Fort Lauderdale Food & Drink Tour

If you’re visiting Fort Lauderdale and looking for a way to experience the city beyond its beaches and water taxis, this Food & Drink Tour offers a delightful taste of what makes the city special. With a price of $104 per person, lasting about three hours, and including eight food tastings plus two alcoholic drinks, this tour promises to satisfy your curiosity and your appetite. Led by knowledgeable guides—most notably Howie and Kristyn—you’ll explore Las Olas Boulevard, pass the historic Stranahan House, and enjoy some of the top local eateries.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances delicious food with interesting stories about Fort Lauderdale’s history and culture. The small-group setting means you get personalized attention, and the inclusion of all tastings and drinks makes planning easy—just show up hungry! One thing to consider is that if you’re interested in visiting the Stranahan House Museum, the admission fee isn’t included, so budget for that if you want a full experience.

This tour is perfect for food lovers, first-time visitors wanting a local perspective, or anyone who appreciates fun, engaging guides and large portions of tasty food. If you’re looking to combine sightseeing with a culinary adventure, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Tastings: Food and drinks are included, so no need to worry about extra payments during the tour.
• Passes Iconic Sights: Pass by Fort Lauderdale’s oldest building, the Stranahan House, and explore Las Olas Boulevard—your window into the city’s character.
• Small Group: Intimate groups of up to 14 travelers ensure personalized service and more interaction.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Howie and Kristyn keep the experience lively, informative, and fun.
• Authentic Food Experience: Enjoy eight tastings from top local restaurants, with generous portions and a variety of flavors.
• Flexible for Dietary Needs: Vegetarian options are available if requested when booking.

A Detailed Look at the Fort Lauderdale Food & Drink Tour

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour kicks off at the Riverside Hotel on East Las Olas Boulevard, a well-located spot in downtown Fort Lauderdale. From the outset, you’re greeted by your guide—most reviews highlight Howie or Kristyn as enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about their city. The tour lasts approximately three hours, during which you’ll visit five different restaurants, each offering a distinct taste of local cuisine.

The group size is capped at 14, which makes for a friendly atmosphere where you can comfortably chat with your guide and fellow travelers. The small-group setting ensures you won’t feel rushed or lost in the crowd—a common problem on larger tours. We found this intimacy really helped us relax and enjoy every bite and story.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Beginning at the Riverside Hotel

The tour begins with a warm welcome at the Riverside Hotel, where your guide sets the tone for a fun, relaxed experience. You’ll receive your food and beverage tastings here, which serve as a hearty introduction to Fort Lauderdale’s culinary scene. Expect a variety of flavors, with the guide sharing interesting tidbits about the city’s development and local hotspots.

Stop 2: Stranahan House

Next, you’ll pass the historic Stranahan House, the oldest surviving structure in Fort Lauderdale. While the admission fee of $12 isn’t included, your guide will offer lively stories about its significance—highlighting the early days of the city and the family that built it. Many reviews emphasize how this stop adds context and depth to the tour, blending history with your tasting journey.

Stop 3: Las Olas Boulevard

Most of the stops are along Las Olas Boulevard, a lively street filled with restaurants, shops, and galleries. Here, your guide offers historical references and fun facts about the area, making it more than just a food crawl. You’ll visit four more restaurants, sampling local specialties that showcase the city’s diversity—think fresh seafood, vibrant tapas, or flavorful fusion dishes.

The Tastings and Drinks

One of the biggest highlights is the variety and quality of food. Expect eight tastings, enough to satisfy even the hungriest appetite. Reviewers repeatedly mention the generous portions, with some noting they felt comfortably full by the end—so come hungry. The two alcoholic drinks are an added bonus, often local beers or cocktails that complement the flavors perfectly.

Guides and Personal Experiences

Authentic storytelling makes this tour special. According to reviews, guides like Howie and Kristyn are not only knowledgeable about Fort Lauderdale’s history but also engaging and humorous. We loved the way Howie kept everyone entertained, sharing fun quips and interesting facts. Many guests appreciate how guides foster a friendly, relaxed environment, which makes it easier to socialize and enjoy the experience.

Value and Practicalities

At $104, the tour offers excellent value, considering the multiple tastings, drinks, and personalized guidance. It’s a well-rounded experience—more than just a food crawl, it’s a cultural and historical exploration of Fort Lauderdale’s core neighborhoods.

The tour is designed for most travelers, with vegetarian options available if you specify when booking. It’s also convenient for those relying on public transportation or staying nearby, as the meeting point is centrally located. You’ll want to reserve at least 29 days in advance, given its popularity.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

Guests frequently comment on how the tour feels curated and genuine. Unlike generic city tours, this experience emphasizes local eateries that might be hard to find on your own, making it especially meaningful for food aficionados. Many reviewers mention leaving with new restaurant recommendations, making it a lasting benefit beyond the tour itself.

Considerations

While most find this tour to be perfect, some might want to budget for the Stranahan House admission, which is not included. Also, if you’re very particular about dietary restrictions, it’s best to communicate your needs ahead of time, as vegetarian options require advance notice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers eager to explore local flavors in a relaxed, social setting. First-time visitors to Fort Lauderdale will appreciate how it combines sightseeing with tasting—a great way to get a feel for the city’s vibe. It also suits those who enjoy stories and historical tidbits, as guides share plenty of fun facts alongside the food.

If you’re traveling with a small group or family, everyone will find something to enjoy—especially large portions and diverse flavors. And for travelers with limited time, this tour is a tasty, efficient way to see the best of Fort Lauderdale’s culinary scene without sacrificing depth or authenticity.

The Sum Up: Is the Fort Lauderdale Food & Drink Tour Worth It?

For anyone looking to combine culinary discovery with local history, this tour hits the mark. The guides are passionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely friendly, making the experience feel more like a gathering of friends than a tourist trap. The eight tastings and two drinks ensure you’ll go home well-fed, with plenty of new restaurant tips and stories to share.

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for personalized attention and lively conversation. Plus, the scenic pass-by of Fort Lauderdale’s iconic sights gives you a broader sense of the city’s unique character. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a foodie couple, or a small family, this tour offers excellent value—and lots of flavor.

In short, if you want to enjoy Fort Lauderdale through its food and stories, this tour will leave you satisfied, educated, and with a deeper appreciation for this vibrant city. Just bring your appetite and your curiosity—you’ll be glad you did.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if you inform the tour provider when booking.

How much does the Stranahan House Museum admission cost?
The admission fee is $12 for adults, and it is not included in the tour price.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately three hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the tastings and sights without feeling rushed.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes two alcoholic beverages, which are part of the experience.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at the Riverside Hotel located at 620 E Las Olas Blvd.

Is this suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the group size is limited to 14 for a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book at least 29 days ahead, as it’s a popular tour.

What makes this tour stand out?
Authentic local eateries, engaging guides, generous portions, and a blend of food, history, and scenery make this tour a memorable experience.

Whether you’re visiting Fort Lauderdale for a weekend or just want a delicious introduction to the city, this Food & Drink Tour offers a perfect mix of flavors, stories, and sights—making it one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a few hours in this lively Florida city.