Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour

If you’re thinking about diving into Scottsdale’s vibrant culinary world, the Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour comes as a tempting option. With a perfect rating of 5.0 based on 248 reviews, this tour clearly has fans. It promises not only a tasty journey through local eateries but also a glimpse into the area’s history and culture—all packed into roughly three hours of walking and eating.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances delicious food with insider knowledge. Visitors often rave about the passionate guides and the diverse stops, from pizza to tacos to bakeries. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that it’s a walking tour covering about 1.5 miles, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable on their feet. It’s also not a tour for kids under 11, mainly because of the seating setup and alcohol tastings.

This tour appeals most to food lovers eager to sample local favorites, history buffs wanting a taste of Scottsdale’s story, and travelers who enjoy a relaxed walk through a charming downtown. If that sounds like you, read on—we’re unpacking everything you need to know.

Key Points

• Highly rated with a 5.0/5 from hundreds of reviews, indicating consistent quality.
• Diverse food stops offering everything from pizza to English pasties, tacos, desserts, and specialty spices.
• Knowledgeable guides who share stories and tips, making the experience more engaging.
• Flexible options for vegetarians, though other dietary restrictions aren’t accommodated.
• Includes alcohol—a frozen margarita and other drinks—adding to the local vibe.
• Not suitable for children under 11 or those in wheelchairs, due to seating arrangements and walking requirements.

An In-Depth Look at the Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour

What’s the overall vibe?

This isn’t just a food tasting; it’s a lively walk through Scottsdale’s Old Town, combining eating with cultural insights. The tour is well-paced, with stops that allow you to enjoy flavorful bites while soaking in the area’s character. The group size is limited to 16, creating a cozy, friendly atmosphere that encourages interaction and conversation.

Starting Point and End

You’ll meet at the Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, a great spot in itself if you want to arrive early and explore a bit. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point, so you can easily plan your day afterward.

What does the itinerary look like?

Stop 1: Craft 64 Scottsdale – The tour kicks off with a classic. Here, you’ll sample two kinds of handcrafted pizzas made from scratch in a cozy, local brick-oven spot. This is a favorite among reviewers who appreciate the authentic approach—no preservatives, no freezers, just real ingredients baked to perfection. One reviewer praises Craft 64 for its authentic pizza and the fact that everything is homemade, including the mozzarella.

Stop 2: Cornish Pasty Co – Next, you’ll try a traditional English Pasty—a hearty pastry that’s perfect for filling. Originally designed for miners, these pasties are substantial and satisfying, a nod to Scottsdale’s diverse culinary influences. The filling is flavorful, and many find it a wholesome contrast to the lighter fare elsewhere.

Stop 3: Re Cake House – A delightful dessert stop. You’ll select a French macaron to taste, along with other sweet treats like wedding cakes and cookies. Reviewers rave about the stunning presentation and delicious flavors, especially the macarons, which are considered a must-try.

Stop 4: Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila – The tour shifts to Mexican cuisine with a delicious taco, chips with salsa, and a frozen margarita. This stop is a crowd favorite, with many reviewers mentioning the flavorful tacos and the refreshing drink as highlights. It’s a good chance to indulge in local flavors while enjoying the lively ambiance.

Stop 5: Red Canyon Cafe – Here, you get artisan gelato, crêpes, and coffee in a European-inspired setting. The space is charming, and the gelato garners praise for its creamy texture and variety of flavors.

Stop 6: The Spice & Tea Exchange – The final stop engages your senses with an array of spices and teas. Known for hand-mixing over 85 spice blends, this shop offers a fun and aromatic experience, perfect for picking up souvenirs or just getting inspired by new flavors.

Food and Beverage Value

For $70, the tour offers a comprehensive taste of Scottsdale’s culinary scene, with enough food to feel satisfied and drinks to add a little extra local flavor. The inclusion of alcohol, like the frozen margarita, adds to the fun, while the various stops showcase a range of cuisines and styles, making it a well-rounded experience.

How’s the guide?

The reviews are glowing about the guides—many mention guides like James and Maggie for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills. One review calls Maggie “an exceptional guide,” emphasizing her helpfulness and fun attitude, which can make or break a tour like this. You’ll likely learn not just about the food but also about Scottsdale’s history and culture, making the experience more meaningful.

Accessibility and Practicalities

Keep in mind that this is a walking tour—covering about 1.5 miles—and involves some standing at high-top tables. Because of the seating setup, it’s not wheelchair accessible. Also, children under 11 aren’t allowed, mostly due to the seating style and alcohol tastings, so it’s best suited for adults and teens.

The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly. Check-in is straightforward at the museum, which is a convenient central point. The tour runs in all weather conditions, so just pack sun protection or rain gear as needed.

Food options and dietary restrictions

While vegetarian options are available if requested at booking, the tour cannot accommodate vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, or other specific dietary needs. The focus is on showcasing local favorites, which sometimes means limited substitutions for certain restrictions.

Group size and inclusions

With a maximum of 16 travelers, it’s a manageable size for personal interaction. Food tastings and alcohol are included, but gratuities are not—industry standard is 15-20%, so budget accordingly if you want to tip your guide.

Value for money

At $70 for roughly three hours of walking, eating, and exploring, many reviews find this a fair deal. The variety of stops, quality of food, and knowledgeable guides make it a worthwhile experience, especially for those new to Scottsdale or wanting a curated taste of Old Town.

Considerations before booking

If you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed, less structured dining experience or has specific dietary needs outside of vegetarian, this might not be the tour for you. Also, if you’re traveling with young children or have mobility issues, the walking and seating arrangements could be challenging.

Who Is This Food Tour Best Suited For?

This tour truly shines for food lovers who want to sample regional favorites with a side of local stories. It’s ideal for adults over 11 who enjoy a mix of culinary exploration and walking. If you appreciate guides who are both knowledgeable and friendly, you’ll find this tour adds a lot of value. It’s especially good for those who like to combine sightseeing with tasting and are comfortable on their feet for a few hours.

If you’re visiting Scottsdale for a weekend and want a fun, informative way to get to know the town’s best eateries, this tour could be just the thing. It nicely balances the enjoyment of local cuisine with the chance to learn about Scottsdale’s history, art, and culture—all while strolling through a charming district.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if you request them when booking. You’ll find some stops, like the gelato and certain dishes, are vegetarian-friendly, but the menu primarily focuses on a variety of local favorites.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours. You’ll be walking around 1.5 miles during this time, with multiple tasting stops along the way.

Are children allowed on the tour?
No, children under 11 are not permitted due to seating arrangements and alcohol tastings. It’s mainly geared toward adult guests and teenagers.

What’s included in the price?
The $70 fee covers all food tastings at each stop and alcoholic beverages like a frozen margarita. Gratuities for the guide are extra, and hotel transportation isn’t included.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking—think layers if the weather changes, and comfortable shoes. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so bring sun protection or rain gear as needed.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t eligible for refunds.

Wrapping It Up

All in all, the Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour offers a fun, flavorful way to explore the city’s culinary scene and culture. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy guided experiences, delicious local eats, and a relaxed pace. With highly praised guides and diverse stops, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to get a taste of Scottsdale without fuss.

While it’s not perfect for everyone—especially those with specific dietary restrictions or limited mobility—it does deliver on its promise of tasty bites and engaging stories. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this tour provides a window into Scottsdale’s vibrant food and history, making it a memorable part of any trip.