French Quarters Best Food Tour: Signature Flavors of New Orleans

The French Quarters Best Food Tour by Tastebud Tours offers an engaging 3-hour journey through the heart of New Orleans’ historic French Quarter. Priced at $75 per person, this highly-rated experience boasts a 5.0 rating from 876 reviews, with 96% recommending it to visitors. The tour features tastings at renowned local eateries, enough to serve as a hearty lunch, and is led by expert guides with over 5,000 five-star reviews. It departs from 816 Decatur St and includes a walk through Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, and Royal Street, showcasing some of the city’s most famous sights. The tour also emphasizes Cajun and Creole cuisine, with stops at places like New Orleans Creole Cookery and Cornet Restaurant.

While the tour is accessible to most travelers and operates rain or shine, it is a walking experience requiring comfortable shoes. It provides a perfect balance of culinary sampling, historical insights, and local culture, making it suitable for those wanting a comprehensive taste of New Orleans’ food scene. The only notable limitation is the absence of vegetarian or gluten-free options and the optional purchase of alcoholic drinks at some stops.

Key Points

• Three-hour walking tour focusing on French Quarter food, culture, and sights
• Includes tastings at top local restaurants, enough for a full lunch
• Led by knowledgeable guides with strong reviews and engaging storytelling
• Stops at Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, and Royal Street
• Features signature New Orleans dishes like po-boys, gumbo, jambalaya, and pralines
• No gluten-free or vegetarian options available, and alcoholic beverages are purchased separately

Starting Point and Tour Length

The tour begins at 816 Decatur Street, centrally located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. It lasts approximately 3 hours, during which guests explore the historic district on foot, visiting several eateries and landmarks. The itinerary combines culinary tastings with city sights, making it a well-rounded experience.

Exploring Jackson Square and Bourbon Street

The tour takes in Jackson Square, a lively hub filled with artists and street performers, and Bourbon Street, famous for its nightlife and colorful buildings. These locations serve as backdrop and stops for tasting and storytelling, offering a vivid glimpse into the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Sampling the Best of New Orleans’ Creole and Cajun Cuisine

Stops at New Orleans Creole Cookery and Cornet Restaurant allow participants to enjoy Gumbo YaYa, Jambalaya, and other local specialties. Cornet Restaurant is noted for its large balcony on Bourbon Street and its tribute to jazz legends through its cuisine. The Creole Cookery combines traditional dishes with a fresh, energetic ambiance.

Unique Food Stops and Local Flavors

Guests get to try po’boys at a popular spot in the French Quarter, known for seafood and fully dressed sandwiches, and sample handmade candies at Lauras Pralines and Candies, which has been making creole confections since the 18th century. The tastings are plentiful, providing a complete lunch experience.

The Guide’s Role and Storytelling Style

Guides like Reagan and Suzette are praised for their knowledge, personality, and storytelling skills. They share anecdotes, legends, and historical context about the food, the restaurants, and the city itself. Kim, another guide, is noted for tying food, architecture, and history together, making the experience more than just a tasting tour.

Practical Tips for Participants

Travelers are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes since the tour covers several blocks and includes stops at various eateries. Bringing walking shoes and being prepared for weather are recommended, as the tour operates in all weather conditions. Since alcohol is available for purchase, guests should plan accordingly.

Group Size and Booking Insights

The tour operates with a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. It is booked on average 31 days in advance, highlighting its popularity among visitors wanting to secure a spot in this award-winning culinary exploration.

Value and Unique Features

The tour includes all tastings, which are enough for a complete meal, and is led by professional guides recognized for their engagement and knowledge. It’s considered the oldest family- and veteran-owned food/cocktail tour in New Orleans, and has been awarded the People’s Choice.

Limitations and Considerations

The tour does not offer vegetarian or gluten-free options, so guests with dietary restrictions should plan accordingly. Alcoholic drinks are not included but can be purchased at stops. The walking component may be challenging for those with mobility issues, and last-minute changes cannot be accommodated.

The Sum Up: A Flavorful Introduction to New Orleans

The French Quarters Best Food Tour offers a delicious, comprehensive, and informative way to experience New Orleans’ culinary scene. It combines signature dishes, historic landmarks, and engaging guides, making it ideal for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

While it provides ample food and fascinating stories, travelers should be comfortable on foot and aware of the tour’s focus on Cajun and Creole cuisine. It’s perfect for those seeking a fun, social, and substantive introduction to the flavors and sights of the French Quarter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
All food tastings are included, offering enough food for a full lunch, along with guide-led stories and insights during the stops.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, covering several blocks in the French Quarter.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at 816 Decatur Street, a central location in the French Quarter.

Are drinks included?
Alcoholic drinks are not included in the price but are available for purchase at some stops.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with gluten allergies?
No, the tour does not offer vegetarian or gluten-free options.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Guests visit historic streets like Royal and Bourbon, enjoy signature dishes like po-boys, gumbo, jambalaya, and pralines, and hear engaging stories from guides.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour involves walking and outdoor stops.

Can children participate?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for families looking to introduce kids to New Orleans’ flavors.

How do I book this tour?
It is best to book in advance, as it is highly popular and often booked 31 days ahead.

What makes this tour stand out?
It is the oldest family- and veteran-owned food tour in the city, with a strong reputation for expert guides and authentic local cuisine.