self-guided tour instead of a group tour, said Adria Saracino of The Emerald Palate, a Seattle-based, woman-owned travel planning and food tour company that offers self-guided Seattle food tours .

Similar to reasons echoed by Bergy, Saracino advocates going to restaurants directly so that there is no middleman cut, requests for discounts, or doing anything to put them at a disadvantage, like having to give small samples.

"It's a problem in the food tour industry of tours trying to get discounts from restaurants for 'driving business,'" explained Saracino. "This is one of the reasons I went the self-guided route. Especially during the pandemic, this kind of behavior is really hurtful to an industry with already small margins."

A planned self-guided tour, like the ones offered by The Emerald Palate, takes the best parts of a food tour—a local's perspective of what to eat, stories of the businesses, and an itinerary—and removes the least desirable parts of a group tour.

"That means people can explore each neighborhood at their own pace, avoid tourists, and pay the restaurants directly while feeling confident they're learning about the best spots, not just the ones open to hosting a large group,” she said.

Explore BIPOC and minority-led and focused food tours.

There are many minorities and people part of the BIPOC community that rely on tourism as a main source of income in their respective countries or regions. Having BIPOC-led or minority-focused tours is important because they acknowledge their heritage and the original settlers of the territories. 

“Alongside the financial aspect, these people are the original inhabitants of many of the places we visit, so supporting them also means preserving traditions, culture, and jobs for a given group,” said Karla Zenteno, a tour leader based in Mexico who guides a variety of food tours like the Mexico Real Food Adventure through Intrepid Travel. On Zenteno’s tour, travelers are able to gain insight into the culture and cuisine of the Indigenous Zapotec people when they join a Zapotecan family for a traditional lunch in their home. 

What might be some of the repercussions of not supporting minority or BIPOC communities? Gentrification, in a negative sense, and even erasing or not recognizing entire communities. Eduardo Arocho is the owner of Paseo Boricua Tour Co. , in Chicago's Humboldt Park neighborhood that highlights Puerto Rican restaurants. (Chicago has the second-largest population of Puerto Ricans outside of Puerto Rico.)

“For many decades I would look at Chicago tourism maps and brochures that were filled with restaurants and sites in downtown and surrounding gentrified areas, yet those same maps and brochures showed my neighborhood blank and empty. As if we didn't exist," said Arocho. "Even though we had restaurants, art galleries, and cultural centers. So the first thing I did when I started my company was to hire a local Puerto Rican artist to create a map (treasure-map style) full of color of my neighborhood where I was able to include all the restaurants, businesses, and cultural spaces that would otherwise not be included in Chicago tour maps and brochures."

Zenteno further explains that having a non-BIPOC-led tour is like having a foreigner performing a job that might have been a family tradition, like a fisherman owning a boat and taking people out to sea; ultimately, it has the potential to lead to the slow bereavement or divestment of an entire community. 

On a BIPOC-led and focused tour, travelers are able to immerse more deeply within the culture and the history of the place that they are visiting from someone who has a lived experience perspective. 

“Non-BIPOC tours tend to be a more diluted version of history, looking at the past of the neighborhood as nostalgic. Basically, if we (BIPOC) don't tell our story, no one else will tell our story. Nor would they be legitimately qualified to tell our story,” said Arocho.

What to Watch Out For

The signs of an inauthentic tour go beyond playing digital detective. After you’ve super-sleuthed to the best of your abilities and selected your tour, interact with the vendors during your experience, observe, and ask them questions.

Checking to see how the food vendors treat you is a good indicator. Does your tour operator know the names of the vendors and introduce them to you? Are they familiar with them? How are their interactions? You should be allowed to interact with the vendors and locals during your tour: Many unethical tour companies don't like local people or vendors talking and approaching the tourists, explained Vázquez Landeta.

“If they seem happy to see you but put in all the stops to try to sell you something, that's because they are not getting paid and need to make an income from sales,” she added. Conversely, if your guide takes you to places for shopping, this usually means that they don’t get paid enough and need to make money from craft shops.

Another indicator is to see how many tourists are at the places you are visiting: “If you only see tourists, you are at a tourist trap made just for travelers, and that probably has unfair practices.”

Saracino says to look out for whether the tour is getting a commission or some benefit for bringing you to a certain place, giving guests an inauthentic experience.

“Some tours only work with stops that are easy to work with, whether that's catering to larger groups or being easy on the palate," she explained. "This is another reason I opted for self-guided, as I wanted people to get my honest recommendations without any kickbacks, not my third-tier recommendations based on operational factors."

Finally, be nosy! If you speak the language, ask the vendor (or the guide themselves) how they get paid, how they are treated, and if the company they work for is fair to them.

Vázquez Landeta explains that vendors or tour guides won't spontaneously talk about the negative things, so your curiosity is key. Ask them, and you´ll find out if the company you booked is ethical or not.

"When we visit the markets and the stalls, we talk about their story, how they arrived here, the origin of the dish they sell, and how difficult it is to make it, in a way that people understand their background," she said. "For me, understanding is crucial to have a more tolerant, sympathetic society.”

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10 Signs You’re a Foodie Who Should Embark on a Food Tour

Are you a self-proclaimed foodie who lives for gastronomic adventures? Do you seek out culinary marvels whenever you travel? Food tours can be a great way to sample new foods and expand your culinary horizons.

There are various types of gastronomic tours for different budgets and tastes. With a quick internet search, it’s easy to find different types of tours, such as chocolate tours , beer tours , local food tours , and so on. Although many people are passionate about trying new foods and flavors, a gastronomic tour is not always the first idea that comes to mind when thinking about exploring the flavors of a new city or country. 

In this blog post, we will identify ten signs that indicate you’re a dedicated foodie who should definitely consider going on a food tour. So dig in! This is going to be a delicious ride.

Sign 1: You Plan Your Vacations Around Food

If you find yourself giving top priority to food when planning your vacations, you’re undoubtedly a foodie. 

