Corks & Forks Tour (St. Augustine)

If you’re considering a food-focused outing in St. Augustine, the Corks & Forks Tour offers a delightful blend of culinary exploration and historic charm. From what we’ve seen in glowing reviews, it’s a highly-rated experience that combines the city’s vibrant food scene with its fascinating past—all packed into a manageable three-hour walk.

What really sets this tour apart is its emphasis on authentic, local flavors paired with expert storytelling. Plus, it’s led by guides who are praised for their knowledge and personable approach. The only caveat? Since it’s a food and wine pairing experience, it’s best suited for adults who can appreciate a leisurely stroll with a glass in hand. If you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply want to savor the true taste of St. Augustine, this tour has a lot to offer.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour does not include parking, and the group size is limited to 12 participants, making it intimate but requiring some planning for transportation. Still, for those who love a good combination of walking, eating, and learning, this tour hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Combines local food, wine, and history in a 3-hour guided walk
• Led by knowledgeable guides who are praised for storytelling
• Visits 4-5 carefully selected venues in the Historic District
• Samples are substantial enough to feel like a full meal
• Ideal for adults, with alcohol included (beer available upon request)
• Booking typically opens about three weeks in advance

Introducing the Corks & Forks Tour

This tour is designed for anyone who wants to experience St. Augustine beyond its historic landmarks—through its flavors. The company behind it, The Tasting Tours, has crafted an experience that appeals to those eager to taste local cuisine and sip on regional wines while strolling through the city’s charming streets. It’s not just about eating; it’s about understanding the city’s culinary identity, with a side of history to spice things up.

The tour lasts approximately three hours, making it a perfect afternoon activity. You’ll visit four to five venues, each offering a taste of what makes St. Augustine’s food scene special. The cost is $135 per person, which on the surface might seem steep, but considering the number of stops, the quality of the food and wine, and the guided expertise, many reviewers agree it’s a fair value.

This experience is offered by The Tasting Tours, a reputable provider with positive reviews and a focus on culinary adventures. The tour is mobile-ticket friendly, and most bookings are made about three weeks ahead, so plan accordingly during peak seasons.

What to Expect: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Starting Point and Introduction

Meet at the Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum at 48 King St. Here, you’ll gather with a small group of up to 12 travelers, all eager to explore. The meeting point is central, making it easy to reach from most accommodations or parking nearby (note that parking isn’t included).

Your guide, a licensed and knowledgeable local, will welcome you and set the tone for the next three hours—informative, relaxed, and fun.

The First Stop: Government House and Historic Streets

Your journey kicks off with a passing glance at Government House, an iconic structure with roots dating back to 1598. It’s more than just a photo op; it’s a portal into the city’s colonial past, and your guide will share snippets of history along the way. Expect to pass by landmark sites, all while your palate prepares for the tastings ahead.

Venue One: Local Cuisine with a Historic Backdrop

The first venue often sets the tone for the tour. Expect a place that’s well-loved by locals and insiders alike, where the chef or owner might share insights into the city’s culinary evolution. Here, you’ll sample a dish that showcases regional flavors, paired with a wine selected to complement it. The reviews highlight that the food here is often described as “spectacular,” and the wine “delicious,” setting the stage for an enjoyable afternoon.

Venue Two and Three: Diverse Flavors and Pairings

As you stroll through the city, the tour stops at 2-3 more venues, each offering its own unique take on local cuisine. These might include tapas-style dishes, regional specialties, or innovative bites made with local ingredients. The wine pairings are carefully chosen, often resulting in a full lunch or dinner experience, according to many reviewers.

Guests repeatedly mention the quality of the pairings—many say they are “equivalent to a full meal,” making the experience satisfying without the need for extra food afterward.

Venue Four or Five: Sweet Endings or Additional Tastings

The final stops often leave guests with a sweet note—a dessert paired with a dessert wine or a local craft beer (beer substitution is available). These last tastes are described as “spectacular” by reviewers and a perfect way to wind down the tour.

Throughout the Tour: Engaging Storytelling

One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the guide’s storytelling. Jessica, often praised for her friendly demeanor and deep knowledge, brings history to life while weaving in culinary facts. Guests have remarked that she’s “the best storyteller,” making the city’s past as appetizing as its food.

The Value of the Experience

At $135 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive tasting experience, with four to five venues and plenty of wine and food. Many reviewers compare it favorably to a full lunch or dinner, especially given the quality and variety of tastings.

What makes it stand out is the combination of authentic local cuisine, expert guidance, and a walk through historic streets. This isn’t just a food tour; it’s a cultural stroll that engages all your senses.

The inclusion of private transportation isn’t explicitly mentioned, but the walk is leisurely and intended to be manageable for most visitors. Remember, parking isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adults who enjoy good food and wine, have an interest in history, and appreciate small-group experiences. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a relaxed, engaging way to spend an afternoon. If you’re traveling with children or infants, this may not be suitable, given the age restrictions and alcohol consumption.

Those with food allergies or dietary restrictions may want to note that special accommodations cannot be guaranteed, so it’s worth communicating any severe allergies in advance.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For lovers of good eats paired with a little education, the Corks & Forks Tour offers a balance of flavor, history, and conviviality. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills, making the experience more than just a tasting. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, showcasing the best of what St. Augustine’s culinary scene has to offer.

While it’s a bit pricey, the reviews suggest the quality and quantity of tastings make it a worthwhile splurge. Plus, the chance to walk through some of the city’s most picturesque streets adds a layer of enjoyment.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to get a taste of local life, enjoy some regional wines and dishes, and learn about the city’s past without feeling hurried or overwhelmed.

FAQs About the Corks & Forks Tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is strictly for adults aged 21 and over due to the alcohol included in the experience.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately three hours, allowing ample time for multiple tastings and sightseeing.

Are vegetarian or special dietary requests accepted?
While the tour offers a variety of foods, specific dietary requests like vegan, kosher, or gluten-free are not guaranteed and should be communicated in advance.

Does the tour include transportation?
The tour involves walking between venues; private transportation is not explicitly included, but the walk is manageable and in a walkable part of town.

Is parking available?
Parking is not included and may need to be arranged separately; the meeting point is in central St. Augustine.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable.

What if I have food allergies?
Severe, life-threatening allergies should be disclosed at booking. However, accommodations for dietary restrictions cannot be guaranteed.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 12, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
This isn’t specified, but since it involves walking through historic streets, mobility considerations should be checked with the provider.

How do I book?
Most travelers book about 23 days in advance through the provider’s website or Viator, especially during peak season.

To sum it up, if you’re craving a lively, flavorful exploration of St. Augustine with knowledgeable guides and a relaxed pace, the Corks & Forks Tour hits all the right notes. It’s a perfect way to combine your love of food, wine, and history into one memorable outing—especially if you enjoy discovering a city one delicious bite at a time.