Sydney is a city that loves its food, and it shows. With its buzzing markets, multicultural neighborhoods, and world-class seafood, Sydney offers a fantastic backdrop for food tours. Whether you’re after a full-day gourmet experience in Hunter Valley or a quick walk through Chinatown’s street food stalls, this city has something for every appetite. We’re especially drawn to the Chef-Led Hunter Valley Gourmet Food and Wine Day Tour for its unique pairing of a professional chef guiding you through boutique wineries or the Sydney Street Art & Food Tour for its mix of vibrant art and tasty bites. These tours not only satisfy your palate but also give you a real taste of Sydney’s local flavors and culture.
If you’re short on time, the Chinatown Street Food and Stories Walking Tour packs a lot into two hours, offering insights into the Chinese-Australian community alongside delicious snacks. For those who want a more personalized experience, the Private Food Walking Tour tailors tastings to your preferences, making it perfect for foodies wanting an intimate encounter with Sydney’s culinary scene.
Quick Overview
The list below features 14 of the best food tours in Sydney, covering everything from full-day wine and seafood trips to neighborhood explorations and street food adventures. Some tours focus on local neighborhoods like Surry Hills or Glebe, while others highlight cultural stories and native ingredients. Prices range from around $60 to over $200, with options for small groups or private experiences. Whether you’re after gourmet pairings, authentic street food, or cultural insights, this guide helps you pick the perfect taste adventure in Sydney.
- Quick Overview
- 1. Chef-Led Hunter Valley Gourmet Food and Wine Day Tour from Sydney
- 2. Sydney’s Chinatown Street Food and Stories Walking Tour
- 3. Sydney Street Art & Food Tour
- 4. From Sydney: Hunter Valley Wine, Gin & Food Tastings Tour
- 5. Sydney Food Tour with 8 Authentic Tastings by Secret Food Tours
- 6. Ultimate Aussie Food Tour (Semi Private Tour – Max 6 Guests)
- 7. Sydney: Chinatown Street Food & Culture Guided Walking Tour
- 8. Sydney’s Little Italy Food Tour
- 9. Forkabout Sydney Foodie Walking Tour
- 10. Sydney: Chef-Led Hunter Valley Food & Wine Tour
- 11. Sydney: Food Tour in Trendy Surry Hills with 8 Tastings
- 12. Sydney Kayak Seal Encounter Adventure with Gourmet Food
- 13. Secret Sydney Foodie Walking Tour
- 14. Sydney Private Food Walking Tour With Locals: The 10 Tastings
- How to Choose the Best Food Tour in Sydney
- Final Thoughts
1. Chef-Led Hunter Valley Gourmet Food and Wine Day Tour from Sydney
At number 1, this full-day tour offers an indulgent experience led by a professional chef. It includes a visit to the Sydney Fish Market, where you’ll learn about Australia’s seafood auction, and a scenic drive to the Hunter Valley. The highlight is the chef’s personal touch in pairing wine tastings at boutique wineries with gourmet foods, including seafood and local specialties. Rated a perfect 5.0/5 by 728 reviewers, this tour impresses with its combination of culinary expertise and scenic beauty.
Guests rave about Jimmy, the guide, who is both a driver and chef, making the experience friendly and personal. The tour includes breakfast, lunch, wine tastings, and hotel pickups, making it very convenient. It’s ideal if you want a luxurious, immersive day that combines cooking, wine, and local food culture. Expect to see wildlife like kangaroos and enjoy Jimmy’s expertly prepared dishes that rival restaurant quality.
Bottom line: Perfect for food and wine lovers eager for a full-day, guided tasting adventure with a personal chef at the helm.
2. Sydney’s Chinatown Street Food and Stories Walking Tour
For a quick, lively exploration, the Chinatown Street Food and Stories Walking Tour delivers an authentic taste of Chinese flavors in Sydney’s oldest neighborhood. In around two hours, you’ll enjoy at least four snacks from local restaurants, accompanied by stories about the Chinese community’s history in Australia. This tour is perfect if you want a short but flavorful experience and an insider’s perspective.
Starting outside Paddy’s Market, your guide will lead you through Dixon Street, the Chinese Garden of Friendship, and Darling Square. The tour is designed to be comfortable for all, with dietary needs accommodated. Guests love how this tour combines cultural storytelling with tastings that reveal the city’s multicultural identity.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those wanting a bite-sized, culturally rich food tour with a local touch.
