Food tours in Chicago are a delicious way to explore the city’s rich neighborhoods, savoring different flavors, ingredients, and dishes that make this city a food lover’s paradise.
Chicago is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, reflecting its history and cultural diversity.
Food tours in Chicago allow you to taste iconic Chicago dishes like deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago-style hot dogs, and other local favorites.
Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply looking to explore the tastes of Chicago, a food tour is a fantastic way to savor the city’s flavors and learn about its history.
This article shares everything you should know before buying your Chicago food tour tickets.
Table of contents
- What to expect on the food tour
- Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food & Walking Tour
- Bikes, Bites, and Brews: Chicago’s Signature Dishes Bike Tour
- Chicago’s Food, History, and Architecture Walking Tour
- Chicago’s Donut Adventure by Underground Donut Tour
- Chicago’s Chinatown Food and Walking Tour
- Chicago Secret Walking Food Tour
- River North Food Walking Tour
- Architecture, History & Highlights Small Group Tour
- Small-Group Walking Food Tour in Chicago
- Hard Rock Cafe Chicago
- Chicago Food Lovers Private Tour
- Tips for making most of your tour
- Chicago food tour FAQs
What to expect on the food tour
Food tours in Chicago include multiple stops at various restaurants, food trucks, markets, and specialty shops. Each stop offers a unique taste of the city’s diverse food scene.
You can sample classic Chicago dishes like deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago-style hot dogs, and more. These iconic foods are an integral part of the city’s culinary identity.
Food tours in Chicago take you into the city’s neighborhoods’ cultural and historical aspects and culinary traditions. You’ll learn about the local food history and the stories behind the dishes you’re tasting.
Knowledgeable guides lead the tours, sharing information about the food and the neighborhoods you’re exploring.
Chicago’s food tours celebrate the city’s diverse food scene, featuring international cuisines, innovative fusion foods, and worldwide flavors.
You’ll enjoy tastings and samples at each stop, which can add up to a satisfying meal by the end of the tour.
Food tours in Chicago are a delicious way to explore the city and create lasting food memories.
Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food & Walking Tour
Join a fascinating walking food tour of downtown Chicago and experience the city’s iconic landmarks and delicious foods.
During the tour, you will visit important outdoor sites such as Millennium Park and the Chicago River while enjoying generous tastings at several restaurants.
Your expert guide will provide insights into the city’s history and cultural significance while you sample Chicago-style pizza, hot dogs, chocolates, pastries, and other treats.
All food tastings are included in the tour, and the walking distance covers an easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km), suitable for most fitness levels.
Timings and tour duration: The tour will commence at 11.30 am and will last around 3 hours.
Ticket Price
Adult Ticket (12+ years): US$80
Child Ticket (4 to 11 years): US$70
Infant Ticket (0 to 3 years): US$11
Bikes, Bites, and Brews: Chicago’s Signature Dishes Bike Tour
Experience the best of Chicago’s food and neighborhoods on a half-day bike tour covering approximately 13 miles (21 km).
A local guide will lead the way at a moderate pace through the city’s most popular neighborhoods, including Wrigleyville, Old Town, Lincoln Park, and Gold Coast.
During the day tour, you’ll visit a hot dog stand, a pizza shop, a popular bakery, and two breweries to taste Chicago’s famous foods and drinks, deep-dish pizza, Chicago dogs, cupcakes, and craft beer.
On the night tour, you’ll explore Chicago’s Riverwalk, Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain, and the Lakefront Trail.
Throughout the tour, your guide will share historical and cultural insights into the food and neighborhoods.
The price includes samples at two breweries, one bakery, one hot dog stand, and one pizza shop.
Timings and tour duration: The tour will commence at 5.30 pm and will last around 4 hours.
Ticket Price: US$90
Chicago’s Food, History, and Architecture Walking Tour
This walking food tour is a great way to thoroughly visit the city and explore its classic attractions and hidden gems.
The tour starts at the famous Chicago Theatre and takes you through the Chicago Pedway, a network of underground tunnels used by locals and commuters.
You’ll also get to stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk and the Magnificent Mile and savor some of the city’s famous foods by taking a food tour.
You’ll have a chance to sample local food favorites, including Chicago-style hot dogs, pizza, and Italian beef.
The tour is eco-friendly and operated by the world’s largest travel B-Corp-certified company.
Timings and tour duration: The tour will commence at 10 am and will last around 5 hours.
Ticket Price: US$108
Chicago’s Donut Adventure by Underground Donut Tour
Join the Underground Donut Tour and explore Chicago’s best donut shops.
Experience the magic of Chicago’s most delicious sweet treats with a chance to sample a variety of your favorite donut styles, including glazed and cream-filled.
This tour is the only donut-themed excursion in the city, and all tastings are included.
If you have dietary restrictions, don’t worry! Vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free options are available.
The tour takes you through some of the top donut shops in the Chicago Loop, where you can celebrate with like-minded donut fans.
Timings and tour duration: The tour will commence at 12 pm and will last around 2 hours.
Ticket Price
Adult Ticket (11+ years): US$55
Child Ticket (4 to 10 years): US$48
Chicago’s Chinatown Food and Walking Tour
Join a walking tour of Chicago’s Chinatown to explore the Chinese food scene.
A knowledgeable guide will lead you through the district and provide insights into the cuisine of various regions of China.
You’ll also learn about the impact of Chinese culture on Chicago and other areas.
On this tour, you can sample various regional dishes from China, including dumplings and many more.
All food tastings are included, and ethnic drink pairings available at several stops.
Timings and tour duration: The tour will commence at 4 pm and will last around 3 hours.
