Feast of Saint Augustine Historical Walking Food Tour

If you’re visiting St. Augustine and want to experience its culinary scene along with a dash of history, the Feast of Saint Augustine Historical Walking Food Tour might just be your perfect choice. With a solid 5-star rating based on over 300 reviews, this tour promises a delicious, informative, and relaxed way to explore Florida’s oldest city.

What we love about this experience? First, you’re guided by locals who genuinely love sharing their city’s stories and flavors. Second, the varied stops—from restaurants to wine stores—offer a balanced taste of the area’s culinary diversity. Lastly, the inclusion of alcoholic beverages, especially wine, elevates the tasting experience without feeling overly commercial.

However, there’s a note of caution: some reviewers found the tour a bit pricey for what they received, especially those who aren’t wine drinkers or wanted more food. Still, if you’re looking for a leisurely, intimate group with authentic food and historical insights, this tour feels well worth the price.

Ideal for food lovers, history buffs, or couples seeking a casual and tasty way to see St. Augustine, this tour offers a genuine taste of the city’s local charm.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Visit a variety of local restaurants, a wine store, and an olive oil tasting room.
• All-Inclusive Tastings: All food samples and alcoholic drinks are included, making it a hassle-free culinary adventure.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Aaron and Frederick offer engaging stories, historical context, and friendly banter.
• Walking Exploration: The tour’s route on foot allows you to see many of the city’s streets, shops, and hidden gems.
• Time & Group Size: Lasts around 3 hours with a maximum of 16 travelers, fostering an intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
• Good Value for Food & Drink: Despite some opinions on the price, most reviews highlight the quality and variety of the tastings as worthwhile.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Meeting Point & Duration

The tour kicks off at 115 Cordova St, a central and easily recognizable spot in St. Augustine. You can expect to mingle with a friendly group of up to 16 travelers, making for a cozy, personalized experience. The total time is approximately 3 hours, which strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy multiple tastings without feeling rushed.

The Route & Stops

The route takes you across various local venues, each carefully selected to showcase St. Augustine’s culinary scene and support small businesses. The initial stop is a mix of restaurants where you can sample regional specialties. Tour guides, like Aaron, are praised for their knowledge of both food and city history, making each visit informative as well as tasty.

Next, you’ll visit an olive oil tasting room, a highlight for many. Here, you learn how olive oil is made and get a chance to sample different varieties—it’s a fun way to enhance your understanding of one of the world’s favorite condiments.

From there, the route includes a wine store where tastings are included in the ticket price. Reviewers note that the wines offered are thoughtfully paired with the dishes, and many mention the quality of the selections as a definite plus. Some stops also include sampling at a cigar bar or other local venues, adding to the variety.

Food & Drink Highlights

Expect half-portion meals at each venue—enough to satisfy without filling up entirely before the next stop. Popular dishes include local specialties, with some reviewers praising the cheesecake and wine pairing at Bar Har and escargot at Cafe Alcazar.

All tastings are included—this is a significant selling point, as it turns the tour into a full-fledged culinary experience rather than just a tasting session. You’ll sip wines, beers, and perhaps even enjoy some local craft brews, depending on the venue.

Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the food and beverages, emphasizing that the wines are not mass-market brands but more carefully curated selections.

The Guides & Their Stories

The guides like Aaron and Frederick earn high marks for their knowledgeability and friendly approach. They balance historical facts, fun stories, and humor effortlessly, making the tour more engaging than a typical food crawl. One reviewer mentions that Frederick gave a mix of history, ghost stories, and even Tarot card insights, adding a quirky twist to the experience.

The Atmosphere & Group Dynamics

With a small group size, the tour feels intimate, allowing for better interaction and a more relaxed vibe. Many guests mention that guides are flexible with timing, allowing guests to linger longer at favorite stops or move along smoothly.

Value & Price Analysis

At $139 per person, the tour might seem on the higher side for some. A few reviews point out that the amount of food might be small for true hunger, and those not interested in wine could feel the experience is less appealing. Still, most agree that the overall combination of food, drinks, local insights, and city exploration offers good value.

Accessibility & Practical Info

The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, given the walking involved. It’s near public transportation, making it accessible for most visitors. Service animals are allowed, an added convenience for those with pets.

Why This Tour Works Well for Travelers

This experience is ideal if you love exploring on foot and want a balanced mix of culinary delights and cultural insights. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who enjoy authentic, local experiences without the hassle of planning each stop.

However, if you’re strictly after a full meal or aren’t a fan of wine, this might not be the best fit, as the focus leans heavily on tasting and pairing. Also, keep in mind the price point—many find it justified by the quality and intimate setting, but it’s worth considering whether it matches your budget.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary & Highlights

First Stop: Local Restaurants & Specialties

The tour kicks off with a visit to a local eatery, where you can try regional specialties. Guests have praised the variety of meals, with some favorites including desserts like cheesecake paired with wine, or savory items like escargot. The guide’s commentary adds context, making each dish more meaningful.

Olive Oil Tasting

Next, the olive oil tasting room provides a hands-on chance to learn about production methods and flavor profiles. Many reviewers enjoyed this stop, noting it as a fun educational moment that adds depth to the culinary journey.

Wine Store & Pairings

The visit to the wine store is often highlighted as a standout. The wines are selected with care, and the pairing suggestions from guides help elevate each tasting. Guests frequently mention the quality and diversity of wines, feeling it adds a sophisticated touch to their experience.

Additional Stops & Surprises

Some tours include visits to cigar bars or smaller hidden gems in town, offering a mix of flavors and atmospheres. The stops are carefully curated to showcase the best of what St. Augustine’s food scene offers—without overwhelming the palate or the schedule.

Final Thoughts

The Feast of Saint Augustine Historical Walking Food Tour offers a delightful way to discover the city’s culinary side while soaking up its historic charm. The combination of knowledgeable guides, well-chosen venues, and included tastings make it a strong contender for foodies and curious travelers alike.

While the price may be a consideration for budget travelers or those not keen on wine, most reviews affirm that the experience delivers great value through its memorable stops, engaging storytelling, and local ambiance.

This tour is best suited for visitors who enjoy walking, sampling high-quality food and drinks, and learning about their destination from passionate guides. If you’re looking for a relaxed, flavorful, and insightful exploration of St. Augustine, this tour could very well be the highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
While specific dietary accommodations aren’t detailed, many venues are able to cater to special requests like gluten-free. It’s best to contact the provider in advance to confirm.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried.

What is included in the ticket price?
All food samples and alcoholic beverages (wine, beer, etc.) at each venue are included, making it a convenient, all-in-one experience.

Is the tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking through the city, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. However, it’s not explicitly stated whether accommodations are available for those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. You can receive a full refund if you cancel in time.

Are there any age restrictions?
Alcoholic drinks are only available for guests 21 and over. The tour is suitable for adults, but not for children or teenagers.

If you’re hunting for a way to combine good food, local culture, and a touch of history in St. Augustine, this walking tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that many travelers rave about. Just be prepared for some walking, a bit of wine tasting, and plenty of delightful bites along the way.