The 20 Best Food Tours in NYC to Sink Your Teeth Into! [2024]
![The 20 Best Food Tours in NYC to Sink Your Teeth Into! [UPDATED 2023]](https://dlq00ggnjruqn.cloudfront.net/prometheus/getImage?id=434616)
The 20 Best Food Tours in NYC to Sink Your Teeth Into! [UPDATED 2024]
There’s no denying that New York is a foodie’s utopia. From bagels and bakeries to rooftop restaurants NYC locals brag about and 5-star Michelin restaurants, the Big Apple has something for everyone. The thing is, it can be tough deciding on where to begin your tasting journey. That’s why NYC food tours are so awesome.
The Best Food Tour NYC Foodies Love
You may be wondering – are food tours in NYC worth it? Even if you’re only there for a few days, you can eat like a local simply by taking a food tour. In fact, you can find some of the best places to eat in Times Square cheap just by walking around!
New York is all about discovering the best flavors in town, so that’s why we have compiled a list of the top food tours you should try. From walking food tours NYC locals love to the best NYC food bus tours, there's a tour for everyone! After all, it’s your way of taking a bite out of the Big Apple!
Read on to discover 20 must-try food tours for every palate. Whether it’s munching on a pretzel as you take in Times Square, or savoring the powerful flavors of Koreatown, it’s time to dig in and get fed!
1 | The Best of Brooklyn Food and Bus Tour | Food tours in NYC have never been more exciting than hopping on a bus and exploring the rich culinary scene of Brooklyn. Brace yourself for a great time as the tour guides you through the heart and soul of one of New York's most vibrant boroughs. From old-school, family-run delis to trendy vegan spots, you'll experience a taste of real Brooklyn food that reflects the area's history and culture. Whether you're a die-hard foodie or just someone looking for an authentic slice of New York City food life, this bus tour has got you covered!
WHERE: 29 Cornelia St Suite # 28, New York, NY 10014 | WHO: (332) 333-1189
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2 | Chelsea Market & Highline | What foods are a must in NYC? Whether you want to bite into a juicy NYC hot dog or sample some handspun gelato, you can do that and more on this three-hour tour of Chelsea Market and the High Line.
This fun-filled food tasting tour includes six on-the-move taste testings, running commentary from an expert tour guide about the market’s history, and you’ll even learn the backstory of how the Oreo cookie was actually invented in Chelsea Market. Not a bad way to kick off your NYC vacation, is it?
WHERE: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011 & 820 Washington Street · New York, NY 1001 | WHO: (212) 652-2111
3 | Greenwich Village Food Tour | This tour is a favorite among foodies of all ages. It’s one that gives you an inside look into quintessential New York as you walk through the iconic arches of Washington Square Park to probably one of the most majestic neighborhoods in the Big Apple — Greenwich Village.
As you make your way along this walking tour, you’ll get to try all kinds of NYC must-haves, such as falafel from Mamouns, pizza on Bleeker Street, and creamy cupcakes at Molly’s. What’s more is if you're a die-hard Friends fan, you’ll also get to see the building where all the exterior shots were filmed!
WHERE: 9 Barrow St, New York, NY 10014 | WHO: (917) 408-9539
4 | Hell’s Kitchen Walking Tour | Even if you’ve never been to NYC, you’ve surely heard of Hell’s Kitchen. It’s filled with some of the most diverse, not to mention delicious cuisine right near Times Square.
This neighborhood is now the place even the locals go to enjoy the bottomless brunch spots NYC has. Expect to see homemade guac and Tzatziki so fresh, you’ll think you’re in Santorini. Sounds pretty tempting, doesn’t it?
We think so too, so that’s why we know the two-hour Hell’s Kitchen Walking Food Tour will fill both your heart and belly with joy.
WHERE: 321 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036, USA | WHO: (888) 651-9785
5 | East Village Pub Crawl (self-guided) | Where do you find the good Irish pubs in NYC? Head to the East Village! Home to the NYC craft cocktail scene and hottest restaurants, New York’s East Village is one of the city’s most popular and beloved drinking neighborhoods. Nightlife thrives in this part of town, where you can find everything from kitschy dive bars to upscale lounges with hundred-dollar cocktails.
Whether you opt for a pub crawl at iconic spots in the neighborhood like McSorley’s Old Ale House, Bua, and Sly Fox or chow down on bites from Little Ukraine, you’re in for a cultural experience in this diverse eating village.
