Chicago: River North Walking Food Tour

Chicago’s River North neighborhood is a culinary hotspot, and the River North Walking Food Tour offers an enticing way to explore it. Led by expert guides, participants embark on a 3-hour journey, sampling iconic dishes and discovering hidden gems. From the renowned "best doughnut in America" to the city’s famous deep-dish pizza, this tour promises a delightful blend of gastronomic delights and cultural insights. With comfortable shoes and dietary considerations in mind, visitors can enjoy the vibrant neighborhood and uncover its rich history.

Key Points

• A 3-hour culinary tour through River North, Chicago, showcasing iconic dishes and hidden gems, including the "best doughnut in America" and deep-dish pizza.
• Explore the neighborhood’s rich history and culture, with an expert guide providing an insider’s perspective on Chicago’s vibrant culinary landscape.
• Sample diverse flavors from five unique local eateries, including doughnuts and authentic Spanish tapas.
• Gain a deeper understanding of River North’s evolution, from its industrial past to its present-day vibrancy.
• Practical considerations, such as comfortable shoes, water, and dietary restrictions, are important to ensure a seamless and immersive culinary experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The River North Walking Food Tour offers a 3-hour culinary exploration through Chicago’s historic River North neighborhood, known for the iconic Magnificent Mile and affluent Gold Coast.

At $99 per person, the tour allows guests to sample foods from five unique local eateries. Reservations can be made online, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour meets at the main entrance to The Merchandise Mart, a landmark Art Deco building.

Highlights include trying the "best doughnut in America" and Chicago’s signature deep-dish pizza, along with lesser-known ethnic cuisines and specialties.

Exploring River North

Why explore the historic River North neighborhood on this food tour?

River North is a lively district known for the iconic Magnificent Mile and exclusive Gold Coast. This walking food tour takes you off-the-beaten-path to discover hidden culinary gems.

Stroll through the charming streets, learning the neighborhood’s rich history and culture from an expert guide. Savor diverse flavors, from the best doughnut in America to authentic Spanish tapas.

Enjoy the local food scene, uncovering the stories behind each iconic dish. Leaving with a full belly and deeper appreciation, you’ll gain an insider’s perspective on Chicago’s vibrant culinary landscape.

Culinary Highlights

Though the River North Walking Food Tour covers a range of iconic dishes, it truly shines in showcasing the neighborhood’s hidden culinary gems.

From the beloved Doughnut Vault to the acclaimed Xoco, the tour provides an insider’s glimpse into Chicago’s vibrant food scene. Guests indulge in the best doughnut in America, savor authentic Spanish tapas, and delight in the inventor of deep-dish pizza.

Exploring these off-the-beaten-path spots, the tour offers a deeper appreciation for the city’s diverse culinary landscape and the passionate artisans behind each unique creation.

Local Culture and History

As guests embark on the River North Walking Food Tour, they enjoy the rich cultural tapestry and storied past of this vibrant Chicago neighborhood.

Expert guides regale participants with captivating tales of the area’s evolution, from its roots as an industrial hub to its current status as a trendy enclave.

Captivating tales of River North’s evolution from industrial hub to trendy enclave, as shared by expert guides.

Along the way, they point out landmarks that harken back to River North’s glory days, evoking a bygone era while seamlessly blending it with the present-day dynamism.

This unique juxtaposition offers tour-goers a deeper understanding and appreciation of Chicago’s enduring spirit.

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Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots

The River North Walking Food Tour takes guests beyond the bustling streets and prominent landmarks, leading them to hidden culinary gems and off-the-beaten-path spots that locals cherish.

The tour veers from the main drag, unveiling mom-and-pop shops, ethnic eateries, and gourmet hideaways known only to those in the know. Guests discover the inventive doughnuts at The Doughnut Vault, the legendary Chicago-style deep dish at Lou Malnati’s, and the award-winning Mexican cuisine at Xoco.

The tour provides an insider’s perspective, allowing visitors to experience the city’s vibrant food scene through the eyes of a local expert.

Dining Experiences

Five distinct dining experiences await guests on the River North Walking Food Tour.

The tour showcases:

• The Doughnut Vault, known for serving America’s best doughnuts

• Lou Malnati’s, the inventor of Chicago’s iconic deep-dish pizza

• Xoco, renowned for its Mexican cuisine by Top Chef Masters winner Rick Bayless

• Iberico, offering authentic Spanish tapas and regional specialties

• Al’s Beef, the originator of the iconic Italian beef sandwich

These hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path spots provide an immersive culinary journey through Chicago’s vibrant food scene.

Important Considerations

While preparing for the River North Walking Food Tour, travelers should keep a few important considerations in mind.

First, wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the tour involves 3 hours of walking.

Notify the tour company of any dietary restrictions when purchasing tickets, as last-minute changes can’t be accommodated. Those with severe food allergies should contact the company before booking.

Gratuities for the guide are customary, typically ranging from 15-20% of the tour price.

With these practical tips in mind, visitors can fully enjoy the culinary delights and cultural exploration of Chicago’s River North neighborhood.

Customer Feedback

Customers who’ve experienced the River North Walking Food Tour have overwhelmingly positive feedback.

The tour earns an impressive 4.7/5 rating based on 11 reviews. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide, who brings the city’s history and food culture to life. They also highlight the excellent value, with one reviewer noting "great way to explore Chicago’s food scene."

Key highlights from customer feedback include:

• Discovering hidden gourmet gems and off-the-beaten-path spots

• Tasting a variety of delicious foods from local restaurants and eateries

• Learning about Chicago’s rich culinary heritage and traditions

• Appreciating the guide’s expertise and passion for the city

• Feeling full and satisfied after the 3-hour tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food or Drink on the Tour?

No, bringing outside food or drinks is not allowed on the tour. The tour includes tastings from several local restaurants and shops, so participants should come hungry and ready to sample the included foods and beverages.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, so participants of all ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour may not be suitable for very young kids due to the walking and food tasting.

Is the Tour Wheelchair/Stroller Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Guests with mobility needs should notify the tour operator at the time of booking so accommodations can be made. The tour route and stops are designed to be inclusive and accessible.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, guests are welcome to take photos during the tour. The guide encourages capturing the food, sights, and cultural experiences along the way to commemorate the memorable outing.

What Happens if I Have a Food Allergy or Dietary Restriction?

If someone has a food allergy or dietary restriction, they should notify the tour operator at the time of ticket purchase. Last-minute changes may not be accommodated, so it’s important to disclose any special needs in advance.

The Sum Up

The River North Walking Food Tour offers a delectable way to explore Chicago’s vibrant culinary scene. With knowledgeable guides, guests can savor iconic local dishes, uncover hidden gems, and enjoy the neighborhood’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re a foodie or simply seek an engaging cultural experience, this tour promises an enjoyable and memorable outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: