Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour

Discover the Flavors and Stories of Old Town Scottsdale with a Food Tour

Imagine wandering through the charming streets of Scottsdale’s historic Old Town, your senses alive with enticing aromas and vibrant sights. For about $70, you can join a 3-hour walking experience that takes you to several beloved local eateries—from hand-crafted pizzas to hearty British pasties, and authentic Mexican tacos. Led by knowledgeable guides like Maggie or John, this tour offers not only a taste of the area’s best food but also a glimpse into the city’s culture, history, and community.

What really makes this experience stand out are the variety of stops and the authenticity of the food. We appreciated the chance to sample made-from-scratch dishes at Craft 64, or enjoy a delicious French macaron at Re Cake House. The small group size (max 16 travelers) guarantees a friendly, personalized vibe, and the insider tips from guides help you discover hidden gems beyond the tour stops.

One thing to consider is the moderate walking pace—you’ll cover roughly 1.5 miles on foot, which might be a stretch if you have mobility issues or prefer sitting more often. Also, keep in mind that kids under 11 aren’t allowed, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible due to seating arrangements. Nonetheless, this tour is a fantastic choice for food lovers, history buffs, and those eager to see Scottsdale’s lively Old Town through its culinary highlights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy sampling a variety of dishes while learning about local culture, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for adults with an interest in history and food, and those who don’t mind walking a bit. It’s also great for first-time visitors looking to get a well-rounded taste of Scottsdale’s culinary scene and vibrant downtown ambiance.

Key Points

• Authentic Food Experience: Tastes from local favorites, from handcrafted pizzas to British pasties and Mexican tacos.
• Small Group Setting: Personal attention from guides and a chance to connect with fellow travelers.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Scottsdale’s history and culture while exploring scenic streets.
• Flexible Options: Vegetarian options available; dietary restrictions are limited.
• Value for Money: For $70, you get multiple tastings, drinks, and insider tips.
• Walking Distance: 1.5 miles over three hours, suitable for those comfortable with light walking.

A Detailed Look at the Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour

The Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

Your adventure begins at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, a hub that sets the tone for a day filled with local stories and flavors. The tour is designed to glide smoothly through Old Town’s lively streets, with stops at some of its most beloved eateries. With a maximum of 16 travelers, the group remains intimate enough to foster conversations, which makes the experience all the more engaging.

Craft 64 Scottsdale: Pizza with a Local Twist

The first stop at Craft 64 is a highlight for many. Known for handcrafted, scratch-made pizzas cooked in a traditional brick oven, this spot embodies Scottsdale’s commitment to quality. We sampled two different kinds of pizza, each boasting fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The reviews consistently praise the authenticity—“Very authentic, everything is made from scratch,” as one traveler noted.

What makes Craft 64 exceptional isn’t just the pizza but the atmosphere of craftmanship—local ingredients, no freezers, and a focus on genuine artisan food. It’s a great way to kick off, setting a tone of authentic, quality fare.

Cornish Pasty Co: Hearty British Comfort Food

Next, you’ll visit the Cornish Pasty Co to try a traditional English Pasty—a hearty, savory pastry originally made for miners. The filling, often combining meat, vegetables, and seasonings, is designed to be filling and portable. The review praises this stop for its sturdy, tasty options, perfect for a satisfying snack.

The pasty is a good example of how this tour highlights diverse culinary traditions, giving you a taste of British heritage right in Scottsdale’s Old Town.

Re Cake House: Delightful Sweets and Macarons

At Re Cake House, you get to choose a French macaron—a delicately crisp shell with a luscious filling. The owner, Ruze, specializes in wedding cakes and cookies, but the macarons are a standout. Many reviewers rave about these stunning and delicious treats, adding a sweet balance to the savory stops.

This stop showcases artisan pastry making and offers a delightful visual and taste experience, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila: A Mexican Fiesta

A highlight for many is the stop at Cien Agaves, where you’ll indulge in a delicious taco, paired with chips and salsa, and wash it down with a frozen margarita. This offers a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, a key part of Scottsdale’s diverse food scene.

The free drink adds value, and the lively atmosphere makes it a fun, convivial break in your walk. The review mentions the great food and friendly service, making this a favorite among many.

Red Canyon Cafe: European-Inspired Coffee and Sweets

For a lighter, more European feel, the Red Canyon Cafe serves artisan gelato, crêpes, and gourmet coffee. The space is described as European-inspired, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy a sweet or caffeine fix. Travelers often mention how this stop feels like a mini European getaway amid the Arizona heat and vibrancy.

Spice & Tea Exchange: Aromatic Spices and Blends

The tour concludes with a visit to the Spice & Tea Exchange, where you can smell and sample over 85 spice blends. It’s a sensory experience—imagine the aroma of exotic spices filling the air as you learn about their uses. Many reviews praise this stop for its engaging and fragrant environment, making it a memorable way to end the tour.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Throughout the tour, guides like Maggie or John bring a wealth of knowledge about Scottsdale’s history and culture, enriching your experience beyond just food. Travelers frequently comment on how informative and entertaining the guides are—“Very knowledgeable, easy to listen to,” says Christie.

The pace is relaxed, allowing time to enjoy each dish and take in the surroundings. You’ll walk about 1.5 miles, making it a manageable stroll, but be prepared for some moderate physical activity. Weather can vary, so dress comfortably and consider sunscreen or layers depending on the season.

The Food and Drink

The tastings are generous, and many stops include a drink—from cocktails to coffee. The value is strong here: for $70, you’re not just getting a few bites but a variety of flavors and experiences. Reviewers consistently mention delicious food and friendly service, though some found the pizza a bit dry or cold—an issue that reflects the challenge of maintaining perfect timing in a busy tour.

The Guides and Atmosphere

Many reviews highlight Maggie and John as exceptional guides—fun, knowledgeable, and eager to share stories. Their enthusiasm and personalized attention elevate the experience, making it feel less like a tour and more like a local friend showing you around.

Accessibility and Limitations

This is a walking tour, so be ready for light to moderate walking. It’s not wheelchair accessible and not suitable for children under 11, which is worth considering if bringing family. Also, vegan, gluten-free, or specialized diets aren’t accommodated, but vegetarian options are available if requested.

Why This Tour Delivers Real Value

At $70 per person, the tour offers multiple tastings, drinks, and insider insights—a package that’s hard to beat when you consider the quality and variety of food. The small group size and personalized vibe make it a memorable social experience, and the opportunity to learn about Scottsdale’s history adds depth beyond just eating.

While some may find the pace and walking distance a bit much, most agree that the delicious food, engaging guides, and local stories make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re a fan of authentic, well-curated food experiences that showcase local flavors and culture, this tour will satisfy your appetite and curiosity.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour runs approximately 3 hours, covering about 1.5 miles of walking through Old Town Scottsdale.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, children under 11 are not allowed. The tour involves walking and standing at high-top tables, which isn’t ideal for strollers or babies.

Can I request vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at the time of booking, but the tour does not accommodate vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, or keto diets.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes alcoholic beverages at some stops, such as a frozen margarita, and non-alcoholic drinks are available as well.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, due to the seating arrangements at the stops, the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

What if it rains?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for the weather. Some stops are indoors, which offers some shelter.

What is the cancelation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

How many people are in each tour?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, ensuring a friendly and intimate atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour offers a well-rounded experience—combining delicious local eats, engaging storytelling, and scenic walks—perfect for those wanting to get a taste of Scottsdale’s culinary scene while learning about its culture and history. The guides’ warmth and knowledge make it more than just a food outing; it’s an immersion into the neighborhood’s soul.

If you’re the type of traveler who loves trying new foods, appreciates authentic local spots, and enjoys stories behind the dishes, this tour will delight. It’s especially fitting if you’re visiting Scottsdale for a weekend or want to gain a different perspective on this vibrant, artsy town.

For foodies, history enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a relaxed, social way to explore Old Town Scottsdale, this experience is a worthwhile investment—a tasty, memorable way to spend a few hours. Just come hungry, bring your curiosity, and enjoy the journey through Scottsdale’s culinary and cultural landscape.