WHERE: East Village, New York, NY 1003-09 | WHO: N/A
6 | The East Village Tour | What was once known as the home of the underground music scene has transformed into a melting pot of culture, history and, of course, ethnic delicacies you’ll only find in NYC.
The NYC East Village Tour transports you back in time to a place where you’ll get to nibble on four scrumptious courses made up of appetizers, an entrée and one dessert while learning about the rich culinary history of The Village.
You’ll also get to meet restaurant owners and chefs who live and work in this famous district and listen to how they and their families made their mark on NYC’s food scene.
WHERE: Various locations but always within a 3-block radius between Tompkins Square in the East Village | WHO: Avital Tours – (213) 394-0901
7 | Michelin-Starred Restaurant Tour | Getting to eat at a Michelin star restaurant is on many people’s bucket list. But why stop at just one? You can discover meals from three of these award-winning establishments in the Michelin Progressive Meal tour.
We know it’s a little pricey, but hear us out. You’ll get to explore some of the most prized locations in Flatiron, dining on a menu curated by some of the city’s top chefs. This one-of-a-kind culinary experience appetizers at restaurant one, an entrée at restaurant 2, and dessert at restaurant 3, all with an optional beverage pairing.
Some of the potential dishes you’ll try include homemade cavatelli pasta with squid-ink and calamari, butter-poached Nova Scotia lobster, American Wagyu beef, and cubetto di cioccolato with sesame gelato.
WHERE: 80 Spring St, New York, NY 10012 | WHO: (212) 965-1414
8 | Sex and The City Night Out (self-guided) | They may be fictional, but their mark on NYC is unmistakable. This dining guide will take you to plenty of iconic spots featured throughout the timeless series. If you’re a Carrie, then try sipping on an upscale Cipriani on West Broadway. Or maybe you’ll appreciate the Samantha vibes at Bubby’s High Line.
It’s one heck of an adventure, so you may want to leave the stilettos at home.
WHERE: Tour guest chooses starting point | WHO: N/A
9 | Koreatown Walking Tour (self-guided) | Koreatown is small, but it’s packed full of flavor and culture. Back in 1990, this neighborhood had less than 10 restaurants. That’s definitely not the case today. Just walking down 32nd street will offer over a dozen options to sample the high-flavor profiles that dominate Korean cuisine. Whether you’re a newcomer to the fare, a dedicated vegetarian, or an experienced bulgogi connoisseur, there’s something for everyone.
Try Yoon Haeundae Galbi, a family-owned restaurant that got its start in Busan, Seoul’s cool cousin. There’s also Pocha 32, a popular bar open until 4 a.m., serving up hot dogs topped with kimchi, ramen, and spicy rice cakes.
There’s also Food Gallery 32, an all-in-one dining hotspot akin to the food markets you’ll find throughout South Korea’s bustling cities.
WHERE: Korea Way at W 32nd Street between the intersection of Madison Avenue and Greeley Square, New York, NY 10001 | WHO: N/A
10 | Little Italy Food Tour | Is there any country with a greater influence on American cuisine than Italy? We have them to thank for spaghetti and meatballs, fettuccine alfredo, calzone, and, of course, pizza. This Little Italy food tasting tour is a can't-miss introduction to some of the cultural masterpieces cooked up in this historic part of the city.
For two hours, you’ll wander through Little Italy, taking in the sights, smells, and unbeatable flavor of Italian culinary staples. We’re talking prosciutto, wood-fired pizzas, imported cheeses, and pastries made from family recipes.
Every venue on the tour is over 100 years old, like La Bella Ferrara, which has been in business since the 1800s. There, you’ll try Italian rainbow cookies called tricolore, which hail from New York City and have since become one of the most beloved examples of creative Italian-American cuisine.
WHERE: Little Italy, New York, NY 10013 | WHO: N/A
11 | A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tour | If you love all things pizza, you’ll want to hop on this Brooklyn-bound bus tour. Starting in Manhattan, you’ll get to nosh on delicious Neapolitan pies at world-famous Grimaldi’s. Afterward, you’ll get to sink your teeth into some of the best-tasting Sicilian-style pizza at Spumoni Gardens.
You also get to visit some pretty iconic filming locations within the five boroughs, which include Goodfellas and Saturday Night Fever. Just keep in mind that the exact details of where the tours start are provided after tour purchase.
WHERE: Union Square Manhattan | WHO: (212) 913-9917
12 | Little Italy and Chinatown Food Fest Tour | What foodie wouldn’t want to spend three hours tantalizing their taste buds with exotic dishes? We know we do, and that’s why we think this tour is one you won’t want to miss. The Chinatown and Little Italy Food Fest lets you sample authentic Chinese dumplings and pastries.
You also get to enjoy a sit-down Italian meal in the heart of Little Italy and visit family-owned businesses that have been around for more than 100 years. That’s a lot of history packed into this quaint, often-overlooked nook of the city.
WHERE: Mott/Pell Street in Chinatown | WHO (518) 332-4386
13 | United Kitchens Tour | If you’re more of an eclectic type of foodie, then the United Kitchens Tour is right up your alley. It’s a full day of tasting everything from Tibetan tidbits to authentic Colombian fast food from what some might call a hole in the wall (that’s always where you find the best food).
All you need are your sneakers and your favorite pair of sweatpants because you’re going to need them!
WHERE: Corona Plaza | WHO: N/A
14 | Flatiron Architecture Food and History Tour | The iconic Flatiron District attracts millions of visitors each year, not only for its modern dining experiences, but its historical relevance. It’s the birthplace of Theodore Roosevelt, and the origins of NYC’s Silicon Alley, the Manhattan equivalent of California’s tech utopia.
Restaurants are bountiful throughout the district, particularly when you discover culinary delights like Eataly. On the Flatiron Architecture, Food, and History tour, you’ll get to take a bite out of exciting food history while savoring the flavors of one of Manhattan's most recognizable neighborhoods.
The menu includes a classic NYC pastrami sandwich, as well as the “Big Apple’s best grilled cheese.”
WHERE: Meeting point – Eataly NYC Flatiron 200 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010, USA | WHO: (888) 651-9785
15 | BK Food and Culture Tour | Brooklyn is another borough that needs to be on your bucket list. Rich in culture and history, BK puts the “D” in diversity. In addition to trying authentic Jewish fare, like to-die-for Babka, you can take the Half-Day Brooklyn Food Tour and sample brick-oven Neapolitan pizza, handmade kielbasa and the freshest cannoli in the Northeast.
You’ll catch a bus in Greenwich Village and then head over to Williamsburg, Greenpoint and Carroll Gardens. At the end of the tour, you can hop back on the bus or live like a local and walk back to Manhattan via the Brooklyn Bridge.
WHERE: Greenwich Village, Manhattan (Exact location given upon booking) | WHO: (332) 236-9635
16 | Harlem Historical Food Tour 2024 | You’ll never have a problem finding historical neighborhoods to eat your way through in NYC. On the Harlem Historical Food Tour, you’ll get to sample a variety of African cuisine and Caribbean-infused fare.
A guide will take you on a walk through one of Harlem’s neighborhoods, filling you in on all the history while you fill up on the top food in the area.
WHERE: 341 Lenox Ave, New York, NY 10027 | WHO: (888) 651-9785
17 | Greenwich Village Cupcake Tour | Welcome to the home of bohemia! New York’s original home for the creative wanderer, Greenwich Village still houses some of the most free-spirited artisans in the city. You’ll get to sample 7 luxurious cupcakes from unique bakeries in the Village, and get to try 22 flavors of gelato in just one bite. We’re not kidding.
Spend 2 hours touring some of the best bakeries on one of NYC’s sweetest walking tours. The Greenwich Village Cupcake Tour even lets you build your own cupcake as a souvenir!
WHERE: Meeting point is at the southwest corner of Union Square, at the intersection of East 14th Street and Union Square West. | WHO: N/A
18 | Underground Donut Tour | Underground donuts might sound suspicious at first, but trust us, this secret food tour is nothing but delicious. You’ll get to try some of the best donuts in NYC from locations like the Donut Pub and Doughnut Project.
Join other donut aficionados as you walk through the city, discover new places bound to become favorites, and get your sugar fix on cream-filled delicacies.
The Underground Donut Tour is, in its own words, a “celebration of all things donut,” and we can’t think of anything we’d rather do with our weekend.