For you, it’s not just about the sights and landmarks of a destination; it’s about satisfying your culinary curiosity. Whether it’s exploring the street food scene in Bangkok , indulging in the seafood delicacies of the Mediterranean, or savoring authentic pizza in Naples, food plays a central role in your travel plans. But why stop at a single meal when you can embark on a food tour and immerse yourself in the local cuisine for an entire trip? 

A food tour offers a curated experience that takes you to the most iconic and hidden gems of a destination’s culinary scene, ensuring you never miss out on the best flavors a place has to offer.

Sign 2: You Follow Food Trends

As a true foodie, you always stay in the loop about the latest food trends. Whether it’s the cronut craze, the resurgence of craft cocktails, or the rise of plant-based diets, you have an insatiable hunger for staying ahead. You constantly seek out new and unique culinary experiences that excite your senses.

By going on a food tour, you not only get to witness these trends firsthand but also gain insights into how they have influenced the local food culture.

Sign 3: You Have a Curious Palate

Being a foodie means having an adventurous and open-minded approach to food. You are always willing to try new flavors, even if they might initially seem strange or unfamiliar. From exotic fruits like durian to rare delicacies like fugu, you’re up for any gastronomic challenge. 

A food tour is the perfect opportunity to indulge your curious palate, as it often includes dishes you might not have the chance to try on your own. So, let your taste buds embark on a culinary adventure and be amazed by the flavors that await you!

Sign 4: You Appreciate Local Cuisine

As a foodie, you understand the importance of embracing and appreciating the local cuisine of a destination. You believe that food is a reflection of a culture’s history, traditions, and even its climate.

When traveling, you make it a point to seek out authentic dishes that are unique to a particular region. Whether it’s enjoying a traditional bowl of ramen in Japan, feasting on paella in Spain, or indulging in a plate of pad thai in Thailand, your love for local cuisine knows no bounds. 

A food tour allows you to delve even deeper into the culinary heritage of a place, providing you with an authentic and immersive experience that enriches your understanding of local gastronomy.

Sign 5: You Love Exploring Food Markets

For a foodie, there’s nothing quite like the joy of wandering through bustling food markets, discovering fresh ingredients, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. From aromatic spices and colorful produce to artisanal cheeses and freshly baked bread, every stall holds the promise of a unique and delectable find. You have fond memories of exploring the vibrant streets of Marrakech, bargaining for the juiciest fruits in Bangkok’s floating markets, and getting lost in the labyrinth of flavors at Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar. 

With a food tour, you can embark on a journey that takes you to the heart of a destination’s food markets, where you can interact with local vendors, learn about indigenous ingredients, and, of course, taste your way through the best offerings!

Sign 6: You Enjoy Learning About Food History

As a foodie, you understand that every dish has a story to tell. You appreciate the history and cultural significance behind different cuisines. For you, food is not just sustenance; it’s a window into a country’s heritage and traditions. Whether it’s visiting food museums, exploring historical sites, or simply engaging in conversations with local chefs, you actively seek out opportunities to learn about the origins and evolution of a destination’s gastronomy. 

Sign 7: You Take Food Photos

If you’re a foodie, chances are you’ve been guilty of pausing a meal to capture its beauty on camera before digging in. You understand the power of a well-composed food photo and the way it can evoke feelings of nostalgia and anticipation in others. Perhaps you’ve even gained a following on social media for your tantalizing food photos. 

Going on a food tour gives you plenty of opportunities to capture drool-worthy shots of mouthwatering dishes, stunning culinary presentations, and picturesque food markets. 

Sign 8: You Appreciate Culinary Artistry

As a foodie, you see culinary creations as a form of art. You are captivated by the way chefs skillfully combine flavors, textures, and colors to create a symphony for the senses. You appreciate the attention to detail and the creativity that goes into each dish. A food tour allows you to witness this culinary artistry up close, as you visit renowned restaurants and interact with talented chefs and artisans. You’ll have the opportunity to taste dishes that are not only delicious but also beautifully presented, leaving you inspired and in awe of the mastery behind each plate.

Sign 9: You Enjoy Food Pairings and Wine Tastings

If you find joy in discovering the perfect pairing of food and drink, then you are undoubtedly a foodie. You appreciate the way certain flavors complement and enhance each other, whether it’s a delicate seafood dish paired with a crisp white wine or a rich chocolate dessert finished with a robust red. Food tours often include wine tastings and opportunities to sample local beverages, allowing you to expand your knowledge of wine and learn about the art of food and wine pairing. So, if you enjoy exploring the intricate relationship between food and drink, a food tour is a must for you.

Sign 10: You Love Sharing Your Food Experiences with Others

As a foodie, you get immense pleasure from sharing your food experiences and recommendations with friends, family, and even strangers. Whether it’s sharing a restaurant review on social media, recommending your favorite food spots to fellow travelers, or organizing dinner parties where you can showcase your culinary skills, you love spreading the joy of good food. A food tour provides you with a wealth of food experiences and stories to share, allowing you to connect with others who share your passion. You can inspire and ignite people’s curiosity about different cuisines and cultures through the tales of your food tour adventures.

In conclusion, if you find yourself exhibiting these ten signs, then it’s clear that you are a foodie who should definitely consider embarking on a food tour. 

A food tour offers you the opportunity to dive deep into the world of culinary delights, explore new cuisines, and indulge your taste buds to the fullest. It allows you to experience a destination’s culture through its food, discover hidden gastronomic gems, and learn about the history and traditions behind different dishes. From exploring bustling food markets and learning about food history to sharing your experiences with others, a food tour is the perfect adventure for a dedicated food enthusiast like you. 

So, start planning your next food-filled journey and get ready for an unforgettable gastronomic experience!

Secret Foodie

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Food travel inspiration

Traditional feasts, local chefs & mouthwatering markets

Food is one of the best parts of travel and our local food tours go beyond what’s on your plate. We delve deeper into the history and culture behind the food that makes these destinations so delicious.

Dine with the locals

When we travel for food, we love to meet and eat like the locals. We offer a world of unique experiences, from an Irish banquet at Galway Castle with flowing wine and storytelling, to a Japanese Tea Ceremony with a traditional Tea Master. Visit an Argentinian ranch for a Gaucho barbecue, or join the Quintana family for a Costa Rican lunch on their farm.

Find out where your food comes from

Our food travel experiences take you from farm to table. Visit a farm in Costa Rica to learn how to make coffee and sugarcane liquor. Learn about farm-to-table practices at an organic Hawaiian farm or visit Peru to learn how to make gourmet chocolate from bean to bar. You can even visit a coconut palm sugar plantation in Thailand where a local farmer will show you how to create palm sugar.

Learn to cook new cuisines

One of the best travel souvenirs is the memory of learning to cook a new dish. Join a French chef for a lesson in all things French cooking in downtown Paris, or visit a local market in Thailand to source the freshest ingredients for the five flavors of Thai cuisine. In Japan , learn how to make Okonomiyaki in Hiroshima and sweet Momiji Manjyu in Miyajima Island.

The best local food unlocked for you

Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and uncover local secrets when our friends across the country open their doors to you. Here’s just a sample of the rich experiences you can expect.

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All you need to know about Food Travel

What are food tours.

When you travel for food, the best way to discover a country’s culinary scene is to join a local food tour. Our food tours are led by Local Specialists who reveal all the delicious secrets of the country’s food scene. You’ll visit markets to source ingredients, join a cooking class, learn about the history and culture of the cuisine, and sample plenty of tasty food.

Which city has the best street food?

You’ll find some of the world’s greatest food in side alleys and street corners. The cities with the best street food include Singapore with their incredible hawker malls, Thailand with their sizzling woks, and Mexico with carts full of steaming tamales. We also love the fresh banh mi served on the streets of Vietnam and the gelato and pizza hole-in-the-wall options in Italy.

What snacks are good for travel?

You’ll discover plenty of new snacks wherever you travel, but it’s also a great idea to bring a few snacks from home for long journeys. The best travel snacks are small, lightweight and airport-security approved, like granola bars, crisps and dried fruit and nuts. Be sure to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated on your food vacation and a re-useable coffee cup too.

Which country in Europe has the best food?

Europe is home to some of the world’s greatest food, but which European cuisine is best? Crowd favorites include Italy for their pizza and pasta, France for their pastries and cheese, Spain for their paella and tapas, and Germany for their beer and bratwurst. We also love Georgia for their khinkali and rich stews, and Croatia for their seafood and roast lamb.

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Italy Travel Experts Tours and Vacations

The Best Rome Food Tours To Take in 2024 and Why + Videos

Ian Sumpter Last Updated: April 11, 2024

Rome can be a culinary delight! But as one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, it has a plethora of tourist traps that can quickly turn it into a culinary nightmare. Food tours can be a great way to mitigate those risks. Let a local expert guide you from sight to sight, exploring the traditions and customs that go with each dish. In this guide, I’ll cover the best Rome food tours to take and why to take them .

Pro Tip:  Planning what to do on your trip to Rome? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you need it. See our comprehensive  guide to Rome  for more planning resources, our  top Rome tours  for a memorable trip, and  how to see Rome in a day .

Is a Food Tour of Rome Worth It?

Guided tours are one of the best ways to get truly acquainted with the city’s culture and cuisine. I recommend you add at least one food tour at the beginning of your schedule. Not only will you get great food on the day, but you will have invaluable knowledge to make sure you get great food every day of your vacation.

A great food tour will run anywhere from 2 to 4 hours and leave you enriched and energized by what you just tasted. We hire amazing guides who are passionate about giving you the best possible experience—both educational and tasty!

The Best Restaurants in Rome by Area

Not ready to book a tour? Find out our Free Guide to Rome

Our 5 Best Rome Food Tours

1. trastevere local food tour in rome.

Trastevere has been considered one of Rome’s chicest neighborhoods for years, not just because it’s where I called home. Far enough away from the mega monuments of the Colosseum and the Vatican, Trastevere can seem like a completely different city.

On this super-popular evening food tour, you will learn about the rich food culture of Rome’s picturesque Trastevere neighborhood. Then head out to the first of four stops at beloved local eateries, where you’ll discover the true roots of Roman food. This is an invaluable look into the food culture of Rome and can be a great way to start a trip and avoid those perilous tourist traps later in the week.

See tour itinerary, price, and description .

2. Rome Evening Cocktail Tour with Local Guide

Look, I’m pushing forty, pub crawls weren’t my scene when I was in my twenties. They definitely aren’t my scene now. But that is not what this is, this is about high-quality mixology. Rome has seen a resurgence in its cocktail scene over the last few years, and this tour takes you through the heart of some of its best bars and its talented mixologists. You’ll also get to wander through three of Rome’s most traditional neighborhoods, overall, it is a great way to understand both the city and its nightlife. A great option for couples.

See tour itinerary, price, and description

3. Testaccio Small-Group Food Tour

Known as the birthplace of Roman cuisine, Testaccio is where classic dishes like Cacio e Pepe and Carbonara were born. Rough and rugged Testaccio is a version of the real Rome that very few tourists ever see. Its market is one of Rome’s oldest (even if it is housed in a fancy new building). Why should you consider this tour? Well, it’s the birthplace of Roman cuisine, you’ll get fifteen different tastings, meet locals, and on top of that, be away from the hordes of tourists at more central markets like Campo di Fiori. For the real foodie, this is a must. To visit Testccio is to truly understand Rome’s food scene.

4. Prati Eats: A Delicious Walking Tour

If you have already spent the day exploring the Vatican, then this could well be the perfect food tour for you. Prati surrounds the Northern walls of the Vatican and is one of Rome’s most residential neighborhoods, it also has some of Rome’s best markets, delis, and restaurants. You’ll try some world-class pizza, drink plenty of great wine, and refresh yourself with some homemade gelato. Again this is a great way to meet the locals and try some wonderful food. Great to pair with a tour or trip to the Vatican Museums.

