Los Angeles isn’t just a city of stars and sprawling beaches — it’s also a place where food tells its own story. LA’s diverse neighborhoods, from vibrant Downtown to the bohemian charm of Venice Beach, offer a culinary scene as eclectic as its cultural makeup. What we love about these food tours is how they blend authentic bites with local stories, making each experience a window into LA’s soul. Whether you’re craving a sophisticated Beverly Hills tasting, a walk through historic Chinatown, or exploring the hidden gems of West Hollywood, LA’s tour options are endless. For example, the Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour offers a lively, intimate walk through LA’s historic core, perfect for those wanting a mix of culture and cuisine.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a broad spectrum of LA’s culinary landscape: from the downtown core’s historic landmarks and ethnic enclaves like Chinatown and Little Tokyo, to beachside hotspots such as Santa Monica and Venice Beach. We highlight tours that focus on local flavors, hidden eateries, and even celebrity-favored spots in Beverly Hills. Price points range from budget-friendly options around $70, like the Santa Monica Donut Tour, to more indulgent experiences near $189 in Beverly Hills. Each tour offers something unique, such as small-group intimacy, special access, or multi-cultural tasting. Find your perfect match among these top choices.
1. Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour
At number 1 is the Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour, which is renowned for its delicious food and rich local stories. This 3-hour walking experience takes you from Pershing Square through Grand Central Market, sampling at six different eateries — from bakeries to ethnic food destinations. The tour’s small size, capped at eight guests, offers a personal feel that’s perfect for food lovers who want to learn about LA’s evolving culinary scene. The guide’s live narration makes history lively, covering Hollywood’s past along with the neighborhood’s vibrant food culture. Highlights include the iconic Grand Central Market and the Bradbury Building. Guests consistently praise the friendly guides and tasty samples, with reviews like “Chris was awesome — knowledgeable and fun.” The value is excellent, with food and water included, making this a top choice for a concise, immersive downtown experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a deep dive into LA’s downtown culinary life with plenty of history, all within a manageable 3-hour window.
2. LA Venice Beach Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Next up is the Venice Beach Food Tour, which combines beachside scenery with local eats. Over roughly 3 hours, you’ll visit hidden gems and popular spots loved by Venice locals, from poke bowls to birria tacos. The small group allows for a relaxed pace, so you can really savor each bite and hear fascinating stories about Venice’s quirky history. Highlights include stops at Gjelina, the Butcher’s Daughter, and a favorite ice cream spot. Guides share insights about the area’s art scene and lively street performers, making it more than just a food tasting. Reviewers mention how Sade, their guide, kept the tour “easy-going and informative,” while the food is consistently praised as “top notch.” It’s perfect for travelers who want a laid-back yet flavorful glimpse of Venice Beach.
Bottom Line: A fun, relaxed way to taste Venice’s best bites and learn about its creative, bohemian vibe.
3. Beverly Hills Food Tour with Gourmet Tastings and Drinks
Number 3 takes you through Hollywood’s glamor with the Beverly Hills Food Tour. Spanning about 3.5 hours, this tour combines luxury bites with visits to secret bars and an exclusive peek at a fashion house on Rodeo Drive. Expect five tastings plus two alcoholic drinks as you stroll through iconic neighborhoods and learn fun facts about LA’s celebrity lifestyle. Highlights include the historic Erewhon supermarket and La Scala, a Beverly Hills institution. Tour guide Brian is noted for his entertaining stories and local connections, making the experience lively and engaging. While the price is on the higher side, the variety of gourmet tastings and access to exclusive spots offer good value for a special occasion. Reviewers like “The tour exceeded expectations,” highlighting the delicious food and personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a luxurious, story-filled tasting of Beverly Hills’ culinary scene with a touch of Hollywood glamour.
4. LA Food Tour: Exploring America’s Culinary Frontier
Position 4 on the list is the LA Food Tour exploring Chinatown, Little Tokyo, and Grand Central Market. Over 5 hours, it offers a comprehensive walk through downtown’s foodie hotspots — perfect for those who want to see multiple neighborhoods in one day. This tour emphasizes local stories and authentic cuisine, from Chinese dim sum to Japanese sushi in Little Tokyo. Stops include historic sites like the Bradbury Building, making it a mix of culture, history, and delicious bites. The guide shares little-known facts about each area, adding depth to the tasting experience. Guests value its sizeable itinerary and variety of ethnic foods, with reviews praising the knowledgeable guide and delicious samples. It’s ideal if you want to explore LA’s ethnic diversity without multiple trips.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers eager to taste LA’s multicultural food scene in one well-organized, 5-hour adventure.
