Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, is a treasure trove of American history, culture, and culinary delights.
From iconic cheesesteaks to decadent donuts, the city’s food scene is as diverse as its heritage.
For food enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, Philadelphia food tours offer an immersive way to explore the city’s rich culinary landscape.
Here, we present the top 10 food tours in Philadelphia, all highly rated and available through Viator.
These tours will take you on a delicious journey through Philly’s vibrant neighborhoods, giving you a taste of its best eats and local culture.
1. Flavors of Philly Food Tour
Why You Should Experience It: If you’re visiting Philadelphia for the first time or just want to deepen your knowledge of its culinary traditions, this tour is a perfect start.
It’s a comprehensive introduction to Philadelphia’s culinary staples, ideal for food lovers of all kinds.
What to Expect: You’ll embark on a journey through some of the city’s most beloved eateries.
Sample iconic Philly classics like cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and tomato pie.
Each stop introduces you to the flavors that define Philadelphia. Along the way, you’ll also get to explore some hidden gems that only locals know about.
What Makes It Unique: This tour isn’t just about eating; it’s a blend of culinary delights and historical insights.
Each tasting is paired with stories and facts about the city’s rich cultural and historical background, making it both a gastronomic and educational experience.
How It Will Enrich You: You’ll walk away with a fuller understanding of Philadelphia’s culinary heritage and the stories behind its most famous dishes.
It’s a sensory journey that will deepen your appreciation for the city.
Duration: 2.5 hours
2. Philadelphia Cheesesteak Tour
Why You Should Experience It: Philadelphia’s cheesesteak is legendary, and no trip to the city is complete without sampling this iconic sandwich.
This tour is a must for cheesesteak enthusiasts eager to try the best versions in town.
What to Expect: Prepare to visit several of Philadelphia’s most renowned cheesesteak joints.
Each stop offers a unique take on this classic sandwich, from different cuts of meat to various types of cheese and creative toppings.
You’ll have the chance to taste and compare, discovering what makes each one special.
What Makes It Unique: This tour is laser-focused on cheesesteaks, allowing you to dive deep into the nuances of this beloved dish.
It’s a deep dive into Philly’s most famous culinary creation.
How It Will Enrich You: By the end of the tour, you’ll be a cheesesteak connoisseur, able to distinguish the subtle differences and flavors that make each version unique.
Plus, you’ll get a taste of the local passion for this iconic sandwich.
Duration: 3 hours
Foodie Cooking Essentials
| Kitchen Gadgets | Specialty Ingredients | Dining Essentials | Food Storage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cuisinart Immersion Hand Blender – Blends soups and sauces directly in pots. | Jacobsen Salt Co. Flavored Salts – Unique salts for seasoning and garnishing. | Marble Cheese Board with Knife Set – Sophisticated serving for cheeses and appetizers. | Reusable Vacuum-Sealed Wine Stopper – Keeps opened wine fresh longer. |
| Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker – Ensures precise temperature cooking for gourmet results. | Fly By Jing Sichuan Chili Crisp – A spicy, umami-packed condiment. | Bormioli Rocco Italian Glass Carafe – Elegant water or wine serving vessel. | Progressive ProKeeper+ Set – Specialty containers designed for baking ingredients. |
| Vitamix Explorian Blender – High-powered blending for smoothies, nut butters, and hot soups. | Mina Harissa Moroccan Red Pepper Sauce – A spicy and savory condiment. | Artisanal Handmade Ceramic Bowls – Beautiful and unique for soups or desserts. | PrepWorks Produce ProKeeper – Keeps fruits and vegetables fresh in the fridge. |
| Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro – Combines air frying, roasting, and baking in a single appliance. | Red Boat Premium Fish Sauce – Aged Vietnamese fish sauce for depth of flavor. | Fiesta 3-Piece Bistro Dinnerware Set – Vibrant, durable dishes for casual dining. | Etekcity Digital Food Scale with Bowl – Weighs ingredients directly into the bowl for storage. |
3. Historic Old City Food Tour
Why You Should Experience It: For history buffs and foodies alike, this tour offers the perfect blend of Philadelphia’s rich history and its diverse food offerings.
It’s an immersive experience that brings the past and present together.
What to Expect: As you stroll through the historic Old City, you’ll sample foods that reflect the area’s cultural diversity.
Enjoy artisanal chocolates, gourmet pizza, and ethnic street foods.
Along the way, you’ll visit historical landmarks that tell the story of America’s birthplace.
What Makes It Unique: The combination of historical exploration and culinary delight provides a well-rounded tour that feeds both the mind and the body.
Each bite is a taste of history, enhancing your understanding of the city’s heritage.
How It Will Enrich You: You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the historical and cultural significance of Philadelphia’s Old City.
This tour offers a delicious way to learn about the city’s past and its diverse culinary influences.
Duration: 2.5 hours
4. Reading Terminal Market Tasting Tour
Why You Should Experience It: Reading Terminal Market is a Philadelphia institution and a must-visit for any food lover.
This tour offers an in-depth exploration of its many culinary delights.
What to Expect: You’ll sample a variety of foods from the market’s vendors, including Pennsylvania Dutch specialties, mouthwatering sandwiches, and fresh-baked goods.
Each bite introduces you to the diverse offerings of this historic market.
What Makes It Unique: The tour provides an insider’s look at one of the nation’s oldest and most iconic public markets.
You’ll meet the vendors and learn the stories behind their products, making each tasting more meaningful.
How It Will Enrich You: You’ll leave with a greater appreciation for the market’s role in Philadelphia’s culinary scene and the community of vendors that make it so special.
It’s a journey that highlights the rich diversity and history of Philadelphia’s food culture.
Duration: 2 hours
5. South Philly Italian Market Immersion
Why You Should Experience It: The Italian Market in South Philly is the oldest and largest working outdoor market in the United States.
This tour is perfect for those who want to dive into its vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings.
What to Expect: You’ll stroll through the market, tasting Italian delicacies like fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, and cannoli, along with other ethnic treats that reflect the market’s diverse community.
The lively market scene is a feast for the senses.
What Makes It Unique: The focus on Italian cuisine and culture, combined with the market’s bustling ambiance, makes this tour a sensory delight.
It’s a journey through the heart of South Philly’s culinary traditions.
How It Will Enrich You: You’ll learn about the history and cultural significance of the Italian Market and its role in Philadelphia’s culinary landscape.
This tour offers a rich cultural experience that’s both educational and delicious.
Duration: 2.5 hours
6. Manayunk Food Tour
Why You Should Experience It: Manayunk, a charming neighborhood along the Schuylkill River, offers a unique blend of history and contemporary cuisine.
This tour showcases the best of both worlds.
What to Expect: You’ll visit local eateries and specialty shops, sampling everything from gourmet pizza to artisanal ice cream, while learning about the neighborhood’s history and revitalization.
Each stop introduces you to the flavors and stories that define Manayunk.
What Makes It Unique: The tour highlights Manayunk’s mix of old-world charm and modern culinary innovation, offering a taste of the neighborhood’s past and present.
How It Will Enrich You: You’ll gain insights into the neighborhood’s transformation and enjoy its eclectic food scene.
This tour is a journey through Manayunk’s unique blend of history and contemporary culture.
Duration: 2.5 hours
7. University City Food & History Tour
Why You Should Experience It: Home to the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University, University City is a vibrant area with a diverse food scene.
This tour is perfect for those who want to explore the culinary diversity and youthful energy of this college town.
What to Expect: You’ll explore the campus area, sampling a variety of cuisines from food trucks and local eateries, including international dishes and student favorites.
Each stop offers a taste of the diverse and dynamic food culture of University City.
What Makes It Unique: The tour highlights the culinary diversity and youthful energy of University City, making it a lively and engaging experience.
How It Will Enrich You: You’ll experience the dynamic food culture of a college town and learn about the history and architecture of the university campuses.
This tour offers a unique blend of education and culinary delight.
Duration: 3 hours
8. Flavors of Fishtown Food Tour
Why You Should Experience It: Fishtown is one of Philadelphia’s trendiest neighborhoods, known for its hip eateries and vibrant arts scene.
This tour offers a taste of the cutting-edge culinary scene in Fishtown.
What to Expect: You’ll visit innovative restaurants and cafes, sampling dishes like craft beer-infused pretzels, gourmet tacos, and artisanal donuts.
Each stop showcases the creativity and trendsetting vibes of Fishtown’s food scene.
What Makes It Unique: The tour focuses on the cutting-edge culinary scene in Fishtown, highlighting the area’s creativity and trendsetting vibes.
How It Will Enrich You: You’ll discover new and exciting flavors while exploring one of Philly’s coolest neighborhoods.
This tour is a journey through Fishtown’s vibrant and innovative food culture.
Duration: 2.5 hours
9. Philadelphia Donut Tour
Why You Should Experience It: This tour is a sweet adventure for donut lovers, taking you to some of the best donut shops in Philadelphia.
It’s a sugary delight that’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
What to Expect: You’ll sample a variety of donuts, from classic glazed to unique flavors like maple bacon and crème brûlée, at top-rated bakeries and cafes.
Each stop offers a different take on this beloved treat.
What Makes It Unique: The tour’s focus on donuts allows you to indulge in a variety of creative and delicious confections.
It’s a delightful journey through Philly’s best donut shops.
How It Will Enrich You: You’ll gain a newfound appreciation for the artistry and creativity that goes into making these sweet treats.
This tour offers a sweet and satisfying way to explore Philadelphia’s culinary scene.
Duration: 2 hours
10. Northern Liberties Food & History Tour
Why You Should Experience It: Northern Liberties, a revitalized neighborhood with a rich history, offers a mix of trendy eateries and historical sites.
This tour is perfect for those who want to explore the area’s unique blend of past and present.
What to Expect: You’ll explore the neighborhood, tasting dishes from local favorites, including craft beers, artisanal pizzas, and farm-to-table fare, while learning about the area’s industrial past and cultural renaissance.
Each stop offers a taste of Northern Liberties’ dynamic food scene.
What Makes It Unique: The combination of historical insights and contemporary cuisine provides a well-rounded tour experience that’s both educational and delicious.
How It Will Enrich You: You’ll appreciate the transformation of Northern Liberties from an industrial hub to a culinary hotspot.
This tour offers a journey through the neighborhood’s unique blend of history and contemporary culture.
Duration: 2.5 hours
Unleash Your Inner Foodie: Book Your Philadelphia Food Tour Today!
Ready to embark on a culinary journey through Philadelphia?
Each of these food tours offers a unique and immersive experience, taking you through the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and diverse food scene.
Whether you’re a fan of classic cheesesteaks, sweet donuts, or international flavors, there’s a tour for every palate.
Don’t miss the chance to taste the best of Philly and uncover the stories behind its delicious dishes.
Book your Philadelphia food tour today and get ready to savor the flavors of this incredible city!
Explore the city’s rich culinary landscape and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture.
Each tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Philadelphia’s food scene.
So what are you waiting for?
Dive into the delicious world of Philly food tours and let your taste buds embark on an adventure of a lifetime!