Original Astoria Queens Guided Food Tour w/ 5 Tastings

Exploring Astoria, Queens, on a Guided Food Tour

If you’re craving a taste of authentic, diverse cuisine without the crowds and high prices of Manhattan, the Original Astoria Queens Guided Food Tour offers a perfect solution. For $119 per person, over roughly three hours, you’ll visit five eateries representing five countries, sampling delicious dishes from Moroccan, Italian, Egyptian, Greek, and Brazilian cuisines. With a small group capped at 15, you’ll get a more personalized experience, with the chance to chat directly with chefs and owners—an opportunity often missed in larger, more touristy settings.

What we love about this tour is the insider access to local restaurants and the chance to try hole-in-the-wall gems that are beloved by locals but often overlooked by visitors. Plus, the variety of flavors and cultural stories tied to each dish add a layer of authenticity that makes the experience more than just a tasting—it’s a mini cultural journey. The optional drinks add-on is a nice touch for those wanting a boozy dessert or a sip of local spirits, rounding out the experience.

One possible consideration is the pace of the tour; with five stops in about three hours, you’ll want to be prepared for some walking and standing, although the itinerary is thoughtfully planned. Also, if you’re particularly interested in a specific cuisine or have dietary restrictions, it’s worth noting that the stops are pre-selected, and the menu is set.

This tour suits food lovers who appreciate cultural storytelling, those interested in local neighborhoods, and travelers seeking authentic experiences beyond tourist hotspots. If you enjoy engaging conversations with chefs and discovering hidden eateries, this adventure is likely to satisfy.

Key Points:

• Diverse Cuisines: Sampling food from five different countries in one tour.
• Insider Access: Interactions with chefs and owners at each stop.
• Authentic Venues: Visiting local, often overlooked, establishments.
• Small Group Experience: Personalized attention with a cap of 15 guests.
• Flexible Add-Ons: Optional drinks enhance the tasting experience.
• Cultural Stories: Each dish comes with its own background, making the tasting a storytelling experience.

A Closer Look at the Astoria Food Tour

The tour begins inside Dar Lbahja, a Moroccan restaurant, where you’re welcomed with a Chicken Pastilla—a rich, savory pastry that perfectly kicks off your culinary journey. The guide (Nick, from a glowing review) shares stories about Moroccan cuisine and the neighborhood’s multicultural roots, setting a friendly, laid-back tone.

Next, a brief walk down 30th Avenue takes you to a classic Italian deli. Here, you can browse through jars and sandwiches named after celebrities like Robert De Niro or the Q18 bus, reflecting Astoria’s Italian-American heritage. The tasting here offers a glimpse into the neighborhood’s traditional roots, and the experience is casual and fun.

The third stop is inside America’s first Egyptian restaurant, a hidden gem with no menu (which adds to its charm). The chef teaches you about Egyptian cooking while serving a sampler platter—an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience you wouldn’t find on Google Maps. A review rightly points out that this stop is a “FANTASTIC experience,” thanks to the knowledgeable guide and the delicious food.

On Steinway Street, the heart of Astoria’s Greek community, you’ll sample Greek street food—think gyros or souvlaki—sharing space side-by-side with local families and shopkeepers. It’s a chance to see the neighborhood’s lively street scene and enjoy familiar flavors with a cultural twist.

Finally, the tour ends at a Brazilian café, where you can indulge in a chocolatey dessert. This sweet finale offers a relaxed setting to reflect on your culinary explorations and chat with fellow travelers.

Throughout each stop, the tour provides insider insights into the neighborhood’s history, the stories behind the food, and the personal touch of local chefs. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge help transform a simple tasting into a meaningful cultural adventure.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $119, the tour’s price covers all five tastings and a professional guide, making it a cost-effective way to experience Astoria’s culinary diversity. Compared to dining independently, where a single meal might cost more and lack context, this experience offers a curated, educational, and social outing. Plus, the small group size enhances interaction and makes navigating the neighborhood more comfortable.

The optional drinks package—two alcoholic beverages plus a boozy dessert—adds value for those who enjoy a sip of local spirits or a boozy treat. It’s a nice way to elevate the experience without feeling forced.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour meets at 47-12 30th Ave, in Astoria, at 1:30 pm, making it ideal for a midday start.
• Expect about 15 blocks of walking, which is manageable for most, but comfortable shoes are recommended.
• The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible from Manhattan or other parts of Queens.
• The group size is capped at 15, ensuring a relaxed, personalized experience.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility for changing plans.

Authenticity and Engagement

From the reviews, it’s clear that Nick’s knowledgeable guiding makes a big difference. One reviewer mentioned his storytelling about the community and the history behind each dish, which adds depth to the experience. The food itself is consistently praised for being “amazing,” with many feeling they wouldn’t have discovered these local spots on their own. The tour really emphasizes authentic local flavors over touristy chains, making it a favorite for those wanting to experience real Queens.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for foodies eager to taste authentic international dishes in a neighborhood setting. If you enjoy learning about different cultures through their cuisine and chatting with passionate chefs, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also a good choice if you want a relaxed, intimate way to explore Astoria beyond the usual sightseeing, with the added benefit of insider stories and local hospitality.

Final Thoughts

The Astoria Food Tour offers a well-balanced mix of delicious food, local culture, and engaging storytelling. Its focus on authentic eateries and personal interactions makes it stand out from generic food tours. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Yorker looking to explore beyond Manhattan, this tour provides a taste of what makes Queens so special—its diversity, its community, and its incredible flavors.

For those who want a fun, educational, and tasty afternoon, this tour is a smart choice. The combination of authenticity, knowledgeable guides, and a friendly atmosphere promises not just a meal but a memorable slice of Queens life.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy five tastings at different restaurants representing five countries, plus the option to add drinks—two alcoholic beverages and a boozy dessert.

How long does the tour last?
It runs about three hours, covering roughly 15 blocks of walking and visits to five local eateries.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 47-12 30th Ave., Astoria, and concludes at Astoria Seafood, 37-10 33rd St, Long Island City, NY.

Is the tour suitable for all dietary restrictions?
The menu is pre-set, so if you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to contact the provider in advance. Most travelers can participate comfortably.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially since groups are limited to 15. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before.

Can I take this tour if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves walking in a neighborhood setting; most travelers should be able to participate, but those with mobility concerns should inquire beforehand.

This guided food tour in Astoria offers an engaging, flavorful, and authentic slice of Queens that’s perfect for curious eaters and culture lovers alike.