Virginia offers a fantastic mix of history, local flavor, and culinary delights. Known for its charming small towns, coastal seafood, and emerging wine scene, Virginia is a great destination for food lovers. The tours listed here showcase some of the best ways to taste your way through Virginia’s diverse food scene while soaking up local history and culture. We especially love Southern Comfort – Old Town Alexandria Food & History Tour, for its combination of flavorful bites and engaging stories, plus small-group intimacy. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting a relaxed but informative afternoon.
If you prefer a broader food experience in a historic setting, the Old Town Alexandria Food Tour offers a tasty journey through the city’s past and present at a very affordable price, making it accessible for travelers on a budget. And for those interested in wine, the Learning Lunch of Wine and Food Pairing with Winemaker Donna combines education with a delicious meal, perfect for food and wine lovers alike. Below, you’ll find detailed insights into each tour to help you choose the perfect Virginia culinary outing.
1. Southern Comfort – Old Town Alexandria Food & History Tour
At number one, this half-day walking tour (details here) combines local cuisine and fascinating history. For $127 per person, you’ll spend approximately 3 hours exploring Old Town Alexandria’s streets while sampling dishes you might otherwise miss. What sets this tour apart is the small group cap of eight, ensuring a personalized experience. The guide shares scandalous stories and insider info about the city, enriching your understanding of Alexandria beyond just the food.
The tour includes several stops, starting with carefully selected tastings, then passing through Market Square—home to the longest-running farmer’s market in the area if you visit on a Saturday. Highlights include the Ramsey House and the Athenaeum, an impressive Greek Revival building housing arts and performance spaces. The final stop is Waterfront Park, offering scenic views of the Potomac River. The tour also emphasizes charitable giving, as part of each ticket is donated locally. Reviewers consistently praise the informative narration and delicious food, calling it a “fun and tasty way to learn about the town.”
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for history buffs who want a relaxed, small-group outing with great food and stories. It’s especially fitting if you’re new to Alexandria or craving a deeper connection to the area’s past and cuisine.
2. Old Town Alexandria Food Tour
Second on our list, this comprehensive 3.5-hour tour (details here) costs just $35, making it a highly affordable way to explore Alexandria’s diverse eateries. This tour emphasizes both history and regional cuisine, stopping at family-owned restaurants that serve everything from seafood and Italian fare to fusion options and hand-crafted desserts. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting a full, satisfying meal while learning about the city’s two-century-plus history.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on local, off-the-beaten-path restaurants, many run by families who have been part of Alexandria for generations. The guide, Terry, is praised for her knowledge and organization, making the experience both educational and tasty. Guests rave about the variety and quality of food, often mentioning that they visit places they wouldn’t discover alone. The itinerary includes charming streets, historic mansions, and tree-lined avenues, bringing the city’s American story to life through food.
Bottom line: Best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a full, flavorful experience with a rich historical backdrop. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy trying new restaurants and learning local stories along the way.
3. Learning Lunch of Wine and Food Pairing with Winemaker Donna
At number three, this interactive wine and food pairing experience (details here) offers a more intimate and educational outing for around $60. The experience lasts about 2 hours and is hosted with a winemaker, Donna, whose expertise makes this a standout for wine lovers. The event includes five categories of wine paired with tapas-sized dishes, three entrees, a cheese course, and delightful desserts—culminating in an immersive tasting session.
What makes this experience special is Donna’s focus on teaching you how to achieve perfect pairings and understand wine nuances. You’ll learn why certain wines work with specific foods, gaining skills to replicate the magic at home. The pairing of three exquisite cheeses and decadent chocolates ensures plenty of variety. Reviewers mention “enlightening ‘aha’ moments” and praise Donna’s approachable style. This tour suits travelers eager to expand their wine knowledge while enjoying a delicious, social meal.
Bottom line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts and foodies who want a concise, educational experience that combines tasting with practical knowledge. It’s an excellent choice for an afternoon escape into Virginia’s wine country.
$60.00 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these Virginia food tours, consider your interests and travel style. For a personalized, story-rich experience that combines history and local bites, the Southern Comfort – Old Town Alexandria Food & History Tour is hard to beat. If you’re traveling on a budget but still want a full meal and cultural insights, the Old Town Alexandria Food Tour offers great value and variety. For a more sophisticated, educational outing that pairs wine and food, the Learning Lunch with Donna provides a focused, hands-on experience.
Think about your schedule too—if you have limited time, the shorter wine and food pairing might fit best. If you want to explore Alexandria at a leisurely pace, the longer walking tours are ideal. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular options, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Virginia’s culinary scene is vibrant and varied, with options ranging from historic tasting walks to wine pairings. The Southern Comfort tour shines for its intimate group size and storytelling, making it perfect for first-time visitors who want a deep dive into the local flavor. The Old Town Alexandria Food Tour offers a budget-friendly, full-flavor experience that emphasizes the city’s culinary heritage. Meanwhile, the wine and food pairing with Donna caters to those wanting a refined, educational tasting session.
No matter which tour you choose, you’ll come away with a richer appreciation of Virginia’s food and history. To make the most of your visit, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. Each of these tours provides a unique taste of Virginia—so don’t delay, book early, and enjoy your flavorful journey through this historic state.