Winter Haven: Flavors of the City Guided Food Tour

Discover the vibrant culinary scene of Winter Haven with the "Flavors of the City Guided Food Tour." This 3-hour journey invites foodies to savor local delicacies, from rich coffee and muffins to infused olive oils and authentic tamales. Explore the city’s history as you delight in a variety of cuisines, including Asian and Mexican. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this tour promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Key Points

• A 3-hour culinary experience showcasing the local cuisine and highlights of Winter Haven, Florida.
• Stops include coffee shops, specialty food stores, Asian restaurants, and Mexican eateries.
• Opportunity to sample infused olive oils, gelato, spring rolls, dumplings, kombucha, and authentic tamales.
• Tour is conducted in English, wheelchair accessible, and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Provides historical insights into the city’s culinary landscape, including the Publix and Ritz Theater.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Winter Haven: Flavors of the City Guided Food Tour is a 3-hour culinary experience that allows participants to explore the local cuisine and flavors of the city.

A 3-hour culinary experience exploring the local cuisine and flavors of the city.

Priced from €125.19 per person, the tour is conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible.

Visitors can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour highlights include stops at local coffee shops, olive oil and gelato tastings, Asian cuisine, and visits to historical sites.

Participants will enjoy food tastings, including lunch, coffee or tea, and alcoholic drinks, all led by a certified guide.

Highlights of the Tour

As participants embark on the Winter Haven: Flavors of the City Guided Food Tour, they’ll experience a delightful array of local cuisine and flavors.

The tour highlights include:

• Coffee and muffins at Richards Fine Coffees

• Infused olive oils and gelato at The Treasured Olive

• Asian cuisine with spring rolls and dumplings at Thai Haven

• Kombucha samples at The Union Taproom

• Delectable cakes and cookies at Sugar & Slice Bakery

Throughout the 3-hour journey, guests will also visit the original site of Publix supermarket and learn about the Ritz Theater’s vaudeville roots, seeing the rich history and diverse flavors of Winter Haven.

Culinary Journey

Participants meet their guide and fellow foodies in downtown Winter Haven to embark on a culinary journey showcasing the city’s diverse flavors.

Participants meet their guide and fellow foodies in downtown Winter Haven to embark on a culinary journey showcasing the city’s diverse flavors.

They start at Gram Parsons Derry Down, then visit Hotshots Downtown Sports Bar & Grill for signature pork pops.

Next, they learn about olive oil usage at The Treasured Olive before exploring Asian cuisine history at Thai Haven.

They stop at Tempo 1930 to discover the Publix supermarket’s origins and the Ritz Theater’s vaudeville roots.

The tour ends with authentic tamales at El Olivo Mexican Restaurant.

Coffee and Muffins at Richards Fine Coffees

Guests begin their culinary adventure at Richards Fine Coffees, where they savor freshly brewed coffee and muffins.

The cozy café offers:

• The aroma of freshly ground beans wafting through the air

• Baristas skillfully crafting specialty coffee drinks

• A selection of sweet and savory muffins, baked on-site

• A relaxed, inviting atmosphere perfect for starting the tour

• A chance to fuel up before exploring the city’s diverse flavors

This initial stop sets the tone for the delectable journey ahead, whetting the appetite for more local culinary delights.

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Infused Olive Oils and Gelato at The Treasured Olive

Next, the tour group ventures to The Treasured Olive, a specialty shop showcasing an array of infused olive oils and balsamic vinegars.

The guide introduces samples of robust garlic, zesty lemon, and peppery basil oils. Guests marvel at the variety and learn how to pair these premium infusions with different dishes.

The group then indulges in creamy gelato, a refreshing palate cleanser.

The Treasured Olive offers a delightful interlude, allowing the tour-goers to appreciate the nuanced flavors that elevate both savory and sweet culinary experiences.

Asian Cuisine at Thai Haven

The group now makes its way to Thai Haven, an authentic Asian eatery where they’ll savor signature spring rolls and steamed dumplings.

This vibrant restaurant offers:

• Fragrant herbs and spices

• Colorful ingredients

• Delicate textures

• Intricate flavor combinations

• Immersive cultural experience

The tour guide explains the rich history and cooking techniques of traditional Thai cuisine.

Guests eagerly anticipate sampling the savory spring rolls and juicy dumplings, eager to expand their culinary horizons.

This stop promises to be a delightful exploration of authentic Asian flavors.

Kombucha Samples at The Union Taproom

After indulging in the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine, the group heads to The Union Taproom, a local hangout known for its wide selection of craft beverages.

At the taproom, they’re treated to samples of the hotel’s signature kombucha. Guests learn about the ancient fermented tea‘s health benefits and the unique brewing process.

The group eagerly sips the fizzy, slightly sweet concoction, intrigued by its distinct flavor profile.

With a newfound appreciation for kombucha, the tour continues, ready to discover the next culinary delight that Winter Haven has to offer.

Cakes and Cookies at Sugar & Slice Bakery

Guests eagerly make their way to Sugar & Slice Bakery, a local institution renowned for its mouthwatering cakes and cookies. The bakery’s cozy ambiance and tantalizing aromas draw in tour participants, who are excited to indulge in the sweet treats on offer.

Guests eagerly make their way to Sugar & Slice Bakery, a local institution renowned for its mouthwatering cakes and cookies.

The display cases showcase an array of delectable options, including:

• Towering layer cakes frosted to perfection

• Buttery shortbread cookies dusted with powdered sugar

• Flaky, fruit-filled hand pies

• Rich, chocolate-dipped biscotti

• Buttery, crumbly scones

As the group samples the bakery’s finest, they savor the quality ingredients and skillful baking that have made Sugar & Slice a beloved Winter Haven institution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not specify a dress code. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes appropriate for the 3-hour walking tour. There are no formal attire requirements.

Are Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?

The tour accommodates dietary restrictions with advance notice. Guests with dietary needs can let the tour operator know when booking, and the guide will work to ensure they can enjoy the food tastings.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking, approximately 1 mile. Visitors will explore the sights and sample flavors at several locations in downtown Winter Haven. Comfortable shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the culinary journey.

Can I Bring My Own Water/Snacks on the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to bring their own water and snacks on the tour. However, the tour includes multiple food tastings, so bringing additional snacks is typically unnecessary. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines.

Is There a Restroom Break Scheduled During the Tour?

The tour itinerary doesn’t explicitly mention a scheduled restroom break, but it’s likely the guide will accommodate breaks as needed. Participants can check with the guide about restroom access during the food tastings.

The Sum Up

The "Flavors of the City Guided Food Tour" in Winter Haven offers a delightful culinary adventure. Visitors can savor local specialties, from rich coffee and muffins to infused olive oils and authentic tamales, while learning about the city’s history. This engaging 3-hour journey provides a unique opportunity to explore Winter Haven’s vibrant food scene and take in the city’s cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: