Detroit’s food scene is anything but dull. The city’s mix of historic neighborhoods, ethnic enclaves, and innovative chefs makes for an exciting culinary landscape. Whether you’re curious about Detroit-style pizza, hot dogs, or Mediterranean pastries, there’s a tour to satisfy your appetite. We especially like how some tours combine great food with local stories — like the Detroit Downtown Food Tour: 6+ Iconic Tastings in Motor City — giving you a taste of Detroit’s comeback with plenty of history and flavor. The city’s diverse neighborhoods also shine on these tours, making each experience a chance to explore more than just food but the spirit of Detroit itself.
If you’re planning a visit, knowing your options can help you find the perfect match. From comprehensive downtown walks to specialty secret food tours, there’s something for every taste and schedule. Ready to explore? Here’s a closer look at the six best food tours in Detroit.
1. Detroit Downtown Food Tour: 6+ Iconic Tastings in Motor City
At number one, we have the Detroit Downtown Food Tour that offers a balanced blend of iconic tastings and cultural sights. This 3-hour walking experience explores Detroit’s core, from Greektown to historic landmarks, providing more than just food but a lesson in the city’s revival. Highlights include corned beef egg rolls, rival hot dogs, Detroit-style pizza, and a Boston Cooler float — a true local specialty.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on Detroit’s architectural and civic icons, like the Spirit of Detroit statue and the Guardian Building, which you’ll see along the way. Guides share engaging stories about Detroit’s resilience and culinary evolution, making it a rich experience for history buffs and food lovers alike. The reviews praise the tour’s comprehensiveness, with guests enjoying a generous amount of food and insightful commentary. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a thorough downtown introduction without breaking the bank. The price of $95 offers solid value considering the diverse tastings and sights covered.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a well-rounded Detroit experience blending culture, history, and food in just a few hours.
2. Delicious in Detroit Food Tour
Coming in at number two, the Delicious in Detroit Food Tour earns a perfect 5-star rating based on a single review. For $159, guests explore the city’s culinary diversity, sampling appetizers, main dishes, and desserts from various cultures. This tour stands out for its emphasis on Detroit’s multicultural restaurants and local businesses, giving a portrait of a city that’s as diverse as its architecture.
The tour’s unique appeal lies in its variety — you’ll experience dishes from different backgrounds, making it a great pick for adventurous eaters. The guide highlights stories behind the dishes and the neighborhoods they come from, enriching your understanding of Detroit’s social fabric. It’s designed to foster connections among food lovers and curious visitors. Although a bit pricier than some others, the focus on cultural variety makes it worth considering if you want a broad taste of Detroit’s multicultural culinary scene.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers eager to explore Detroit’s diverse food traditions in a single, immersive tour.
$159 per person
3. Detroit Food Walking Tour
At number three, the Detroit Food Walking Tour offers a flexible 2-3 hour experience for $159 per person. It’s perfect if you prefer a smaller, more intimate group and want to see multiple neighborhoods. The tour takes you through Greektown, downtown Detroit, and other local spots, with visits to several restaurants, each offering a taste of Detroit’s culinary traditions.
What makes this tour distinctive is its focus on local, independently owned eateries. You’ll sample a variety of foods, enough to make it feel like a hearty lunch. The guide shares stories about the neighborhood’s history and the families behind the restaurants, adding depth to your tasting experience. Reviewers appreciate the mix of food and culture, with one saying it’s a great way to discover new places and revisit favorites while learning about Detroit’s architecture and urban development.
This tour is best for travelers who want a flexible schedule and an authentic look at Detroit’s food scene, away from tourist traps. Its moderate price and inclusion of multiple neighborhoods make it a strong value.
Bottom line: Perfect for food explorers who want a personalized, neighborhood-focused experience.
