Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour

If you’re searching for a way to enjoy Scottsdale beyond its stunning desert vistas, a food tour like the Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour offers a fantastic blend of tasty bites, local culture, and scenic strolling. Designed for those who love discovering new flavors and learning about the area’s history, this tour promises to satisfy both your palate and curiosity.

We’re especially drawn to the variety of stops, the knowledgeable guides, and the tasty drinks along the way. It’s a relaxed pace that allows you to savor each bite while soaking in some scenic views and intriguing stories.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour emphasizes food and drinks rather than a full-on culinary masterclass—so if you’re a hardcore foodie craving haute cuisine, this may not be your ultimate destination. However, for travelers looking for a fun, engaging way to explore Scottsdale’s vibrant Old Town, this tour hits the spot.

Who would love this?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors, foodies, history buffs, or anyone wanting a casual, enjoyable afternoon with great food, drinks, and local stories. It’s also a good choice for groups wanting to combine sightseeing with a delicious social outing.

Key Points

• Tasty Variety: Offers samples from Mexican, Mediterranean, and sweet treats, plus cocktails and tea.
• Local Insights: Guides share interesting historical and cultural stories that bring Scottsdale’s past to life.
• Inclusive Stops: This tour includes alcohol, with no need for separate arrangements.
• Paced for Comfort: Moderate walking in Old Town Scottsdale, making it suitable for most travelers.
• Well-Reviewed Guides: Guides like Noah and James receive high praise for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Great Value: Combines food, drinks, and storytelling for $70 with a nearly 5-star rating.

A Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour

Starting Point: Prep & Pastry

The tour kicks off in the afternoon at 7025 E Via Soleri Dr #175, Scottsdale. Here, you’re greeted with a relaxed vibe and an opportunity to meet your guide and fellow travelers. The experience begins at 2:30 pm, giving you plenty of daylight to enjoy the sights and bites.

Stop 1: Barrio Queen Mexican Food

Our first stop is Barrio Queen, renowned for its authentic street tacos made with freshly crafted tortillas. This Mexican restaurant is famous for best guacamole as voted by Travel + Leisure. Expect to try a signature taco, a slice of Scottsdale’s Mexican culinary scene, and perhaps a margarita—an ideal way to start the journey.

From reviews, guests love the freshness of the ingredients and the friendly atmosphere. One reviewer especially appreciated the homemade tortillas and chips, mentioning, “It’s all made in-house and very tasty.” The stop lasts about 20 minutes, making it a perfect appetizer without feeling rushed.

Stop 2: TeaTime Scottsdale

Next, you’ll visit TeaTime Scottsdale, a cozy, locally owned tea shop boasting over 80 varieties of tea. Here, you’ll get to sample a fragrant tea and a hand-painted prickly pear macaron from Ruze Cake House—an Instagram-worthy duo that combines local flavors with elegance.

According to reviews, this is a must-try stop. Guests frequently mention the delicious tea and beautiful macarons. It’s a nice breather from the savory stops, offering a sweet and aromatic contrast.

Stop 3: Barrio Queen (again)

Returning to Barrio Queen, this time for a taco and a freshly made margarita. This stop emphasizes Scottsdale’s vibrant Mexican food scene, and the guide will likely share stories about local ingredients and traditions.

Guests have praised the quality of the margaritas, with one reviewer noting that they were delicious and well-crafted. Expect about 20 minutes here—enough to enjoy your food and take some photos.

Stop 4: One Handsome Bastard Distillery

This stop showcases local spirits at the One Handsome Bastard Distillery, now operated by the Richie family. Tasting some house-distilled spirits, like their vodka or cocktails, is part of the experience. Plus, they serve tasty bites to complement the drinks.

A notable point? 10% of vodka sales go to cancer research, adding an altruistic touch. The distillery offers a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy your cocktails and learn about the local distilling process. Guests often mention the friendly service and the delicious drinks that make this stop stand out.

Stop 5: Rocket Fizz

Time for a fun, nostalgic visit to Rocket Fizz, a soda and candy shop that takes you back in time. Think colorful jars, quirky candies, and vintage sodas. It’s a quick, 5-minute stop where you can browse and even pick up some souvenirs.

Guests love the fun vibe and the chance to indulge in nostalgic treats. Plus, it’s a perfect photo spot—make sure to snap a selfie by the storefront.

