Tequila, Tacos & Tombstones: Old Town Food & Drink Walking Tour

Tequila, Tacos & Tombstones: Exploring Old Town San Diego

If you’re craving a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine combined with a stroll through history, the Tequila, Tacos & Tombstones tour might be just what you need. For around $90 per person, you’ll spend approximately 2 hours 30 minutes exploring the heart of Old Town San Diego, visiting top-rated eateries, historic sites, and ghostly landmarks. Led by guides who share stories with enthusiasm, this experience packs in flavorful bites and fascinating tales.

What we love most about this tour is the delicious food and drinks — especially the hearty tacos and margaritas — and the informative storytelling from guides like Benedict or Magda, who clearly enjoy sharing their knowledge. The lively mariachi music along the way adds a fun, festive vibe. On the flip side, a potential snag is the limited walking — some reviews mention that the pace tends to lean more toward eating than strolling through different parts of Old Town. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, flavorful deep-dive into San Diego’s history and culture, especially if you love Mexican food and ghost stories.

Key Points

• Authentic cuisine: Sample hearty tacos, salsas, and fresh tortillas made to order.
• Tequila cocktails: Enjoy classic drinks like margaritas at select stops.
• Historical insights: Learn about Native Americans, Spanish, Mexicans, and the California gold rush.
• Haunted tales: Discover ghost stories linked to sites like Whaley House and El Campo Santo Cemetery.
• Guides’ expertise: Guides like Benedict and Magda are praised for their engaging storytelling.
• Great value: Sufficient tastings to feel like a full meal, with insider tips on Old Town’s best spots.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

The tour begins at Cafe Coyote, a lively spot well known for its vibrant atmosphere and prime location in Old Town. From the moment you meet your guide, usually at 2461 San Diego Ave, you’re immediately immersed in the neighborhood’s historic charm. Old Town has long been considered the “Birthplace of California”, with roots stretching back centuries — Native tribes, Spanish explorers, Mexican settlers, and gold rush prospectors all left their mark here.

What Makes the Tour Special?

Two aspects make this experience stand out. First, the food. The selected restaurants are praised for their quality, with plenty of hearty dishes, including tacos, salsas, and tortillas, made fresh at each stop. As one reviewer noted, “The tacos are huge so come hungry,” and another raved about the “delicious carnitas taco.” The cocktail stops with tequila-based drinks add a nice touch of authenticity, and the margaritas tend to be a highlight for many guests, with some reviewers describing them as beyond expectations.

Second, the storytelling. Guides like Benedict and Magda are celebrated for their knowledge and engaging manner. Guests often mention that the guides keep the group interested with lively stories about Old Town’s history, ghost sightings, and local legends. For example, one reviewer said, “Magda was very knowledgeable and made the tour a lot of fun,” emphasizing that the guides’ enthusiasm enhances the overall experience.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour includes four main stops, each with its own appeal:

Whaley House Museum: Known as the “most haunted house in America,” it’s a must-see. The tour explores its mid-19th-century Greek Revival architecture and spooky stories. Guests often comment on how the house adds a mysterious twist to the walk.

Old Town Trading Company: Here, guests can find authentic souvenirs and gain insight into local craftsmanship. While not detailed in reviews, this stop offers a glimpse into the local culture.

Casa de Estudillo: This historic adobe home, built in the 19th century, reveals more about the region’s Spanish and Mexican past. Guests appreciate hearing stories about early settlers and the architecture.

El Campo Santo Cemetery: Walking past this old cemetery, you’ll hear ghost tales and learn about early residents. It’s a fitting end to the spooky side of the tour, with several reviews mentioning that the ghost stories add an extra layer of intrigue.

Food and Drink

The tastings are plentiful — enough to constitute a satisfying meal. Guests typically sample tacos, made with fresh tortillas, along with various salsas and hearty fillings like pork or carnitas. Several reviews highlight the generous portion sizes, with one stating, “The tacos are huge,” and another saying, “The food was very good, and margaritas were a fun treat.”

The tequila cocktails are well-liked, especially at stops where live mariachi music adds a festive flair. Guests often mention the drinks as a highlight, with some saying they went beyond their expectations.

Group Size and Pacing

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, allowing the guides to engage more personally with guests. Most reviews note that the pace is relaxed, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the food and ambiance. However, a few guests felt the tour was somewhat rushed or spent more time eating than walking, so if you prefer a more active or historical walk, you might find it a bit light on the outdoor exploration.

Value for Money

At $90 per person, the tour offers a solid balance of food, drinks, and entertainment. The amount of tasting, combined with the historical insights, makes it a good deal—especially for those who want a memorable, multi-sensory experience of Old Town without having to plan multiple outings.

Practical Considerations

Note that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility considerations, as it involves walking but at a leisurely pace. It’s also a mobile ticket experience, allowing flexibility in travel plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers eager to try authentic Mexican cuisine, history buffs interested in California’s early days, and ghost story enthusiasts. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or even locals wanting a relaxed way to rediscover Old Town. Since many reviews mention engaging guides and generous tastings, it’s especially good for those looking for a fun, informative, and delicious afternoon.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
The tour primarily features Mexican dishes like tacos and salsas, so vegetarians might want to check with the guide about specific options beforehand.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 2.5 hours, with enough time at each stop for tasting and storytelling without feeling rushed.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes sample cocktails made with tequila along with food tastings, making it a good value for those wanting to indulge.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Cafe Coyote on San Diego Ave and ends at Fiesta de Reyes in the same area, perfect for exploring more afterward.

Is the tour child-friendly?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on food, history, and ghost stories suggests it’s suitable for older children and teenagers who enjoy these themes.

Are there any restrictions?
Service animals are allowed, but most travelers can participate. The tour requires a minimum of 4 guests to operate.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What about dietary restrictions?
It’s best to contact the tour provider directly for options if you have specific dietary needs.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum is 15 travelers, ensuring a friendly, intimate experience.

Is transportation provided?
No, you’ll need to meet at the starting point; there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off.

Final Thoughts

The Tequila, Tacos & Tombstones tour offers a delightful combination of authentic Mexican flavors, haunted history, and local culture in San Diego’s Old Town. Guides like Benedict or Magda bring the stories alive, making history fun and accessible. The generous tastings and lively atmosphere make it a great value, especially if you’re looking for a relaxed, flavorful way to spend an afternoon.

While it leans more toward food and storytelling than a deep historical walk, it’s perfect for those who want a taste of Mexico right in California, with a side of ghostly legends. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local wanting to see Old Town through a fresh lens, this tour promises a memorable, tasty, and slightly spooky experience.

This tour is best suited for foodies, history lovers, and anyone wanting a fun, relaxed exploration of Old Town’s vibrant culture and spooky stories. If you’re hungry for authentic bites and engaging tales, it’s a tasty way to spend part of your San Diego visit.