15 Best Food Tours In San Diego (With Prices)

San Diego’s culinary scene is as diverse as its scenery — from historic neighborhoods packed with street food to upscale wine regions with farm-to-table dishes, this city is a foodie’s playground. The city’s vibrant districts, rich with history and innovation, make it an ideal place for food tours that go beyond just tasting. Here, you’ll find tours that explore the neon-lit Gaslamp Quarter, historic Old Town, and even ventures into Baja California’s famed Valle de Guadalupe. Each itinerary offers an authentic glimpse into San Diego’s local flavors, stories, and culture.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up the 15 best food tours in San Diego, including walking adventures through lively districts, tastings at iconic eateries, and even a day trip to Baja wine country. Whether you prefer sampling Mexican street fare, exploring local breweries, or savoring vegan dishes, these tours deliver a practical, detailed look at what makes San Diego’s food scene special. Expect insider tips, small group experiences, and opportunities to taste everything from fish tacos to Baja wines.

Quick Overview

Our list covers a wide range of culinary experiences. You’ll find walking food tours like the Gaslamp Quarter Food and Drink Tour, which offers a dive into San Diego’s nightlife and seedy past, alongside more comprehensive options like the San Diego Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours. For those interested in wine and farm-to-table dining, the Premium Valle de Guadalupe Wine and Food Tour takes you through Mexico’s top wine region. If craft beer is your thing, the San Diego Brewery Tour offers tastings paired with local bites, and for a more laid-back vibe, the Downtown Food and Drink Tour explores San Diego’s “underground” culinary scene.

1. Gaslamp Quarter Food and Drink Tour: Brothels, Bites & Booze

This 2.5-hour walk through San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter offers an engaging mix of food, drink, and storytelling. Led by a guide sharing tales of scandalous red-light days and lively nightlife, you’ll sample dishes at four different eateries and drinks from three stops. The tour’s focus on the district’s seedy past and transformation into a lively nightlife hub sets it apart. Guests love how the colorful stories make history come alive, with reviews emphasizing the guide’s engaging personality and excellent food quality. Price at $90, the tour offers a good value considering the variety of tastings and insights.

Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you’re intrigued by San Diego’s red-light history and want a lively, social experience with local eats and stories. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of history and casual dining.

2. San Diego Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

At $95, this 3.5-hour tour is a top choice for serious food lovers. Your guide will take you past some of San Diego’s most beloved local spots, with tastings included at every stop. Expect bites like fish tacos, melt burgers, and specialty coffee as you explore the vibrant downtown area. Guests highlight the guide’s deep knowledge and the tour’s well-paced, hassle-free approach, making it ideal for those wanting a broad taste of the city’s culinary essentials. The visit to hidden gems like the Filipino Lumpia Factory and iconic spots like Tacos Los Chuyos makes this immersive experience stand out.

Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies who want to try a variety of authentic San Diego dishes while learning about the city’s culinary roots in a relaxed setting.

3. Premium Valle de Guadalupe Wine and Food Tour

This all-day adventure (10-12 hours) at $259 takes you straight into Mexico’s celebrated wine country, just south of San Diego. Starting with tacos in Rosarito, you’ll then explore boutique wineries in Valle de Guadalupe, tasting reds, whites, and rosés, complemented by farm-to-table dishes at a top Valle restaurant. The tour’s highlight is the intimate, small-group experience—guests praise the guide’s warmth and the beauty of the wineries, often mentioning the quiet weekday visits where you can really soak in the scenery.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a combination of wine, scenery, and authentic Mexican cuisine, with a fully guided, stress-free day.

4. Downtown Food and Drink Tour: Libations on the East Side

This 3-hour tour for $85 explores San Diego’s East Village, an emerging culinary hotspot. Led by a local guide, you’ll visit 4-5 eateries and bars featuring global cuisine, craft cocktails, and local brews. Guests rave about the insider knowledge and the neighborhood’s transformation from industrial to foodie district. Tastings include a variety of dishes, drinks, and a look into the area’s history. It’s an excellent choice for those interested in San Diego’s underground culinary scene, with reviews praising the guide’s enthusiasm.

Bottom Line: Ideal for curious travelers who want a blend of history and eclectic eats in a vibrant neighborhood.

5. Gaslamp Quarter Downtown San Diego Food Tour

This 3-hour tour at $99 provides a substantial sampling of San Diego’s downtown food scene, with five large portions across different venues. Highlights include Spill the Beans for inventive bagels, Greek tapas at Meze, and authentic Mexican street tacos at Taco Centro. The tour emphasizes local culture and history, making it ideal for those wanting a combination of history and hearty food. Reviewers note the generous portions and the engaging guide. It’s a good value for those who prefer a more substantial meal with their sightseeing.

Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers craving big flavors and cultural insights in a lively downtown setting.

6. Tequila, Tacos & Tombstones: Old Town Food & Drink Walking Tour

For $90, this 2.5-hour tour in historic Old Town combines Mexican cuisine, tequila tastings, and ghost stories. Tour stops include Café Coyote and the Whaley House, known as America’s most haunted house. Guests often mention the hearty taco and margarita samples and the entertaining commentary on local history and legends. This tour is perfect for those interested in Mexican culture, spirits, and ghostly tales alongside flavorful bites.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers who love a mix of history, spirits, and authentic Mexican fare with a dash of spooky storytelling.

