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Phoenix offers a surprising variety of food adventures, with vibrant neighborhoods and diverse cuisines that reflect its multicultural roots. Unlike some cities where food tours are limited to wine tastings or historic pubs, Phoenix’s options include everything from barbecue joints in Gilbert to lively downtown eateries. The local food scene is lively and welcoming, perfect for anyone eager to taste authentic flavors while learning about the city’s unique character.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed reviews of the two best food tours in Phoenix, each with its own style and focus. Whether you’re interested in a casual walk through Gilbert’s eclectic eateries or a comprehensive downtown experience that combines history and cuisine, these tours deliver a well-rounded taste of Phoenix. We’ll cover what makes each tour special, what kind of food you can expect, and who will enjoy them most—so you can pick the perfect match for your trip.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include the Downtown Gilbert Food Tour, which combines local history with a variety of cuisines in a charming neighborhood, and the Downtown Phoenix Food Tour, ideal for first-timers eager to explore Phoenix’s historic sites and popular eats. Both tours are around $85, with durations of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, and include visits to five restaurants or stops. Check out the full list of Phoenix’s best food experiences here and here.
1. Downtown Gilbert Food Tour
This Downtown Gilbert Food Tour is a flavorful way to explore a town that’s become a foodie hotspot in the Phoenix area. At $85, the tour lasts about 2.5 hours and features visits to five distinct establishments, each offering a different cuisine—ranging from craft pizza and barbecue to Asian fusion, Mexican street tacos, and house-made taffy. Included are cocktail tastings, adding a bit of adult fun.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local eateries in Gilbert’s historic Water Tower Plaza district. You’ll visit Joe’s Real BBQ, a family-run Texas-style joint famous for pecan-smoked meats and special BBQ sauce. Then, the Liberty Market offers farm-to-table dishes like wood-fired pizza and pastries. The tour also includes stops like Clever Koi for Asian-inspired bites, a soda shop called Rocket Fizz, a local brewery at OHSO, and an Italian gelato spot, Gelato Cimmino.
This tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 based on 42 reviews. People praise its “interesting stories,” “delicious food,” and the “perfect balance of history and taste.” Vegetarian options are available, making it accessible for different diets. It’s especially good for those who enjoy a relaxed, walk-and-eat style experience, with plenty of opportunity to chat with the guide and learn about Gilbert’s history.
Bottom Line: If you want a laid-back tour with a good mix of local history and diverse food, especially in a charming neighborhood, this Gilbert tour hits the mark.
$85
2. Downtown Phoenix Food Tour
For a more urban experience, the Downtown Phoenix Food Tour offers a lively look at the city’s core, perfect for first-time visitors or those interested in Phoenix’s architecture and stories. At $85, the 3-hour tour packs in visits to five prominent spots, including Chico Malo, where you’ll get chips, salsa, a house-made margarita, and a taco, and the Cornish Pasty Co for their signature hand-pies.
The tour also features Thai Basil for traditional Thai dishes and drinks, plus a stop at the historic Orpheum Theater and CityScape. Between bites, the guide shares insights into Phoenix’s historic buildings, tunnels, and the stories behind local landmarks, creating a rich backdrop for your culinary journey. One highlight is learning about the building that many say is haunted, adding a fun spooky twist.
Reviewers highlight the generous portions and informative narration, with a 4.5/5 rating from 50 reviews. Food options are varied, and the stops feature local decor and themes, making it both an educational and tasty walk. This tour is especially suited for those who want a mix of history, architecture, and food, and it’s ideal for visitors who want a comprehensive introduction to downtown Phoenix’s vibrant scene.
Bottom Line: If you’re new to Phoenix or enjoy combining history with your eating, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience.
$85
How to Choose
When selecting your Phoenix food tour, consider your interests and what kind of experience you’re after. If Gilbert’s neighborhood charm and a diverse mix of cuisines appeal to you, the Downtown Gilbert Food Tour is a relaxed choice with plenty of local flavor. For a broader city introduction, especially if you’re interested in Phoenix’s landmarks and stories, the Downtown Phoenix Food Tour provides a more fast-paced, educational experience.
Budget-wise, both tours are priced similarly at $85 and last about 2.5 to 3 hours, but your selection should match your pace—Gilbert’s tour is slightly shorter and more neighborhood-focused, while Phoenix’s tour offers more sightseeing along with its tastings. Book early, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure a spot in these popular experiences.
Final Thoughts
Both the Gilbert and downtown Phoenix food tours offer a genuine taste of local life, whether through Gilbert’s eclectic eateries or Phoenix’s historic streets. If you’re looking for a laid-back exploration with a focus on local flavors, Gilbert’s tour is excellent. For those wanting a deeper dive into Phoenix’s architecture, stories, and diverse cuisines, the downtown tour won’t disappoint.
For a balanced trip, try to fit both into your schedule—each provides a different flavor of what makes Phoenix special. Be sure to reserve your spot in advance and prepare for a fun, filling day of eating and discovery.