5. Santa Monica Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour
For a sweet start, the Santa Monica Donut Tour offers a 2-hour romp through the best donut spots in town. For just $70, you’ll visit four popular bakeries, including Randy’s Donuts and Sidecar Doughnuts. It’s a fun, lively tour perfect for kids and adults alike who crave sugar, with stops at noteworthy shops known for artisanal donuts and birria tacos. Your guide shares local stories while you indulge in sweet and savory treats. Reviewers love how Libby, their guide, made the experience feel like a visit with a friend, and many note that the donuts were simply delicious. It’s a lighthearted tour for those who want to enjoy Santa Monica’s culinary sweet spots without a long time commitment.
Bottom Line: Best for sweet-tooths and families wanting a quick, tasty tour of Santa Monica’s donut scene.
6. Los Angeles Walking Food Tour with Six Taste
Number 6 offers a local, family-owned experience with the Los Angeles: Six Taste Tour. Over 3.5 hours, you’ll explore Downtown LA’s historic sites and sample flavors from two favorite food stalls in the Grand Central Market. The tour includes a ride on the Angels Flight Railway and a visit to the Bradbury Building, blending architecture and food seamlessly. The guide’s enthusiasm and local knowledge shine through, with reviews praising the personalized attention and variety of tastings. Guests love the small-group atmosphere, which makes it easy to ask questions and enjoy the experience fully. This tour is particularly good for history lovers and foodies wanting a comprehensive downtown experience.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a personalized, in-depth downtown LA walk with diverse food and cultural insights.
7. Venice Beach LA Food Tour
Number 7 offers a delightful exploration of Venice Beach’s diverse food scene. Over 3 hours, your guide takes you to five diverse stops, from plant-based options at The Butcher’s Daughter to authentic tacos at Teddy’s Red Tacos. The tour emphasizes local flavor with stops at Gjusta, GTA, and Jeni’s Ice Creams. Reviewers mention how Isa, their guide, made the tour feel personal and fun, highlighting the variety of delicious foods. This tour suits food lovers eager to sample Venice’s eclectic mix and bohemian vibe. It’s a great way to discover hidden gems and learn about Venice’s art and street culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting an up-close taste of Venice Beach’s creative food scene and local favorites.
8. Los Angeles: Downtown Food Tour
The Downtown Food Tour ranks high for its variety of delicious foods and historic landmarks. Over 3 hours, you’ll taste from ethnic eateries and buzz-worthy spots like the Biltmore Hotel and Grand Central Market. The tour incorporates fascinating tidbits about LA’s urban development and cultural mix. Guests appreciate the balance of food and history, with reviews noting the friendly guide and tasty samples. It’s an excellent choice for urban explorers who want a taste of LA’s diverse culinary identity in a manageable time.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a city-focused food experience with a good dose of local history.
9. West Hollywood Food Tour
Number 9 is the West Hollywood Food Tour, which takes you through trendy neighborhoods to sample 5 different eateries. The tour features everything from tacos to Thai cuisine, focusing on local favorites. The tour’s small group (max 12) ensures a personalized experience, with guides offering insights into the best spots to eat and local culture. Reviewers mention how fun and informative the experience was, especially appreciating the variety of foods and friendly atmosphere. This tour is suited for adventurous eaters wanting to explore West Hollywood’s dynamic food scene without the fuss of larger tours.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a trendy, neighborhood-focused tasting experience with a relaxed pace.
10. Los Angeles: Old Pasadena Food Tasting Walking Tour
This tour offers a relaxed walk through Old Pasadena’s boutiques and eateries. Over 3.5 hours, you’ll enjoy 10 tastings at local shops, including chocolates, olive oils, and international cuisine. The tour is perfect for history and food lovers who want to experience small-town charm within LA. The guide shares local stories, making it more than just a tasting. Guests report delicious food and a pleasant pace, making it suitable for all ages. It’s particularly appealing if you’re looking to combine shopping with culinary delights.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a leisurely, diverse exploration of a historic LA suburb.
11. Gourmet Walking Food Tour of LA’s Silver Lake Neighborhood
Number 11 offers an eclectic experience in Silver Lake, often called the “Brooklyn of the West.” Over 3-4 hours, you’ll visit 6-8 stops, sampling unique dishes like innovative tacos or artisanal pastries. The tour emphasizes local culture, history, and food. Guides share stories about Silver Lake’s transformation from an early filmmaking hub to a trendy hotspot. Reviewers highlight the fun, informative nature, and delicious food. This tour is perfect for trend-conscious travelers who want a hip, neighborhood-specific taste of LA’s evolving scene.
Bottom Line: Ideal for foodies and culture lovers seeking an up-to-date look at LA’s coolest neighborhood.
12. Los Angeles: Original Farmers Market Foodie History Tour
Number 12 is the Original Farmers Market Foodie History Tour, which combines delicious samples with fascinating stories about LA’s most famous market. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll explore vendors and learn about the market’s 90-year history. The tour offers a wide variety of foods and cultural insights, perfect for those who enjoy walking and tasting. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guide and diverse food options, making it great for food lovers wanting an authentic LA experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting to combine history and food in a short, engaging tour.
13. Gourmet Hollywood Walking Food Tour with Delicious Dish Tours
This 4-hour Gourmet Hollywood Tour visits 6-8 restaurants, walking in the footsteps of movie legends. It features famous landmarks, like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Musso & Frank Grill, with tastings of contemporary dishes and local specialties. The guide shares stories about Hollywood’s golden era while you indulge. Reviewers mention the fun, informative narration, and delicious food. It’s perfect for film buffs and foodies who want a glamorous taste of LA.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting Hollywood history combined with top dining.
14. Gourmet Farmers Market & Fairfax Walking Food Tour
Number 14 combines the energy of the Farmers Market with the trendy Fairfax District. Over 3-4 hours, you’ll visit 6-8 stops featuring specialty foods, including artisan cheeses, and famous taco stands. The guide shares insights into LA’s food culture and local stories. Reviewers love the variety of foods, the knowledgeable guide, and the local atmosphere. It’s great for those who want to combine shopping, history, and eating in a laid-back way.
Bottom Line: Suitable for family outings or anyone wanting to experience LA’s dynamic food scene with a focus on local culture.
15. Los Angeles: Downtown Food Tour
This tour offers a balanced taste of downtown’s ethnic eateries and landmarks. Over 3 hours, you’ll sample tacos, BBQ, and sweets at spots like the Biltmore Hotel and Grand Central Market. The guide provides insights into LA’s urban development alongside delicious bites. It’s ideal for urban explorers wanting a city-focused culinary experience. Reviewers appreciate the friendly atmosphere and variety of ethnic foods, making it a solid choice for those wanting an authentic downtown LA experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a city walk with great food and local stories.
16. Los Angeles: 3-Hour Secret Food Tour of Venice Beach
Finally, the Venice Beach Secret Food Tour offers an intimate look at Venice’s thriving culinary scene. Over 3 hours, you’ll visit local favorites like Gjelina and Teddy’s Red Tacos, tasting delicacies from crostinis to street tacos. Your passionate guide shares fascinating stories about Venice’s culture and food. This tour is perfect for adventurous eaters who want authentic and offbeat spots away from the crowds. Reviewers praise its personalized touch and delicious variety.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a flavor-rich, insider’s look at Venice Beach.
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in LA
When selecting your ideal food tour, consider your budget, time available, and personal interests. If you love historic landmarks with your bites, the Downtown LA Food Tour or the Gourmet Walking Food Tour of LA’s Silver Lake Neighborhood are excellent. For those wanting more beachside fun, Venice Beach’s Secret Food Tour or the Venice Beach Walking Food Tour hit the mark. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the Santa Monica Donut Tour, while those seeking luxury and celebrity spotting might prefer the Beverly Hills Food Tour.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, to secure spots in your favorite tours. Always consider the group size, duration, and whether the tour covers the neighborhoods or cuisines you’re most eager to explore.
Los Angeles offers a diverse array of food tours that cater to history buffs, beach lovers, trendsetters, and casual snackers alike. For a city packed with culinary surprises, these options ensure you’ll leave with more than just a full stomach—you’ll walk away with stories, new favorites, and a deeper appreciation for LA’s multicultural flavor. Whether you choose a short donut jaunt or a day-long exploration of Chinatown and Little Tokyo, each tour promises a delicious adventure. Don’t wait too long—these experiences are popular and tend to fill up fast. Happy tasting!