French Quarters Best Food Tour: Signature Tastes of New Orleans

Planning a visit to New Orleans? One of the best ways to truly savor this city’s soul is through its food—and the French Quarters Best Food Tour offers just that. For around $75 per person, you’ll spend roughly three hours strolling through the historic heart of the city, sampling iconic dishes and listening to stories that bring the city’s culinary heritage to life. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour takes you to some of the most beloved local eateries, where you’ll taste everything from hearty jambalaya to sweet pralines, all in the company of fellow travelers.

What we love about this experience is how it combines delicious local food with fascinating history, making each tasting more meaningful. The fact that all tastings are included and serve as a full lunch means you can focus on enjoying the flavors without worrying about extra costs—an excellent value for a city renowned for its cuisine. We also appreciate how the tour visits a variety of spots, from historic candy stores to live jazz venues, giving you a well-rounded taste of what makes New Orleans unique.

A potential consideration is the tour’s strict dietary restrictions policy, which means vegetarians, vegans, or those with gluten sensitivities might find fewer options available. Plus, the tour’s group size maxes out at 16, which keeps things intimate, but might not suit those seeking a more private or flexible experience.

This tour really suits travelers who enjoy learning about local culture while indulging in authentic food—perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a taste of New Orleans’ diverse culinary roots, or repeat visitors wanting to uncover new stories behind familiar dishes.

Key Points

• Authentic Flavors: Sample Creole, Cajun, and French-inspired dishes, including jambalaya, po-boys, pralines, and beef brisket.
• Historic Places: Visits include iconic eateries like Laura’s Candies, the Court of Two Sisters, and the NOLA Creole Cookery.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Richard, Suzette, and Kim are praised for their expertise and storytelling.
• All-Inclusive Tasting: The tour covers a satisfying lunch, with all tastings included in the price—so no hidden costs.
• Limited Group Size: A maximum of 16 travelers ensures a personal experience and easy conversation.
• Great for Food Lovers: Perfect for those wanting a culinary overview with a side of local history.

Setting the Scene: Where You Start and End

The tour begins at 816 Decatur St, right near the lively French Market, making it convenient for travelers staying in or exploring this lively neighborhood. It lasts around three hours, which is just enough time to get a substantial taste of the city’s food scene without feeling rushed.

What sets this tour apart is its walk-focused approach—you’re not stuck on a bus or in a single restaurant. Instead, you’ll meander through the streets, soaking in both the sights and the smells of New Orleans’ most historic district. Ending back in the French Quarter, it’s easy to continue exploring or settle into a lively bar afterward.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Stop 1: Welcome at Tastebud Tours

Your adventure kicks off near the French Market, where your guide—often a local expert—welcomes you with a friendly vibe. The initial tastings are substantial enough to serve as lunch, so come hungry! As you stroll through the charming streets, your guide shares insights into the city’s culinary evolution, setting the stage for what’s to come.

This is a perfect way to get your bearings, learn a few fun facts, and start sampling some local favorites.

Stop 2: Laura’s Candies

Next, you visit Laura’s Candies, the oldest candy store in New Orleans. Here, you’ll sample Creole pralines and hand-dipped chocolates, made fresh daily with recipes dating back to the 18th century. It’s a sweet highlight and an excellent photo opportunity—plus, you’ll want to mail some home for friends and family.

Reviews praise this stop for its authenticity and nostalgic charm, with one guest noting, “The Creole pralines and candies here are made with recipes that date back centuries, and you can tell—they’re divine!”

Stop 3: The Court of Two Sisters

A highlight for many, The Court of Two Sisters is famed for its daily jazz brunch and its stunning courtyard filled with wisteria and fountains. Here, you’ll enjoy a muffuletta—a New Orleans classic—at the Poboy Tavern, blending history, atmosphere, and flavor seamlessly.

Guests often mention the beautiful setting and the chance to relax amidst history. One reviewer said, “Taking a stroll through the courtyard and enjoying the jazz made this stop special—like stepping back in time with a full stomach.”

Stop 4: Bourbon Street and Cornet Restaurant

A visit to Bourbon Street is a must, and your guide will take you to Cornet Restaurant, known for its largest balcony on Bourbon Street. This spot celebrates jazz and Creole culture, with dishes like jambalaya—a fan favorite—and perhaps a cocktail to toast the experience.

Many travelers love the vibrant atmosphere here, and one reviewer noted, “The authentic Cajun and Creole flavors at Cornet are what I came for—absolutely delicious.” It’s a lively stop with a focus on flavor and fun.

