St Augustine isn’t just America’s oldest city; it’s also a fantastic place to indulge in local cuisine and unique dining experiences. The city’s blend of historic charm and vibrant food scene offers more than just good eats — it provides memorable moments. Whether you’re eager to learn the art of French cooking with an acclaimed chef or prefer sampling the best wines and bites as you stroll historic streets, St Augustine has something to satisfy your culinary curiosity. These two standout tours combine local flavor, expert guidance, and a touch of fun, making your visit truly delicious.
If you’re craving interactive and immersive food experiences, you’ll find options that go beyond traditional dining. Our list includes a hands-on cooking class led by a James Beard and Emmy-winning chef and a guided food and drink tour showcasing the city’s top eateries and historic sights. Both tours promise an insider’s look at St Augustine’s rich culinary scene, paired with excellent reviews and great value.
1. Cooking Class/Dinner W/ Celebrity French Chef OR Private Chef Ser
At number one on our list is an interactive culinary experience featuring Chef AlexG, an Emmy and James Beard Award winner. This class offers a rare chance to prepare a gourmet French meal or desserts alongside a culinary master. The class lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes, during which you’ll learn French cooking techniques, knife skills, and sauces. Participants also get hands-on experience with locally sourced vegetables and proteins, ensuring you understand how to cook seasonally and sustainably. A notable upgrade allows you to use a mini-torch to caramelize crème brûlée, adding a fun, professional touch.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized approach — menus can be customized for your group (additional fee), and the experience can be booked as private or semi-private. The atmosphere is relaxed yet educational, perfect for food lovers eager to master new skills. After cooking, everyone sits down to enjoy the meal together, making it a social and satisfying finale. This experience is especially appealing if you enjoy culinary craftsmanship and want to impress at your next dinner party.
With a rating of 4.5/5 from nine reviews, many find this a “wonderful food and company” experience. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to learn new techniques and create restaurant-quality dishes in a fun, supportive environment. The only potential downside is the price ($115 per person), but for the quality of instruction and the tailored experience, it offers solid value.
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers who love hands-on activities, want a personalized culinary lesson, and enjoy sharing a meal with new friends.
2. St. Augustine’s Wine, Cocktail and Food Experience
For an immersive taste of St Augustine’s food and drink scene, number two on our list is a comprehensive guided tour that combines food tastings, wine, and cocktails in some of the city’s best spots. With a perfect rating of 5.0/5 from over a thousand reviews, this tour is clearly a favorite among past participants. It lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes and includes samples from several acclaimed eateries — all included in the ticket price ($154 per person). The tour takes you through historic landmarks like Castillo de San Marcos and the Huguenot Cemetery, adding a rich historical context to your culinary adventure.
This experience shines because it offers a well-rounded introduction to St Augustine’s culinary culture. As you stroll through the city’s streets, a knowledgeable guide shares stories of the city’s past while you enjoy delicious food and expertly paired drinks. Highlights include tasting local wines, cocktails, and regional bites, with no extra costs for samples, which makes it good value for money. Guests particularly appreciate the insightful guiding and the quality of the food and drinks, often mentioning how the tour exceeded their expectations.
The tour is ideal for foodies and history buffs alike. It’s perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with tasting. Some reviews mention that the variety of food and drink options makes every stop special, and the guides’ historical insights add depth to the experience. A potential downside is that it may not be suitable for those with limited mobility, given the walking involved.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers who want to sample a wide range of flavors while exploring St Augustine’s sights, all infused with engaging storytelling.
How to Choose
Deciding between these two outstanding options depends on what kind of experience you seek. If you love learning culinary skills and creating your own gourmet meal, the Cooking Class/Dinner with a Celebrity French Chef offers an interactive, hands-on experience that’s perfect for foodies who want to bring French techniques home. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a more intimate setting and enjoy cooking.
On the other hand, if you’d rather sample a variety of local bites and drinks while learning about St Augustine’s history, the Wine, Cocktail, and Food Tour provides a guided tasting experience with excellent reviews. It’s ideal for travelers who want a social, relaxed outing that combines snacks, drinks, and sightseeing.
Consider your budget, time, and interests. The cooking class is slightly shorter and more focused on culinary skills, while the wine and food tour offers a broader taste of the city’s flavors combined with historical insights. Both are worthwhile, but book early — especially the popular wine and cocktail tour — to guarantee your spot.
In summary, St Augustine offers a broad spectrum of dining experiences that can cater to different interests. If you want to learn French cooking from an award-winning chef, the hands-on Cooking Class/Dinner is a fantastic choice. For those eager to sample local flavors and explore city sights, the Wine, Cocktail, and Food Experience stands out as a top-rated option. Both tours promise memorable moments and a delicious way to enjoy St Augustine’s vibrant culinary scene. Book early, and prepare to enjoy some of the best food and drinks the city has to offer.