Stop 6: Olive & Ivy Marketplace

Our final stop is Olive & Ivy Marketplace, a Mediterranean-inspired spot featuring fresh pastries, gelato, and a beautiful setting. You’ll have about 25 minutes to sit and enjoy the homemade gelato or baked goods, which many reviewers describe as absolutely delicious.

Guests frequently praise the friendly staff and the beautiful ambiance, making it a lovely way to wrap up the tour. It also offers a variety of small bites and drinks to finish your scenic, flavor-filled journey.

What’s Included, What’s Not

Included

• Food tastings at each stop, providing a generous sampling of Scottsdale’s culinary offerings
• Local guide who shares stories and insider tips
• Alcoholic beverages like margaritas, wine, and spirits, included as part of the experience

Not Included

• Hotel pickup or drop-off—participants meet at the starting point
• Valet parking, which costs about $10 at Nordstrom garages
• No strollers or children under 13, due to seating arrangements and the walking nature of the tour
• No wheelchair access, as some seating is at high tables that aren’t wheelchair friendly

The Walking Experience: What to Expect

The tour involves roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes of walking, mostly in Old Town Scottsdale. The pace is relaxed, with enough time at each stop to enjoy your samples and chat with guides and fellow travelers. Wear comfortable shoes and stretchy pants—trust us, you’ll want to savor every bite.

Guests highlight the knowledgeable guides like Noah and James, who are praised for their friendliness and storytelling prowess. Many reviewers have called the guides informative and engaging, enhancing the tasting experience with local facts and history.

The tour is weather-dependent, so dress appropriately for the conditions—comfortable in summer heat or layered for cooler days. Since most stops are outdoors or in open-air spaces, be prepared for Scottsdale’s sunny climate or occasional wind.

The Value: Is It Worth the Price?

At $70, this tour offers a solid value for anyone wanting a combination of food, drinks, and local insights. Included are multiple tastings, drinks, and a guided walk through Scottsdale’s historic streets.

Reviewers frequently mention the generous portions and the variety of stops—from Mexican food to Mediterranean, plus sweet treats and spirits. If you’re curious about Scottsdale’s food scene but don’t want to commit to restaurant reservations or a long itinerary, this tour condenses it all into an engaging, manageable experience.

The small group size—max 12—ensures personalized attention, making it feel intimate rather than rushed. On top of that, the tour offers skip-the-line access at popular venues, avoiding long waits and ensuring a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many travelers mention the friendly guides who elevate the experience. One reviewer called Noah “kind, funny, and knowledgeable”, while others praised James for his warm demeanor and insightful commentary.

Guests also appreciate the scenic sights—such as the iconic Bob Parks Statue—and the stunning views of Old Town lit up in the evening. The balance of food, drinks, and stories keeps the experience lively and memorable.

Some noted that the quality of food varied—highlighting the pizza at Merkin Vineyards as particularly outstanding—while others found the selection limited at certain stops. Still, the overall consensus is that this tour offers good value and a fun way to explore.

The Sum Up

The Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour offers an engaging and delicious way to see one of Arizona’s most charming neighborhoods. Its combination of authentic local eats, spirited drinks, and interesting tales makes it ideal for anyone eager to experience Scottsdale in a relaxed, flavorful manner.

Perfect for first-time visitors, food lovers, or groups wanting a fun social activity, this tour is especially valued for its knowledgeable guides and varied stops. While not a gourmet tasting experience, it’s a well-rounded introduction that will leave your taste buds satisfied and your curiosity piqued.

If you enjoy short walks, tasty food, and stories behind the scenes, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your appetite!

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, including walking and stops for tastings.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 7025 E Via Soleri Dr #175, Scottsdale, starting at 2:30 pm.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes alcoholic beverages such as margaritas, wine, and spirits at specific stops.

Is parking available?
Yes, parking is at the Nordstrom garages, which costs about $10 if you choose to valet.

Can children participate?
Children under 13 are not permitted due to seating arrangements and the alcohol component.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible because of seating at high tables and the walking nature.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for weather conditions, as it involves outdoor walking.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, flavorful way to discover Scottsdale’s food scene while soaking in some local charm and history, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a delightful, well-reviewed experience that balances good food, drinks, and storytelling—perfect for making your Scottsdale visit memorable.