Scottsdale’s Original Food Tour

If you’re planning a visit to Scottsdale and want to experience more than just pretty desert views, a food tour might be just the thing. Scottsdale’s Original Food Tour has earned high praise—boasting a perfect 5.0-star rating from nearly 300 reviews—making it a top choice for anyone eager to taste the city’s best bites while soaking in its culture.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, it’s locally owned, running since 2009, and has been recognized nationally as one of the top food tours in the country by USA Today. It’s led by passionate local guides who know where to find the best eats and share intriguing stories along the way. We especially love the quality of the food—each stop delivers more than just a snack, but a genuine taste of Scottsdale’s culinary scene—and the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make everyone feel right at home.

One thing to consider is that the tour is limited to small groups, which means a more personal experience but also requires booking in advance. Also, it’s about 2 to 3 hours long, so it’s best suited for those ready to walk a bit and enjoy a leisurely pace. If you’re a foodie, a history buff, or someone who simply loves discovering hidden gems in a city, this tour will likely hit the spot.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience: The tour partners with top eateries in Old Town Scottsdale, offering a taste of real local flavor.
• Small, intimate groups: Limited to 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Expert guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share Scottsdale’s stories.
• Quality food and drinks: Expect delicious, generously sized portions at each stop.
• Convenient logistics: Starts at 11:00 am near public transportation, with a walking route through historic and cultural sites.
• Great value for the price: At $105, you receive multiple tastings, a guided experience, and insider tips—an excellent way to sample Scottsdale.

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour begins in front of the Old Adobe Mission, a cornerstone of Scottsdale’s history. Arriving early allows you to appreciate the architecture and significance of this historic site, which is free to visit. It’s a brief but meaningful start that sets the tone for a city steeped in tradition.

From there, the route leads into Old Town Scottsdale, a lively district full of art galleries, boutiques, and vibrant streets. It’s here that you’ll get a guided walk through the area’s cultural landscape, accompanied by tastings at a selection of popular local restaurants and tasting rooms. The focus isn’t just on food, but on understanding how Scottsdale’s past and present blend to create its unique vibe.

Stops and Highlights

• Old Adobe Mission: Brief visit to appreciate Scottsdale’s foundational history.
• Old Town Scottsdale: The heart of the city’s culture and culinary excellence, with stops chosen for quality and local flavor.

Guests have raved about the delicious food and generous portions. One reviewer noted that “the food was excellent and there was plenty of it,” ensuring you won’t leave hungry. Another remarked that the tour is more about quality of experience than just tasting, with nothing feeling rushed and guides being highly adaptable.

The Restaurants and Tastings

The tour partners with well-known spots such as The Mission, Evo, AZ88, Malees Thai, and Beginners Luck, as well as wine and cocktail tasting rooms like Aridus Wine Company. This curated selection offers a nice balance of cuisines—Mexican, Thai, American, and more—highlighting Scottsdale’s diverse palate. According to reviews, the food quality exceeds expectations for a guided tour, with many noting excellent tapas and drinks.

Guides and Atmosphere

Guides like Lindsey and Zach are frequently mentioned for their knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging manner. They share insights not only about the food but also about Scottsdale’s history and culture, making the tour both tasty and educational. One reviewer praised Lindsey for her expertise and tips on local restaurants and upcoming events, adding value beyond just the food.

Timing and Group Size

The tour runs from 11:00 am for about two to three hours, with the route being walkable and manageable for most visitors. The small group size—maximum of 8—means you’ll have more personalized attention, easier interaction, and a relaxed pace. Guides are always available to walk guests back to the starting point, which is a thoughtful touch.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth It?

At $105 per person, the tour offers a lot—multiple tastings, a guided experience, and insider tips—making it a well-rounded introduction to Scottsdale’s food scene. Considering the quality of the food, the intimate group setting, and the expertise of the guides, many would agree that this experience provides excellent value.

The reviews consistently highlight the generous servings and high-quality dishes, which means you’re not just getting a taste but a substantial bite at each stop. Plus, the cultural and historical context shared by the guides enriches the experience, making it more than just a food crawl.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The tour is near public transportation and begins at a central location, making it accessible for most travelers. Service animals are welcome, but note that children under 13 aren’t permitted—this is more suited for adult travelers or older teens. If you have specific food allergies or restrictions, the tour can accommodate most needs, but it’s best to inform them in advance.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you love trying new foods, enjoy learning about local culture, and appreciate small-group, personalized experiences, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Old Town Scottsdale, as well as seasoned travelers looking for a relaxed, tasty way to explore. Foodies and wine lovers will appreciate the carefully selected stops and the opportunity to discover new favorites.

However, if you prefer a more extensive sightseeing schedule or are on a tight budget, this may not be the best fit. It’s also not suitable for kids under 13 or those with severe food allergies, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

For anyone eager to experience Scottsdale beyond the usual tourist spots, this food tour offers a delightful, authentic taste of the city’s culinary and cultural landscape. With highly praised guides, generous tastings, and a small-group atmosphere, it provides a memorable snapshot of Scottsdale’s vibrant dining scene.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this tour balances fun, education, and flavor in a way that makes every dollar worth it. It’s a wonderful way to spend a few hours, especially if you enjoy discovering the stories behind the food and the places that serve it.

If you’re seeking an engaging, tasty, and insightful introduction to Scottsdale’s Old Town, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
The tour offers most food options, but it does not cater specifically to vegan or halal diets. Vegan, halal, or keto options are not available, so it’s best to inform the tour provider if you have specific dietary restrictions.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically runs for about 2 to 3 hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable half-day activity.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 3817 N Brown Ave, Scottsdale, near the historic Old Adobe Mission.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

How many people are on each tour?
The group size is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While specific accessibility info isn’t provided, the walk involves a short stroll around Old Town Scottsdale, which is generally accessible.

Are children allowed on the tour?
No, children under 13 are not permitted, mainly due to the tasting nature and adult-oriented establishments.

What should I bring?
Just come hungry and ready to walk. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and inform the guides of any allergies ahead of time.

Is the tour suitable for people with food allergies?
Most food allergies or restrictions can be accommodated if notified in advance, but severe allergies are not recommended due to the nature of the tastings.

If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful way to get to know Scottsdale, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and cuisine—something you’ll likely remember long after the last bite.