7. San Diego: Gaslamp Quarter Food & Drink Walking Tour

At $84, this 2.5-hour tour offers an easy, engaging way to experience San Diego’s famous Gaslamp Quarter. Visiting 3 restaurants and an ice cream parlor, you’ll sample diverse ethnic cuisines in a lively historic setting. The guide’s storytelling brings the area’s past to life, making this a well-rounded choice for those who want a short, sweet introduction to downtown’s flavors.

Bottom Line: Excellent for visitors seeking a quick yet flavorful glimpse into San Diego’s nightlife and history.

8. Mexican Street Food: Tijuana Day Trip from San Diego

This 7-hour day trip for $129 takes you into Tijuana’s authentic street food scene. You’ll try tacos, garnachas, and churros while exploring markets and alleys, with guided commentary on local culture. The tour’s small group size (max 12) allows for personalized attention. Reviewers praise the local flavor and the guide’s knowledge, emphasizing the experience’s authenticity.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those looking for a full immersion into Tijuana’s street cuisine within a manageable day trip.

9. Seaport Village Food Tour in San Diego

For $99, this 3-hour waterfront tour combines delicious food, scenic views, and a ride on the carousel. Stops include Coronado Bridge and the Port of San Diego, with tastings at four restaurants. Guests enjoy the easy walk and the engaging storytelling from a knowledgeable guide. Although small, the group size and diverse food options make it a relaxing way to experience the harbor’s culinary scene.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a combination of waterfront views, local bites, and relaxed pace.

10. San Diego: Old Town Tequila and Tacos Walking Food Tour

At $84, this 2.5-hour tour visits Old Town’s best Mexican restaurants, sampling tacos, margaritas, and hearing ghost stories at historic sites like the Whaley House. Guests appreciate the hearty food and drink and the entertaining guide. It’s perfect for those interested in authentic Mexican food combined with history and local legends.

Bottom Line: Great for fans of Mexican cuisine and spooky stories, with enough food to satisfy a hearty appetite.

11. Little Italy Food and Drink Walking Tour: Pizza, Pasta & Piazzas

For $90, this 2.5-hour tour explores Little Italy’s top spots, offering tastings of pizza, pasta, and local wines. The guide shares the neighborhood’s story and introduces you to vendors and shops that keep it authentic. Guests enjoy the lively atmosphere, and reviews recommend this as a must-do for lovers of Italian cuisine and neighborhood charm.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a taste of Italy and local culture in one walk.

12. San Diego: Brewery Tour with Tastings and Food Pairings

At $85, this 3-hour tour includes visits to 3-4 breweries, with sample flights and food pairings. The guide explains brewing techniques and the art of pairing beer with food. Reviewers highlight the fun, educational atmosphere and the quality of the cheese plates and fish tacos. It’s suited for beer lovers wanting an interactive, flavorful experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for craft beer fans who want to learn while tasting and pairing in North Park’s trendy scene.

13. San Diego Vegan Food Tour

Priced at $89, this 2-hour tour offers a chance to explore San Diego’s vegan culinary landscape. Visiting multiple restaurants, you’ll sample delicious plant-based dishes while learning about the city’s food culture. Reviewers note the well-curated stops and the tour’s fun, friendly vibe.

Bottom Line: Designed for vegans or anyone interested in plant-based cuisine, this tour proves that delicious food can come from any diet.

14. Private Tour: Secret Food Tours San Diego

At a premium $370 for about 3.5 hours, this private experience takes you through Gaslamp’s most iconic eateries, with tastings of fish tacos, melt burgers, and secret dishes. The small-group, customizable nature makes it perfect for special occasions or travelers who want an intimate, tailored experience. Reviewers mention how the guide’s insights elevate the tour, making it more than just a tasting.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a personalized, exclusive food adventure in San Diego.

15. San Diego: Barrio Logan Food and Art Guided Walking Tour

For $85, this 3-hour tour combines street art and culinary delights. You’ll explore murals, galleries, and sample local Chicano cuisine and drinks. Reviewers highlight the amazing street art and diverse food as a highlight, perfect for those interested in culture and authentic flavors.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who want to combine art, local culture, and flavorful bites in one engaging walk.

How to Choose the Right Food Tour

When selecting your perfect San Diego food tour, consider your interest focus—whether it’s history, wine, craft beer, or Mexican street food. If you love exploring neighborhoods like Little Italy or the Gaslamp Quarter, tours like Gaslamp Quarter Food and Drink Tour or Little Italy Food and Drink Walking Tour could be ideal. For wine enthusiasts, the Valle de Guadalupe Tour combines scenic beauty with farm-to-table meals. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer shorter Downtown San Diego or Seaport Village options, while those seeking exclusivity can consider the Private Tour.

Booking early is recommended, especially for tours that are popular or have limited availability, like the Baja wine tour or private experiences. Think about your schedule—if you want to combine food and art, the Barrio Logan tour offers a unique blend, while a full-day excursion like the Valle de Guadalupe trip suits those craving a more extensive experience.

Final Thoughts

San Diego’s food scene offers a rich variety of tastes, histories, and experiences. The Gaslamp Quarter Food and Drink Tour is perfect for nightlife lovers, while the Valle de Guadalupe Tour makes a memorable day for wine and food lovers. Whether you’re interested in authentic Mexican street food, craft beer pairings, or exploring colorful murals in Barrio Logan, these tours give you a practical way to enjoy San Diego’s flavors.

Remember to book early, especially during peak seasons, and choose the tour that best matches your interests and schedule. After all, nothing beats experiencing the city’s local food culture firsthand—so lace up those walking shoes and get ready to eat your way through San Diego.