5. Dough to Dessert: 3-in-1 Cooking Class Near Piazza Navona

For the best value cooking class in Rome , look no further. You’ll learn how to create a tantalizing tiramisu dessert, the n you’ll get your hands dirty in some dough. The secrets of Italian pasta are made clear as you work that pasta into fettuccine and ravioli.

After your hard work, sit back and sip some wine as you share some laughs about your pasta escapades with your fellow travelers. Your pasta will taste even better, knowing how hard you worked on it!

Four-Course Roman Dinner with Wine Pairing Near the Pantheon

Craving a genuine Italian culinary experience complete with food and wine pairings, but finding it hard to uncover the longstanding hidden gems in Rome? That’s why we’ve teamed up with the Bleve family and the friendly staff at Casa Bleve, so you can indulge in a finely-tuned four-course tasting dinner in an enchanting 15th-century building filled with Roman and Renaissance-era character.

Should I Take a Food Tour of Rome

Should you take a food tour of Rome? Well, unsurprisingly, my answer is yes, but realistically only you can answer that. A food tour gives you unrivaled access to local knowledge and expertise, allowing you to open up a side of the local cuisine you normally would be able to (at least not without fairly fluent Italian). If you are a food historian, a food lover, or just love the social aspect of enjoying a new culture with like-minded travelers, then a food tour is a must. But don’t worry, we won’t abandon you if you don’t want to take a tour. You can also check out our completely free guide to Roman food, a handpicked selection of our (mine and our expert’s) favorite restaurants, and much more in our Free Guide to Rome. Alternatively, why not check out our best history tours? Below are five of our best-selling Colosseum tours and why you should take them. Pair them with a food tour for a deep dive into Roman life.

Not ready to book a tour? See if a Colosseum tour is worth it .

Our 5 Best Colosseum Tours

Right up there with the Vatican Museums, visiting the Colosseum is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Rome . This grandiose structure stands in the center of Rome, reminding us of the city’s rich history.

The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater in the world and can hold up to 70,000 spectators. When the Colosseum was still used for gladiatorial matches, it was the scene of many fights between gladiators and animals —often to the death .

All of our Colosseum tours enter the monument through a back entrance, making sure you not only skip the lines but also enter through a shorter security line. Check out our full guide to the best Colosseum tours for more details and maps. Here are our top recommended Colosseum tours:

1. Special Access Colosseum Arena Floor Tour Through the Gladiator’s Gate (3 hours)

This tour is f or the budget traveler that wants exclusive access and great value. You get skip-the-line access and three areas of the Colosseum in one tour.

Walk through the gladiator’s gate out onto the Arena Floor, where gladiators fought in front of the crowds of Ancient Rome.

2. Privileged Entrance Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (3 hours)

For no-frills travelers who want a great guide and great value, this is a great option. This complete Colosseum tour provides a concise and engaging overview of ancient Rome. You’ll explore the Colosseum’s first and second floors and get to know where the elites of Rome lived during the peak of the Roman era.

3. Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican Highlights Combo Tour (8 hours)

Want to see both the Vatican and the Colosseum? This combo tour gets you more bang for your buck by combining them! You’ll enjoy skip-the-line entry at both the Colosseum and the Vatican.

First, dive into ancient Roman history at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill where you’ll walk in the steps of Gladiators and Emperors. After lunch, rejoin the tour at the Vatican to hear stories of papal intrigue and see some of the world’s most celebrated artworks by masters like Raphael and Michelangelo, and, of course, the Sistine Chapel.

4. VIP Colosseum at Night Tour with Underground and Arena Floor (2.5 hours)

This exclusive experience is o f or the night owls. The tour ends between 10 pm and midnight, depending on the start time. You’ll get the opportunity to experience the Colosseum and Arena Floor at night without the crowds. Tickets are extremely limited and only offered 30 days prior to the tour, so plan ahead!

5. Colosseum Underground Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill (3.5 hours) 

This is our most exclusive Colosseum tour, and few visitors get the chance to explore the Underground area before heading to the Arena Floor. This is because it’s an active archeological site with extremely limited access. Don’t miss your chance, tickets sell out fast since access is tightly limited here.

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Italy food tours: the best regions for gourmands to visit in 2024

Eat your way around Italy one region at a time

As much as Italian restaurants and cook books might have us thinking otherwise, it's important to note that there is no one unified national cuisine. Italy is in fact divided into 20 regions, each boasting its own signature dishes that are closely tied to the unique terroir, traditions and history of the area.

That’s why in Sicily you'll find so many recipes featuring aubergine, for example, that was first introduced to the island with the Arab domination of the 9th century and now grows on the land in abundance – while somewhere further north and generally cooler will hardly use it at all. It’s also why you’d never find Venice ’s famous sarde in saor or Trentino’s Germanic canederli dumplings anywhere beyond their borders… And why 'real' pizza can only come from Naples , where the sea and volcanic soil of Campania produce the plump tomatoes and creamy mozzarella needed for that perfect balance of flavours (just don't bring it up with the Romans).

From much-loved classics to little-known regional recipes, there are so many delicious dishes to discover in Italy – making it the perfect place to visit for a food tour . We'd recommend eating your way around the country one region at a time, taking the time to visit local producers and farms to see what goes on behind-the-scenes, before enjoying all the delicacies in an authentic trattoria , osteria or family-run eatery nearby.

So, if you're looking to plan an Italian food tour in 2024, make sure you check out our list of the best regions for gourmands to visit in Italy – complete with tried-and-tested tips for making the most of your trip, as well as must-try dishes to tick off when you're there.

What is the foodie region of Italy?

We'd argue that every region is Italy is a certified foodie region, but if we had to just choose one to shout about, it would have to be Emilia-Romagna . Located in the north of the country, it's widely regarded as the food capital of Italy thanks to its rich gastronomic tradition and abundance of world-famous produce, including Parma ham, balsamic vinegar , Parmesan cheese, salami, tagliatelle pasta and piadina bread.

What are the must-try foods of Italy?

Each region has its own must-try foods that are specific to the location, which we've listed in our Italy food tour guide below. That said, there are some classics that you can't leave the country without sampling – and we've specified where you'll find each at its most authentic, too:

• Pizza - Naples
• Ice cream / gelato - Florence
• Spaghetti alla Carbonara - Rome
• Tiramisù - Treviso
• Tagliatelle al ragù - Bologna
• Arancini - Sicily
• Risotto alla Milanese - Milan
• Burrata - Puglia
• Fiorentina steak - Tuscany
• Cannoli - Sicily
• Porcini and truffles - Umbria

Emilia-Romagna

Emilia-Romagna should be your first port of call if you're planning an Italian food tour. Located between Florence and Milan in the north of the country, the region is widely considered to be the food capital of Italy thanks to its rich gastronomic tradition.

Indeed, many of Italy's most important – and delicious – food products originate from here: namely, Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan cheese), Prosciutto di Parma (Parma ham) and Aceto Balsamico di Modena (balsamic vinegar), among others. Many of the historic dairies, farms, vineyards and artisanal botteghe (workshops) that produce these ingredients are open for tours and tastings, making it perfect for foodies who want an educational, behind-the-scenes experience.

The region's main cities, too, are hubs of culinary excellence. Modena is home to the one of the finest and most famous restaurants in the world, Massimo Bottura's iconic three-Michelin-starred Osteria Francescana, that's top of any die-hard foodie's bucket list (you'll just need to book well in advance). Parma is also a must, for obvious reasons, while Bologna is the place to go for pasta dishes such as tagliatelle al ragù , lasagne and tortellini in brodo , as well as tigelle bread pockets filled with local cured meats and cheeses.

We'd also recommend venturing a little off the beaten track to visit the likes of Ravenna, Ferrara, Piacenza and Cesena for equally fabulous food in a quieter, more authentic setting.

Alternatively, you can leave all the hard work to the experts and simply book onto Good Housekeeping's gastronomic tour of Emilia-Romagna . It includes everything from exclusive factory visits and cooking lessons, to museum visits, overnight stays in stylish hotels, and, of course, plenty of eating.

Home to cultural heavyweights Verona, Padua, Lake Garda , Vicenza and, of course, Venice, the Veneto region has tended to be overlooked by those planning an Italian food tour – and wrongly so. For aside from boasting impressive art collections, elegant architecture and epic carnivals, Veneto also has a strong culinary identity that is well worth discovering.

First of all, it's the region responsible for such sweet masterpieces as the Tiramisù and Pandoro – the former invented in Treviso and the latter in Verona – as well as Prosecco and Aperol too. Speaking of which, Veneto has also perfected the art of the aperitivo, made all the better by the addition of cicchetti . Akin to tapas, these little finger-food snacks are served in local taverns and wine bars, and have become an art form in themselves. The most traditional bites to try are baccalà mantecato (salted cod balls), sarde in saor (sweet-and-sour sardines), crostini with savoury toppings, and fried croquettes filled with meat, tuna, cheese or potato.

With its large stretch of Adriatic coastline and city that's literally built on the water, it should come as no surprise that seafood dishes are excellent in the region – but there's also much to be said for Treviso's famous radicchio, Asiago's cheese, Bassano's white asparagus, Padua's meat stew as well as the polenta and rice that are a staple of the local diet.

If you're interested in discovering Veneto's foodie side, why not join Good Housekeeping's eight-day cruise around the region with celebrity chef James Martin ? Not only will you have the opportunity to enjoy his food during an on-board gala dinner, but you'll also try local delicacies, head out on excursions and have VIP access to iconic monuments.

FIND OUT MORE

You can also explore the fine wines of the Veneto region on a 'Path of Prosecco' tour , which is a self-driven trip featuring behind-the-scenes tours and tastings in prestigious wineries.

The so-called 'heel of Italy', Puglia has become something of a holiday hotspot in recent years thanks to its unspoilt beaches, whitewashed hill towns and unique trulli . In short: plenty of things to see and do to help you work up an appetite!

You'll likely be very well acquainted with the region's olive oil already – Puglia is responsible for the majority of the 'liquid gold' that's produced in the country, making it a great spot to visit if you fancy learning more about how it's made and sampling different varieties.

Puglia is also famous for its bread – namely taralli , filled panzerotti , focaccia and friselle , that are the perfect accompaniment to an aperitif of local wine. The mozzarella , burrata and stracciatella in Puglia are second to none, so we'd recommend seeking out a dairy farm tour for a demonstration and the chance to try your hand at making it yourself, before devouring the lot at its very freshest.

The towns of Lecce, Ostuni, Otranto, Bari and Brindisi are brimming with epic restaurants to discover, too. Make sure to try the signature local dishes, such as orecchiette pasta with broccoli, spaghetti with sea urchin, fava bean puree with chicory, fried octopus sandwiches and fresh seafood cooked in myriad ways.

Good Housekeeping's culinary tour of Puglia is the perfect way to taste the region's famous flavours. Over the course of six fun-and food-filled days, you'll eat your way around the best restaurants as well as experiencing an olive oil tasting and learning to make orecchiette pasta from scratch.

Set in the shadow of the magnificent Mount Vesuvius, the southern Italian region of Campania boasts a unique terrain that produces some of the most flavoursome produce in the world. Think juicy San Marzano tomatoes, milky mozzarellas and fragrant basil – which, incidentally, combine to make the perfect UNESCO-certified Neapolitan pizza.

Naples, therefore, is an absolute must for foodies – but there's a lot more than just pizza on offer. When you're in town, make sure to also tick the following local delicacies off your list: frittatine (fried cheesy pasta bites), rum-soaked Babà cakes, pizza fritta, ricotta-filled sfogliatella pastries, pasta alla Genovese (that's not, in fact, from Genova) and, of course, a few ultra-strong Neapolitan coffees to aid digestion.

Once you've eaten your way around the city, head out of town and along the picturesque Amalfi Coast for a taste of La Dolce Vita. Here, you'll find dishes centred around the freshest seafood that's caught just a few metres from your table, as well as drinks and desserts made from the ubiquitous local lemons. Stanley Tucci disciples will also know to book a table at Lo Scoglio da Tommaso for those courgette spaghetti.

Sicily's cuisine is undoubtedly one of the most varied and interesting in the country. An island set off the toe of Italy, its prime position in the Mediterranean Sea made it an important trading hub that throughout history has been occupied by everyone from the Arabs to the Normans – and nowhere is this more evident than in the region's eclectic gastronomy.

Here, you'll find many flavours and ingredients that are rarely seen on the mainland. The sweet and sour caponata , for example, is a direct product of North African and Spanish influences; Trapani's signature dish is centred around cous-cous; arancini are thought to come from the Levantine kibbeh , while aubergine has been a mainstay ever since it first came to the island with the Arabs in the 9th century. For an Italian food tour that's steeped in rich, multi-cultural history, you can't get better than Sicily.

Each of Sicily's areas has its own distinctive character and food, too, so you'll need to set aside a good amount of time to get a full picture of the island's culinary scene. Go to Palermo for pasta alle sarde and street food staples ( arancine , panelle and sfincione are a must), Catania for cassata, pasta alla Norma and horse-meat (if you dare!), Marsala for the wine, Taormina for granita, Trapani for cous-cous and a southern take on pesto, and Siracusa for spaghetti with cuttlefish ink.

Good Housekeeping Holidays offers a solo trip to Sicily, where you can discover Noto, Syracuse, Ragusa and more, while experiencing delicious Sicilian food along the way. The tour includes a wine tasting and pairing dinner on the slopes of Etna.

Known as the green heart of Italy, Umbria is the in-the-know foodie's go-to region for rustic, country-style cuisine without the crowds. Being far less tourist-trodden than the neighbouring Tuscany (though no less beautiful), it's managed to retain its authenticity while still moving with the times, making it the perfect place for a seriously spoiling escape.

Food is central to life in Umbria: its ultra-fertile soil lends itself perfectly to vineyards, olive groves and farmland, while prized truffles and porcini mushrooms abound in the dense woodlands. There's something particularly satisfying about sitting down to a plate of pasta that is heaped with fresh local truffle for a fraction of the price you'd pay elsewhere – in fact, we'd say that alone would be worth organising a whole food tour for.

Other signature dishes in the region include the indulgent penne alla Norcina (pasta with sausage meat, mushrooms, truffle and cream), torta al testo bread stuffed with cured meats or Umbrian sausage and bitter greens, hearty lentil stews, and porchetta (roast pork) sandwiches. As one of the few Italian regions not bordered by the sea, a meat-focused cuisine is only natural – though the Lake Trasimeno does provide plenty of freshwater fish too.

The city and province of Perugia is the main hub for restaurants – including three newly Michelin-star-awarded establishments – but we'd also recommend hopping in the car to explore the region's smaller towns and family-run eateries off the beaten track. Oh, and make sure you visit the Perugina chocolate factory while you're in town too – even if just for the free samples.

HOTELS IN UMBRIA

Lazio's main city, Rome, really does have it all: good weather, fascinating history, important art, ancient ruins, iconic buildings, the Vatican... And, of course, an abundance of fabulous food. You'd be hard-pressed to find a foodie who wouldn't want to sample Italy's most famous pastas in the place they were invented: carbonara , cacio e pepe , Amatriciana and Gricia all come from Lazio, and nowhere does them better. The fact that the guanciale and pecorino used in them is made locally certainly helps, too.

But the Roman food scene offers far more than just the well-known classics. Adventurous types should make sure to sample trippa alla Romana (tripe) and ox-tail stew, while if you're after a street food-style snack, supplì and a trapizzino will do the trick: the former is a particularly delicious take on the Sicilian arancini, while the latter is a new panino-pizza hybrid that's fast becoming a local staple.

Other must-try dishes that are specific to the region include carciofi alla Giudia (alarmingly addictive deep-fried artichokes) and the decadent maritozzi – huge sweet buns bursting with whipped cream, that are perfect for dipping into your morning coffee.

HOTELS IN LAZIO

One of Italy's most-visited regions, Tuscany is a manicured marvel of rolling landscapes, sweeping pine-tree-lined roads, vast vineyards and picturesque hilltop towns. In short, it's the rural Italian idyll – and its style of cuisine follows suit.

Tuscany specialises in a style of cuisine called 'cucina povera' that centres around simple, homegrown ingredients cooked to perfection in traditional recipes. Pappa al pomodoro , torta di ceci , panzanella and crostini are perhaps the best-known "poor" dishes, while lampredotto (offal) sandwiches are the perfect example of the deep-set zero-waste mentality – and well worth a try.

That said, Tuscany is also a haven of fine dining: there are more than 30 Michelin-starred restaurants to choose from in the area, while oenophiles will find themselves spoilt for choice with so many excellent locally-produced wines to choose from. And for when you're after something a little more low-key, don't miss the chance to feast on a gigantic Fiorentina in one of Florence's many historic steakhouses, followed by a walk along the river with a homemade gelato in hand.

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Taylor Swift Covers a Year’s Worth of Meals With Donation to Local U.K. Food Bank on Eras Tour Route

"It's the most incredible gift," said a representative for St. Andrew's Community Network in Liverpool.

By Hannah Dailey

Hannah Dailey

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Taylor Swift is working to leave the cities on her Eras Tour route a little better than she found them.  

As the 34-year-old pop star has taken her global trek to Europe this summer, she’s continued her trend of donating to food banks along the way. And according to one charity in Liverpool — where Swift performed three nights at Anfield Stadium earlier this month — a recent contribution from the singer will take care of crucial gaps in their fundraising efforts, providing for a full year’s worth of meals.  

A Timeline of Taylor Swift’s Generosity

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Shortly after performing in Liverpool, the “Anti-Hero” singer brought her Eras showcase to Wales. According to Rachel Biggs, chief executive of Cardiff Foodbank, Swift also covered 10,800 meals with a discreet donation to the organization in honor of her single performance at Principality Stadium June 18. 

