French Quarter Food Tour

Discover the Flavors of the French Quarter with a Guided Food Tour

The French Quarter Food Tour offers a chance to explore New Orleans’ iconic culinary scene in just around three hours. Priced at $89 per person, this tour is designed to give visitors a comprehensive taste of the city’s signature dishes while learning about its history and culture from a seasoned guide. The tour departs from 737 Iberville St at 11:00am and ends at Cafe Beignet on Decatur Street, making it a convenient option for those staying nearby or exploring by public transportation.

This experience stands out for its small group size, capped at 12 guests, which ensures a personal and engaging atmosphere. You visit six different stops in the French Quarter—ranging from restaurants and bakeries to mom-and-pop joints—where hearty samples serve as a delicious introduction to local flavors. While the tour includes a lunch and food tastings at each spot, alcoholic drinks are not included but are available to purchase separately.

The reviews overwhelmingly praise the knowledgeable guides, especially the host Lisa, for her friendly storytelling and insights. The tour is highly recommended by 96% of participants and boasts an impressive average rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 166 reviews. This tour is best suited for food lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking to maximize a short visit with a delicious, cultural experience.

Key Points

• Price: $89 per person, including all tastings and a guide
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours, starting at 11:00am
• Group Size: Small groups limited to 12 guests for a personalized experience
• Stops: Six unique culinary locations in the French Quarter
• Highlights: Hearty samples, local stories, and visits to iconic restaurants
• Booking: Book about 24 days in advance for best availability

Starting Point and Tour Duration in the French Quarter

The tour begins at 737 Iberville Street, a central location in the heart of the French Quarter. It kicks off at 11:00am with a brief introduction before setting out on a 3-hour walking journey through the area’s top food spots. The tour ends at Cafe Beignet on Decatur Street, making it easy to continue exploring or grab a coffee afterward.

Participants should dress appropriately for all weather conditions and expect an active walking pace that covers several blocks. The tour offers a balanced mix of standing, walking, and seated tastings, making it accessible for most travelers.

Exploring Jackson Square: The Historic Heart of the French Quarter

The first stop is Jackson Square, a historic park that feels like the spiritual center of New Orleans. Although it’s free to visit, this spot sets the tone for the tour with its lively atmosphere and stunning views of the St. Louis Cathedral. The guide shares stories about the area’s past, connecting the architecture and history to the vibrant culture that influences the local cuisine.

While there’s no food at Jackson Square itself, it provides an ideal photo opportunity and a chance to soak in the atmosphere before heading to your first tasting. The walk from Jackson Square to Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar typically takes about 15 minutes.

Sampling Fresh Oysters and Creole Classics at Felix’s Restaurant

Next, the tour visits Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar, a beloved spot for fresh shucked oysters and Creole staples. This relaxed, inviting venue is part of the authentic local experience and highlights oysters, a highlight of New Orleans seafood. The tasting here includes fresh oysters served in a casual setting, giving guests a true taste of the Gulf’s bounty.

Felix’s stands out for its laid-back atmosphere and quality seafood, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. The tasting lasts about 15 minutes, and the guide shares insights into the local seafood traditions and Creole cuisine.

Indulging in Sweets at Leah’s Pralines

After the seafood stop, the tour heads to Leah’s Pralines, a family-owned confectionery that has been operating for over 70 years. This female-run shop offers a sweet break with pralines and other handmade confections.

Guests enjoy a generous sample of pralines, a classic New Orleans treat made with pecans and caramelized sugar. The shop’s long-standing reputation and friendly atmosphere make it a standout for those with a sweet tooth. The stop is brief—15 minutes—but offers a rich taste of local candy-making tradition.

Modern Creole Flavors at Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails

The tour then visits Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails, a restaurant known for modern twists on traditional New Orleans cuisine. Named after Huey Long’s nickname, Kingfish offers inventive takes on classics, blending historic flavors with contemporary flair.

Guests sample small bites that showcase creative Creole and Cajun dishes in a lively setting. The guide discusses how local history influences the food, adding depth to the tasting experience. This stop lasts 15 minutes and highlights the evolving culinary scene in the city.

Unique Bites at Bon’s New Orleans Street Food

Next, the tour explores Bon’s New Orleans Street Food, a spot famous for elevated, unique bites that evoke Mardi Gras celebrations. Expect to taste innovative street food with a local flair, crafted to leave guests raving.

The focus here is on creative, elevated street snacks that capture the vibrancy and fun of New Orleans’ food culture. The tasting at Bon’s lasts 15 minutes, and the guide shares stories about how street food plays a vital role in the city’s culinary identity.

Cajun and Creole Classics at Chartres House

The final stop in the tour lineup is Chartres House, a cozy, historic eatery specializing in Cajun and Creole classics. The intimate atmosphere allows guests to relax and enjoy hearty local dishes in a setting rich with history.

While the exact items are not specified, the focus is on familiar favorites of the region’s cuisine. The stop lasts 15 minutes and caps off the experience with a taste of authentic Southern cooking.

The Value of the French Quarter Food Tour

For $89, this tour offers a comprehensive culinary snapshot of New Orleans’ iconic dishes. The all-inclusive price covers food tastings at six notable venues and a local guide who weaves stories and history into the experience. The small group size ensures attentive service and ample opportunity for questions.

Guests receive hearty samples, which are described as sufficient and well-paced, making it a good value for the time invested. The tour is suitable for those wanting a guided, social experience with delicious food as the main focus.

The Guide: Insights and Personalities

Reviews highlight Lisa as a superb guide, praised for her knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging approach. She shares little tidbits of history connected to each stop, enriching the tasting experience with context about New Orleans culture and local food traditions.

Guests appreciate her accommodating nature, especially regarding allergies, and her ability to keep the tour lively and educational. The guide’s storytelling style helps make the tour both entertaining and informative.

Logistics and Booking Tips

The tour operates rain or shine—so dressing appropriately for the weather is advised. It’s designed to be accessible, with most travelers able to participate comfortably.

Most bookings are made 24 days in advance, indicating strong demand. While hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, the starting point is central and easy to reach. Alcoholic beverages are not included, but guests can purchase drinks separately at the stops.

Final Thoughts on the French Quarter Food Tour

This highly-rated, well-organized tour delivers a delicious and educational look into New Orleans’ culinary soul. The combination of generous tastings, local stories, and friendly guides makes it a valuable experience for anyone wanting to sample the city’s best dishes without the hassle of researching each spot independently.

The small group environment fosters a personal feel, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those eager to connect over good food and stories. While it doesn’t include alcohol, the variety and quality of food provide a filling, satisfying experience that captures the essence of New Orleans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 11:00am from 737 Iberville Street.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
The guide is accommodating to allergies, but specific restrictions should be clarified at booking.

What stops are included in the tour?
Stops include Jackson Square, Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Leah’s Pralines, Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails, Bon’s Street Food, and Chartres House.

Is alcohol included?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included, but they are available for purchase at the stops.

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