L’épicurieuse – MIAM Bordeaux

If you’re passionate about food and want to experience Bordeaux beyond its renowned wines, this L’épicurieuse – MIAM Bordeaux food tour might just be the perfect fit. It’s designed for those who love to taste honest, local flavors and enjoy a leisurely walk through one of France’s most gastronomic cities. From artisan shops to bustling markets, this experience promises a delightful taste of Bordeaux’s culinary heritage—at a reasonable price and in a small-group setting.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines sampling delicious regional specialties with insider insights from passionate guides. Plus, visiting authentic artisan shops rather than touristy spots makes it feel genuine and tailored. A possible drawback? Since it’s a walking tour mainly focused on food stops, you’ll want to be prepared for a fair amount of footwork and standing. It’s best suited for those who appreciate good food, local stories, and a relaxed pace. If you’re a foodie curious about Bordeaux’s unique flavors, this tour is likely to suit you well.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visits to local artisan shops and markets ensure you taste genuine Bordeaux flavors.
• Small Group: Limited to 12 people, which allows for personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Diverse Tastings: Expect a variety of meats, cheeses, pastries, and regional specialties, along with some alcoholic beverages.
• Educational and Fun: Insider tips from guides passionate about Bordeaux’s gastronomy make the experience both informative and engaging.
• Time & Value: At around 3 hours for $86.64, it’s a solid way to indulge in Bordeaux’s culinary scene without overdoing it.
• Weather Considerations: Operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately, especially if rain is forecast.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Dock des Epices

The tour kicks off at Place Fernand Lafargue, once home to Bordeaux’s big 12th-century market. Here, your guide will set the scene with stories about the city’s spice trade, a key part of Bordeaux’s history. The spice shop visit is scented with aromas from around the world—Congo, Réunion, and beyond—and lasts around 45 minutes. This stop is perfect for getting your nose and curiosity going, and the guide’s passion is contagious, making the history of spices feel alive and relevant.

One reviewer described this as “a parenthèse olfactive that puts you in the mood to eat,” and that’s exactly what this part of the tour does. It’s a great way to start the culinary journey, awakening your senses and setting expectations for more delicious discoveries.

Bakery Art Gallery – La Galerie

Next, you’ll visit a bakery located in the lively Saint Michel district. This isn’t just any bakery—it’s a bio, gluten-free, and artisan bakery that also features an art gallery. The concept of combining fresh, healthy baked goods with visual art creates a cozy, creative atmosphere. The 45-minute stop here allows you to sample some of their baked treats, which are praised for transforming fleeting moments into something memorable.

A reviewer remarked that this bakery “transmutes the ephemeral into the immortal,” thanks to its unique blend of food and art. If you enjoy baked goods that are both delicious and ethically sourced, you’ll find this stop particularly satisfying.

Place St Michel & Tista’s Gourmet Shop

From the vibrant streets of Saint Michel, the walk leads to Tista, a shop whose name means “basket” in Béarnais. This stop highlights Bordeaux’s local products, with a focus on gourmet, local, and respectful foods. Dégustations here are described as “very gourmand,” and the guide encourages breaking traditional drinking and snacking customs—so you might find yourself toasting or nibbling in unexpected ways.

This part of the tour is appreciated for its authenticity—nothing overly commercial, just real local flavors. Several reviews mention how much guests enjoyed discovering Bordeaux’s lesser-known artisan products, making it a highlight for food lovers.

Market des Capucins

Finally, you arrive at Bordeaux’s oldest market, the Marché des Capucins. Its Gothic basilica overhead sets a dramatic scene, and the market itself is bustling with energy and fresh produce. The guide will introduce you to the “ventre de Bordeaux,” or the city’s gastronomic heart, with tastings of local delicacies and wine. It’s a lively, colorful environment where you can soak in the local vibe.

Guests often mention how much they loved the variety of foods and the lively market atmosphere. One reviewer called it “a moment to savor with a passionate guide,” praising both the food and the stories shared during the visit.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour offers a comprehensive tasting experience with food samples, alcoholic beverages, and snacks included—perfect for those wanting to indulge without worrying about extra costs. The price of $86.64 is quite fair considering the variety of artisan shops visited and the personalized, guided approach.

However, the tour does not include a full lunch, transportation, or hotel pickup, so plan accordingly if you want a more relaxed meal afterward or need to get around the city. It’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential, especially since Bordeaux’s weather can be unpredictable.

Flexibility and Booking

Booking is straightforward with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. The tour starts at 10:00 am from Place Fernand Lafargue and ends at Marché des Capucins. It’s designed for adults, with a moderate physical activity level required, and children are welcome if accompanied by an adult.

Authentic Feedback from Past Participants

Reviews consistently praise the passion and friendliness of guides like Sylvie and Caroline, as well as the quality of local products. One guest described their experience as “super!” with “delicious flavors and great sharing moments.” Another appreciated the “wonderful artisan encounters” and the “bluffing” nature of Bordeaux even for locals.

Guests also highlight the variety of neighborhoods explored, from Saint Michel to the market district, giving a well-rounded taste of Bordeaux’s culinary and cultural scene. The feedback underscores the authenticity and deliciousness of the experience, making it a hit among food lovers.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for foodies eager to discover Bordeaux’s artisan food scene, especially those interested in learning the stories behind regional specialties. It’s great for travelers who prefer small groups for a more intimate experience and enjoy a mix of walking, tasting, and storytelling.

Since it involves some walking and standing, it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility. Families with older children who enjoy food experiences should find it enjoyable, but it’s not specifically tailored for very young kids.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an authentic, flavorful experience that combines local food tastings, cultural insights, and a friendly guide, this 3-hour tour is a wonderful way to spend a morning in Bordeaux. It’s a relaxed, immersive journey into the city’s culinary soul, offering more than just typical tourist fare.

The blend of artisan visits, market explorations, and insider tips makes it a worthwhile investment, especially if you value quality over quantity. For around $86, you get a well-curated taste of Bordeaux’s food scene, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions, sample local produce, and pick up tips for your future dining adventures.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to immerse yourself a little deeper into Bordeaux’s culture, this tour offers a taste you won’t forget.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome if they are accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind it involves walking and tasting, so it’s best suited for kids who enjoy food and don’t mind moderate activity.

What kind of food will I taste?
Expect a variety of meats, cheeses, pastries, regional specialties, and snacks. Some alcoholic beverages are included too, making it a well-rounded tasting experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 3 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending around noon or early afternoon.

What’s the group size?
It’s a small-group experience, limited to a maximum of 12 people, which helps create an intimate and personal atmosphere.

Do I need to pay extra for food or drinks?
No, all tastings, snacks, and alcoholic beverages included in the price are covered. You won’t have to pay extra unless you want to buy additional items.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, it’s free to cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Full refunds are provided if you cancel within that window.

What should I wear?
Dress in smart casual attire and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking around the city and market areas.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, it’s operated in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately—an umbrella or raincoat might come in handy.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation to and from the tour stops is not included. You’ll need to handle your own logistics to the starting point and from the end location.

In the end, this tour offers a genuine, flavorful peek into Bordeaux’s food scene, guided by passionate local experts. Perfect for those who enjoy savoring regional flavors and learning the stories behind what we eat. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, it’s likely to be a highlight of your Bordeaux trip.