Sample authentic flavors from ethnic eateries and food shops

The Gold Coast & Old Town Food Tour in Chicago starts in the heart of Downtown Chicago and explores the Near North neighborhoods of Gold Coast and Old Town. Enjoyed by native Chicagoans and visitors alike, this tour is suitable for all age groups and fitness levels.

On this guided walking tour, you'll learn about Chicago's rich history and treasured architecture while sampling delicious tastings from classic specialty food shops and ethnic eateries. After the tour, explore Chicago with confidence and take advantage of our full spectrum of cuisine, entertainment, and cultural offerings off-the-beaten-path.

So come along and experience the life of local artisans and their foods that are revered throughout Chicago. While sharing insight on local entertainment and restaurant, your guide will emphasize the histories of backdoor venues, hidden parks, and historic homes.

Schedule

March 31 - May 22:
11:00 am - Daily
11:30 am - Friday, Saturday & Sunday

May 23 - September 4:
11:00 am - Daily (except Saturday)
11:30 am - Thursday, Friday & Sunday

September 6 - November 27:
11:00 am - Daily
11:30 am - Friday, Saturday & Sunday

This guided, narrated Near North Food Tour visits 7 food tasting locations in the historic, delicious Gold Coast and Old Town neighborhoods.

Tour Highlights
• Lou Malnati's: Famous Chicago-Style Deep Dish pizzeria and restaurant (est. 1971)
• The Spice House: America’s premiere merchant of hand-prepared spices and seasonings (est. 1957)
• Delightful Pastries: Authentic Polish-European bakery and pastry store (est.1998)
• Old Town Oil: Purveyor of aged balsamic vinegars and 100% extra virgin olive oils (est. 2007)
• Tea Gschwendner: The world's leading specialty loose tea and tisanes merchant (est. 1978)
• The Fudge Pot: Chicago's oldest chocolate confectioner and fudge shop (established 1963)
• Kamehachi Old Town: Chicago's first Japanese-style restaurant, sake cafe and sushi bar (est. 1967)

Tour Includes
~ A three-hour walking tour of Chicago's Near North Neighborhoods
~ Delicious food and drink tastings from local ethnic eateries and food shops
~ Insight on local entertainment and restaurant "finds"
~ Historical, architectural, and cultural commentary
~ Fun, qualified, and respectful tour leaders

What to Wear:

You'll be on your feet and outdoors for most of the 3 hours, so please wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Flip-flops, high heels, and dress-shoes are not recommended.

Umbrellas on rainy days, warm layers on cold days, and cool clothing on hot days will make your experience much more enjoyable.

What to Bring - What Not to Bring:

You are urged to bring cameras and recorders. There are plenty of photo opportunities during the tour.

Also suggested are sunglasses, sun screen, and/or a hat during the summer months.

Pets are loved, but because the tour visits a number of food establishments, you'll need to leave your pets at home/hotel.

Other Tips and Guidelines:
~ There are enough food tastings that, for most people, lunch afterward is not needed
~ The tour does not finish at the same starting point, but there are plenty of transit options available at the ending point to get you back
~ You are urged to bring extra cash for the return fare after the tour, food and/or drink, and/or souvenirs and gifts
~ Gratuities are greatly appreciated
~ Please be sure to arrive 15 minutes early

FAQ's

Q: Do we only walk around and sample food?

A: Absolutely not! Aside from sampling delicious food, you will also experience life in Chicago's downtown, Gold Coast, Old Town, and Lincoln Park neighborhoods. The tour is fully narrated by your guide, who will discuss the history, culture, architecture, entertainment offerings, and both on and off-course off-the-beaten-path establishments.

Q: What types of foods are served on the tour?

A: You'll taste foods from a gourmet food store, a fudge and confectionery specialty shop, a Middle-Eastern delicatessen, a tea specialty store, a spice and herb specialty shop, a local chocolate lounge, America's first Heart Healthy pizzeria, and an oil and vinegar store. Food-tasting locations can change without notice. This tour also offers vegetarian options.

Q: Are there any beverages served on the tour?

A: There is a tea tasting, but neither water nor other beverages are otherwise provided during the tour. You can, however, purchase water at the beginning of the tour at the specified meeting place.

Q: How much walking is involved? Is it a fast-paced tour?

A: You'll be on your feet for approximately 3 hours. A lot of information and ground is covered so be ready to walk at a moderate pace. You'll sit down at least once during the tour, and twice during the warmer months. Please wear comfortable shoes.

Q: What happens if it rains?

A: The tours are held rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather, you'll be able to go inside many of the establishments on the tour. You should still dress appropriately for the day's weather conditions.

Q: Does this tour have anything to offer a native Chicagoan?

A: Definitely! Many attendees live right here in Chicago. Locals often attend to learn about the neighborhoods and the city in which they live.

Q: Can I shop on the tour?

A: It's suggested that you wait to shop until after the tour so that it can stay on schedule and continue with the informative tour and food tastings in a timely manner. Hopefully, you will allow time at the end of the tour to return to your favorite locations and/or stores.

Q: Is the tour stroller and/or wheelchair accessible?

A: The tour is stroller and wheelchair friendly. One tasting does not have a wheelchair ramp, however your tour guide will deliver the tasting to the participant(s) unable to enter along with the tasting information in front of the food store.

48 HOURS MINIMUM ADVANCE BOOKING REQUIRED FOR SATURDAYS ONLY. This tour does not include hotel pick ups or drop offs. Please order online or call 888-881-3284 to order or for more information.