Tampa isn’t just about sunshine and beautiful beaches; it’s also a city bursting with flavor. Its culinary scene reflects a mix of cultural influences, especially Cuban, Spanish, and Italian roots, making food tours an ideal way to explore. We particularly enjoy the Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays for its lively neighborhood vibe and authentic bites like Cuban sandwiches and café con leche, as well as the Downtown Tampa Food with Drink and Cultural Walking Tour, which combines waterfront views with fine wine and regional dishes. These experiences are perfect for those wanting to soak in local history while satisfying their taste buds.
Tampa’s diverse culinary offerings extend from historic districts to scenic riverwalks, making its food tours both fun and educational. Whether you prefer a walk through lively neighborhoods like Ybor City, a scenic water-front stroll paired with wine, or a more private tailored experience, Tampa’s food scene won’t disappoint.
Quick Overview
Our list features eight top food tours in Tampa, each offering a different way to enjoy local flavors. From guided walking adventures in historic neighborhoods to scenic waterfront tastings, you’ll find options suited for every appetite and interest. Some tours focus heavily on history and culture, like the Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour, while others blend culinary delights with scenic views such as the Tampa Riverwalk Street Food by the Bay. Now, let’s take a closer look at each.
1. Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays
This small-group walking tour offers a delightful taste of Tampa’s most famous neighborhood, Ybor City. For about $89, you’ll spend roughly three hours exploring with a local guide who shares insights into the area’s history and culture. You’ll sample between four and five food and drink tastings, including the iconic Cuban sandwich, cafe con leche, and more.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic Ybor flavors and accessible design — it’s wheelchair and stroller friendly. The tour kicks off at Jose Marti Park, a site that’s as steeped in history as the food is in flavor. Tour guides like Sarge, praised for their storytelling, bring the neighborhood alive — “Loved hearing history of Ybor & seeing relevant locations & eating corresponding food,” said one reviewer. The amount of food is generous, so come hungry and prepared to take leftovers home.
Bottom line: This tour offers a fantastic blend of history, culture, and hearty eats, ideal for those wanting a relaxed introduction to Ybor’s vibrant food scene.
2. Downtown Tampa Food with Drink and Cultural Walking Tour by TBFT
Priced at $123.95, this three-hour tour is perfect for those who love pairing food with beverages, especially wine. It starts at Malio’s and takes you along the Scenic Tampa Riverwalk, a highlight in itself. With visits to 4 to 5 restaurants, each offering their best tastings, you’ll enjoy a variety of culinary styles, including Spanish tapas at Spain Restaurant, where traditional recipes from Galicia are served amid a lively modern setting.
This tour is unique because it combines waterfront views, local history, and culinary craftsmanship with three beverages included. The route’s scenic stops make it as much about the visuals as the food. During the tour, you’ll learn about Tampa’s art and history, enriching your understanding of the city’s identity. Guests rave about the pairings and the quality of the food, making it a worthwhile splurge.
Bottom line: This experience suits food and drink lovers who appreciate a scenic stroll and a touch of culture with their meal.
3. Tampa Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours
This three-hour walking tour costs $105 and dives into the heart of Ybor City with a focus on classic Tampa bites. It’s highly rated (5 stars from four reviews) for its balance of history and flavor. The tour includes stops at the Ybor City Museum State Park, Centennial Park, and Florida’s oldest restaurant, which has hosted celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Babe Ruth.
What makes it special is the variety of authentic foods — from Cuban sandwiches to deviled crab and handcrafted guava pastries. Guides like those from Secret Food Tours are known for their engaging storytelling, making each taste more meaningful. The tour also explores hidden corners of Ybor, revealing local curiosities and food favorites that you might not find alone.
Bottom line: For travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Ybor’s culinary and historic landscape, this tour offers a rich, well-rounded experience.
4. Tampa Secret Food Tours
This 3-hour secret food tour costs $101 and promises a surprising journey through Tampa’s culinary scene. It’s designed for those interested in local culture and unexpected flavors. The tour features plenty of food, including signature dishes that reveal Tampa’s diverse influences, especially Cuban, Spanish, and Italian roots.
While there are only four reviews, all rate it highly (4.8/5). The focus on local secrets and hidden gems makes this a good choice for adventurous eaters eager to explore lesser-known spots. The tour’s highlight is the “secret dish” that adds an element of surprise.
Bottom line: If you’re after a less touristy, more insider experience, this tour offers a delicious peek behind Tampa’s culinary curtain.
5. Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour
For $89, this 3-hour tour is a crowd favorite — with nearly 2,000 reviews and a perfect 5-star rating. It’s the most comprehensive Ybor City experience, taking you to up to six eateries. The guide provides narration about the neighborhood’s history while you explore on foot, tasting everything from Cuban sandwiches to local drinks.
What sets it apart is the depth of food tastings and the ease of the meeting point at Jimmy John’s. Reviewers consistently highlight the generous portions and knowledgeable guides. “Highly recommend to anyone new to the area or even if you’ve lived here for a while,” one reviewer said.
Bottom line: This is ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting an extensive, well-rounded taste of Ybor City’s food and history.
$89.00 per person
6. Downtown Tampa: 3-Hour Food and Wine Tour
At $145, this tour offers a premium experience combining food and adult beverages in downtown Tampa. The route includes 4 to 5 restaurant tastings paired with three wines or cocktails, all within a scenic urban setting. The tour emphasizes Tampa’s culture, art, and history, with stops at notable venues along the Riverwalk.
While reviews aren’t available yet, the itinerary suggests a luxurious, curated experience tailored for foodies who enjoy pairing. If you’re looking for an elevated culinary outing with a focus on pairings and city sights, this tour delivers.
Bottom line: Best suited for adults seeking a refined, intimate food and drink experience in downtown Tampa.
$145 per person
7. Private Walking Food Tour in Tampa
This customizable private tour costs $370 per person and offers a personalized culinary adventure. It covers key spots like Ybor City Museum, Centennial Park, and Florida’s oldest restaurant, with tailored stops along the way. The itinerary is similar to the larger group tours but curated to your tastes.
While this tour is the most expensive, it appeals to those who want exclusive access and a flexible schedule. The private guide can adjust the focus, whether you’re passionate about Cuban cuisine, local history, or hidden food spots.
Bottom line: Ideal for foodies seeking a tailored, intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide.
$370.00 per person
8. Tampa Riverwalk Street Food by the Bay 3 Hour Walking Food Tour
This $109 tour explores Tampa’s bustling waterfront over three hours, focusing on local street food and quirky history. Starting at the Tampa Bay History Center, the tour moves along to Sparkman Wharf, where colorful shipping containers house diverse eateries. Along the way, you’ll participate in a walking trivia contest and enjoy signature eats.
The tour’s quirky, interactive style makes it fun for all ages, especially those who like mixing food with entertainment. While reviews aren’t yet available, the itinerary’s mix of food, history, and humor makes it promising.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a lively, social experience exploring Tampa’s waterfront flavors with a playful twist.
$109.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Food Tour in Tampa
When choosing your ideal food tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you love history and hearty bites in a lively neighborhood, the Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour is unbeatable. For a scenic, wine-paired experience, look into the Downtown Tampa Food with Drink and Cultural Walking Tour. Budget-conscious travelers can’t go wrong with the Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays, which offers ample tastings at a reasonable price.
For those seeking private, customizable experiences, the Private Walking Food Tour offers flexibility and exclusivity. And if you want a fun, interactive waterfront adventure, the Tampa Riverwalk Street Food combines quirky stories with delicious bites.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons, so plan ahead to secure a spot. Each tour offers a different slice of Tampa’s culinary scene, so choose based on what kind of experience excites you most.
To sum it up, Tampa offers a diverse range of food tours perfect for all tastes. Whether you’re a history buff, a wine enthusiast, or simply a foodie eager to taste local flavors, you’ll find an experience that fits. The Ybor City tours stand out for their authentic, hearty flavors, while waterfront options like the Riverwalk Street Food add a lively, social element. Don’t forget to book early — these tasty adventures fill up fast!