If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans and want to truly get a taste of the city’s unique food scene, this combined food walking tour and cooking class might just be the ticket. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the rave reviews and detailed info, it looks like a well-rounded way to indulge your senses and learn a bit about the city’s culinary heritage.

What really draws us in are the opportunities to sample iconic Louisiana dishes and the chance to see some of the best eateries in the French Quarter, paired with a hands-on cooking experience. That said, it’s not perfect — the tasting menu doesn’t cater to vegan or vegetarian needs, and the price might seem steep if you’re only interested in one part of the experience. Still, for anyone who loves food and cultural stories, this tour hits many marks.

This experience suits foodies eager to learn, travelers wanting a local insider’s perspective, and those who enjoy combining a walk with a cooking lesson. It’s also practical for visitors who want a well-organized, engaging way to explore New Orleans without piecing together individual activities.

Key Points

Comprehensive taste of New Orleans with visits to renowned eateries
Learn to cook classic Louisiana dishes in a relaxed setting
Knowledgeable guides offer insights into local culture and history
Includes a variety of tastings like gumbo, jambalaya, pralines, and more
Accessible and flexible for most travelers; wheelchair accessible
Great for food lovers who want to deepen their culinary understanding

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

Thinking about diving into New Orleans’ food scene? This tour offers a blend of walking and hands-on cooking, making it appealing whether you’re a dedicated foodie or just someone curious about Cajun and Creole flavors. The real charm is how it combines exploring the vibrant streets of the French Quarter with learning some iconic recipes.

We love that it’s not just about tasting — it’s about context and stories, which guides share passionately. Your guide will take you through famous eateries and hidden gems, revealing why these spots are beloved in cookbooks and among locals. Plus, the cooking class at the New Orleans Cooking School gives you tangible skills — perfect for recreating a taste of New Orleans back home.

A potential consideration is that menu items and stops can change without notice, so if you have specific preferences or allergies, it’s worth planning ahead. Also, note that alcohol is not included, so if you’re hoping for a boozy experience, you’ll want to plan for that separately.

All in all, this experience is ideal for travelers who love food and culture and are looking for a meaningful, interactive way to engage with New Orleans’ culinary traditions.

If you're drawn to exploring New Orleans on foot, we've looked into these other walking experiences

What You Can Expect from the Tour

The entire experience lasts around 5.5 hours, starting with a 3-hour food walking tour. You’ll visit some of the most celebrated eateries in the French Quarter, guided by knowledgeable hosts who share insights into the history, culture, and personalities behind the dishes. Expect to sample 6 to 7 tastings, including classics like shrimp & artichoke soup, jambalaya, gumbo, pralines, and muffuletta.

The tour isn’t just about eating; it’s about understanding what makes New Orleans cuisine special. Your guide may share stories about the origins of dishes, the influence of different cultures, and how local ingredients shape the flavors.

After the walking tour, the adventure continues at the New Orleans Cooking School with a 2-hour demonstration. Here, you’ll watch a chef prepare Louisiana favorites, learning tips and tricks to recreate them at home. You’ll even get recipes, so you can take the flavors with you. The class includes refreshments and a delicious lunch featuring the dishes prepared during the demo.

The entire journey balances guided storytelling, tasting, and hands-on learning — a true immersion that many reviews highlight as a major plus.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Stops

The walking tour kicks off inside Roux Royale, where you’ll meet your guide and group. From there, the route takes you through famous eateries and hidden spots in the French Quarter. The stops are handpicked based on recommendations in cookbooks, ensuring you visit places beloved by locals and culinary experts.

During the walk, expect to indulge in diverse tastings that showcase regional specialties. For example, the menu features items like praline cookies, shrimp & artichoke soup, jambalaya, corn & crab bisque, crawfish or chicken étouffée, and Boudin balls. The guide explains the stories behind each dish, and you’ll get a real feel for the local food culture.

The cooking demonstration takes place in a well-known culinary school. Here, the chef demonstrates how to prepare some of these dishes, sharing techniques and insights. This part is especially appreciated by reviews praising the knowledgeable hosts who make the experience both fun and educational.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Many travelers describe the guides as super knowledgeable and engaging. One reviewer noted, “Susan was super knowledgeable! We are goodies and familiar with the NOLA food scene. But she gave great suggestions on places to go! She was so fun and informative.” That kind of personalized attention really elevates the experience.

Another review mentioned, “Both Nate (walking tour) and Chef Tom (cooking experience) were excellent. We learned SO much about New Orleans through the food.” It seems that the hosts genuinely add value — sharing not just recipes but stories and tips.

Tastings are consistently described as delicious and plentiful. Guests especially appreciate the opportunity to sample authentic Louisiana dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and pralines. One guest summed it up: “Very interesting and enjoyable. We learned a lot and had fun!”

One thing to keep in mind is the menu is set but can change, and no vegetarian or vegan options are currently available, which might be limiting for some guests. Also, the tour doesn’t include alcohol, although Abita beer is on the tasting menu.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and What to Know Before Booking

The tour costs $127 per person, which covers the guided walking tour, tastings, cooking demonstration, recipes, and lunch. While this might seem steep at first glance, the value lies in the comprehensive experience — combining sightseeing, tasting, and learning in one package.

Meeting point is inside Roux Royale, so arriving in comfortable shoes is advisable — you’ll be walking quite a bit through the lively streets. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most guests with mobility needs.

Booking is flexible — you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later to keep your plans open. There’s no parking validation, so plan to arrive by street parking or other means.

The tour runs rain or shine, so dress for the weather, and bring an umbrella if needed. Be sure to tell the organizer about any food allergies, especially since many dishes include pork, and the menu doesn’t offer vegetarian options.

Keen to taste more of New Orleans? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences

Is This Tour Worth It?

Given the reviews and what’s included, this tour seems to offer a solid value for anyone eager to experience authentic New Orleans flavors in a fun, educational setting. It’s especially suited for food lovers who want to go beyond just eating out — to really understand and try their hand at Louisiana cooking.

The combination of tasting, sightseeing, and cooking offers a balanced and memorable day. For those who enjoy guided storytelling and interactive experiences, this tour can deepen your appreciation for the city’s culinary heritage.

It’s also practical for travelers who want a structured activity with both local insights and hands-on skills, making it a worthwhile investment for a full half-day in New Orleans.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This experience is ideal for foodies eager to learn about Louisiana cuisine, cultural explorers interested in the stories behind the dishes, and travelers who want a hands-on activity. If you prefer to keep things flexible or are vegetarian or vegan, you might want to explore other options, but for most, the tastings and demonstrations provide a satisfying window into New Orleans’ culinary soul.

It’s perfect for those who value guided expertise, delicious food, and meaningful interaction. If you’re traveling with kids, check with the provider beforehand, as minors are welcome only with a parent or guardian present. It’s not specifically designed as a family activity but can work for those interested in food culture.

✨ Book This Experience

New Orleans: Food Walking Tour & Cooking Class Experience

5.0

(8 reviews)

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
No, the menu highlights set tastings that include pork and do not currently offer vegetarian or vegan options. If you have food allergies, it’s best to inform the provider in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking through the French Quarter. Dress for the weather — bring an umbrella if rain is forecasted.

Are alcohol drinks included?
No, alcohol is not included in the price. However, the tasting menu features Abita beer, and you can purchase additional drinks separately.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 5.5 hours — 3 hours for the walking tour and 2 hours for the cooking demonstration.

Where do I meet the guide?
Inside Roux Royale, located at 600 Royal St. It’s easy to find, and the guide will be ready to welcome you.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Booking also allows for reservations with pay later options.

Is this accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s a good idea to mention any special needs when booking.

Can minors attend?
Minors are welcome but only when accompanied by a parent or guardian. The tour is suitable for those over 21 for alcoholic tasting, with ID required.

If you’re after an immersive, tasty, and educational experience in New Orleans, this Food Walking Tour & Cooking Class offers a lot for its price. It’s a wonderful way to see the French Quarter, sample classic dishes, and pick up new skills — all guided by friendly, knowledgeable hosts.

While it might not fit everyone’s dietary needs perfectly, the overall vibe is warm and engaging, making it especially good for curious travelers who enjoy storytelling and hands-on activities. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or simply looking to add a flavorful chapter to your trip, this tour is likely to leave you with full bellies and many stories to tell.