Upper West Side Food Tour | Tasty Tours NYC

The Upper West Side Food Tour by Tasty Tours NYC offers an engaging way to discover one of Manhattan’s most charming neighborhoods. Priced at $79 per person, this small-group experience lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours and includes all food samples and bottled water. The tour departs from Broad Nosh Bagels at 2350 Broadway and concludes at Magnolia Bakery on Columbus Ave. With a perfect 5-star rating based on 84 reviews, it attracts booking well in advance, typically 42 days ahead.

This tour is well-suited for those who want a combination of delicious bites, local sights, and cultural insights. It’s particularly ideal for travelers eager to enjoy a generous variety of food while exploring famous filming locations and historic landmarks. Be aware that the tour is not suitable for vegans or gluten-free diets, and most walking is involved. Still, the personalized guidance and authentic food stops make it a worthwhile experience for food lovers and curious explorers alike.

Key Points

• All-inclusive food samples from bagels to cupcakes, representing NYC’s iconic flavors
• 2 to 3 hours of guided walking, starting at Broad Nosh Bagels and ending at Magnolia Bakery
• Small group size (max 12 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace
• Not suitable for vegans or gluten-free diets, so dietary prep is recommended
• The tour highlights local landmarks like the Belnord Apartments and Banksy’s Hammer Boy mural
• Excellent reviews praise knowledgeable guides and delicious food choices

Starting at Broad Nosh Bagels for New York’s Classic Breakfast

The tour kicks off at Broad Nosh Bagels, a renowned NYC bagel shop with a reputation for freshly baked bagels and cream cheese. Here, participants indulge in a famous bagel—a quintessential New York experience. The quick 20-minute stop allows for a relaxed start and the chance to savor one of the city’s most celebrated breakfast items, setting the tone for the culinary journey ahead.

Sampling Authentic NYC-Style Pizza at Mimi’s Pizza

Next, the group visits Mimi’s Pizza on Broadway to enjoy a slice of classic New York-style pizza. This stop highlights handmade pizza that takes over 72 hours to prepare, offering a guaranteed life-changing taste. The 15-minute visit provides a satisfying and iconic slice, giving a true flavor of NYC’s pizza craftsmanship.

Discovering the Luxurious Belnord Apartments and TV Fame

The tour pauses at The Belnord Apartments, one of the neighborhood’s most prestigious residential buildings. This historic site not only boasts impressive architecture but also served as a filming location for the popular TV series “Only Murders in The Building.” A brief 5-minute stop provides a visual treat and a glimpse into the neighborhood’s upscale living and cinematic connection.

Tasting the Flavors of Zabar’s Jewish Market

A highlight is the visit to Zabar’s, a 90-year-old Jewish market famous for its coffee and homemade rugelach. Participants are given time to explore this historic store, with a 20-minute window to browse and purchase. The tour culminates in enjoying freshly baked chocolate or cinnamon rugelach, a sweet treat that embodies NYC’s Jewish deli tradition.

Viewing Banksy’s “Hammer Boy” Mural

A quick 5-minute stop is dedicated to Banksy’s Hammer Boy, a small but iconic mural painted in 2013. This artwork adds a modern cultural touch to the neighborhood, recognized for Banksy’s distinct street art style. It’s an accessible and memorable moment that combines art and urban culture.

Exploring the Architectural Marvel of The Ansonia

The group visits The Ansonia, a stunning example of French architecture with a rich history. Once home to Babe Ruth and Igor Stravinsky, this building offers an impressive visual and historical insight. The 5-minute stop is ideal for those interested in architecture and history, capturing the elegance of early 20th-century design.

Sampling New York’s Famous Hot Dogs at Gray’s Papaya

No NYC food tour is complete without sampling a hot dog, and Gray’s Papaya is the classic spot to do so. For over 50 years, this stand has served 100% beef hot dogs to locals and visitors alike. The 20-minute stop allows for a sidewalk hot dog—a fun, authentic way to enjoy a staple of New York street food.

Indulging in Sweet Delights at Magnolia Bakery

The tour concludes at Magnolia Bakery, known for its banana pudding and cupcakes. Here, travelers face a delicious dilemma—which treat to choose—though both options come highly recommended. The 20-minute final stop serves as a perfect sweet ending, leaving everyone with a memorable taste of NYC’s famed baked goods.

Logistics and Tour Structure

This guided walk takes place over 2 to 3 hours, covering a series of stops that combine culinary tastings with sightseeing. The tour departs from Broad Nosh Bagels and ends at Magnolia Bakery, both accessible via public transportation. The small-group format (max 12 participants) ensures a personalized experience, with ample opportunity for questions and interaction.

Food and Sightseeing Highlights

Every stop features delicious samples that form a generous meal, including bagels, pizza, rugelach, hot dogs, and cupcakes. Alongside the food, the guide shares fascinating insights about neighborhood landmarks, including filming locations and historical architecture. The tour provides a well-rounded look at the Upper West Side’s culinary traditions and cultural stories.

Practical Tips and Accessibility

Participants should be prepared for walking between stops, which involves some flat terrain. The tour is not suitable for vegans or gluten-free diets, so dietary restrictions should be communicated beforehand. The experience includes bottled water and all food samples, with no alcohol provided. Good weather is essential, as the tour is primarily outdoors.

Guide Experience and Guest Ratings

Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, especially noting Ryan’s engaging storytelling, warmth, and friendly demeanor. The high praise for the food choices—from pizza at Mimi’s to cupcakes at Magnolia—confirms the tour’s excellent culinary standards. Guests also value the insights into architecture, culture, and film that enrich the tasting experience.

Final Words on the Upper West Side Food Tour

This tour offers an authentic, enjoyable way to explore the Upper West Side’s food scene and notable landmarks. The all-in price of $79 is competitive, considering the variety and quality of samples provided. The personalized approach, combined with fascinating stories and top-notch food, makes it especially appealing for those wanting a relaxed, informative, and tasty experience.

While the tour does not cater to vegans or gluten-free diets and involves walking, these are minor considerations in exchange for the rich cultural and culinary exposure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover your neighborhood, this guided food walk promises good value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, covering several stops along the Upper West Side.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Broad Nosh Bagels on 2350 Broadway and concludes at Magnolia Bakery on 200 Columbus Ave.

Are all food samples included in the price?
Yes, all food and bottled water are included for the $79 ticket price.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
No, the tour is not suitable for vegans or gluten-free diets; dietary restrictions should be communicated in advance.

What kind of foods are sampled during the tour?
Participants enjoy bagels, pizza slices, rugelach, hot dogs, and cupcakes, representing some of NYC’s most famous foods.

How many people are in each tour group?
The group size is limited to 12 travelers to ensure a personalized experience.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for some outdoor walking.

Is this tour accessible for all ages and abilities?
Most travelers can participate, but walking and standing are involved; contact the provider if specific accessibility needs exist.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Will I get dietary accommodations if I have restrictions?
Please contact Tasty Tours NYC before the tour if you have dietary restrictions; the tour is not suitable for vegans or gluten-free diets.

This Upper West Side Food Tour by Tasty Tours NYC combines irresistible food samples with engaging stories and neighborhood sights, making it an enjoyable way to spend a few hours exploring one of Manhattan’s most beloved areas.