Made in Brooklyn Food Tour

If you’re looking to explore Brooklyn beyond the usual tourist spots, a food tour that takes you straight into the neighborhood’s authentic Italian-American life might be just what you need. The Made in Brooklyn Food Tour offers an intimate window into Bensonhurst, a vibrant enclave where history, culture, and culinary traditions come together. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a genuinely enjoyable experience that’s both tasty and insightful.

What really catches the eye? First, how knowledgeable the guides are—they’re Brooklyn locals with stories and connections that add a real flavor of authenticity. Second, the variety of food tastings that go beyond just pizza and spaghetti, showcasing the neighborhood’s diverse Italian-American specialties. A possible consideration? The tour focuses mainly on food tastings and neighborhood insight, so if you’re after a deep dive into history or a broader sightseeing experience, this might be more of a foodie adventure. Still, for those craving a relaxed, flavorful walk through a rich cultural pocket, it seems perfect.

This tour is probably best suited for adults, food lovers, and travelers curious about local Brooklyn life. It’s not designed as a family or kid-focused activity, but most travelers who enjoy tasting new foods and chatting with passionate guides will find plenty to love.

Key Points

• Authentic Neighborhood Experience: Focuses on local, family-run Italian-American shops and eateries.
• Expert Local Guide: A Brooklyn-native who shares personal insights and neighborhood history.
• Delicious Food Tastings: Samples include baked goods, cheeses, heroes, and ravioli—excluding pizza.
• Convenient, Small Group Size: Max 16 guests for a more personal, engaging experience.
• Fair Price Point: At $65 per person, you get approximately three hours of guided tasting and walking.
• Weather-Ready: Operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately.

The Made in Brooklyn Food Tour is designed for those who want to peel back the layers of Brooklyn’s cultural fabric through its culinary offerings. For those wondering what makes Bensonhurst special, the tour’s itinerary gives a pretty good clue. It covers a chunk of the neighborhood between 75th and 84th Streets and 14th and 18th Avenues, where local shops and family-run businesses keep Italian-American traditions alive.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at 1635 Bay Ridge Pkwy, where you’ll meet your guide. From there, you’re walking through streets buzzing with local life, not the usual tourist crowds. The focus is on local businesses that make or prepare Italian-American specialties—not just pizza but baked goodies, cheeses, hero sandwiches, and ravioli.

The experience lasts about three hours, which is a comfortable length for soaking in the neighborhood’s vibe without feeling rushed. As you stroll, your guide—a licensed NYC sightseeing guide and a Brooklyn native—will share stories and insights that paint a picture of Bensonhurst’s history and ongoing allure. This personal touch is something we really appreciated in reviews, with visitors noting how well the guide knew the owners and shared anecdotes that made the experience feel intimate and genuine.

Food Tastings: More Than Just Pizza

Unlike many food tours that focus heavily on pizza, this one broadens the scope to include other Italian-American favorites. The tastings typically feature baked goods, cheeses, hero sandwiches, and ravioli—an array that highlights the neighborhood’s culinary diversity. Since the tour is focused on local businesses, expect to sample foods that are made with care and tradition.

One reviewer summed it up perfectly, saying, “The food samples were delicious, adding to the experience of the tour.” And another added, “Dom knew all the owners of the establishments which made the tour extra special.” These comments underscore how the personal connections and authentic flavors elevate the experience well beyond a standard tasting.

The Neighborhood and Its Stories

Walking through Bensonhurst, you’ll find the streets filled with history and culture. The neighborhood’s reputation as a hub for Italian-American communities is well-deserved, but it’s also a melting pot that draws people worldwide. Your guide will share insights into why Brooklyn continues to be a magnet for newcomers and why these local businesses have thrived for generations.

The Experience at a Glance

• Start at 1635 Bay Ridge Pkwy, meeting your guide.
• Walk through Bensonhurst—between blocks 75th to 84th Streets and 14th to 18th Avenues.
• Visit local establishments making or selling Italian specialties.
• Sample baked goods, cheeses, hero sandwiches, ravioli, and more.
• End at Lioni’s Italian Heroes on 15th Ave, which is a local favorite.

The tour’s pace is leisurely but engaging, giving you ample time to chat, taste, and observe. The focus on local businesses provides an authentic experience, not just a touristy tasting route.

At $65, this experience offers roughly three hours of guided walking, tastings, and neighborhood stories. Compared to more extensive food tours or city experiences, it’s a reasonable price, especially considering the small group size—max 16 travelers—which fosters a more personal vibe.

What you’re paying for is not just the tastings but also the local insight and connections that only a Brooklyn native can provide. The reviews consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and friendly approach, making the tour feel like a chat with a well-informed friend rather than a scripted experience.

Considering the Value

The food alone—excluding pizza—is a big plus, and the variety means it’s not just a snack stop but an introduction to the neighborhood’s culinary identity. The tour also offers a chance to explore a Brooklyn neighborhood less touched by tourist crowds, giving a more genuine sense of local life.

The tour operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather. Since it doesn’t include beverages or additional food outside tastings, you might want to bring water or plan for a meal afterward if you’re hungry. It’s designed for ages 18 and over, and while it isn’t tailored for children, most adults who enjoy food and stories will find it rewarding.

Since the tour is booked an average of 12 days in advance, it’s wise to secure your spot early. Confirmed bookings are non-refundable unless canceled due to weather or minimum guest requirements. If canceled, you’ll be offered a full refund or a different date.

The meeting point is accessible near public transportation, making it convenient to reach. Remember, this is a walking tour—comfortable shoes are a must.

The Made in Brooklyn Food Tour offers an authentic taste of Bensonhurst’s Italian-American culture through its food and stories. It’s especially attractive for travelers who want to go beyond typical sightseeing and get a real feel for Brooklyn’s local life. If you love discovering small businesses, tasting traditional foods, and hearing personal stories from passionate guides, this tour will hit the mark.

It won’t be the best choice if you’re after a comprehensive history lesson or extensive sightseeing outside the neighborhood. Nor is it suited for those with specific dietary restrictions, as the focus is on traditional Italian-American fare that includes gluten, dairy, and meat.

Overall, it’s a solid, authentic experience that balances delicious food and insightful storytelling. Perfect for a relaxed, flavorful afternoon in Brooklyn that leaves you with a deeper appreciation of the neighborhood’s character.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
Most likely not, since Italian-American cuisine often includes meat and dairy, and the tour isn’t tailored for specific dietary needs. It’s best to check with the provider if you have special dietary restrictions.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about three hours, which is enough time to enjoy the tastings and explore the neighborhood without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers a licensed NYC sightseeing guide, a local Brooklyn guide, and tastings of Italian-American specialties—excluding pizza.

Are beverages included?
No, beverages are not included, so consider bringing water or planning to purchase drinks separately.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Cancellations due to weather or minimum guests will be offered a full refund or alternative date.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 1635 Bay Ridge Pkwy and ends at Lioni’s Italian Heroes on 15th Ave.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
It takes place in a neighborhood setting with walking involved, so consider your mobility needs. The tour is in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

In the end, the Made in Brooklyn Food Tour promises a genuine, flavorful peek into Bensonhurst’s Italian-American life, guided by locals who love sharing their neighborhood’s best. If your travel style involves good company, tasty bites, and stories from the streets, it’s definitely worth considering.