“We’re going to buy an articulated lorry full of food and other most-needed items to supplement our emergency food parcels,” Biggs told the publication. “This will provide the weight equivalent to feeding 1,200 people three meals a day, for three days … This will be 2.5 weeks of what we typically distribute.” 

Though Swift doesn’t publicize her donations, Liverpool and Cardiff are only two of the latest cities to report receiving generous donations from the 14-time Grammy winner over the course of her Eras Tour. When she was on the North American leg, food banks in Arizona, Nevada and Florida all revealed that she had sent funding their way. 

Following three nights at London’s Wembley Stadium last weekend, Swift is next slated to perform three shows in Dublin June 28-30. She’ll spend the rest of the summer traveling throughout Europe before returning to North America for a final lap this fall. 

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New Bedford Harbor Tours are back. Here's what to know before you go.

NEW BEDFORD -- Back for its second season, New Bedford Harbor Tours are re-launching from Pier 3 offering one hour guided tours and 90 minute sunset tours.

"I would say the tour is a fascinating mix of history, industry and natural beauty," said Captain Annette Martel.

With over 40 years of boating experience and a deep knowledge of the area, Martel leads her crew of five tour guides in providing a fun and informative journey through the waters of New Bedford.

"People show up excited and they get off the boat saying things like, 'I've lived here my whole life and I've never done this before.' They're fascinated to see the city from the water, it gives them a whole new perspective," said Martel.

More: Experience North End's hidden gems with debut of New Bedford food tour. Here's what to expect.

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"I'm a New Bedford native and it's such a pleasure to be able to showcase this beautiful city from the water."

The tour itself has been a staple in the community for years, previously owned by Jeff Pontiff and Diane Stevens before Stephen and Judy Silverstein took ownership four years ago.

Where to find the harbor tours

The tours depart from 52 Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 3 unless otherwise stated.

What do you see on the harbor tours

"We leave our docking area and typically take a counterclockwise route around the harbor," Martel said. "We pass by local landmarks such as Palmer's Island Lighthouse, Crow Island and The Joshua Slocum Memorial. We also take the opportunity to go outside of the hurricane barrier for a closer look at the largest fishing fleet in the U.S."

But the tour isn't just a sightseeing cruise, it's a guided tour as well.

"It's a huge narrative. We start with whaling history and go all the way up to present day. We touch on the support for whaling and how it led to the evolution of the fishing industry," Martel said.

More: Planning a visit to the New Bedford Whaling Museum? Here are six restaurants to consider.

"We also talk about the wind farm, the shipyards and the city's buildings and landmarks."

Do you have private tours?

For those looking for a more intimate experience, private tours can also be arranged, according to Martell.

"We can take up to 14 people per tour and many people like to book the entire boat for a private experience," she said, adding that passengers can bring their own food and drinks, including alcohol.

"We provide the tour and the information, but guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks," she said.

How to get tickets for the tour

For those interested in taking the tour, Martel encourages them to book in advance. People can book through the website or they can also buy tickets at our dock.

What you need to know before taking the tour

Service dogs are welcome to cruise with their owners, but for the safety and comfort of all onboard, they do not allow pets. There are public restrooms with outdoor access next to boarding dock in the brick Mirasol's building.

It is also recommended people wear comfortable clothing for being on the water such as non-slip shoes and a light jacket or windbreaker are recommended. Life jackets are available for all passengers.

There is also plenty of free parking available onsite on Pier 3, behind The Black Whale Restaurant. 

"People always leave the tour feeling like their understanding of the area has increased. It's a unique and memorable experience," Martel said.

"It's a gratifying experience and I hope our guests take away a deeper appreciation for this area after their tour."

Community outreach is also an important part of the tours. Martel said the Silversteins work with a variety of non-profits and offer discounts for community services, summer camps and more.

"We see it as a tool to connect with the community and we're always happy to work with different organizations," she added.

Standard-Times staff writer Seth Chitwood can be reached at  [email protected] . Follow him on twitter:  @ChitwoodReports . Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Standard-Times today.

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Taylor Swift Donated Enough Money to Allow U.K. Food Banks to Buy Over 10,000 Meals During ‘Eras Tour’

Taylor Swift is giving back on her Eras Tour .

The pop superstar is being praised for her “incredible” donations to food banks in the U.K. cities that hosted her Eras Tour this month.

The Guardian reports that Swift, 34, made the largest individual donation ever to Cardiff Foodbank in Cardiff, Wales, where the “Fortnight” singer performed on June 18.

“This will provide the weight equivalent to feeding 1,200 people three meals a day, for three days – or 10,800 meals. This will be 2.5 weeks of what we typically distribute,” said the charity’s chief executive, Rachel Biggs .

Related: Celebrities Who Had the Time of Their Lives at Taylor Swift’s ‘Eras Tour'

“The breathing space Taylor’s donation has given us will enable us to lift our heads and shift our focus from the food bank to the creation of a sustainable operation supporting people who currently need our help with support to address the root cause of poverty and financial support to set them on the path to not needing our aid anymore,” added Biggs.

Meanwhile, in Liverpool, where Swift performed three shows from June 13 to June 15, the chief executive of St Andrew’s Community Network called her donation the “most incredible gift.”

“Because of rising prices, rising need and falling donations, we’ve been having to subsidize our food ourselves for a long while,” said Rich Jones , the charity’s exec.

“But it’s fair to say that Taylor Swift has essentially paid our food bill for 12 months – and that gives us the breathing space to focus on fundraising efforts going forward,” Jones added. “To really look at how we can achieve our ambition of ending the need for food banks in the first place through financial advice, income maximization work, welfare benefits and work.”

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Related: Which Surprise Songs Did Taylor Swift Perform at London ‘Eras Tour’ Shows?

As well as Cardiff and Liverpool, the Eras Tour has also taken over Edinburgh, Scotland, and London, where Swift performed three sold-out shows at Wembley Stadium last weekend. She’ll return to Wembley for a further five nights in August.

