Dublin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

Dublin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

This 3.5-hour journey through Dublin’s streets is more than just a tasting session; it’s a chance to discover the city’s authentic flavors, local stories, and hidden gems. For $117.04 per person, you’ll visit a handful of top spots, from cozy cafes to lively pubs, all while learning about Dublin’s culinary traditions. Led by engaging guides, this tour is limited to 12 guests, ensuring a personal touch and plenty of interaction.

What we particularly like are the variety of tastings—everything from traditional Irish breakfast to artisanal cheeses, oysters, and even Irish ice cream. Plus, the added bonus of pairing your food with Irish cream liqueur and local beer makes each stop feel like a little celebration. The tour also covers iconic sights like Trinity College and the Guinness Storehouse, blending sightseeing with tasting.

A potential downside? The itinerary is subject to change depending on weather, restaurant availability, and other factors, so it’s good to stay flexible. This tour suits those who want a relaxed, intimate experience—ideal for foodies, culture lovers, and travelers eager to get a taste of Dublin beyond the typical tourist spots.

Key Points

• Authentic local flavor: Experience Dublin’s culinary heritage through carefully selected, locally owned eateries.
• Personalized experience: Small group size of 12 or fewer guarantees attentive guides and more engaging stories.
• Diverse tastings: From Irish breakfast to cheese, oysters, ice cream, and secret dishes—enough for a hearty meal.
• Cultural insights: Learn about Dublin’s neighborhoods, landmarks, and history with every bite.
• Expert guides: Guides like Ann, Ciaran, Lee, and Colm are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling.
• Convenient locations: Starts at College Green and ends near Wicklow Street, with near public transportation access.

A Deep Dive into the Dublin Food Tour Experience

Starting Point: Vice Coffee Inc

Your Dublin adventure begins at the trendy Vice Coffee Inc on College Green. Here, you’ll learn how to craft their award-winning Irish Coffee—a perfect warm-up for the day. The baristas are eager to share their secrets, and you’ll get to enjoy the final product. This stop is more than just a caffeine fix; it’s about understanding Dublin’s take on a classic cocktail, blending creamy Irish whiskey with rich coffee and whipped cream. The relaxed vibe of this spot sets a friendly tone for the tour.

Exploring Essex Street: Baked Goods and Secret Food

Next, you’ll head to 8 Essex St W, a cozy bakery where the smell of sizzling sausage rolls from the oven fills the air. The warm pastry, packed with flavorful sausage, stands as a testament to Dublin’s hearty, no-nonsense approach to comfort food. Notably, your guide will reveal a “Secret Food” here, adding an element of surprise that keeps the experience lively and engaging. As one reviewer noted, the sausage pastry roll was a highlight—“delicious” and memorable.

Artisanal Cheeses in a Local Restaurant

Moving into a popular restaurant, you’ll sample a selection of Irish cheeses—a true reflection of Ireland’s dairy prowess. The guide might share insights into regional cheese making and Ireland’s proud tradition of cheese craftsmanship. This tasting is not just about flavor but also about understanding how Irish cheeses differ from those of other countries, making it a worthwhile stop for cheese lovers.

Seafood at Sprangers Yard: Fresh Oysters

A visit to Sprangers Yard brings you to a quaint seafood venue where you’ll savor a fresh oyster from Flaggy Shore, Co Clare. Oysters are a quintessential Irish delicacy, and the experience of eating one right from the sea is genuinely special. The guide will likely share stories about Ireland’s oyster beds and seafood culture. If you’ve never tried oysters before, this stop might convert you—one reviewer described the oyster as “fresh and perfect.”

Lunch in Temple Bar: Irish Classics

The tour’s midpoint is a reserved lunch table in the vibrant Temple Bar area. Here, you’ll enjoy traditional Irish dishes served with homemade soda bread—a simple yet hearty staple. The lively atmosphere of Temple Bar offers a taste of Dublin’s bustling pub culture, and eating in such an iconic spot means you’re truly experiencing the city’s social heart. This stop is especially appreciated for its generous portions and authentic flavors, according to reviews.

Sweet Finale: Irish Ice Cream on Grafton Street

Your last stop is a treat—Irish ice cream with interesting flavors and a twist. With the bustling Grafton Street as a backdrop, you’ll get to savor this creamy dessert, which many reviewers rave about. The ice cream’s flavors are said to have “a twist,” making it a memorable way to end your culinary adventure.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour package includes a variety of delicious items—brownie, pork sausage rolls, Irish cheeses, oysters, Irish stew, artisanal ice cream, secret dish, Irish coffee, and beverages like water, soft drinks, or local beer. These tastings are plentiful enough to constitute a full meal, making this a great value.

You’ll also benefit from local tips and stories about Dublin’s neighborhoods and landmarks. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness, with many reviews highlighting Ann, Ciaran, Lee, and Colm as exceptional storytellers and hosts.

The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your transportation accordingly. It’s accessible via public transit and generally suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Note that minimum drinking age is 18 and children under 13 are not accommodated.

Authenticity and Value

This tour is clearly designed to give you a genuine taste of Dublin’s culinary scene. Unlike generic food tours, the small group size (max 12) means you get personalized attention, inside stories, and the chance to ask questions. The variety of tastings—ranging from traditional Irish fare to seafood and desserts—ensures you experience the city’s diverse flavors.

The price point is reasonable considering the quality and quantity of food, combined with the cultural insights. As many reviewers noted, guides like Ann and Ciaran are passionate and knowledgeable, which elevates the experience beyond just eating.

The Benefits of a Small Group

Traveling in a small group enhances the social aspect—guests comment on the friendly atmosphere and engaging guides. It’s not just a tasting; it’s a shared discovery of Dublin’s neighborhoods, landmarks, and stories.

Flexibility and Surprises

The itinerary is subject to change, which can be a plus—your guides might introduce a “Secret Dish” or adapt based on weather and availability. This element of unpredictability keeps the tour lively and fresh.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a food enthusiast eager to taste authentic Irish dishes and learn their stories, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s also great for history buffs who enjoy pairing cultural insights with culinary stops. Travelers looking for an intimate, relaxed pace will appreciate the small group setting. It’s ideal for those who want to see Dublin’s key sights while savoring its flavors without the rush of larger bus tours.

Final Thoughts

This Dublin food tour offers a fantastic way to spend a few hours exploring the city through its tummies. The combination of delicious tastings, engaging storytelling, and sightseeing makes it both enjoyable and educational. The guides consistently earn praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make every guest feel welcome.

While the itinerary may shift based on weather or availability, that flexibility adds an element of surprise that many travelers find appealing. For anyone wanting a taste of Dublin’s local life—beyond the typical tourist spots—this tour delivers a well-balanced mix of flavor, fun, and storytelling.

In the end, it’s a chance to eat like a true Dubliner, uncover hidden gems, and create memorable moments in Ireland’s lively capital. Perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, and anyone eager to savor authentic Irish culture.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
It depends on specific needs; since the tour involves traditional Irish foods like seafood and pork, it’s best to contact the tour provider ahead of booking to see if they can accommodate special diets.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation is not included. The tour starts at College Green and ends near Wicklow Street, both accessible via public transit.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including multiple food stops and sightseeing.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 or fewer guests, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes Irish coffee, local beer, water, and soft drinks, depending on the stop.

Can children join the tour?
Children under 13 are not suitable, and the minimum drinking age is 18.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 56 days early, so it’s wise to reserve well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply curious about Dublin’s local flavors, this tour offers a flavorful, fun-filled way to experience the city’s culture. It’s a memorable blend of tastes, sights, and stories—all within a cozy group setting and guided by passionate locals.