NYC: Original Astoria Queens Guided Food Tour w/ 5 Tastings

If you’re dreaming of tasting the best of New York’s international flavors without the crowds of Times Square, then the Original Astoria Queens Guided Food Tour might just be your perfect match. Promising a three-hour stroll through one of NYC’s most culturally vibrant neighborhoods, this tour offers a carefully curated sampling of five cuisines from around the world — all at locally owned, authentic eateries.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the small group size capped at fifteen ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and you’ll get plenty of personal attention from your licensed guide. Second, the insider access you gain to restaurant owners and chefs offers a glimpse behind the scenes that many travelers never see. As a bonus, there’s an optional drinks add-on, which includes two alcoholic drinks and a boozy dessert, adding a lively edge to an already flavorful experience.

One thing to consider is that this tour focuses on local, hole-in-the-wall establishments rather than mainstream restaurants. If you’re after a quick, glitzy dining experience, this may not be your style. But if you appreciate authentic flavors, engaging conversations, and a true neighborhood vibe, this tour is tailored for you. It’s especially well-suited for curious food lovers, travelers eager to experience New York’s diversity, and those looking for a relaxed, educational outing with a good dose of tastings.

Key Points

• Diverse Cuisines: Taste food from five countries in just three hours.
• Authentic Local Eateries: Visit small, family-owned restaurants rather than tourist-heavy spots.
• Insider Access: Chat with chefs and restaurant owners for a more personal experience.
• Small Group Experience: Enjoy a more intimate setting capped at 15 people.
• Flexible Options: Add drinks to your tour, including two alcoholic beverages and a boozy dessert.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for private groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins inside Dar Lbahja, a Moroccan restaurant located at coordinates 40.760921478271484, -73.90906524658203. Meeting here sets the tone for an immersive food journey — you’re greeted by your guide, and the atmosphere buzzes with anticipation. Just as you think, “This is a solid way to start a food tour,” you’re handed your first taste of Moroccan cuisine — a Chicken Pastilla, which is a savory-sweet pastry layered with tender chicken and spices.

This warm, flavorful beginning is a great introduction to the tour’s focus: genuine, home-cooked-style dishes from around the world. The guide’s insight about Moroccan food and the neighborhood’s cultural richness adds depth, turning a simple tasting into an educational moment.

Exploring Astoria’s Culinary Diversity

The Italian deli is next — a step into a family-run shop filled with sandwiches named after celebrities and local references, like Robert De Niro or the Q18 bus. We loved the way the staff shared stories behind their specialties, giving us a taste of old-school Astoria charm. The deli’s authenticity is evident in its carefully prepared sandwiches and the lively banter with staff, making it feel like eating at a friend’s house rather than a tourist stop.

From there, the tour takes you to America’s first Egyptian restaurant, a small, unassuming spot with no menu — just a sampler platter served with pride. The chef is proud to explain Egyptian cooking techniques, spices, and customs, offering an authentic taste that you might not find in more commercial establishments. Reviewers consistently mention the personal stories shared by the chef, which elevate the experience beyond just eating.

Next, you’re walking down Astoria’s main street to sample Greek street food. Here, you’ll enjoy flavors that are vibrant, fresh, and perfect for a quick, satisfying snack. The guide’s tips on how these dishes reflect Greek culinary traditions help you appreciate the cuisine on a deeper level.

The Sweet Finish and Optional Drinks

The last stop is a Brazilian cafe, where a chocolatey dessert awaits. This is a delightful way to end your tour, especially if you opt for the drinks add-on. With two alcoholic drinks and a boozy dessert included, the experience becomes more festive, allowing you to toast to your new friends and newfound flavors.

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The Value of Authenticity and Personal Touches

Throughout the tour, what we appreciated most was the personalized approach. The guide’s insights into each restaurant’s history, the cooks’ stories, and the neighborhood’s cultural tapestry add layers that make a simple food walk into a memorable cultural experience.

The small group size ensures you’re not just a number. Reviewers praise this aspect, describing the tour as “friendly” and “informative,” with many noting how easy it was to ask questions and interact with the guides and restaurant owners.

Timing, Logistics, and Practicalities

The tour lasts about three hours, covering roughly fifteen blocks of Astoria, which means plenty of walking but not overwhelming. It’s designed to be relaxed, with each tasting lasting around 30 minutes, giving you time to savor each dish and chat with your guide.

Meeting inside Dar Lbahja creates a cozy, welcoming start. The location is accessible, and the weather can influence your comfort — so weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended. Since the tour is flexible with reservations, you can book with confidence and cancel up to 24 hours in advance if needed.

The Overall Value

Considering the five tastings, insider access, and personalized guide, the value for the price is quite reasonable. Instead of dining at one expensive restaurant, you get a curated, cross-cultural food adventure that’s both educational and delicious. The optional drinks add extra fun, turning the experience into a lively social outing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is a fantastic choice for food lovers looking to taste authentic dishes from various cultures without leaving New York. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to learn about the neighborhood’s history and culinary traditions. Also, if you enjoy small-group experiences and insider access, you’ll find this tour engaging and intimate.

Those traveling with limited time but wanting a genuine taste of Astoria’s diversity will appreciate the three-hour format. Families, couples, or solo travelers who value authentic experiences will find this tour a memorable highlight of their NYC visit.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately three hours, covering about fifteen blocks of Astoria.

Where does the tour start?
Inside Dar Lbahja, a Moroccan restaurant located at specific coordinates in Astoria.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is designed to be wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there an option for private tours?
Yes, private groups are available for an even more personalized experience.

What is included in the tastings?
You’ll enjoy five tastings from five different countries, each offering a taste of the local cuisine.

Are drinks included?
You can opt for a drinks add-on, which includes two alcoholic drinks and a boozy dessert.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as there will be some walking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on authentic, local cuisine and small group size suggests it can be enjoyed by families with older children.

What’s the main benefit of this tour?
It offers a genuine, insider view of Astoria’s diverse culinary scene, perfect for travelers who want more than just a meal — an authentic cultural experience.

Final Thoughts

This guided food tour through Astoria offers a wonderful mix of authentic flavors, local stories, and small-group intimacy. It’s a smart choice for those eager to experience New York beyond the typical tourist spots, delving into a neighborhood where food is as diverse as its residents. With a focus on quality, personal interaction, and a relaxed pace, it’s a great way to spend part of your day, tasting the world without leaving Queens.

Ideal for curious travelers who want a taste of authenticity, this tour balances education and indulgence perfectly. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just eager to enjoy some truly local dishes, this small-group experience delivers a memorable, flavorful slice of Astoria.

Remember: The key to a great food tour is not just the food itself, but the stories, the people, and the neighborhood that make each bite special. If you’re looking for a genuine, unscripted experience that highlights New York’s multicultural heartbeat, this tour might just become a highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby