A Delicious Journey Through Richmond’s Pizza and Ice Cream Scene
Imagine spending an afternoon exploring the streets of Richmond, Virginia, not just by foot but through bites and scoops. For $94 per person, you get approximately three and a half hours of indulgence, hopping onto a cozy 14-passenger bus with a friendly guide (we hear Lindsay and Erin are especially knowledgeable). The tour whisks you to three carefully curated pizzerias and three artisan ice cream shops, each known for their unique takes on comfort food. It’s an experience that balances flavor, fun, and a touch of local charm.
What we love most about this tour is the chance to taste naturally fermented sourdough pizza, and observe NY-style giant slices—both offering a different vibe from your usual chain pizza. Plus, visiting an award-winning ice cream maker’s first scoop shop gives a sense of authentic craftsmanship. Another highlight is the up-close stories about local restaurant owners, which turn each stop into more than just food—it’s about local culture and passion.
A possible consideration is that some venues are take-out only or may not serve water, so coming prepared with a bottle can make the experience more comfortable. If you’re someone who enjoys discovering a city’s flavors without the hassle of planning, this tour is right up your alley—ideal for food lovers, families, or groups wanting a relaxed, authentic taste of Richmond.
Key Points
- Diverse pizza styles: From naturally fermented sourdough crusts to New York giant slices, each place offers a unique experience.
- Quality ice cream stops: Including a Clash of the Cones winner and New England-style flavors, ensuring a sweet variety.
- Small group intimacy: Max 12 travelers, which means more personalized attention and lively conversations.
- Informative guides: Guides like Lindsay and Erin share stories of each restaurant, adding depth to the tasting experience.
- Value for money: Includes six tastings, private air-conditioned transportation, and a relaxed pace.
- Flexible cancellation: Free up to 24 hours ahead, making it easy to adapt if your plans change.
Planning more time in Richmond? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Deep Dive into the Richmond Pizza & Ice Cream Tour
The Tour Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop
The tour begins at Patrick Henry Park in the early afternoon, where a friendly guide greets you and sets the tone for an enjoyable, unhurried outing. You’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned bus that whisks you around Richmond’s culinary gems.
First Stop: Pizza Bones RVA / FriendBar
Here, the focus is on pizza made with naturally-fermented dough, which is like sourdough but specially crafted for pizza. This stop is a strong start because the fermentation process gives the crust a depth of flavor and a satisfying tang. The 20-minute tasting allows you to sample the difference that natural fermentation makes. Multiple reviews express enthusiasm for this: “The pizza was different in each place, but I couldn’t pick a favorite—loved them all!”
Second Stop: Ruby Scoops Ice Cream & Sweets
Next, your sweet tooth gets a treat at Ruby Scoops, where you sample a unique flavor that’s a Clash of the Cones winner—meaning it’s recognized for its creativity and quality. The 20-minute window offers enough time to savor this scoop while soaking in some local stories. Reviewers rave about the ice cream: “The ice cream was amazing, a different flavor at each stop.” It’s clear that Ruby Scoops is a Richmond staple for artisanal ice cream.
Third Stop: Zorch Pizza
This stop introduces NY-style slices, characterized by their giant proportions and crispy crusts. It’s a fun contrast to the first pizza place, offering a different style and atmosphere. The reviews highlight the generous slices and the craftsmanship behind them. Expect a quick 20-minute taste, perfect for satisfying hunger without overdoing it.
Fourth Stop: Bev’s Homemade Ice Cream & Café
Here, the focus is on New England-style ice cream, often denser and creamier, served in classic flavors. The 20-minute sampling rounds out your sweet experience, giving you a taste of regional ice cream traditions. Many reviewers appreciated the consistency and quality: “The flavors were classic, but the quality made all the difference.”
Fifth Stop: 8 1/2 Church Hill
This venue is known for its white pizza with handmade dough—a real highlight for those who love a delicate, crispy crust with a flavorful topping. The 20-minute window is enough to enjoy the white pizza and hear some stories about the restaurant’s history or its craft. Reviewers mention the specialty handmade dough as a standout feature.
Sixth Stop: Spotty Dog Ice Cream Co.
Your tour concludes at one of Richmond’s newest scoop shops, giving you a chance to enjoy a final, memorable ice cream. It’s a perfect wrap-up, leaving you with a sweet taste of the city’s evolving dessert scene. The reviews are glowing: “One of the best ways to end the tour—full stomachs, happy hearts.”
Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value
The private transportation ensures a smooth experience, avoiding the hassle of parking or navigating city streets on your own. With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour stays intimate, allowing for more personal interactions and a relaxed pace. The cost of $94 covers all six tastings plus the transportation, which many reviewers agree offers good value for the quality and quantity of food. Several mention that they left feeling satisfied without overstuffed, thanks to the well-paced stops.
Why This Tour Works
Reviews consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Lindsay and Erin. Their anecdotes and stories add depth to each tasting, turning food into a narrative of Richmond’s vibrant culinary scene. The mix of take-out-only venues and sit-down spots may be a surprise for some, but it’s part of the charm—highlighting the city’s diverse food culture.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is perfect for foodies eager to try a variety of styles without the hassle of planning. It’s also great for families or groups of friends looking for a fun, social outing. Because of the small group size and the casual pace, it’s suitable for most ages, but those with gluten or dairy sensitivities might want to inquire further, as those are not always accommodated. Travelers who appreciate authentic local flavors, engaging stories, and memorable bites will find this tour to be a highlight of their time in Richmond.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
If you love pizza and ice cream—or just enjoy discovering culinary gems in a relaxed, guided setting—this tour offers a delightful way to spend an afternoon. You’ll sample everything from sourdough crusts to giant NY slices and artisan ice creams from award-winning shops, all while learning about Richmond’s food scene from passionate guides.
The value is clear: six tastings, private transportation, and the chance to explore six different spots in just over three hours. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Richmond’s food culture without the stress of planning or long waits. Plus, the enthusiastic reviews from past participants highlight how fun, tasty, and personable the experience is.
Whether you’re a local wanting to see your city through a new lens or a visitor eager to indulge in local favorites, this tour hits the sweet spot of authenticity, variety, and good company. Rest assured, you’ll leave not only with a happy stomach but with stories and recommendations to share.
FAQs
Do I need to bring water?
While bottled water isn’t included, it’s a good idea to bring a bottle, especially since some venues are take-out only and may not serve water.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with six tastings spread across multiple locations.
What is included in the price?
The $94 fee covers all six tastings—three pizza stops and three ice cream shops—plus private, air-conditioned transportation and the guided experience.
Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, reviews mention that it’s appropriate for a wide age range, from children to seniors, making it a fun family activity. Just note that it’s a tasting tour, so kids should be prepared for some eating and walking.
Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour notes mention it’s not recommended for gluten or dairy sensitivities, so if you have those, it’s worth checking in advance.
What is the group size?
A maximum of 12 travelers means you get a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunity for questions and conversation.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations less than that won’t be refunded, so plan accordingly.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This experience is best suited for food lovers who enjoy trying different styles of pizza and ice cream in one go. It’s also perfect for small groups or families looking for a relaxed, social outing that offers both tasty bites and local stories. If you appreciate guides who bring enthusiasm and knowledge to the table, this tour will leave you satisfied and eager to explore more of Richmond’s culinary scene.
In short, if you’re in Richmond and want a fun, filling, and flavorful adventure, this tour is a fantastic choice—filling your stomach and your Instagram with authentic taste of the city.