During her Sunday, June 23, concert, the singer brought out her boyfriend , Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce , onstage to join her for the song “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart.” Kelce, 34, joined her dancers for a routine in which he pretended to apply makeup to Swift and carried her around the stage.

Swift’s London shows brought out a who’s who of notable stars including Prince William , Tom Cruise , Jon Bon Jovi , Paul McCartney and Kelce’s brother and sister-in-law, Jason and Kylie Kelce .

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Taylor Swift Donation Helps U.K. Food Banks Serve 10,000+ Meals: ‘The Most Incredible Gift’

The pop star is reportedly donating to food banks along her U.K. Eras Tour stops

Shirlaine Forrest/TAS24/Getty

Taylor Swift understands the gift of giving. 

The 34-year-old pop star has reportedly been donating at various U.K. Eras Tour stops for weeks.

Rachel Biggs, the CEO of Cardiff Foodbank , told The Guardian in an interview published on Tuesday, June 25 that Swift was behind the largest donation from an individual the organization has ever seen. Cardiff, the capital of Wales, was the only city with just one Eras Tour concert during Swift's 152-date European leg, the BBC notes.

Jo Hale/Redferns

Though Biggs did not specify the amount of money given, she said it was a huge help.

“The breathing space Taylor’s donation has given us will enable us to lift our heads and shift our focus from the food bank to the creation of a sustainable operation supporting people who currently need our help with support to address the root cause of poverty and financial support to set them on the path to not needing our aid any more,” Biggs told The Guardian .

According to Biggs, the Grammy winner’s contribution helps to feed “1,200 people three meals a day, for three days – or 10,800 meals.”

Cardiff Foodbank also thanked Swift on Instagram with a photo of the singer's signature friendship bracelets that read, "Thank you Taylor Love, Cardiff Food Bank." In the caption, the charity said the donation was "beyond our Wildest Dreams," a nod to a song on Swift's 1989 album.

The Guardian also spoke with Rich Jones, the CEO of Liverpool's St. Andrew’s Community Network , which oversees 11 food banks. Jones called Swift’s contribution “the most incredible gift.” 

Kevin Mazur/Getty

“Because of rising prices, rising need and falling donations, we’ve been having to subsidize our food ourselves for a long while,” Jones said. “But it’s fair to say that Taylor Swift has essentially paid our food bill for 12 months – and that gives us the breathing space to focus on fundraising efforts going forward.”

On June 11, the Daily Mail reported that the “Shake It Off” hitmaker donated to local food banks in Edinburgh during her time in Scotland's capital city.

"Thank you so much Taylor – you have changed Edinburgh for good," the Edinburgh Food Project shared on Instagram .   

Swift's charitable donations aren't the only thing grabbing attention during her tour. Travis Kelce recently joined Swift in London — in a twist that no one could have seen coming. 

On Sunday, June 23, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end performed onstage with the “Love Story” singer at London’s Wembley Stadium. 

The couple, who have been publicly dating since October 2023 , coordinated in tuxedo and top hat looks for the show. 

Gareth Cattermole/TAS24/Getty 

While speaking with Barstool Sports' Bussin' With The Boys podcast on Tuesday, the Super Bowl winner gushed over how “proud” he was of Swift. 

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

“You want to keep things private, but at the same time I’m not here to hide anything,” Kelce said of their romance. “That’s my girl. You know what I mean? That’s my lady. So it’s like, I’m proud of that .”

“You just don’t want to let everybody into your personal life and be able to comment on it knowing that everything she does is getting a headline.”

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2024 PGA Tour Player Survey: Which Tour Stop Has the Best Food?

Art stricklin | jun 27, 2024.

Earlier this summer Sports Illustrated surveyed a number of PGA Tour players about a range of topics around golf, from Tour perks to golf-viewing habits to greens fees, and much more. We think you’ll enjoy the answers.

Previous topics: Bucket-list courses | Best rookie advice

Today’s question: 

Which tournament has the best food?

“TPC Sawgrass is really good, Augusta is incredible, but Colonial has really upped its game in the last several years.” — Zach Johnson

“You’ve got to say Memorial. With those great milkshakes and everything.” — Kevin Streelman “Jack, at Memorial.” — Gary Woodland “ The Minnesota PGA Tour stop by a mile.” — Aaron Baddeley

“BMW Wentworth really does a nice job with food and hospitality. They’re hard to beat.” — Francesco Molinari “TPC Sawgrass really stepped up its game lately on food.” — Matt Kuchar

“Got to be Jack’s place at Memorial or TPC Sawgrass.” — Keegan Bradley

“Memphis. I love that food and love Memphis.” — Stewart Cink

“When the CJ Cup was in Korea, it was incredible, like a 5-diamond Michelin restaurant. You would have people who would never miss a meal. Sometimes I’ll skip 2-3 days out here because of the food.” — Jason Day “I’ve got to say New Orleans, love that Cajun food.” — Ryan Palmer

“The best steak house I know of is in Jackson, Mississippi.” — Jimmy Walker “Jack’s Place at Memorial. The Milkshakes are pretty good.” — Mackenzie Hughes “Gotta be Jack’s place.” — Adam Scott

“Memorial in Ohio.” — Akshay Bhatia “ They’re all pretty good.” — Tom Hoge

ART STRICKLIN

Art Stricklin is an award-winning golf writer based in Dallas and the president of the Texas Golf Writers Association. He spent more than a decade working for Texas newspapers. Stricklin is the author of 10 books, including, “Thanks for the Memories,” on the history of Northwood Club in Dallas, and “Links, Lore & Legends: The Story of Texas Golf.” He has become one of Texas’ foremost experts on golf history and travel, having witnessed a countless number of professional and amateur golf tournaments in the state. His work has been published in regional, national and international titles, including Sports Illustrated, Connoisseur Golf, Golf Magazine, Texas Monthly, Global Golf Post, D Magazine and Texas Golfer Magazine. Email: [email protected]; Twitter: @artstricklin