Made in Brooklyn Food Tour

A Taste of Brooklyn’s Italian-American Heritage: Made in Brooklyn Food Tour

Imagine wandering through a neighborhood where every corner tells a story of Italian-American life — from bakeries filled with fragrant bread to specialty shops bursting with cheeses, meats, and pasta. That’s exactly what you get on the Made in Brooklyn Food Tour, a three-hour stroll through the heart of Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. Led by a passionate Brooklyn native, this tour offers a genuine glimpse into a neighborhood that’s proud of its roots and eager to share its culinary treasures.

For $65 per person, you’ll visit local businesses between 75th and 84th Streets and 14th and 18th Avenues, sampling more than just pizza and spaghetti. This is not a typical tourist trap — it’s an authentic, small-group experience focused on local flavors and community stories. Two things we love? First, the knowledgeable guide—a local who shares personal insights and neighborhood history, enriching each tasting. Second, the diversity of tastings beyond pizza, including baked goods, cheeses, heroes, and ravioli, giving you a broader appreciation of Italian-American cuisine.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is designed for those comfortable with walking and with an interest in authentic food experiences. It’s not a sit-down meal but a lively, engaging exploration, so if you’re looking for a leisurely, sit-down tasting, this might not be for you. Also, since it’s mostly outdoors and weather-dependent, dressing appropriately is key.

If you’re a traveler who loves uncovering local stories, enjoys foodie adventures beyond the usual, and appreciates learning about a community’s cultural fabric, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Authentic neighborhood experience: Walk through Bensonhurst, a less touristy Brooklyn neighborhood with a deep Italian-American heritage.
• Local guide’s insights: A Brooklyn native shares personal stories, neighborhood history, and restaurant background.
• Diverse food tastings: Beyond pizza, enjoy baked goods, cheeses, heroes, and ravioli, showcasing the variety of Italian-American fare.
• Small group size: With a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour feels intimate and personalized.
• Cost-effectiveness: At $65, the tour offers a well-rounded taste of local flavors and culture, making it good value.
• Weather dependence: Operates in all weather, so dress for the forecast.

In-Depth Review of the Made in Brooklyn Food Tour

The Neighborhood: Bensonhurst’s Hidden Charm

Bensonhurst may not be as famous as Manhattan’s Little Italy, but it’s a treasure trove of culinary and cultural authenticity. The tour focuses on a specific area between 75th and 84th Streets and 14th and 18th Avenues—an enclave of Italian-American life that’s retained its character over generations. It’s a place where the scent of baked bread and roasted meats mingle in the air, and local shop owners greet you like family.

Walking through these streets, you immediately understand why Brooklyn remains a magnet for diverse communities. Your guide, Dom, a true Brooklynite, shares stories about the neighborhood’s evolution, how Italian-American traditions have persisted amid change, and the ways local businesses have kept their heritage alive.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour begins at 1635 Bay Ridge Parkway, where your guide will gather your small group — no more than 16 people, ensuring personalized interaction. Over the next three hours, you’ll visit a variety of local shops and eateries, sampling specialties that highlight the neighborhood’s culinary craftsmanship.

Stops include bakeries with freshly baked Italian breads and pastries, cheese shops offering aged and specialty cheeses, and shops selling traditional heroes and ravioli. Each hotel is family-owned or longstanding, adding an extra layer of authenticity. You’ll learn about the craftsmanship behind each product, from the baker’s secret recipes to the cheese-maker’s aging process.

The tour concludes at Lioni’s Italian Heroes at 7803 15th Ave, where you can see how the local heroes are made and perhaps pick up a sandwich to take home.

Food Tastings: More Than Just Pizza

Unlike many food tours that focus heavily on pizza, this experience emphasizes a broader spectrum of Italian-American foods. You’ll sample baked goods, cheeses, and savory heroes, along with ravioli — showcasing the diversity that Brooklyn’s Italian-American communities have cultivated over the years.

Guests have raved about the deliciousness of the samples, with one reviewer noting, “Food samples were delicious, adding to the experience of the tour.” The guide’s personal connections with shop owners make the tastings feel special and genuine, not canned or overly commercialized.

Why We Loved It

Our favorite aspect was the insider perspective provided by Dom, who knew everyone and shared stories about how these local businesses have thrived over decades. The fact that he personally knew the shop owners added a warmth that’s hard to find on generic tours.

Another highlight was the variety of foods sampled — it’s a perfect way to broaden your palate and understand the nuances of Italian-American cuisine. From the savory to the sweet, every stop added a new layer to the neighborhood’s story.

Considerations for Visitors

The main consideration is that this tour involves walking through a neighborhood in Brooklyn, so comfortable shoes are essential. Also, since the tour operates rain or shine, dress appropriately for the weather. The experience isn’t suitable for children under 18 or those with specific dietary restrictions, as the focus is on traditional, meat- and dairy-based foods that contain gluten.

Authenticity and Value

At $65, this tour offers superb value — especially considering the number of tastings and the depth of local stories shared. It’s an affordable way to get a meaningful taste of Brooklyn’s Italian-American heritage without the crowds or touristy gimmicks.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic local culture and want a deeper understanding of Brooklyn’s diverse communities. It’s perfect for food lovers eager to try something beyond typical pizza slices, and those curious about the history behind the food they eat. If you enjoy small-group settings and engaging guides, this tour provides exactly that.

It’s also ideal if you prefer to explore neighborhoods on foot, soaking in the sights and smells that define Bensonhurst. If you’re visiting Brooklyn and want to combine a walk with a culinary adventure, it’s a worthwhile choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, it’s designed for guests 18 and over, mainly due to the food types involved, which contain meat, dairy, and gluten.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you enough time to experience several stops without feeling rushed.

Are beverages included?
Beverages are not included in the tour price, but you might find opportunities to purchase drinks at the stops or bring your own.

What if it rains?
The tour operates rain or shine. Be sure to dress for the weather — an umbrella or raincoat is recommended if rain is forecasted.

Can I cancel or change my reservation?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. If canceled due to weather, a different date or a full refund is offered.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 1635 Bay Ridge Parkway and ends at Lioni’s Italian Heroes at 7803 15th Ave.

Final Thoughts

The Made in Brooklyn Food Tour offers a lively, authentic peek into Bensonhurst’s Italian-American community. It’s ideal for those who enjoy discovering local traditions through food, guided by someone who knows the neighborhood inside out. With its focus on real, family-run businesses and delicious tastings, it promises a memorable, tasty journey into Brooklyn’s diverse heritage.

If you’re after a genuine slice of Brooklyn life — with stories, community spirit, and flavors that go beyond the usual tourist fare — this tour is a smart choice. It’s more than just a food experience; it’s a window into a neighborhood’s soul, served up with plenty of personality and good eats.