New Orleans: Combo Cocktail and Food History Tour

Discover the Unique Blend of Food and Cocktail History in New Orleans

The New Orleans: Combo Cocktail and Food History Tour offers a flavorful journey through the city’s culinary and cocktail traditions. Priced at $160 per person and lasting 4 hours, this tour takes place in the heart of Louisiana, starting at the Red Fish Grill in the iconic French Quarter. Known for its engaging guides and substantial tastings, this tour is ideal for those eager to dive into the local food scene while learning about the origins of classic cocktails.

This experience is designed for people who want an authentic taste of NOLA’s cuisine, including gumbo, muffulettas, pralines, and Creole jambalaya, paired with four craft cocktails. While it offers a generous sampling and an educational angle, it does not include gluten-free or vegetarian options, making it best suited for non-specialty diets. The tour’s highlight is its mix of food, drinks, and storytelling, which keeps the pace lively and the insights interesting.

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Key Points

• 4-hour guided walking tour exploring food and cocktail history in New Orleans
• Starts at Red Fish Grill in the French Quarter and includes 6 food samples and 4 craft cocktails
• Visits award-winning restaurants and iconic venues like Napoleon House and Cane and Table
• Learn the origins of famous cocktails such as the Hurricane and French 75
• Includes tastings of local dishes like gumbo, muffuletta, pralines, and Creole jambalaya
• Tour is accessible and includes tips, water, and a knowledgeable local guide

Starting Point at the Red Fish Grill in the French Quarter

The tour begins at Red Fish Grill, located at 115 Bourbon Street in the French Quarter. Here, the guide introduces the group with alligator sausage and seafood gumbo paired with a craft Hurricane cocktail. This first stop sets the tone, offering a taste of classic Louisiana flavors while providing a brief overview of the region’s colonial history related to its culinary development.

This starting point is ideal because it showcases award-winning cuisine right in the heart of the city’s most famous neighborhood. The French Quarter location also makes it convenient for those staying nearby, and the indoor setting ensures comfort during the first tasting.

Exploring Cajun Influence at Pepper Palace

A short walk down four blocks takes the group into Pepper Palace, a hotspot for Cajun-influenced flavors. Here, the focus is on hot sauces, BBQ sauces, dry rubs, and unique seasonings — all of which highlight Louisiana’s culinary diversity. Visitors can sample an unlimited variety of hot sauces, and a free bottle of Louisiana-style seasonings is included as a part of the tour.

This stop is more than just a tasting; it provides insights into Cajun influence on local cuisine and offers practical souvenirs. The unlimited hot sauce sampling makes it a fun, interactive experience, and the free seasonings add a memorable takeaway from the tour.

Sweet Tastes at Leah’s Pralines

Next, the tour visits Leah’s Pralines, a third-generation family-owned candy store. Here, traditional pralines are sampled alongside their bacon pecan brittle, showcasing the city’s sweet side. This stop emphasizes the importance of handmade candies in New Orleans’ culinary scene and offers a chance to learn about the history behind these beloved treats.

The pralines are a particular highlight, with many appreciating the combination of sweet and savory flavors—especially the bacon pecan brittle. The family-owned aspect reinforces the charm and authenticity that the tour aims to deliver.

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Savoring Classic Creole Fare at Napoleon House

The Napoleon House is the next venue, famous for its muffuletta sandwiches, which are a staple of New Orleans cuisine. Guests enjoy Pimms Cup cocktails and a side of Creole jambalaya. This stop allows for a deeper understanding of Creole culinary culture and the city’s fusion of French, Spanish, and African influences.

The muffuletta is a standout dish, with its layered flavors and hearty texture. The Pimms Cup complements the meal well, and the jambalaya adds a spicy, flavorful touch. The venue’s historic ambiance enhances the tasting experience.

Discovering the French 75 at Dickie Brennans Tableau

At Dickie Brennans Tableau, the tour takes a classic turn with a French 75 cocktail, a mix of fresh lemon, gin or brandy, and bubbles. This stop emphasizes the cocktail’s origins and its significance in New Orleans’ bar scene.

The French 75 is often praised for its balance of citrus, spirit, and carbonation, making it a refreshing highlight of the tour. The venue’s atmosphere provides an elegant setting for this cocktail, connecting the drink’s history with the city’s bar culture.

From Jackson Square to Cane and Table

A stroll through Jackson Square leads the group toward the French Market area, culminating at Cane and Table, a James Beard Award-nominated restaurant. Here, the tour samples fried sweet plantains and a classic daiquiri.

This stop encapsulates the vibrant street life of New Orleans and showcases local fried snacks paired with well-crafted cocktails. The daiquiri offers a crisp finish, rounding out the culinary journey with a drink that has deep roots in the city’s bar tradition.

The Overall Experience and Pacing

Throughout the 4-hour tour, the pace remains lively but manageable, with indoor stops that provide relief from the Louisiana heat. The local guide leads the group with extensive knowledge about both the food and cocktail origins, making every tasting and story informative and engaging.

Most reviews highlight the generous portions—not just samples but full-sized drinks and hearty food. The tour is accessible and includes water at most stops and tips for the staff, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour departs from Red Fish Grill at 115 Bourbon Street and involves walking between stops, generally within a few blocks. It’s designed as a walking tour with indoor venues to enhance comfort. The experience is not suitable for those under 21, or for vegans, vegetarians, or individuals with gluten intolerance due to the set menu.

Advance booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours and the option to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility. Guests should bring ID or passport for age verification.

Why This Tour Stands Out in New Orleans

What makes this tour special is its combination of culinary sampling, cocktail history, and storytelling. Guests visit some of the most iconic venues in the French Quarter, gaining insights into Louisiana’s diverse cuisine and the history of famous cocktails like the Hurricane and French 75.

The positive reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and full-sized drinks that add great value. The tour is particularly praised for its small-group atmosphere and engaging narration—making it more than just a tasting, but an educational experience.

Who Will Most Appreciate This Tour?

This experience benefits those who enjoy food and drink culture, and want a guided introduction to New Orleans’ culinary roots. It’s ideal for visitors who appreciate local history and authentic flavors without the hassle of figuring out where to go on their own.

However, people with special dietary needs will find the menu limited, and the set menu means less flexibility for vegetarians or those with food allergies.

Final Thoughts on the Combo Cocktail and Food History Tour

The 4-hour guided experience in New Orleans offers a well-rounded mix of food, drinks, and history. It provides a substantial taste of the city’s signature dishes and cocktail heritage at award-winning venues. The knowledgeable guides and generous portions make it a top choice for those wanting to deepen their understanding of NOLA’s cuisine.

While it does not cater to specific dietary restrictions, the tour’s interactive stops and local flavor create a memorable experience. It’s perfect for first-time visitors and culinary enthusiasts eager to explore Louisiana’s diverse food traditions with a lively, informative guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
No, the set menu does not include vegetarian or vegan options.

Are gluten-free or dairy-free options available?
This tour does not offer gluten-free or dairy-free alternatives.

What is included in the price?
The price covers 4 craft cocktails, 6 food samples, a local guide, water at stops, and tips for the staff.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Red Fish Grill, located at 115 Bourbon Street.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is accessible for wheelchairs.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

What is the pace of the tour?
The tour maintains a lively but manageable pace, with indoor stops providing comfort.

Are drinks full-sized?
Yes, the cocktails are served as full-sized drinks.

Would this tour suit someone interested in the history of cocktails?
Absolutely, the tour covers the origins of cocktails like the hurricane and French 75, with historical insights from the guide.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby