Upper East Side Food Tour | Tasty Tours NYC

Discover the Upper East Side Food Tour with Tasty Tours NYC

Imagine strolling through one of Manhattan’s most storied neighborhoods while sampling some of the city’s most beloved dishes. For $79 per person, you can join a guided 2.5-hour walking tour that takes you past historic landmarks and into the heart of culinary classics. Led by personable guides, this small-group experience offers a perfect blend of food, history, and local flavor.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the variety of iconic bites—from classic New York bagels to spicy dumplings—that will leave you feeling pleasantly full. Second, the personalized attention of a small group means your guide can tailor stories and recommendations while ensuring you don’t miss any hidden gems.

A potential consideration is the tour’s focus on non-vegan, gluten-inclusive options—if you have dietary restrictions, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re open to hearty, traditional fare and love discovering neighborhood stories, this tour is a fantastic choice.

This experience is ideal for food lovers, first-time visitors wanting an authentic taste of NYC, or anyone interested in combining culinary delights with local history. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed but flavorful way to explore the Upper East Side will find plenty to enjoy.

Key Points

• Diverse Tasting Experience: Sample iconic New York dishes like bagels, pizza, dumplings, and cannoli.
• Local Landmarks & Stories: See famous sights and hear insider stories from your guide.
• Personalized Small Group: Limited to 15 travelers for more engaging, tailored attention.
• Generous Meal Portions: Enough bites to feel like a full meal.
• Accessible & Convenient: Central meeting point and walkable itinerary.
• Excellent Reviews: Consistently rated 5 stars for guides, food quality, and fun.

A Deep Dive into the Upper East Side Food Tour

Starting at H&H Bagels: A Classic NYC Breakfast

We begin at the famed H&H Bagels, a staple for locals and visitors alike. Known for their freshly baked bagels and creamy spreads, it’s the perfect way to start your taste adventure. Since this bagel shop has been featured on shows like Seinfeld and Friends, you’ll be nibbling on a piece of TV history as your guide shares stories of the neighborhood’s bagel tradition.

Expect a warm bagel with cream cheese—a simple but iconic New York breakfast. Reviewers mention that these bites are satisfying and authentic, setting a high standard for the rest of the tour. The 20-minute stop includes time to savor your bagel while soaking in the neighborhood’s vibe.

A Quick Visit to Comic Strip Live: Comedy & Culture

Next, your walk takes you past The Comic Strip, a historic comedy club. Established as the city’s oldest comedy venue, it’s hosted legends like Eddie Murphy, Jerry Seinfeld, and Chris Rock. Although this stop is just a 10-minute walk-by, it’s a reminder of the neighborhood’s entertainment roots and the lively spirit that continues today.

No tickets are needed for this stop, so you can enjoy a quick peek at the venue’s exterior and catch some of the neighborhood’s comedic energy.

Italian Delights at Agata & Valentina

Then, it’s off to Agata & Valentina, an Italian specialty store renowned for authentic Italian foods. Since opening in 1993, it’s become a neighborhood favorite. Here, you’ll have time to explore aisles stocked with cheeses, cured meats, and pasta, or simply enjoy a delicious cannoli—a perfect sweet treat.

Reviewers love this stop for its authenticity and the opportunity to explore Italian ingredients. It’s a taste of Italy right in the heart of Manhattan, and the cannoli is a crowd favorite. The free 15-minute stop leaves enough time to admire the store’s offerings and chat with staff about local Italian eateries.

Spicy Dumplings at Xi’an Famous Foods

A walk down the street takes you to Xi’an Famous Foods, a cult favorite known for its spicy, hand-pulled dumplings and flavorful noodles. This stop is more substantial, lasting about 30 minutes, allowing you to indulge in spicy, savory bites that pack a punch. It’s a chance to experience a different regional flavor—an homage to the cuisine of China’s Shaanxi province.

Guests frequently mention how delicious and spicy the food is, making it a memorable highlight. If you enjoy bold flavors and a bit of heat, this stop will leave you satisfied and eager for more.

Spotting Madonna’s Mansion: A Peek at Celebrity Life

Next, your guide will point out Madonna’s $32 million mansion on 81st Street. While not a scheduled stop, it’s a fun moment to gaze at the luxury homes that line the neighborhood and imagine the star-studded life that once called this area home.

One reviewer notes, “Keep your eyes peeled—you never know when you might catch a glimpse of the Queen of Pop.” It’s a light-hearted break from food, adding a dash of local celebrity lore.

Sweet & Classic at Lexington Candy Shop

The next stop is Lexington Candy Shop, a 98-year-old institution specializing in classic American candies and drinks. Here, you’ll try an authentic egg cream, a nostalgic soda fountain drink, and a handcrafted Coca-Cola—rare treats these days.

Guests love this place for its authentic old-school charm, with reviews praising the “tasty food and fun atmosphere.” It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a sweet break while soaking in some history.

NYC-Style Pizza at Mimi’s Pizza

No Manhattan food tour would be complete without a slice of New York pizza. At Mimi’s Pizza, you’ll enjoy a handmade, 72-hour fermented pizza slice, renowned for its crispy crust and rich toppings. It’s a local favorite, and many say it’s some of the best pizza on the Upper East Side.

This 20-minute stop is the perfect opportunity to savor a warm, cheesy slice while chatting with other travelers. Reviewers highlight the “life-changing” quality of the pizza, making it one of the tour’s highlights.

Ending at Levain Bakery: The Cookie Crown Jewel

Finally, your sweet tooth will thank you at Levain Bakery, famous for its thick, gooey cookies. The 20-minute visit is a delicious way to wrap up your tour, leaving you with a memorable taste of NYC’s bakery scene. Many reviewers describe these cookies as “if you know, you know”, and they often leave visitors craving more.

The bakery’s reputation for big, satisfying cookies makes it a fitting finale, especially for those who love a good sweet finish.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $79, this tour packs a lot into just over two hours, with enough food to feel like a full meal. Each stop is thoughtfully chosen to showcase neighborhood landmarks, authentic local foods, and hidden gems you might otherwise overlook. The small-group size ensures your guide can answer questions, share stories, and personalize the experience—making it more engaging than a larger tour.

The inclusion of bottled water and the variety of tastings means you’re well-fueled for the rest of your day. Plus, the tour’s central location makes it easy to find and a perfect introduction for first-time visitors to the Upper East Side.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love delicious food and want a local perspective on Manhattan’s quieter, upscale neighborhood, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for foodies, history buffs, or travelers who like a relaxed pace and personal interaction. Families with kids have also praised the guide’s ability to keep things fun and interesting.

However, if you’re vegan, gluten-free, or have specific dietary needs, this tour might be less suitable, as it focuses on traditional, hearty fare.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long is the tour?
  It lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including stops for tastings and sightseeing.

• What is included in the price?
  You’ll get all the food tastings, a bottle of water, and the guided experience.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  It begins at H&H Bagels, located at 1551 2nd Ave, and ends at Levain Bakery on 3rd Ave. It’s a short walk to the subway afterward.

• Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or specific diets?
  Most options are traditional, non-vegetarian, and gluten-inclusive, so it’s not ideal for vegans or celiacs.

• How many people are in each group?
  The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

• Can I cancel or reschedule?
  Yes, free cancellations are available up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds.

• Is the tour accessible?
  It’s near public transportation, making it easy to reach, but no specific accessibility info is provided.

• What should I bring?
  Just come hungry, wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for some walking and standing.

Final Thoughts

This Upper East Side Food Tour offers a balanced mix of delicious bites, neighborhood stories, and sightseeing, making it a great starting point for anyone eager to taste the city’s culinary highlights without the hassle of planning individual stops. The emphasis on authentic, beloved NYC favorites—from bagels to cannoli—means you’ll leave with a well-rounded appreciation of the area’s character.

The guides receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness, adding a personal touch that elevates the experience beyond just food. The tour’s small size fosters a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for asking questions and snapping photos of iconic sights.

While it may not cater to special diets, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful slice of Manhattan life. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local wanting to rediscover your city, this tour promises a tasty, insightful, and fun experience in the Upper East Side.