The United States is a very varied country with a vast range of landscapes. There is a lot to see and do, many different types of climates and activities for all kinds of tastes. However, not everyone knows that this rich country has delicious cuisine. In fact, it is a country that stands out for its varied gastronomy, which has grown in fame in recent times.
It so happens that the United States has a great cultural diversity, which contributes to a well-stocked gastronomy, embracing ingredients and culinary styles from all over the world. Because of this, food tours in the USA have become increasingly popular. Food tours are a great way to explore U.S. cities in a different and unforgettable way.
This type of tourism is a wonderful way to get to know new places and enjoy the best local dishes. In addition, you can tour the most emblematic neighborhoods, where food and culture go hand in hand and tell the fascinating story of each place. Each city in the country offers a unique culinary experience, there really are many options.
In this article we present you a list of some of the main cities in the United States that are the latest trend for food tours. If you are a food lover or just want to explore a different form of tourism, you can’t miss these options we brought for you.
New York: savoring the world in one city
Known as “The City That Never Sleeps”, this impressive metropolis is not only always awake, but it also never stops eating!
We are talking about the capital of the country, and one of the richest cities in terms of culture and gastronomy. It’s full of flavorful neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy and Harlem; all must-visit food stops in this city. For example, a typical tour might include stops at Italian bakeries, dim sum tastings at traditional Chinese restaurants, or a visit to a street hot dog and pretzel stand, which are classic symbols of the city.
Chelsea Market
New York is also home to Chelsea Market, a well-known place where restaurants, bakeries and specialty stores are mixed under one roof. It is one of the most important gastronomic spots in the city.
A food tour of this market is a must, you can try fresh seafood or the most famous tacos in the city. Some tour companies even offer tours that include wine tastings to add a touch of sophistication and flavor!
Chicago: Traveling to the heart of the midwest
If you say Chicago, you think pizza!
Chicago is famous for its thick-crust pizza, known as deep-dish pizza, a must-try treat. Many of the food tours in the city are dedicated to this iconic dish, although of course, it’s not just about pizza, they also take you to try other classics like the Chicago-style hot dog and the Italian beef sandwich.
Explore the local markets
One of the most classic and well-rounded markets is the Green City Market, which allows you to sample all of Chicago’s delicacies in one place. This is a year-round farmers’ market. Here, you can sample a variety of local produce and dishes that burst with the distinctive flavor and freshness of the Midwest.
New Orleans: A feast for the senses
New Orleans is a very particular and fiery city, with a vibrant energy and a culinary history rich in French, African and Spanish influences. Taking a food tour in New Orleans is like immersing yourself in the tradition of Creole and Cajun cuisine, which is famous for dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya and beignets. For example, a typical tour might begin with a visit to a traditional restaurant where you can see how the po’ boy, an iconic sandwich of the region, is prepared while the owners and locals welcome you.
Cocktail tasting
It’s not all about the food…. New Orleans is also famous for its cocktails, there are many food tours that offer you the opportunity to visit historic bars and taste the city’s classic drinks, such as the Sazerac or the Hurricane. This combination of gastronomy and mixology is a unique experience that captures the festive spirit of the city
San Francisco: Pacific fusion and freshness
San Francisco is an ideal destination for lovers of fresh and healthy food. There are many famous farmers’ markets in the city, such as the Ferry Building Marketplace, where you can taste artisanal cheeses, freshly baked breads and organic fruits and vegetables from the region.
The seafood route
Because San Francisco is located on the Pacific coast, it is famous for its fresh seafood, especially Dungeness crab. Anyone wishing to take a gastronomic tour of the city should include a stop at Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can enjoy the classic clam chowder on sourdough bread, a unique dish and a different and unforgettable culinary experience.
Austin: The leader in BBQ and Tex-Mex cuisine
Austin, Texas, is arguably the ideal destination for barbecue lovers. This city is full of delicious and prestigious barbecue joints, such as Franklin Barbecue, where you can try ribs, sausages and the famous smoked beef. Austin is known for taking barbecue to another level, because for Texans, it’s not just about grilling meat, but a true tradition and art.
Tex-Mex cuisine
But Austin is not all about grilled meats, as it is also known for its Tex-Mex cuisine, a delicious blend of Mexican and Texan ingredients. We are talking about delicious typical dishes such as tacos, enchiladas and other local delicacies prepared by restaurants that are experts in fusing the best of both worlds.
Miami: Latin and caribbean influences
Miami has a food culture that is deeply rooted in Latin and Caribbean cuisine. A typical and charming place to walk around and taste is “Little Havana” where you can try some of the best Cuban dishes, such as the Cuban sandwich, croquettes and the famous Cuban coffee. In addition, this neighborhood is extremely lively, with vibrant music and culture that make the experience much more than just food tasting.
Tropical seafood
As is well known, Miami also boasts a coastal location, offering some of the freshest seafood in the country. These marine delicacies are one of the highlights of the food tours that take place in the city, not to be missed are the ceviches, fresh grilled fish and Caribbean-style shrimp.
Seattle: Flavors of the northwest
Pike Place Market
We continue to embark in search of the treasures of the sea… and Seattle is the next stop. This city is famous for its coffee, but it is also a paradise for lovers of fresh seafood. A must stop is the Pike Place Market where you can sample fresh oysters, salmon and crabs straight from the local fishermen, among many other delicacies. In addition, the vendors at this market are famous for tossing their wares through the air, adding a theatrical touch to the visit.
The coffee route
But, as we mentioned earlier, coffee is one of the great delicacies here, so coffee lovers will have something to entertain themselves with. Seattle is the ideal place for a coffee tour that will allow you to explore some of the city’s most emblematic coffee shops, including the first Starbucks store, founded in 1971. Best of all, the coffees are often accompanied by delicious desserts!
Los Angeles: International and fusion cuisine
Los Angeles is one of the most diverse cities in the United States, and its cuisine is a true reflection of that. Food tours here will take you to neighborhoods like Koreatown, Little Tokyo and Olvera Street, where you can sample authentic dishes from around the world, from Korean bibimbap to Mexican tamales.
The famous food trucks
One of the biggest food classics in Los Angeles are the food trucks. These mini mobile restaurants allow you to try a variety of unique (and on-the-go) dishes, such as gourmet tacos, creative burgers and fusion dishes that are only found in these little culinary trucks.