Sunday Brunch at Findlay Market Tour with Riverside Food Tours

Explore Cincinnati’s historic Findlay Market on this small-group brunch tour with Riverside Food Tours. Priced at $84 per person and lasting about 2 hours and 30 minutes, this tour offers an authentic taste of local cuisine and vibrant neighborhood stories. With a maximum of 10 travelers, you can expect a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable guide who makes sure you don’t miss any of the market’s best bites.

This tour is ideal for those who want a relaxed, food-focused introduction to Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine district. It’s perfect for visitors interested in local history and culture combined with delicious samples. Keep in mind that the tour involves walking less than half a mile but standing at various food stalls, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Also, a gratuity of $10-15 per person is customary.

Key Points

• Price: $84 per person, with free cancellation available
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
• Location: Starts at French Crust Café and Bistro, Cincinnati
• Highlights: Sampling nine different foods, exploring Findlay Market and Over-the-Rhine
• Group size: Small group of up to 10 travelers for a more intimate experience
• Best suited for: Food lovers, history buffs, and those wanting a relaxed, cultural outing in Cincinnati

Discover Ohio’s Oldest Public Market

The tour begins at Findlay Market, Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market, which welcomes over one million visitors annually. Open Tuesday through Sunday, the market hosts more than 50 full-time merchants offering an array of meat, fish, poultry, produce, cheeses, baked goods, and ethnic foods.

The market’s historic charm is evident in its 19th-century architecture and lively atmosphere. The guide highlights the market’s significance in Cincinnati’s development, making it more than just a place to eat but a cornerstone of the city’s cultural life. The market’s variety ensures that each visit feels fresh, with new vendors and specialties to try on every trip.

Exploring Cincinnati’s German Roots in Over-the-Rhine

After experiencing the market’s vibrant stalls, the tour ventures into the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, known locally as “Cincinnati’s Rhineland”. This area boasts well-preserved 19th-century buildings, reflecting Cincinnati’s German heritage.

Once a working-class German neighborhood, Over-the-Rhine has transformed into a hub for craft breweries, trendy gastropubs, and lively bars. The guide shares stories about the neighborhood’s evolution, giving visitors insight into how this historic district continues to thrive while maintaining its roots.

Sampling at Findlay Market: Food Highlights

Throughout the tour, you’ll get to taste an impressive nine different foods while weaving in and out of market stalls, storefronts, and local eateries. Some of the treats include fudge, bread pudding, empanadas, and a goetta sandwich, which is a specialty of Cincinnati’s German influence.

The variety of samples provides a well-rounded glimpse of local flavors and culinary traditions. Guests appreciate the generous portions, which allow you to enjoy a satisfying meal during the tour. The guide ensures you get a taste of diverse cuisines, making the experience both delicious and educational.

Walking and Sampling: A Comfortable Pace

While the tour involves less than half a mile of walking, it balances movement with ample sample stops. The walking pace is relaxed, making it accessible for most participants. The tour also provides benches and tables around the market for resting and enjoying the food.

This setup makes it easy to sample at your own pace and enjoy conversations with the guide about Cincinnati’s culinary and cultural history. Casual attire and comfortable walking shoes are advisable, especially in warm weather, when hydration is crucial.

The Role of the Tour Guide and Stories

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with mentions of guides like Laura and Jackie who weave Cincinnati’s history seamlessly into the tour. Their storytelling enhances the experience, making historical details engaging rather than dry.

The guides also share personal stories about market vendors and neighborhood landmarks, creating a warm, personal atmosphere. This personal touch elevates the tour from a simple food walk to an immersive cultural experience.

Exploring Downtown Cincinnati with the Streetcar

After enjoying the market’s delights, the tour briefly introduces Cincinnati’s streetcar system. Participants receive a map and tips to explore more of downtown Cincinnati on their own. The five-minute stop is a practical addition, encouraging guests to continue discovering the city at their leisure.

The streetcar connection emphasizes Cincinnati’s walkability and convenience, making it easy to extend the exploration beyond the tour without hassle.

Practical Details and Meeting Point

The tour departs from French Crust Café and Bistro at 1801 Elm St, Cincinnati. Check-in begins 15 minutes before the 10:00 am start time, and the activity ends back at the meeting point. The tour is designed to suit most travelers, with weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes recommended.

Parking is available in an adjacent lot, but guests should budget for parking fees. The tour is family-friendly, with children aged 6 and older needing a ticket; children under 5 are free but do not receive food.

Why Choose This Tour?

The 5-star reviews reflect a consistently high level of satisfaction, with praise for the delicious food, knowledgeable guides, and engaging stories. Guests particularly enjoy the chance to sample local specialties they might not find on their own, and to learn about Cincinnati’s German roots and market history.

This tour offers a well-paced introduction to Cincinnati’s culinary scene and historic neighborhood, making it a rewarding experience whether visitors are new to the city or locals looking to explore more deeply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 6 and older need a ticket. Children under 5 are free but do not receive food.

How much walking is involved?
The total walking distance is less than half a mile, with plenty of stops for sampling and resting.

What should I wear on the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Bring a water bottle, especially in warm weather.

Are gratuities included?
No, a gratuity of $10-15 per person is customary and appreciated for guides.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is offered if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What is the best way to extend the experience?
Guests can use the free streetcar map provided after the tour to explore downtown Cincinnati further on their own.

This brunch tour of Findlay Market offers a delicious, informative, and relaxed way to experience Cincinnati’s vibrant food scene and historic neighborhoods. With expert guides, generous tastings, and engaging stories, it’s a memorable way to start a day in Cincinnati.