Scottsdale isn’t just about luxury resorts and stunning desert sunsets — it’s also a city with a thriving food scene that’s best experienced on foot. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to explore hidden culinary treasures, Scottsdale’s food tours offer a fantastic way to sample authentic flavors and learn about the area’s unique culture. Among our favorites is the Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour, which combines tasty bites with fascinating local stories in a lively downtown setting. We also love the Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour for its relaxed pace and diverse stops along the scenic waterway. If you’re interested in a deeper dive into Scottsdale’s history and cuisine, the Old Town Scottsdale Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours offers a more extensive experience. Each of these tours provides a different flavor of Scottsdale, making it easy to find one that matches your interests and schedule.
1. Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour
This tour is a perfect introduction to Scottsdale’s culinary scene, especially if you want to combine good food with a bit of local history. It’s a walking tour covering about 1.5 miles in Old Town Scottsdale, with several stops at beloved local eateries. For around $70, you’ll enjoy sampling top dishes from five renowned spots, from handcrafted pizza at Craft 64 Scottsdale to hearty Cornish pasties at Cornish Pasty Co, all within approximately three hours. The tour stands out because of its intimate, walkable route and the variety of flavors offered, including vegetarian options upon request. The guide’s insider tips help you discover places you might not find on your own, making it a favorite among past participants who praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides. Notably, the tour includes a stop at Ruze Cake House for French macarons, and at Cien Agaves for tacos and a frozen margarita, ensuring a well-rounded taste of Scottsdale’s diverse food scene. With a perfect rating of 5.0 from 248 reviews, this tour offers excellent value, especially for those who want a quick, tasty introduction to Old Town’s best spots.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a comprehensive, friendly walk that combines food, history, and local flavor, this is a great choice.
2. Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour
This 2-hour 45-minute tour offers a lively exploration of Scottsdale’s waterfront dining scene, highlighting the city’s best eateries along the scenic Scottsdale Canal. For $70, you get to sample signature dishes like Mexican street tacos at Barrio Queen and indulge in a hand-painted prickly pear macaron at TeaTime Scottsdale. One of the tour’s strengths is its focus on popular, highly-rated venues, such as the award-winning guacamole at Barrio Queen, voted top by Travel + Leisure. The tour also features a visit to One Handsome Bastard Distillery, known for house-distilled spirits and creative cocktails, with 10% of vodka sales supporting cancer research. This tour is ideal for those who prefer a relaxed pace and want to enjoy Scottsdale’s water-side ambiance while tasting a variety of foods and drinks. The reviews consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and the quality of the stops, with visitors noting it as a fun, informative experience. Wear comfortable shoes and stretchy pants — this tour involves walking and plenty of sampling.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a mix of good eats, drinks, and scenic views, all with a friendly guide leading the way.
3. Old Town Scottsdale Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
For around $105, this 3.5-hour tour offers a more in-depth look at Scottsdale’s food and history. It takes you through downtown Scottsdale, visiting local favorites like Los Olivos Mexican Patio, the oldest Mexican restaurant in town, and the Scottsdale Rodeo Museum, which adds cultural context to your culinary experience. The tour also includes a walk through Scottsdale’s arts district, with stops at galleries, statues, and shops, giving you a full picture of the city’s creative side. The highlight is trying signature dishes like authentic Mexican fare and a traditional malt at the Sugar Bowl, all while learning about Scottsdale’s transformation from citrus groves to a luxury destination. Reviews highlight the guide’s deep knowledge and engaging storytelling, with many mentioning this as a favorite for history and food lovers alike. The tour’s length and rich content make it a good choice for those wanting a more comprehensive experience, blending cuisine with local culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a detailed, cultural, and culinary journey with a friendly guide.
4. Scottsdale: Food Walking Tour
This tour clocks in at about 3 hours and offers a straightforward, well-rounded taste of Scottsdale’s food scene. Priced at $101 per person, it promises a mix of iconic Southwest flavors and local stories. The tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a relaxed walk coupled with interesting insights into the city’s evolution from citrus groves to a culinary hotspot. Since it focuses on secret spots and local favorites, it’s a good pick for those seeking an authentic, less touristy experience. The reviews are positive, describing it as a good value, especially for the food included, and note the knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s story to life. This tour is especially suitable for travelers who want a manageable time commitment with a focus on quality bites and local culture.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a balanced, authentic experience with a bit of storytelling and delicious food.
How to Choose the Best Food Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and what kind of experience appeals most. If you want a quick yet diverse taste of Old Town’s eateries, the Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour offers great value for its price. For a scenic water-side experience, the Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour stands out with its relaxed pace and scenic stops. If you’re after a more comprehensive cultural and culinary journey, the Old Town Scottsdale Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours provides an immersive experience, perfect for history and food buffs. The Scottsdale Food Walking Tour is ideal if you prefer a less structured, authentic tasting route.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and tour.
To sum it up, Scottsdale’s food tours offer something for every palate and schedule. Whether you want a quick bite, a scenic walk, or an in-depth cultural experience, these options will help you taste and learn about this vibrant desert city. For the best value and most memorable experience, pick a tour that matches your interests and enjoy Scottsdale’s diverse flavors. Don’t forget to book early, and prepare to come hungry!