Washington DC isn’t just about politics and monuments—this city is a foodie’s playground. Whether you’re into historic neighborhoods, diverse ethnic cuisines, or local specialties, DC offers a variety of food tours that bring the city’s flavorful side into focus. We especially love the Georgetown Foodie Culinary Tour for its charming neighborhood stroll and carefully curated tastings, and the Eastern Market Neighborhood Food Tour for its authentic market experience and fresh local flavors. These tours go beyond just eating—they’re about soaking up the atmosphere, learning about local culture, and discovering hidden culinary spots you’d never find on your own.
In this list, you’ll find a mix of walking tours, neighborhood explorations, and specialized culinary experiences. Some focus on historic districts like Georgetown, others highlight vibrant neighborhoods like U Street or Adams Morgan, and a few explore ethnic enclaves such as Little Ethiopia. Each tour offers a unique window into DC’s food scene, whether it’s a 3-hour guided walk, a more intimate small-group experience, or a longer evening adventure. Ready to indulge? Let’s dig into the best options.
1. Georgetown Foodie Culinary Tour & Neighborhood Walk
At number 1 on our list, the Georgetown Foodie Culinary Tour & Neighborhood Walk takes you off the busy main streets to explore local eateries that residents love. For about $79, you’ll spend just under 3 hours walking approximately 1.5 miles around historic Georgetown, sampling from a variety of spots like a beloved deli, an Indian restaurant with 20 years of history, and an Italian grocery. The tour emphasizes local flavors and authentic dishes, with vegetarian options available, making it accessible for most dietary needs. Guests love how the guide shares Georgetown’s past alongside its food—Julia Child’s former home included! The four to five tastings, plus a wine or Spritz pairing, make this a good value for a relaxed, family-friendly outing. Reviewers praise Jacob and Jason for their engaging manner and local knowledge, making this tour a top choice for those wanting a taste of both history and good eats.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history and food fans wanting a leisurely pace and insider tips. It’s an excellent introduction to Georgetown’s culinary scene, especially in spring.
2. DC’s Original Food & History Guided Walking Tour
Number 2 is the DC’s Original Food & History Guided Walking Tour, which offers a deep dive into the U Street neighborhood’s past and present. For $112, this 3-hour tour explores the area once known as ‘Black Broadway,’ with stops at local restaurants serving dishes that reflect the neighborhood’s cultural evolution. Walking about 1.5 miles, you’ll sample a range of foods, like hot dogs, Ethiopian fare, and more, while your guide shares stories about the area’s historic venues and architecture. Reviewers mention how the guide, Jenn, balances history and food, creating a relaxed yet informative experience. The large portions and lively atmosphere make it ideal for curious travelers interested in the city’s heritage and diverse culinary offerings.
Bottom Line: Best suited for culture and food lovers who want a narrative woven into their tasting experience. It’s a great value for a comprehensive 3-hour tour.
3. Tastes of Georgetown Food & History Walking Tour
Number 3’s Tastes of Georgetown Food & History Walking Tour combines local history with tastings at some of Georgetown’s top eateries. At $129, it offers a small-group experience, ensuring personal attention. Over 3 hours, you’ll walk through the neighborhood, learning stories about historic figures like JFK, while sampling foods that include Italian, American bakery treats, and more. The tour emphasizes inside tips from local owners and highlights Georgetown’s architectural styles. Reviewers highlight the “amazing day” and the guide Joe’s knack for sharing both history and food, making it ideal for those wanting a more intimate look at the neighborhood’s culinary scene.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded option for travelers keen on history, architecture, and high-quality food. Suitable for those who enjoy storytelling along with tastings.
4. Gastronomic Georgetown Walking Food Tour
Number 4 is the Gastronomic Georgetown Walking Food Tour, which lasts about 3.5 hours and covers Georgetown’s 250-year history. For $84, you’ll explore the neighborhood’s transformation from port city to trendy spot, with stops offering tacos, Korean tapas, French wine pairings, and more. The emphasis is on broad culinary diversity and historic context, with limited groups ensuring a personalized experience. Reviewers appreciate the “delicious food and engaging guide,” making it a good choice for food adventurers who want variety and a bit of local lore.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who crave diverse cuisines and enjoy learning about the neighborhood’s evolution through its food.
5. Acquired Taste Food Tour in Georgetown
Number 5, the Acquired Taste Food Tour in Georgetown, is a shorter, 2-hour adventure for $95. It focuses on hidden gems and beloved local eateries, with tastings spanning Italian, pastries, and seasonal dishes. The guide shares stories and facts about Georgetown’s past, making it perfect for those who want a quick but rich culinary experience. Reviewers mention the “great walk” and the delicious, plentiful tastings, especially for those who prefer a faster-paced tour.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers with limited time who still want to experience Georgetown’s culinary diversity and hear local stories.
6. Washington DC Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Number 6 features the Secret Food Tours, offering about 3 hours of food and sights for $99. It takes you through Georgetown, passing landmarks like the Georgetown University and the Francis Scott Key Bridge, while sampling seasonal treats and secret dishes. With about 1.5 miles of walking, this tour combines culinary surprises with sightseeing, including a mysterious “secret dish.” Reviewers highlight the engaging guide Cooper and the “fun, informative” atmosphere that balances history and food.
Bottom Line: A good pick for curious travelers who love a little mystery with their meal and want to see some iconic sights along the way.
7. Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour
Number 7’s Taste of Georgetown Food Tour provides a well-rounded 3-hour walk with carefully selected tastings. For $129, the tour focuses on local stories and culinary history, with stops at eateries that highlight Georgetown’s evolution. Reviewers note the “delicious food” and the “great storytelling,” making it ideal for those looking for deep insights into the neighborhood’s culinary past.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history and foodies wanting a narrated tour with a substantial lunch.