Stop 5: St. Louis Cathedral

A quick stop at St. Louis Cathedral offers a chance for photos and a moment to appreciate the historic architecture of the city’s most iconic church, founded in 1720. Although brief—about 5 minutes—the opportunity to see and photograph this landmark adds a sense of place to your tour.

Stop 6: Royal Street

A stroll down Royal Street reveals art galleries, antique shops, and street musicians. This lively stretch is considered one of the gems of the French Quarter and often earns praise for its vibe and scenery. It’s an excellent place to soak up the local artsy atmosphere and people-watch.

Stop 7: Po-Boys at NOLA Creole Cookery

Next, you visit NOLA Creole Cookery, famous for its gumbo YaYa and Po-Boys—another local staple. Guests often rave about the flavorful dishes and authentic atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for more local favorites and a relaxed, friendly environment.

Stop 8: Final Tasting at a Local Favorite

Your last stop is at a well-loved spot where you’ll taste red beans and rice and grilled oysters, rounding out your culinary journey. Many reviews highlight the generous portions and high-quality flavors.

Wrap Up: Continuing Your Exploration

The tour wraps up back in the French Quarter, leaving you free to explore further, whether that means grabbing a drink, visiting more sites, or simply wandering the streets.

The Food: More Than Just Tastes

What you’ll appreciate is how each stop is carefully chosen to showcase authentic New Orleans cuisine. Dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, po-boys, pralines, and red beans and rice are not just menu items—they are cultural symbols representing the city’s diverse influences.

Reviewers frequently mention the deliciousness of the food, describing it as bursting with flavor, beautifully presented, and authentic. One said, “The food was incredible and our guide had character describing the meals and ingredients as well. It was real enjoyment eating the meals.”

Guides: The Heart of the Tour

A common thread among reviews is the praise for guides like Suzette, Richard, Kim, and Roger. Their knowledge, personality, and storytelling ability elevate the experience from just a tasting to a memorable cultural lesson. Multiple guests mention how guides shared history, lore, or personal anecdotes, making the tour both educational and fun.

One guest exclaimed, “Suzette’s knowledge and personality made the tour special,” while another appreciated Kim for being “very helpful to new arrivals, giving lots of useful information beyond just the food.” These guides are clearly passionate about sharing their love of New Orleans, which makes a big difference.

The Value: Is It Worth It?

At $75, the tour offers all tastings included, which on its own is an excellent deal considering the quality and variety of food. Most reviews agree that the experience provides good value—you get to try multiple dishes, learn about their origins, and enjoy a relaxed walk through a historic neighborhood.

Because all tastings serve as a full lunch, the experience is ideal for foodies or travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to New Orleans’ signature flavors without the hassle of booking individual meals.

The limited group size—up to 16 people—ensures a personalized experience and friendly atmosphere. Plus, the entire experience runs rain or shine, which is important to consider when planning your day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a solid overview of New Orleans’ culinary scene, especially those interested in Creole, Cajun, and French-inspired foods. It’s also great for food lovers eager to sample multiple dishes and learn the stories behind them. However, if you have strict dietary needs like vegan or gluten-free diets, you’ll want to note the no substitution policy.

The French Quarters Best Food Tour offers a lively, flavorful, and informative introduction to New Orleans’ culinary heartbeat. With knowledgeable guides and a well-curated selection of historic eateries, it balances authentic food tasting with cultural storytelling—all in a relaxed, walkable setting. Travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions while indulging in delicious dishes will find this tour especially rewarding.

While not tailored for vegetarian or vegan diets, it offers exceptional value for those who want a full, satisfying lunch and a taste of the city’s soul. It’s a wonderful choice for first-timers or anyone wanting an authentic, fun, and tasty New Orleans experience.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
This tour does not currently support substitutions for dietary restrictions like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. It’s best suited for those who eat a standard diet.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the food and sights without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 816 Decatur St near the French Market and ends in the French Quarter, making it easy to continue exploring afterward.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs in all weather conditions unless it’s dangerous. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially in rain or heat.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
All tastings are included, but alcohol can be purchased during the tour. You’ll learn how to use the To-Go cups—a fun way to enjoy drinks on the move.

What size are the groups?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, creating a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, cancellations made 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable, so plan accordingly.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical, authentic, and delicious way to experience New Orleans’ food scene—perfect for those who want to combine history, culture, and cuisine in a relaxed, social setting. Whether you’re new to the city or a seasoned visitor, you’ll walk away with a full belly and a richer appreciation for the flavors that make the Big Easy so special.