HOW DO FOOD TOURS WORK?

One of the best ways to experience a food tour in New York city and immerse yourself in the local culture is to book a food tour and taste the flavors of the city. But if you've never done a food tour before you might be wondering well how does a food tour work and what should you expect on the tour? Well look no further as we shed some light on how  out what you can expect on a food tour!

How to choose the right food tour

Before booking a food tour, you will need to do some research because not all food tours are the same, they each offer a unique experience and cater to a different audience. Our advice is that before you book you should look at the following:

• Does the food tour focus on a specific cuisine?
• How long is the food tour?
• How much walking is involved?
• Is alcohol included on the tour?
• Can they accommodate certain food allergies or dietary restrictions?
• Is the food tour suitable for children?
• Do they offer transportation or is it a walking food tour? 

What you should bring on a food tour

• An appetite: Come hungry and ready to sample a variety of foods. Avoid eating a large meal right before the tour to fully enjoy the tastings.

• Comfortable shoes: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking, as food tours typically involve exploring on foot.
  

• Weather appropriate clothing: Dress comfortably and in weather-appropriate attire to ensure you fully enjoy the food tour experience, regardless of the conditions.
  

• Water: Bring some water to stay hydrated throughout the tour, especially if you'll be doing lots of walking or if you're going to be tasting spicy or salty foods.
  

• Cash: Bring some cash for optional purchases, and consider bringing a little extra for tipping your tour guide.

What to do before the tour

• Confirm your reservation: Double-check your reservation details, including the date, time, and meeting location. Ensure you have any necessary tickets or booking confirmations printed out or on your mobile device.

• Notify the tour company of any dietary restrictions: If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, inform the tour company in advance. Most tours can accommodate some dietary requirements when they have prior notice.

• Arrive on time: Aim to arrive at the designated meeting point a few minutes early to meet your guide and fellow tour participants. Punctuality ensures you don't miss out on any delicious stops.

What to expect during the food tour

• Meeting Your Local Expert: On the day of your food tour, you'll meet your tour guide, who is not just any guide but a local expert. These guides are passionate about their city's culinary scene and are well-versed in its history and traditions.

• Indulge in fantastic food tastings: As you embark on your food journey, your guide will introduce you to a variety of dishes, snacks, or beverages at multiple stops along the way. They'll provide insights into the history of each dish, the ingredients used, and the role it plays in the local culture.

• Explore cultural sights: Some food tours offer more than just food. They may include cultural stops where you can explore the city's architecture, visit cultural landmarks, museums, or even catch a glimpse of celebrity homes. These additional experiences add depth to your tour.

• Meet some new foodie friends: Food tours are often enjoyed in the company of others. You'll have the opportunity to meet and socialize with fellow travelers and food enthusiasts who share your passion for culinary exploration. It's a great chance to make new friends while savoring delicious food.

What to expect after the food tour

• Information Recap: Once the tour concludes, you'll typically receive a recap of the places you visited. This can be in the form of a pamphlet, booklet, or digital document that highlights the restaurants, markets, or food stalls you experienced during the tour.

• Feedback: Food tour operators value feedback. They want to know about your experience, what you loved, and if there are any areas for improvement. You'll often receive an email asking for your feedback, so don't hesitate to share your thoughts.

• Leave a review: Once the tour is finished, be sure to leave a review on platforms like TripAdvisor, Google and GetYourGuide. These reviews are very helpful for other travelers who might be wondering what the food tour experience is like.

Got more questions?

If you're still unsure about what to expect on a food tour in NYC, that's all good. We're happy to answer any questions you might have. Just get in touch and we'll come back with an answer as soon as possible.