New York City is a huge tourist attraction these days, and with good reason – the Big Apple is full of amazing sights which are defining aspects of the city’s identity, from the many skyscrapers that decorate the city skyline, to the five borough’s imposing bridges and the iconic Times Square.
New York City is also well known for is its food; its street food in particular. And food is a great way to get to know any city, especially for those visiting from abroad for a short period of time who don’t necessarily have time for a complete experience.
A location’s typical dishes are representative of its history, centuries-old tradition and changes to a city and its people over time. No one dish is exactly the same, and each has a different back-story depending on who is making it for you.
Food tourism has been around for some time now, and food is becoming just as important for tourists to consider while travelling as the weather and accommodation. It is a great way for visitors to connect with the place they’re staying in on a whole different level, and get to know places and activities which only the locals are likely to know about – like hidden treasures.
Going on a food tour of New York is a great activity for the whole family, and should be top of your list of things to do when visiting this incomparable city – or even if you live nearby. It will allow you to view the city through the eyes of a real local, while tasting all the different flavors which the city and its people have to offer.
Many excellent options are available when it comes to food tours in New York. In this list, we have focused on those which will ensure your trip goes smoothly if you are travelling with kids. Taking them on a food tour around the city is sure to win them over and provide them with an unforgettable experience… after all, who doesn’t love food?
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Sugartooth Tours
Starting off strong – if there’s one thing kids love it’s sweet treats and desserts, and we adults are partial every once in a while as well, especially those of us with a sweet tooth.
The name gives it away: Sugartooth Tours specialize in walking food tours focused specifically on desserts, taking participants all over New York City to seek out the best bakeries and hidden delights which even experienced locals would struggle to find on their own.
Food of New York Tours
Food of New York has been in business for 23 years, and is known for its memorable meals and fantastic tour guides. This tour will take you around New York City’s most historic and often-overlooked neighborhoods, to get the inside scoop on the best establishments in town.
They even hand out water bottles so everyone can stay hydrated during their walk. Explore New York City and get to know its five boroughs as you’ve never seen them before.
A Slice of Brooklyn Food Tours
A family business which has been around since 2005, A Slice of Brooklyn prides itself on drawing attention to famous spots around the borough, including well known landmarks and movie locations which visitors will love to hear about.
Hop on board their signature tour bus for a chance to try delicious local chocolate and authentic Brooklyn pizza, followed by a trip to Coney Island!
Free Tours by Foot
A typical New York food tour can be an expensive proposition for families, with prices starting at around $55, and only going upwards from there. Free Tours by Foot is proud to offer this pay-what-you-like alternative, where your wallet – unlike your stomach – will end the tour as full as it began.
This is a great option if you’re looking for a more affordable way to get to know the Big Apple while getting a taste of its typical flavors. The company operates different food tours every single day of the week, so be sure to check out which ones will be running during your stay.
Like a Local Tours
This epic tour takes in pizza, classic bagels, grilled cheese sandwiches, delicious baked goods and coffee in a whirlwind dash across New York City. The itinerary also includes stops at the Flatiron Building, Madison Square Park and Union Square, where you can take pictures while learning all about the rich history of these locations.
Like a Local tour guides tend to be actors, comedians or writers, lending each tour a unique personality and ensuring you and your family will have an exceptional New York experience.
The company also offers private tours, in case your schedule doesn’t allow for group tours, or you’d prefer a more personalized experience – although we would suggest that this option is less fun than getting to walk through the city in the company of other food enthusiasts.
So there you have it! Make sure to give food tours a try when passing through New York City, as it’s sure to be a fun experience for your kids and there are so many different options to choose from, whether you’re after sweets only, or are on a tight budget. Your family can learn all sorts of interesting facts about this amazing city, while filling up on great food.