3. Sydney Street Art & Food Tour
If you’re drawn to urban art and eclectic neighborhoods, the Sydney Street Art & Food Tour in Newtown offers a perfect blend. This three-hour outing includes visits to one of Australia’s most popular craft breweries, Young Henrys, and explores backstreets filled with stunning street art. You’ll sample 4 snacks and 1 alcoholic drink, making it an engaging way to experience Sydney’s alternative culture.
Rated 5.0/5 by 120 reviews, it’s praised for Andrew’s passion and detailed insights into the local art and food scenes. This tour is ideal for art lovers and curious explorers who want a mix of visual and culinary stimulation. It’s suitable for first-timers or repeat visitors looking to see Sydney’s trendier side.
Bottom line: A colorful, artsy tour that combines street art, craft beer, and local eats for a memorable afternoon.
4. From Sydney: Hunter Valley Wine, Gin & Food Tastings Tour
At number 4, this tour combines wine, gin, cheese, and chocolates in the Hunter Valley. It takes you to three boutique wineries and distilleries, with guided tours explaining spirit and wine production. You’ll taste pairings with cheese and chocolates, and enjoy a 1-course lunch with wine or beer.
Price-wise, the tour offers great value, with a full-day itinerary lasting about 11.5 hours. It’s perfect for those wanting an all-encompassing tasting experience in the countryside, with flexible pickup options from Sydney. Past travelers highlight the quality of the tastings and the relaxed ambiance.
Bottom line: Excellent for wine, spirits, and gourmet food fans seeking a comprehensive day trip with expert-led tastings.
5. Sydney Food Tour with 8 Authentic Tastings by Secret Food Tours
At number 5, this small-group tour in Surry Hills offers eight tastings in just over three hours. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore hidden eateries, cafes, and restaurants that many visitors overlook. The tour includes lunch and insights into Sydney’s modern Australian cuisine.
Rated 5.0/5, it’s great for foodies who want a curated, local experience. The guide shares stories and recommendations, making it both an educational and delicious journey. Perfect if you prefer a more intimate, leisurely pace to sample diverse dishes without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, mid-range tour ideal for those who want variety and local flavor in a small-group setting.
6. Ultimate Aussie Food Tour (Semi Private Tour – Max 6 Guests)
Number 6 offers a semi-private exploration of Pyrmont, Ultimo, and Glebe, focusing on Aussie favorites such as vegemite, Tim Tams, and kangaroo. The tour includes coffee, craft beer, and local bites in a small group of up to 6 people. During the walk, you’ll learn about indigenous and colonial history and experience the neighborhoods’ authentic food scene.
Rated 5.0/5, it’s suitable for gourmets interested in Australian specialties and an intimate setting. The guide’s local knowledge makes the tour feel personal and relaxed, perfect for those wanting a less touristy experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for curious explorers wanting an authentic, small-group taste of Australian favorites.
7. Sydney: Chinatown Street Food & Culture Guided Walking Tour
Number 7 explores Chinatown’s vibrant streets, sampling delicious Chinese street foods. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll visit iconic sights like the Friendship Garden and learn about Chinese-Australian history. The tour emphasizes cultural stories and food from various regions of China.
Rated 4.9/5, it is perfect for culture-minded food lovers who want a combination of history and tasting. It’s suitable for those who appreciate engaging guides and want to support local Chinese businesses.
Bottom line: Great for culturally curious travelers seeking a short, flavorful immersion in Chinatown’s dynamic food scene.
8. Sydney’s Little Italy Food Tour
Number 8 takes you to Five Dock’s Little Italy, where you’ll taste Italian specialties at five family-run businesses. This tour offers an insider’s perspective on the Italian community in Sydney, including stops at cafes, gelato shops, and delis. The experience lasts about 2.5 hours and is beloved for its authentic, homemade flavors.
Rated 5.0/5, reviewers praise the local guides and tasty food. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, cultural food experience that feels like a mini trip to Italy.
Bottom line: A tasty, laid-back tour for lovers of Italian cuisine and culture, off the usual tourist trail.
9. Forkabout Sydney Foodie Walking Tour
This 3-4 hour food-focused walk is ideal for serious foodies. It takes you through local eateries that most visitors miss, with secret menu items and diverse cuisine. The guide shares insights on Sydney’s culinary scene, making it an educational experience for curious eaters.
Rated 5.0/5, it’s recommended for those who want to discover hidden culinary gems and learn about Sydney’s food culture. The tour is flexible and covers multiple neighborhoods.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventurous foodies eager to try secret dishes and local favorites.
10. Sydney: Chef-Led Hunter Valley Food & Wine Tour
Number 10 offers a chef-guided full-day experience in Hunter Valley, focusing on food and wine pairing. It includes visits to Sydney Fish Market, a scenic drive, and wine tastings at boutique wineries, all led by a chef who curates the tasting experience.
Rated 5/5, it’s tailored for those wanting a culinary-focused day with professional guidance. The tour’s emphasis on pairing food with wines makes it stand out, especially for those interested in gastronomy.
Bottom line: A comprehensive, gastronomic journey suitable for wine and foodie connoisseurs.
11. Sydney: Food Tour in Trendy Surry Hills with 8 Tastings
This tour explores Surry Hills’ iconic landmarks and culinary heritage over 3.5 hours. You’ll visit local eateries, sharing eight tastings of dishes that reflect Sydney’s multicultural influences. The guide offers insights into local history and food trends.
Rated 4.6/5, it’s perfect for adults looking for an engaging, flavorful walk through one of Sydney’s most popular neighborhoods.
Bottom line: A well-rounded tour combining history, culture, and great food for curious, adult travelers.
12. Sydney Kayak Seal Encounter Adventure with Gourmet Food
For a truly unique experience, the Kayak Seal Encounter combines wildlife viewing with gourmet picnic paddling. Paddle out to see seal colonies in Pittwater, then relax on a secluded beach with a gourmet lunch.
Rated 5.0/5, it’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want a combination of wildlife and fine food. The tour provides all equipment, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
Bottom line: An outstanding choice for nature lovers who want wildlife and gourmet food in one trip.
13. Secret Sydney Foodie Walking Tour
This tour offers a deep dive into Sydney’s modern food scene in Surry Hills, with stops at quaint bakeries, iconic restaurants, and hidden gems. It emphasizes native ingredients and multicultural influences, making it ideal for curious food lovers.
Rated 5.0/5, it’s praised for passionate guides and tasty samples. It’s suitable for those wanting an immersive, education-focused culinary walk.
Bottom line: Perfect for foodies interested in native ingredients and local stories.
14. Sydney Private Food Walking Tour With Locals: The 10 Tastings
Finally, the Private Food Walking Tour offers personalized, private tastings in Newtown, with 10 carefully selected food and drink stops. Your local host customizes the experience, which is perfect for those wanting a tailored, intimate outing.
Rated 4.0/5, it’s ideal for small groups or couples looking for a personalized and flexible culinary adventure. It’s a chance to explore Sydney’s hidden food spots at your own pace.
Bottom line: A great option for those who want a customized, private taste tour with insider recommendations.
How to Choose the Best Food Tour in Sydney
When selecting a food tour, consider your budget, time available, and specific interests. For a luxurious day with wine and seafood, the Chef-Led Hunter Valley Gourmet Food and Wine Day Tour offers an unrivaled experience. If you prefer urban exploring and want to sample street food and local culture, the Chinatown Street Food and Stories Walking Tour or Street Art & Food Tour are excellent choices.
For those interested in native ingredients and Australian favorites, the Ultimate Aussie Food Tour or the Gourmet Food & Wine Tour are perfect. Travelers on a tight schedule might opt for the Chinatown Street Food Tour or Secret Sydney Foodie Tour.
Remember to book early, especially for popular tours like the private options or full-day excursions, and consider your fitness level and dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
Sydney offers a fantastic variety of food tours that cater to every taste and schedule. From luxury wine and seafood days to street food adventures and neighborhood explorations, there’s something for every foodie. For travelers seeking an immersive, guided experience, the Chef-Led Hunter Valley Tour and Private Food Tours excel. Meanwhile, those after shorter, lively walks will love Chinatown and Newtown’s street art and food tours.
No matter your choice, these tours promise a deeper understanding of Sydney’s culinary culture, making your trip all the more delicious. Be sure to book early, and get ready to enjoy some of the best bites the city has to offer.
