Top 15 Food Tours In Philadelphia

Philadelphia stands out as a city that takes its food seriously. Its unique blend of immigrant communities, historic markets, and innovative eateries make it a prime destination for culinary exploration. Unlike many cities where a food tour can feel like just another tourist trap, Philadelphia offers authentic experiences—like tasting handmade cannoli in the Italian Market or biting into a classic cheesesteak on the street.

In this guide, you’ll find a detailed run-down of the 15 best food tours in Philadelphia. Whether you’re into sampling diverse international bites, exploring historic markets, or seeking out trendy neighborhood hotspots, there’s a tour that will suit your craving. We cover tours that focus on iconic dishes like cheesesteaks, pretzels, and tomato pie, as well as lesser-known treats like Middle Eastern desserts and Vietnamese banh mi.

1. Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market

This 2.5-hour walking tour offers a taste of Philadelphia’s best food spots, from Reading Terminal Market to Sansom Street. You’ll enjoy small-group intimacy—no more than 12 people—and learn about the local food scene from your guide. The tour kicks off outside the grand Masonic Temple, where your guide shares insights about the architecture and history of City Hall.

Highlights include sampling locally-sourced ingredients on Sansom Street, like vegan tahini shakes, fried chicken tenders, and Afghan cuisine. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, especially the personable Chuck and Barry, who mix food tastings with Philadelphia history. This tour is a good value at $59, covering enough food to fill a meal while providing rich cultural context.

Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a balanced dose of food, history, and architecture in a relaxed setting.

2. Flavors of Philly Food Tour

For those eager to avoid tourist traps, the Flavors of Philly Food Tour is a great choice. It takes you to five local eateries over about 2.5 hours, sampling iconic Philadelphia dishes like cheesesteaks, tomato pies, and pretzels, with plenty of time in Reading Terminal Market for two dessert stops.

Your guide points out the stories behind each dish, giving you a real sense of how Philly’s diverse communities shape its cuisine. The tour costs $65, but with enough food and insider restaurant tips, it feels like good bang for your buck. Reviewers note Owen and Michal as engaging guides who add fun facts that make the experience memorable.

Bottom line: Perfect for foodies who want a hearty, casual experience with local flavor and cultural insight.

3. Philadelphia Italian Market Public Food Tour

The Italian Market Public Food Tour explores South Philadelphia’s historic Italian Market, a vibrant stretch on 9th Street. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll taste a variety of bites—cheeses, cannoli, tacos, and more—while soaking in the neighborhood’s colorful atmosphere.

Your guide shares the story of this century-old marketplace, mentioning its Mexican and Vietnamese eateries that now diversify the area. Reviews highlight Chuck’s warm storytelling and the high-quality food tastings. At $61, it’s a solid value for those wanting an authentic taste of Philadelphia’s immigrant roots.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers interested in cultural history and a variety of ethnic foods.

4. Philadelphia’s Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour

This sweet-focused tour offers an underground journey through Philadelphia’s best bakeries and donut shops. Starting at Federal Donuts, you’ll sample hot donuts, Japanese-style mochi donuts at Mochinut, and finish at Beiler’s Donuts in Reading Terminal Market, all in about 2 hours.

The guide Dominic keeps the energy high and shares fun stories from the donut world, making it perfect for families or anyone with a sweet tooth. With stops at three or four bakeries, the tour costs $58.50, offering an indulgent but well-organized experience. Reviewers praise Dominic’s engaging style and the mix of traditional and modern donut flavors.

Bottom line: A fun, offbeat way to explore Philly’s sweet side and get a quick orientation around the city.

5. Philadelphia Secret Food Tour of Reading Market and Center City

For a more exclusive experience, check out Philadelphia’s Secret Food Tour. Over three hours, you’ll explore Reading Terminal Market and nearby districts, tasting local favorites and a “secret dish” revealed only to tour participants, like innovative takes on Philly cheesesteak or ethnic specialties.

The tour emphasizes diverse flavors, including the influence of different cultures in Philly’s food scene. At $65, it’s a highly rated tour for those who want insider stories and personalized attention. Guests love the mix of savory and sweet, plus the chance to uncover culinary treasures in a relaxed environment.

Bottom line: Ideal for food adventurers wanting a blend of storytelling, unique dishes, and immersive local culture.

6. Flavors of Philly Guided Foodie Tour

On the Flavors of Philly, about 2.5 hours of walking introduce you to five beloved local eateries. Your guide shares stories about Philadelphia’s food history and points out landmarks like City Hall as you go. The tour includes tasting staples such as cheesesteaks, pretzels, and tomato pie.

Guests appreciate the enthusiastic guide Steve and the generous portions that often feel like a full meal. At $61, the tour offers a good balance of food, culture, and city highlights, especially for those wanting a relaxed pace.

Bottom line: Great for travelers who want to experience Philly’s classic flavors without rushing through.

7. Italian Market & More: Non-Touristy Food Tour w/ Journalist

For those seeking an insider’s perspective, this non-touristy Italian Market tour is led by a journalist with deep local knowledge. Over roughly 3 hours, you’ll taste six bites, from tacos to sweets, and hear stories behind South Philly’s evolving culinary scene.

The tour covers lesser-known spots and emphasizes local businesses, making it perfect for those who want authentic flavors and a personal connection. Reviewers praise the guide’s storytelling and the variety of food. At $95, it offers a richer, more in-depth experience for passionate food lovers.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting to explore off the beaten path with a focus on local stories.

8. Philadelphia: Italian Market Walking Food Tour

This guided stroll takes you through the Italian Market for about 2.5 hours. You’ll savor tomato pies, cannoli, and fresh tacos, chatting with shop owners about their businesses and the neighborhood’s immigrant heritage.

Reviews mention the energetic guides and the quality of food samples. At $61, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a relaxed, informal tour that combines history and food.

Bottom line: Ideal for first-timers wanting an authentic, flavor-packed experience with local vendors.

9. Philadelphia: Best of Philly Food Tour

The Best of Philly Food Tour offers 2.5 hours exploring Center City’s culinary scene. You’ll sample cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and visit Reading Terminal Market, discovering both sustainable and innovative eateries.

At $55, it’s an affordable option with a good mix of classic Philadelphia staples and new flavors. Reviewers especially enjoy the lively atmosphere and the tour’s inclusive approach to Philly’s food diversity.

Bottom line: Excellent for budget-conscious travelers looking for a comprehensive city overview.

10. Locals’ Favorites Food Tour

For a personalized experience focused on Reading Terminal Market, this Locals’ Favorites Tour is limited to only 12 people. It includes cheese tastings at Di Bruno Bros, and walks through center city and Rittenhouse Square with stories from locals.

At $0, it’s a free tour if you find a provider offering a local experience, but typically, the value lies in the intimate knowledge shared. Reviewers mention Matt’s engaging style and the variety of treats, including Amish and Middle Eastern foods.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who enjoy a small-group, insider look at Philly’s food scene.

11. Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour

This East Passyunk tour showcases one of Philadelphia’s trendiest streets. Over about 2 hours, you’ll sample cheesesteaks, Italian pastries, and learn about the neighborhood’s culinary evolution.

Limited to 12 people, the tour emphasizes local hotspots and stories behind the restaurants. Reviewers appreciate Kathy’s knowledge and the generous samples that fill up the group. At $105, it’s on the higher end but justifies itself with exclusive insights into one of Philly’s top foodie streets.

Bottom line: Great for those wanting a trendy, insider look at Philly’s newest culinary hotspots.

12. Philadelphia: Italian Market Non-Touristy Walking Food Tour

For a non-touristy experience, this guided Italian Market tour focuses on local family businesses. You’ll taste six different bites, including sweets and tacos, and visit multi-generational shops.

The tour emphasizes authenticity and provides a cheat sheet of local recommendations. Priced at $95, it’s ideal for travelers who want to go beyond the typical tourist stops and experience real Philadelphia. Reviewers love the variety and the depth of stories about each business.

Bottom line: Best suited for food lovers craving an authentic, community-focused experience.

13. Shopping and Food Walking Tour in Philadelphia with Guide

This unique tour combines vintage shopping and food tastings in Old City, including stops at the oldest confectionery and Chinatown. Over about 2.5 hours, you’ll sample desserts, baked goods, and explore historic landmarks.

With only 2 reviews, it offers a different flavor—combining culinary treats with retail therapy. At $85, it’s a good pick for those who enjoy a mix of food, sightseeing, and shopping.

Bottom line: Perfect if you want a personalized, multi-faceted experience combining food and local culture.

14. Chinatown Guided Food Tour

This Chinatown tour is a culinary journey through nearly all corners of this ethnically diverse neighborhood. Lasting about 2.5 hours, it covers Dumplings, Szechuan, Cantonese, bubble tea, and more.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a taste of regional Chinese cuisines and insights into Chinatown’s development. It’s a straightforward experience for those wanting to explore multiple Asian culinary traditions in one go.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers interested in regional Asian foods and cultural stories.

15. Flavours of Philadelphia: Private Reading Market 2.5-hr Food Tour

For the ultimate personalized experience, the Private Reading Market Food Tour allows you to explore Reading Terminal Market with a dedicated guide. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll sample local cheeses, farm-to-table dishes, and hear stories about Philadelphia’s culinary history.

It’s perfect for those who want a flexible, intimate tour tailored to their interests, with an overall cost of $290 per person. Reviewers mention the high level of customization and the ease of navigating the market without hurries.

Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking a private, in-depth exploration of Philadelphia’s premier food hall.

How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Philadelphia

When selecting a food tour, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you want a quick, rundown, the Center City Philadelphia Food Tour offers a good mix of architecture, history, and food for just $59. For a more authentic, neighborhood-focused experience, the Italian Market or East Passyunk tours get you off the tourist trail.

If your sweet tooth is calling, the Donut Adventure provides a fun, indulgent way to explore. For those interested in cultural diversity, the Chinatown or Secret Market tours highlight regional and international flavors.

Booking early is advisable, especially for tours with limited group sizes, and consider your walking stamina—most tours involve 2-3 hours of strolling and tasting.

Final Thoughts

Philadelphia’s food scene is as layered and diverse as its history. From historic markets and iconic street foods to trendy neighborhoods full of surprises, the city offers a variety of food tours to match different tastes and interests. For a comprehensive experience, the Center City Food Tour is hard to beat, but if you’re after authentic local flavors, exploring the Italian Market or East Passyunk will not disappoint.

Remember to book early, especially during peak travel seasons, and come hungry. Exploring Philadelphia through its food is a delicious way to understand what makes this city’s culture so special.