4. Detroit: Secret Food Tour with Tastings
Number four on our list is the Secret Food Tour with Tastings, priced at $81 per person. This tour offers a slightly different approach, focusing on lesser-known spots and hidden culinary gems. Over three hours, you’ll enjoy favorites like corned beef egg rolls, Boston Coolers, and Detroit-style pizza, with a special emphasis on local stories and history.
What makes this tour unique is its curated route through the city’s iconic landmarks and secret spots, including stops at the Guardian Building, the “Field of Mars” park, and murals in the city’s art-filled alleys. The guide shares intriguing stories about Detroit’s hot dog wars and the origins of its pizza styles, making it both fun and informational. It’s a great choice if you’re interested in learning about Detroit’s culinary rivalry and urban art while sampling some of the city’s best bites.
An important note: the reviews are mixed, with some feeling the tour could be more organized, but most appreciate the focus on local history paired with food.
Bottom line: Ideal for curious travelers who want an insider’s look at Detroit’s secret culinary spots.
$81 per person
5. Detroit Flavors Food Tour
The Detroit Flavors Food Tour emphasizes Detroit’s culture, history, and architecture alongside its cuisine. Priced at $150, this three-hour experience is perfect for those who want to explore more than just food but also the city’s urban landscape. The guide’s deep knowledge of Detroit’s neighborhoods reveals stories behind each dish and building, making it more than just a tasting tour.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on the city’s iconic architecture and how it intertwines with local food traditions. You’ll visit local hotspots and learn about Detroit’s architectural evolution while sampling dishes that reflect its diverse communities. This tour is well-suited for travelers who enjoy multi-layered experiences and want to understand Detroit’s cultural fabric through food and architecture.
While not the cheapest, its comprehensive approach offers good value for those interested in a full city immersion.
Bottom line: Great for history and architecture buffs who also love local cuisine.
$150 per person
6. Private Walking Food Tour In Detroit With Secret Food Tours
Lastly, the private Walking Food Tour in Detroit is designed for those seeking a personalized experience. At $340 per person, it lasts around three hours and offers exclusive access to Detroit’s culinary and cultural highlights. This tour includes stops at landmarks like the Spirit of Detroit, the “Fist,” and murals, combined with tastings of classic comfort foods and local staples.
What makes this tour stand out is its private setting, allowing for a more tailored experience. Your guide will personalize the stops based on your interests, whether that’s Detroit’s history, art, or food. It’s perfect for special occasions or travelers wanting a VIP treatment. Since it’s the most expensive option, it’s best suited for those who value exclusivity and a custom itinerary.
Guests will see the city’s iconic landmarks while enjoying an intimate, in-depth look at Detroit’s food scene.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers seeking a private, flexible, and immersive food experience.
$340.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Detroit
Choosing between these options depends on what kind of experience you want. If you prefer a comprehensive downtown walk with iconic sights and classic Detroit dishes, the Detroit Downtown Food Tour is a solid pick. For those eager to sample a broad range of ethnic foods, the Delicious in Detroit offers cultural diversity in a single tour.
If you want a more intimate, neighborhood-centered experience, the Detroit Food Walking Tour provides flexibility and local flavor. For secret spots and hidden culinary gems, the Secret Food Tour combines urban art and history with food. The Detroit Flavors is perfect if architecture and culture are your interests, while the private Walking Food Tour suits travelers seeking exclusivity.
Consider your budget, time, and what interests you most—whether it’s history, ethnic cuisine, or a private experience. Booking early can secure spots, especially for popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Detroit offers a variety of food tours that capture its culinary spirit and urban stories. If you’re after a lively downtown experience with iconic tastings, the Detroit Downtown Food Tour is hard to beat. For a deep dive into different cultures, the Delicious in Detroit is perfect. Travelers wanting an exclusive, tailored day should consider the private Walking Food Tour.
No matter your choice, these tours promise a flavorful look at Detroit’s culinary landscape, making your visit both tasty and memorable. Be sure to book early to get your preferred time slot and enjoy Detroit’s best bites.