WHERE: 200 5th Avenue (near the FlatIron Building) | WHO: (844) 366-8848
19 | NYC Pretzels | Where to get the best pretzels in NYC? Look no further than this self-guided tour. Kick off your adventure at Auntie Anne’s in Time Square. It might be a franchise, but that doesn’t mean it’s not delicious. Try their classic pretzel with cheese sauce, or grab a cup of pretzel nuggets to go.
For a more quintessential experience, grab a $1 pretzel off one of the many carts offering the steamy breads made fresh and dipped in salt crystals. Want a little oomph? Ask them for some mustard. Nothing beats the tang of the classic American condiment on top of a fresh-baked pretzel as you walk through the city.
WHERE: 664 8th Ave, New York, NY 10036 | WHO: (212) 764-1562
20 | Famous Dave’s Food Tour | Famous Dave’s definitely lives up to its name. In fact, some say it's the “tour of tours” when it comes to tasting everything New York City has to offer.
Dave’s in-depth knowledge of the Big Apple and where to find the tastiest bites only complements his outgoing, welcoming demeanor. Famous Dave Food Tours offers a variety of tour packages ranging from two to three hours with 10 tastings to a full-day experience with more than 20 different samplings.
You also get to decide on your tour’s theme, so whether you’re craving pizza and pickles or bagels and lox, it’s your time to shine.
WHERE: Location given upon booking | WHO: Book via email at Dave@FamousFatDave.com
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BONUS #1 | West Village Food Tour | This exploration of the West Village is one of the best NYC walking tours foodies won’t want to miss. You’ll spend three hours traversing to six locations, all food included and vegetarian options available.
Along your adventure, you’ll get to try some of the most quintessential NYC foods: pizza, Thai, bagels, falafel, and cheesecake. In addition to the food, the tour also emphasizes the history and tradition behind the flavors that make each dish all the more delicious.
If you’re a fan of Friends, you’re in luck. This tour will take you past the apartment building Monica called home. You’ll also discover one of Bob Dylan’s favorite hangouts, and walk hidden streets to sample secret food even some New Yorkers don’t know about.
Not a bad way to spend an afternoon, if you ask us.
WHERE: Exact starting point given after booking | WHO: (877) 568-6877
BONUS #2 | Foods of NY Tours | Foods of NY Tours operate walking tours seven days a week, 365 days a year, through historical New York neighborhoods, visiting mom and pop shops and giving insider food information. With Foods of New York, you can expect a mix of history and culture. This is one of the best tours in NYC to offer food tasting opportunities for its tour-takers. Enjoy everything from ethnic eats to comfort foods as you learn about the neighborhood's rich history and culture. Foods of NY Tours offers tours in Greenwich Village, Chelsea Market, the High Line, Nolita/NoHo, Hell's Kitchen, Brooklyn, The West Village and Chinatown and Little Italy.
WHERE: 71 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011 | WHO: (917) 408-9539
BONUS #3 | NYC The Official Guide: SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown Walking Tour | Delve into the rich history and culture of three of New York's most famous neighborhoods - Chinatown, Little Italy and SoHo - with this engaging history tour. Journey through the East Side of Manhattan, where these two neighborhoods merge, and discover the food history that shaped New York City's food scene. From hand-pulled noodles in bustling Chinatown to creamy cannoli in charming Little Italy, this tour will offer a feast not only for your tastebuds but also for your curiosity.
WHERE: SoHo, South of Houston Street, New York City, NY 10022 | WHO: N/A
BONUS #4 | Secret Food Tours: NYC - Greenwich Village | This food tour focuses on the local food and culture of Greenwich Village. This walking tour offers a delightful mix of sweet and savory dishes from mom and pop shops, all of which are bursting with flavor and personality, and served with a smile. You'll even get a chance to taste a secret dish that's sure to surprise and delight! Beyond the food, you'll gain insights into the history and culture of the area thanks to the friendly and knowledgeable guide. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring that everyone can join in on the fun. Operating seven days a week, 365 days a year, the NYC Food Tour in Greenwich Village is a must-do activity for food lovers in the Big Apple.
WHERE: IFC Center - 323 6th Ave, New York, NY 10014 | WHO: N/A
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The Bottom Line
There you have it, here are the best NYC food tours to kick off your culinary expedition. You’ll never run out of new food to try in New York City. But this list will help you get started as you craft your own culinary experience in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond. Bon appétit!
For more travel tips and tricks in NYC and across the U.S., visit our Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.
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* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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