Ticket Price
Adult Ticket (12+ years): US$80
Child Ticket (4 to 11 years): US$70
Infant Ticket (0 to 3 years): US$10
Chicago Secret Walking Food Tour
Join a delightful walking tour of Chicago’s rich food scene in the company of a small group.
Explore the ‘Chicago Loop’ while discovering hidden culinary gems and listening to fascinating stories from your knowledgeable guide.
Learn about the significant contributions of immigrants to the city’s food culture, and savor the taste of classic Chicago dishes, ranging from deep-dish pizza to the renowned dipped Italian beef sandwiches.
The tour also includes an exclusive Secret Dish, which will be revealed only on the tour day.
Personalized experience and a chance to admire some of the city’s most iconic architecture and public art in the famed Chicago Loop District.
Timings and tour duration: The tour will commence at 11.30 am and will last around 3 hours.
Ticket Price
Adult Ticket (12+ years): US$88
Child Ticket (4 to 11 years): US$83
Infant Ticket (0 to 3 years): US$77
River North Food Walking Tour
Explore the River North district of Chicago and its culinary delights on a walking tour that will take you to five of the best local food venues.
You’ll get to taste authentic Mexican dishes, delicious Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, and other mouth-watering treats while experiencing the neighborhood’s history and food culture.
Expert guide will provide insights into the local food scene while you visit some of the most popular eateries in Chicago.
Vegetarian options are available, and the tour can accommodate other dietary needs with advanced notice.
Timings and tour duration: The tour will commence at 11 am and will last around 3 hours.
Ticket Price
Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$89
Child Ticket (3 to 12 years): US$79
Architecture, History & Highlights Small Group Tour
Chicago is famous for its impressive architecture and diverse food scene. This tour takes you on a journey through downtown Chicago, where you can enjoy both of these elements.
You’ll explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, and Cloud Gate, on foot alongside the Chicago River.
Savor some of the city’s favorite snacks, such as popcorn and chocolate, from two of the most popular eateries.
With the help of a guide, you’ll get to see all of Chicago’s architectural highlights in just a few hours.
This tour is the perfect way to experience the unique culture of Chicago and discover what makes its art, food scene, and architecture so special.
Timings and tour duration: The tour will commence at 10 am and will last around 3 hours.
Ticket Price: US$61
Small-Group Walking Food Tour in Chicago
Join a small-group walking tour and discover the food offerings in River North.
A knowledgeable guide will provide in-depth commentary on the culinary history of Chicago and the culture of the River North neighborhood as you explore.
With a maximum of 12 fellow food lovers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and the opportunity to discuss your favorite tastings.
The tour will include samples of classic Italian beef, a Chicago-style hot dog, and the famous deep-dish pizza.
The tastings will add up to a satisfying meal, and you’ll have plenty of time to get to know River North on this walking tour intimately.
Timings and tour duration: The tour will commence at 1 pm and will last around 2 hours.
Ticket Price: US$71
Hard Rock Cafe Chicago
Visit the Hard Rock Cafe Chicago for a good, complete, and fun lunch of traditional American food while you’re in the Windy City.
The menu features classic American fare in 2- or 3-course options with a musical theme, including dessert and a drink.
The popular prix-fixe menu includes entrees like salmon, steak, chicken, or a half-rack of hickory-smoked ribs.
After your meal, take some time to explore the collection of music-themed memorabilia.
Timings and tour duration: The tour will commence at 12 pm and will last around 2 hours.
Ticket Price: US$64
Chicago Food Lovers Private Tour
Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza, and if you’re a food lover, this private tour is perfect.
Get ready to taste some of the best Chicago offers, from deep-dish pizza to Italian beef sandwiches, while enjoying the city’s landmarks and learning about its history and culture.
Your guide will meet you downtown, and you’ll get to explore the city’s highlights, like the Wrigley Building, Magnificent Mile, and Millennium Park.
Timings and tour duration: The tour will commence at 11 am and will last around 4 hours.
Ticket Price
Adult Ticket (10+ years): US$319
Child Ticket (3 to 9 years): US$276
Tips for making most of your tour
To make the most of your food tour in Chicago and have a and memorable experience, consider the following tips:
Arrive with an appetite. Food tours include multiple tastings, so you’ll want to have room to savor each dish.
Chicago food tours involve walking between food stops. Wear comfortable shoes to make the experience more enjoyable.
Chicago has varying seasons, so dress appropriately for the weather. Bring an umbrella or wear layers if needed.
Be willing to try new foods and flavors, even unfamiliar ones. Part of the fun of a food tour is experiencing different tastes.
Use the opportunity to meet and chat with fellow tour participants. Sharing your thoughts on the food and learning about others’ experiences can add to the enjoyment.
Save room for dessert if your tour includes sweet treats. Chicago is known for its delicious pastries and desserts.
Chicago food tour FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about food tours in Chicago.
A food tour in Chicago is a guided culinary experience that takes you to various restaurants, eateries, and food-related destinations to sample various dishes while learning about the local food culture and history.
Chicago is known for its diverse food scene, and a food tour allows you to explore this culinary diversity, learn about the city’s history, and savor iconic dishes.
The duration of a food tour can vary, but most tours last between 2 to 4 hours. Some specialty or themed tours may be longer.
You can expect to sample a wide range of foods, including Chicago-style pizza, hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, ethnic cuisine, gourmet desserts, and more.
Food tour operators in Chicago offer options for vegetarians and individuals with dietary restrictions. It’s advisable to inform the tour organizers of your requirements in advance.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and dress appropriately for the weather, as some tours are conducted outdoors. Layered clothing is a good idea, as Chicago experiences various seasons.
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