Vegan Happy Hour Tour

A Friendly Look at the Vegan Happy Hour Tour in Ortigia

If you’ve ever wondered what a fully vegan culinary experience in Sicily might look like, this Vegan Happy Hour Tour in Ortigia offers a charming glimpse. Though I haven’t personally taken this tour, the carefully curated itinerary, glowing reviews, and passionate guides suggest it’s a worthwhile option for those curious about plant-based eats, local flavors, and unique Italian drinks.

What we really love about it? First, it’s small groups—never more than six—making it intimate and personalized. Second, the pairing of local dark chocolates and vermouths with expert guidance seems both indulgent and educational. But a consideration to keep in mind is that this tour is geared toward adults, with no children under 18 allowed. So, if you’re traveling with younger kids, this might not be the fit. Overall, it’s perfect for adults who love good food, interesting drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Key Points

• Small, personalized groups ensure an intimate experience and better interaction with guides.
• Expert-led tastings of vegan chocolates, vermouths, and vegan cheese make the tour both fun and educational.
• The scenic walk through Ortigia’s historic streets adds a charming backdrop to the experience.
• Flexibility in dining options—you can choose to stay for dinner afterward—adds to the overall value.
• The cost of $91.45 per person includes drinks and snacks, which is reasonable for the quality and intimacy offered.
• Good for adults who enjoy tasting new flavors and learning about local vegan options, but not suitable for children.

What to Expect from the Vegan Happy Hour Tour

This two-hour experience is designed as a relaxed, engaging introduction to Ortigia’s vegan scene, combining tastings, storytelling, and scenic strolling. Led by Tonia, an American expat who’s been vegan for 17 years, you’ll start at Sabadì, a well-regarded dark chocolate shop in Siracusa. Here, the focus is on Vermouth and dark chocolate pairings—a decadent combo that elevates your understanding of Sicilian flavors.

The First Stop: Sabadì – Chocolate and Vermouth Pairings

You’ll meet Tonia at Sabadì, a charming shop famous for its Modica dark chocolates. The expert chocolatiers, Ramona or Chiara, will guide you through a tasting flight of three vegan, organic vermouths paired with the intense, locally-made dark chocolates. The combination of these flavors is quite special—rich, complex, and surprisingly sophisticated.

Many reviews mention how well Ramona describes the taste profiles, making the experience both tasty and educational. One guest said, “Ramona described the background of her chocolate and liqueurs very well and the tastes were exquisite.” After the official tasting, you’re welcome to sample more chocolates, which makes for a lovely souvenir shopping opportunity.

The Scenic Walk to MOON – Vegan Cheese and Aperitivo

From the chocolate shop, Tonia will take you on a short walk through Ortigia’s historic, narrow streets. This part of the tour is a chance to soak in the charming atmosphere and learn about the area’s vibrant culture. The walk itself is a highlight, offering picturesque views and a chance to stretch your legs.

Your next stop is MOON, a 100% vegan hotspot on Ortigia. The highlight here is the Vegan Cheese Board, paired with a classic cocktail or a glass of wine—another chance to indulge and relax. Water is provided, and the setting is perfect for casual conversation or quiet enjoyment.

Optional: Stay for Dinner

Tonia suggests that many guests choose to stay at MOON afterward for dinner. If you’d like a reservation, just mention it when booking, and she’ll take care of securing a table. It’s a great way to extend your experience, especially since the restaurant specializes in vegan cuisine, perfect for a laid-back Sicilian night.

Why This Tour Has Appeal

The small group size (max six) makes it a cozy, friendly setting where questions are encouraged, and you can really savor each tasting without feeling rushed. Being led by someone as passionate as Tonia, with her extensive vegan background, adds a personal touch that many larger tours lack.

You’ll get more than just tastings; you’ll learn about local ingredients, production methods, and pairing techniques. The chocolate and vermouth pairing is a highlight—expect to discover a new appreciation for Sicilian flavors in a relaxed, unpretentious environment.

The Cost and Its Value

At about $91.45 per person, this tour offers value in its exclusivity, quality of tastings, and the personalized attention. Since the price includes three vermouths, chocolates, a vegan cheese board, and a drink, it balances out well compared to typical food and drink tastings in touristy areas. Plus, you get the bonus of strolling through Ortigia’s beautiful streets.

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

One guest summarized the experience as “a delightful night,” praising Ramona’s detailed explanations and the quality of the pairings. Another reviewer noted that even non-vegans found it “food for thought,” implying that the tour offers insights that go beyond dietary choices—it’s a taste of Sicilian culture through plant-based offerings.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Sabadì – Chocolate & Vermouth

The first stop is where you’ll truly appreciate the craftsmanship of Sicilian dark chocolate. Sabadì’s chocolates are known for their intense flavor, and pairing them with vegan vermouths elevates the tasting to something special. Expect to learn about the production process and discover why these chocolates are considered some of the best in the region.

The Walk Through Ortigia

This scenic stroll isn’t just a formality; it’s an immersive way to see the beauty of Ortigia’s old town. You’ll pass through narrow alleys, admire historic buildings, and get a feel for local life—all within a few minutes of your tastings.

MOON – Vegan Cheese & Drinks

The final stop is a lively yet relaxed venue where vegan cheeses are paired with cocktails or wine**. Many reviews highlight the quality of the drinks and the thoughtful presentation of the cheese board. You might find the ambiance perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys small, intimate tasting experiences and is open to plant-based options, this tour will resonate with you. It’s ideal for adults interested in food, drink, and local culture, especially if you’re curious about vegan options or new flavor combinations.

It’s also perfect if you want a relaxed evening activity that combines a bit of walking, learning, and tasting without the rush of larger group tours. Because the tour emphasizes quality and storytelling, it’s especially suitable for those who value personal connections and authentic experiences.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 18 are not allowed, as the focus is on adult beverages and tasting experiences.

Does the tour include dinner?
No, dinner at MOON is at your own expense and can be reserved afterward if you wish to extend your evening.

Are tickets refundable?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the experience are non-refundable.

What language is the guide?
Tonia is a native English speaker, and her passion for Ortigia and vegan cuisine makes the experience welcoming and easy to follow.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of six travelers ensures a personalized experience.

Is transportation provided between stops?
No, the stops are within walking distance, making it easy to enjoy the scenery and atmosphere.

What if I want to stay for dinner?
Just mention it when booking, and Tonia can reserve a table at MOON for you to enjoy a vegan meal afterward.

Final Thoughts

The Vegan Happy Hour Tour in Ortigia offers a lovely combination of culinary education, local flavors, and relaxed sightseeing. It’s a perfect choice for adults who want to sample Sicily’s vegan scene in an intimate setting, guided by someone passionate and knowledgeable. The focus on handcrafted chocolates, vegan cheeses, and expertly paired drinks makes for a memorable, tasteful evening.

While it’s a fairly short experience, its small group size and personalized approach make it feel special. If you’re after a laid-back way to enjoy Sicily’s culinary side, this tour is well worth considering. Just remember, it’s geared toward grown-ups who appreciate good drinks, quality chocolates, and a good chat.

I hope this helps you decide whether this tour fits your plans. Happy travels and buon appetito!