Chicago: River North Walking Food Tour

Set out on a tantalizing culinary journey through Chicago’s vibrant River North neighborhood with the River North Walking Food Tour. This 3-hour excursion unveils the area’s iconic dishes, from deep-dish pizza to dazzling doughnuts. Explore hidden gems, learn insider secrets of food preparation, and savor exceptional flavors that showcase the city’s rich gastronomic heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious explorer, this tour promises to stimulate your senses and leave you craving more. Discover why this immersive experience has become a must for anyone seeking to uncover the dynamic flavors that make Chicago’s dining scene so captivating.

Good To Know

• A 3-hour walking tour exploring the vibrant food scene in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, featuring unique mom-and-pop shops, ethnic eateries, and renowned restaurants.
• Highlights iconic dishes like doughnuts, deep-dish pizza, Mexican cuisine, Spanish tapas, and the Italian beef sandwich.
• Provides an insider’s look at food preparation techniques and hidden gourmet gems, including witnessing doughnut craftsmanship and deep-dish pizza making.
• Priced at $75.38 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay later option available.
• Highly rated by over 100 satisfied customers, with an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars for the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Enjoy the vibrant food scene of Chicago’s River North neighborhood on this 3-hour walking tour. Priced at just $75.38 per person, this culinary adventure takes you to five unique mom-and-pop shops, ethnic eateries, and renowned restaurants.

Marvel at the insider preparation techniques at local establishments and discover hidden gourmet gems. Savor delectable doughnuts, iconic deep-dish pizza, acclaimed Mexican cuisine, authentic Spanish tapas, and the legendary Italian beef sandwich.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Chicago’s diverse and delicious food culture.

Experience Highlights

Set out on a culinary odyssey through Chicago’s vibrant River North neighborhood, where you’ll visit five unique mom-and-pop shops, ethnic eateries, and renowned restaurants.

Peek behind the scenes for an insider’s look at food preparation, explore hidden gourmet gems and off-the-beaten-path spots, and develop a deeper appreciation for the local food scene.

Highlights include:

1. Witnessing the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into creating the best doughnut in America at The Doughnut Vault.

2. Discovering the secrets behind the iconic Chicago deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s.

3. Savoring the flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine from Top Chef Masters winner Rick Bayless at Xoco.

Food Stops

The tour leads guests on a culinary journey through River North, stopping at a diverse array of beloved local establishments.

First up is The Doughnut Vault, named the best doughnut in America by Food and Wine Magazine in 2012.

Next, guests indulge in the legendary Chicago deep-dish pizza at the iconic Lou Malnati’s.

At Xoco, renowned chef Rick Bayless tantalizes taste buds with his renowned Mexican cuisine.

Iberico offers an authentic taste of Spain with its tapas and regional specialties.

The tour culminates at Al’s Beef, the originator of the iconic Italian beef sandwich in Little Italy.

Tour Logistics

To begin the tour, guests are instructed to arrive 15 minutes early at the meeting point – The Merchandise Mart, located at 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza in the heart of Chicago’s vibrant River North neighborhood.

This allows time for the group to assemble and receive any important instructions from the knowledgeable guide.

The tour calls for a few essentials:

1. Comfortable shoes to navigate the walkable route.
2. Water to stay hydrated during the 3-hour exploration.
3. Notification of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking, as last-minute changes can’t be accommodated.

With these simple preparations, adventurous foodies are primed to embark on an immersive journey through River North’s hidden gourmet gems and off-the-beaten-path culinary hotspots.

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Customer Feedback

Over a hundred satisfied customers have shared their enthusiastic reviews of this immersive River North food tour.

Across 10 reviews, the tour has earned an impressive 4.7 out of 5 star average rating. Guests praise the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides, who provide a window into Chicago’s vibrant food scene.

Many highlight the exceptional value for money, with one reviewer describing it as "the best food tour I’ve ever been on."

The tour’s organization and service also receive high marks, with customers noting the seamless logistics and accommodating staff.

Exploring Chicago’s Food Scene

Nestled in the heart of Chicago’s bustling River North neighborhood, this captivating food tour unveils a vibrant tapestry of flavors and culinary traditions.

Explore a mouthwatering array of local fare, from the legendary Chicago deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s to the authentic Spanish tapas at Iberico.

Uncover hidden gems like:

1. The Doughnut Vault, crowned as the best in America by Food and Wine Magazine.
2. Xoco, renowned for its Mexican cuisine by Top Chef Masters winner Rick Bayless.
3. Al’s Beef, the originator of the iconic Italian beef sandwich in Little Italy.

This immersive experience promises to ignite your senses and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the vibrant food scene that defines the heart of Chicago.

Unique Culinary Discoveries

Tantalizing aromas waft through the air, beckoning visitors to explore the hidden culinary gems of Chicago’s River North neighborhood.

This walking tour uncovers a world of unique flavors, from the best doughnut in America to authentic Spanish tapas. Tucked away in unassuming storefronts, these local eateries offer an insider’s look at food preparation and a deeper appreciation for the local scene.

Guests savor the invention of Chicago’s iconic deep-dish pizza, indulge in Mexican cuisine by a renowned chef, and trace the origins of the Italian beef sandwich.

With each stop, the tour unveils the diverse and delectable treasures that make River North a mecca for foodies.

Insider’s Look at Local Eateries

The walking tour takes guests on an intimate journey through River North’s culinary landscape, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the meticulous craft of local food artisans.

Visitors gain exclusive access to the kitchens of iconic Chicago eateries, where they witness the intricate processes that transform simple ingredients into mouthwatering masterpieces.

From watching the dough-stretching dance at Lou Malnati’s to observing the delicate assembly of tapas at Iberico, the tour provides a rare opportunity to appreciate the passion and skill that elevate these neighborhood gems.

The insider’s perspective fosters a deeper understanding and newfound respect for the local food scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but adventurous foodies should wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city’s hidden gems. Dress for the weather and get ready to dive into Chicago’s vibrant culinary landscape.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Vegetarians/Vegans?

Vegetarians and vegans can customize the tour by notifying the provider of their dietary needs at the time of booking. They’ll enjoy an insider’s look at the local food scene with tasty alternatives tailored to their preferences.

Are Any Food/Drink Samples Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price includes tastes of the local cuisine at each stop, letting you savor specialties like Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, authentic Mexican fare, and signature pastries. You’ll get a delectable sampling of the neighborhood’s vibrant food scene.

How Do I Get to the Meeting Point From My Hotel?

To reach the meeting point from your hotel, consider hopping on the ‘L’ train, Chicago’s iconic elevated railway system. Navigate the vibrant streets and catch stunning views of the city skyline as you make your way to The Merchandise Mart.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be ideal for young children. It involves sampling a variety of foods, some of which may not appeal to a child’s palate. Plus, the 3-hour duration could prove challenging for little ones. However, older, adventurous eaters may enjoy the experience.

The Sum Up

The Chicago River North Walking Food Tour is an exhilarating culinary journey that tantalizes the taste buds and immerses adventurous foodies in the vibrant flavors of the city. From deep-dish pizza to renowned doughnuts, this tour unveils a hidden gem in every bite, offering an insider’s glimpse into Chicago’s exceptional food scene. It’s a must for any traveler seeking to savor the city’s unique culinary delights.

You can check if your dates are available here: