Philadelphia stands out as a top destination for food lovers. Its diverse neighborhoods are packed with authentic eateries, lively markets, and hidden culinary treasures. Unlike many cities that serve up touristy cheesesteaks at inflated prices, Philly’s food scene offers genuine bites from family-run delis, immigrant enclaves, and innovative chefs. Tours like the Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market highlight how walking through historic districts and bustling markets can be both delicious and educational. With options ranging from savory street food to decadent donuts, there’s something to satisfy every craving while providing a true taste of Philadelphia’s character.
For those seeking a comprehensive experience, the city offers small-group walking tours, market explorations, and even private culinary adventures. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a devoted foodie, these tours bring you closer to Philadelphia’s vibrant food scene, making it easier to find the best spots and learn their stories. Below, you’ll find 16 of the top food tours in Philly, each with its own flavor and focus.
Quick Overview
The list below includes walking tours that explore iconic neighborhoods like Center City, South Philly, and Chinatown, as well as specialty experiences like donut adventures and private market tastings. Some tours focus on historic markets such as Reading Terminal Market, while others highlight local neighborhoods with unique culinary identities. Prices vary from around $55 to $290 per person, depending on the tour’s scope and exclusivity, with most lasting between 2 and 3 hours. All tours are designed to give you an authentic taste and storytelling that’s as flavorful as the food itself.
1. Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market
At number 1, this Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market scores a perfect 5.0 rating based on nearly 600 reviews. Priced at $59, it lasts about 2.5 hours and offers a relaxed pace for up to 12 people. Your guide will lead you through Reading Terminal Market, Sansom Street, and other hotspots, sampling everything from vegan tahini shakes to crispy fried chicken tenders and Afghan cuisine.
What makes this tour stand out is its small-group format, which ensures personalized attention and plenty of interaction. Guests consistently mention how knowledgeable guides like Barry and Chuck share not just food insights but also fascinating architecture and Philly lore. Expect five iconic tastings, enough to fill you up, all while soaking in the city’s ambiance. This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a balanced mix of culinary delights and local stories. Bottom line: a tasty, lively intro to Philly’s foodie scene.
2. Flavors of Philly Food Tour
Ranking at number 2, the Flavors of Philly Food Tour is another five-star experience. For $65 and lasting around 2.5 hours, it guides you through five local eateries, sampling Philly staples like cheesesteaks, tomato pie, and soft pretzels. The tour emphasizes authentic neighborhood joints and includes treats at Reading Terminal Market, including two desserts.
What’s special here is the insider perspective on the city’s culinary history and the casual, fun atmosphere created by guides like Owen and Michal. Guests love the generous portions, which often double as a full meal. This tour suits those who want a down-to-earth taste of Philly’s classic foods with plenty of stories. The itinerary’s highlights—such as tasting cheese whiz fries and traditional Afghan dishes—give you a full spectrum of the city’s flavors. Bottom line: great value for a comprehensive, relaxed food adventure.
3. Philadelphia Italian Market Public Food Tour
At number 3, this Philadelphia Italian Market Public Food Tour offers a deep dive into South Philly’s historic Italian Market. For $61 and roughly 2.5 hours, you’ll sample authentic Italian cannoli, tacos, bahn mi, and more, while learning about the neighborhood’s immigrant roots. With a cap of only 10 participants, this tour maintains its intimate, friendly vibe.
Your guide will introduce you to family-run stores like Sarcone’s bread and new multicultural eateries. The market’s colorful stalls and friendly shop owners make it a lively, sensory experience. Guests rave about the rich history and how the tour balances culinary sampling with local stories. Perfect for those interested in cultural food traditions and urban history. Bottom line: a flavorful walk through one of Philly’s most iconic neighborhoods.
4. Philadelphia’s Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour
Number 4 is the Philadelphia’s Delicious Donut Adventure, a sweet-focused tour priced at $58.50. Lasting about 2 hours, it takes you into some of the best donut spots in the city, including Federal Donuts and Beiler’s. Along the way, you’ll explore South Street, Reading Terminal Market, and other lively districts, sampling up to four different donut styles, including Japanese mochi donuts.
This tour is especially fun for families and sweet tooths. It’s a playful way to get oriented to Philadelphia’s neighborhoods while satisfying your craving for fried dough. Guides like Dominic keep it lively with stories behind each bakery and donut type. The experience strikes a great balance between culinary fun and city orientation. Bottom line: a delightful treat for anyone who loves dessert and city sights.
5. Philadelphia Secret Food Tour of Reading Market and Center City
Number 5 offers a Secret Food Tour for $65 that lasts about 3 hours. It takes you through Reading Terminal Market and nearby districts, revealing hidden gems and secret dishes. Tastings include Philly cheesesteaks, local favorites, and an undisclosed “secret dish” only revealed during the tour.
Guests love the surprise element and how the guide’s stories tie culinary bites to Philly’s cultural fabric. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a mix of food, local lore, and discovery. The longer duration allows for more in-depth exploration, making it a good choice for those eager to uncover lesser-known culinary spots. Bottom line: a fun, revealing experience for curious palates.
6. Philadelphia: Flavors of Philly Guided Foodie Tour
Coming in at number 6, this Flavors of Philly Guided Foodie Tour costs $61 and lasts about 2.5 hours. It covers five local eateries with a focus on classic Philly dishes and socially conscious foods. You’ll walk through neighborhoods like Center City and enjoy tastings from popular spots that locals love.
What sets this tour apart is its emphasis on sustainability and the stories behind each dish. The itinerary includes favorites like cheesesteaks, pretzels, and tomato pies, giving a well-rounded taste of Philly’s culinary diversity. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate meaningful food stories and want to see more than just tourist traps. Bottom line: a balanced exploration of Philadelphia’s food culture and social values.
7. Italian Market & More: Non-Touristy Food Tour w/ Journalist
At number 7, this Italian Market & More: Non-Touristy Food Tour is priced at $95 and lasts around 3 hours. Led by a journalist, it focuses on off-the-beaten-path eateries and local stories. You’ll sample six different items, including tacos, sweets, and vegetarian options, all while visiting lesser-known spots.
Guests appreciate the deep dive into neighborhood stories and how the guide’s interviews with owners add a personal touch. The tour includes generous tastings and unique insights into South Philly’s immigrant communities. Suitable for those wanting an authentic, less touristy experience. Bottom line: a superior choice for curious travelers seeking genuine local flavors.
8. Philadelphia: Best of Philly Food Tour
Number 8’s Best of Philly Food Tour is a solid choice at $55, lasting about 2.5 hours. It explores Center City’s food scene, tasting staples like soft pretzels, cheesesteaks, and sampling from Reading Terminal Market vendors. The tour emphasizes local history and sustainable foods.
It’s well-suited for first-timers wanting a broad overview without breaking the bank. The guide’s narrative connects food, architecture, and city stories, making the experience educational and tasty. Guests find it a good value, especially for those interested in Philadelphia’s social-conscious food scene. Bottom line: a practical, well-rounded introduction to Philly’s culinary heartbeat.
9. Philadelphia: Italian Market Walking Food Tour
At number 9, this Italian Market Walking Food Tour offers an authentic walk through South Philly at $59, lasting around 2.5 hours. You’ll sample robust flavors of tomato pies, cannoli, tacos, and more while chatting with local store owners and learning about the neighborhood’s immigrant history.
Guests highlight how this tour provides a flavorful mix of history and food. It’s especially good for those interested in urban culture and culinary traditions. The tour’s focus on local businesses makes it a rewarding experience for foodies eager to support small shops. Bottom line: a lively, flavor-packed walk through Philly’s most famous market.
10. Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour
Number 10’s Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour is a 2-hour, $105 experience. This tour explores one of Philly’s most dynamic restaurant districts, offering tastings from cheesesteaks to Italian pastries. It’s ideal for those wanting to see the latest in Philly’s food scene and hear behind-the-scenes stories.
The tour is capped at 12, ensuring a personal experience. Guides share insights into local history and current trends, making it perfect for food lovers who want a trendy, neighborhood-focused taste. If you’re craving up-to-date culinary discoveries in South Philly, this tour won’t disappoint. Bottom line: a well-curated look at one of Philadelphia’s most exciting foodie streets.
11. Philadelphia Africatown Walking Food Tour
Number 11 features the Philadelphia Africatown Walking Food Tour, a 2-hour experience priced at $56. This tour highlights West African, Jamaican, Southern, and Italian cuisines in Southwest Philly. You’ll meet local owners, try four different bites, and learn about the neighborhood’s cultural diversity.
Guests appreciate the rich stories shared and how the tour supports local businesses. It’s suited for travelers interested in world cuisines and community connections. The tour’s focus on authentic flavors and cultural storytelling makes it a compelling choice. Bottom line: a flavorful cultural journey in a lesser-visited part of Philly.
12. Philadelphia: Italian Market Non-Touristy Walking Food Tour
Ranking at number 12, this Non-Touristy Italian Market Tour offers an intimate look at South Philly’s culinary scene for $95 over 2.5 hours. Led by local chefs and journalists, it features six bites including sweets and tacos, with visits to family-run businesses.
Guests enjoy the personalized insights into local traditions. This tour is great for those wanting more than a surface-level experience, with genuine stories behind each bite. It’s an ideal pick for foodies who also love urban exploration. Bottom line: a tasty, insightful tour of the city’s diverse food fabric.
13. Shopping and Food Walking Tour in Philadelphia with Guide
Number 13 combines vintage shopping, food tastings, and historic sights for $85 over about 2.5 hours. It starts at Reading Terminal Market with a focus on desserts and surprises and continues through Chinatown and Old City neighborhoods, incorporating local stories and unique shops.
Guests love the mix of food and shopping, as well as the chance to see historic Philadelphia beyond just eating. It’s tailored for travelers wanting a multi-layered experience with cultural and culinary elements. Bottom line: a fun, varied day exploring Philly’s history and flavors.
14. Philadelphia: Highlights, History, Food & Pop Culture
At number 14, this Highlights Tour lasts four hours for $59. It hits major landmarks like Elfreth’s Alley and the Rocky Steps, with a tasty stop at Reading Terminal Market. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a quick, rundown.
Guests enjoy the combination of sightseeing and bites, making it an efficient way to experience Philly’s history, culture, and food. It’s suitable for those with limited time but a curiosity for the city’s diverse neighborhoods. Bottom line: a great snapshot of Philadelphia’s essence in one tour.
15. Chinatown Guided Food Tour
Number 15 is the Chinatown Guided Food Tour, a 2.5-hour, $105 exploration of Philly’s Asian cuisines. You’ll try dumplings, Szechuan dishes, bubble tea, and visit cultural stores. It’s a walk through nearly every corner of Chinatown, highlighting regional flavors and traditions.
Guests rave about the variety of tastes and how the guide relates cultural stories to each dish. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to sample a wide array of Asian foods and learn about local Chinese, Vietnamese, and other Asian communities. Bottom line: an immersive culinary journey through Philly’s Asian neighborhoods.
$105.00 per person
16. Flavours of Philadelphia: Private Reading Market 2.5-hr Food Tour
Number 16 offers a bespoke experience with the Private Reading Market Food Tour. For $290, it lasts about 2.5 hours and is perfect for those wanting a personalized, in-depth visit. Your guide will help you navigate the largest covered market in the U.S., sampling local cheeses, baked goods, and farm-to-table treats.
Guests rave about the customized attention and how it deepens their understanding of Philly’s food culture. It’s best suited for foodies willing to splurge for a tailored experience. The private setting ensures a more relaxed, personalized day. Bottom line: an exceptional choice for those wanting an exclusive culinary exploration.
$290.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Philadelphia
When selecting the best tour, consider your budget, available time, and interests. For an all-in-one experience that covers several neighborhoods, the Center City Philadelphia Food Tour is a solid pick. If you’re eager to explore South Philly’s iconic Italian Market, the Italian Market Walking Food Tour offers authentic bites and local stories.
For those craving something sweet, the Donut Adventure provides a fun, dessert-focused outing. If private, tailored experiences appeal, the Private Reading Market Tour offers exclusivity. Plus, tours like Chinatown and East Passyunk highlight specialized neighborhoods, perfect for more dedicated food explorers.
Try booking early, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot. Consider your walking stamina—most tours involve some activity but vary in length and intensity. Whether you’re after classic Philly flavors, cultural insights, or a private tasting, choosing the right tour depends on your curiosity, appetite, and adventure level.
In Summary
Philadelphia offers a diverse array of food tours that showcase its culinary richness, history, and neighborhoods. Whether you want to sample iconic dishes like cheesesteaks and soft pretzels, explore ethnic enclaves like Chinatown and Africatown, or indulge in sweet treats like donuts, there’s something for every taste and interest. Two standout options are the Center City Food Tour for its broad scope and intimate setting, and the Italian Market Walking Tour for authentic flavors and local culture.
If you prefer a more exclusive experience, the Private Market Tour offers personalized attention, while the Donut Tour is perfect for a sweet adventure. No matter which you pick, booking early and considering your interests will ensure you enjoy some of the best food experiences Philly has to offer.