8. Cobblestones & Croissants, AM Georgetown Food Tour
Number 8, the Cobblestones & Croissants, explores Georgetown’s morning scene with baked goods, pastries, and stories. It’s a 3-4 hour tour at $85, starting with the oldest house in DC, then sampling baked goods, hot chocolate, and exploring notable residences linked to JFK and others. It’s perfect for early risers and those who want to see Georgetown awaken while enjoying sweet and savory treats.
Bottom Line: Best suited for breakfast lovers and those interested in Georgetown’s architecture and early-day charm.
9. Eastern Market Neighborhood Food Tour (5 Food Stops + Dessert)
Number 9 features the Eastern Market Neighborhood Food Tour, a 2.5-hour journey at $89. through the oldest public market in DC, with five food stops plus a dessert. You’ll sample fresh produce, cheese, baked goods, and more, while learning about the historic Capitol Hill neighborhood. Reviewers praise the “fun, delicious, and informative” experience, making it ideal for food lovers who want a quick, authentic taste of local life.
Bottom Line: Great for those interested in local markets, fresh food, and quick but tasty culture.
10. Local Neighborhood Washington DC Food Tour by DrinkEatWalk Tours
Number 10 offers an evening tour exploring Dupont Circle and Adams Morgan, focusing on local hangouts and diverse cuisines. For $149, it lasts about 4 hours, includes drinks, and visits six spots, from oyster bars to Ethiopian restaurants. Reviewers say it’s perfect for those who want a nighttime experience with a local feel, enjoying both food and drinks in a lively setting.
Bottom Line: Best for night owls and those interested in DC’s eclectic neighborhoods and bar scene.
11. DC’s Original Food & History Neighborhood Tour
Number 11 offers a 3-hour DC’s Original Food & History Neighborhood Tour, which emphasizes local eateries, street art, and architecture. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a broad sense of the U Street area through tasting enough for lunch and some cultural insights. Reviewers mention how well the tour combines history and food in a lively, friendly environment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a rundown of a lively DC neighborhood with flavorful bites.
12. Capitol Hill Food Tour
Number 12, the Capitol Hill Food Tour, is a 3.5-hour experience at $81. that features a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Salvadoran, and soul food. It’s a small group tour—limited to 12—to ensure a personalized experience, with stops at historic and local restaurants. Reviewers cite the “lovely food and great insights,” making it suitable for those wanting a diverse culinary journey in a historic district.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies interested in a neighborhood with political history and diverse flavors.
13. Little Ethiopia Food Tour
Number 13 is the Little Ethiopia Food Tour, a 3.5-hour trip through one of DC’s most authentic ethnic neighborhoods. For $71, you get all food tastings, from lentils to injera, and hear stories of the Ethiopian community’s prominence outside of Ethiopia. The tour’s small size and focus on authentic flavors make it stand out.
Bottom Line: Best for adventurous eaters wanting an immersive experience of Ethiopian cuisine and culture.
14. DC: Eastern Market Eats Food Tour (5 Food Stops + Dessert)
Number 14’s Eastern Market Eats offers a 3-hour tour with five stops and a dessert, focusing on local, handmade, and farm-fresh foods. For $99, you explore the historic market, sampling cheeses, baked goods, and more. Reviewers find it “fascinating” and a great way to see DC’s historic marketplace while tasting its best.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who love markets and want a quick, authentic culinary experience.
15. Washington D.C: Acquired Taste Food Tour in Georgetown
Number 15 is yet another Acquired Taste Food Tour, offering a 1.5-hour jaunt through Georgetown’s must-try spots for $95. It emphasizes local flavors and storytelling. Perfect for those short on time but wanting a rich, flavorful taste of Georgetown’s culinary scene.
Bottom Line: Great for a quick overview with a focus on local dishes and personal insights.
16. Sweet and Savory Scandalous White House walking Food Tour
Finally, the Scandalous White House Tour, is a 2-hour walk at $60. It combines culinary treats with stories of presidents’ scandals, visiting bakeries and pastry shops near the White House. Reviewers mention the “interesting stories” and “delicious treats,” making it a fun, light-hearted way to explore DC’s food culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in history, humor, and regional baked goods, perfect for a quick, entertaining outing.
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Washington DC
When selecting a food tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and specific interests. Want a deep dive into Georgetown’s history and food? The Georgetown Foodie Culinary Tour offers a leisurely pace and insider tips. Craving ethnic cuisines? The Little Ethiopia Food Tour or the East Market Neighborhood Food Tour provide authentic bites with cultural stories. For those who enjoy a lively evening, Local Neighborhood Food Tour combines drinks with food in vibrant neighborhoods.
Practical tips: book early for popular tours like Georgetown or Eastern Market, especially in spring and summer. Consider whether you prefer a longer, more comprehensive experience or a quick taste—most tours are between 2 and 4 hours, fitting easily into a day of sightseeing.
Final Thoughts
Washington DC offers a wide array of food tours that appeal to different tastes and schedules. For a relaxed, historic walk with a focus on local flavors, the Georgetown Foodie Culinary Tour is an excellent choice. If you’re passionate about exploring diverse neighborhoods and ethnic cuisines, the Capitol Hill or Little Ethiopia tours won’t disappoint.
For those wanting a quick, flavorful fix, the Acquired Taste in Georgetown and Eastern Market tours are perfect. Whichever you choose, booking in advance ensures you get a spot in these popular experiences. Happy eating!