chicago ethnic food tours

Food & Culture Walking Tours of Chicago's Diverse Neighborhoods

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NEW CHICAGO FOOD TOURS FOR 2024!

Global Street Foods of Uptown 

Lincoln Square: West Meets East

Say "i love you" with a food tour.

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• Hour Glass 2.5 hours
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Global Street Foods of Uptown

Immerse yourself in an explosion of flavors from every corner of the map.

• Hour Glass 3 hours

Explore charming Lincoln Square. Chicago’s most European neighborhood features Old World flavors surrounded by newer tastes from Central and East Asia.

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Saigon to Stockholm Food Tour

Discover Argyle & Andersonville, two of Chicago’s best neighborhoods, on one Chicago food tour! Enjoy foods from Vietnam, the Middle East, and Sweden.

Private Tour

Our happy clients include corporate meetings, gourmet clubs, active senior groups, family reunions, and community fundraisers. Plan your perfect private experience with us!

The 2023 Great Chicago Cookie Box

Send your loved ones, clients and friends a unique Chicago experience that supports family bakeries and community organizations. Chicago Foodways has combed the city for holiday favorites from our diverse neighborhoods. The Great Chicago Cookie Box contains cookies from a variety of bakeries representing the international and local flavors that make Chicago so delicious.

We have a new look and new bakeries for 2023, along with favorites from previous years.

AS SEEN IN THE CHICAGO TRIBUNE!

THE 2023 GREAT CHICAGO COOKIE BOX IS HERE!

CHICAGO FOOD TOURS MAKE MEMORABLE GIFTS!

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PRIVATE FOOD TOURS OF CHICAGO AVAILABLE

For Groups of 6 or More

GO DEEPER THAN DEEP DISH FOR A TASTE OF CHICAGO'S DIVERSITY

Our Food & Culture Experiences

Find out why Chicago is called ‘The City of Neighborhoods.’ Beyond our famous skyscrapers, the daily life of real Chicago takes place in over 100 distinct neighborhoods. Each has its own flavors and stories. Chicago Foodways wants to show you a few.

EXPLORE TWO OF CHICAGO'S MOST DIVERSE NEIGHBORHOODS

We thought we were just doing a food tour but it was so much more! Phyllis was fantastic in sharing the history and cultural aspects of the different neighborhoods as well as the stories of the families that owned the different restaurants. It was a fabulous deep dive into the Chicago known as the city of neighborhoods! Highly recommend this tour for locals as well!

...This tour gives you tastes of ethnic foods that are more Chicago than the tourist spots. Phyllis is knowlegeable about the neighborhood and works with food allergies or preferences so that you will have a great experience. We took our 15 y.o. grandson who loved it as much as we did.

Phyllis was our enthusiastic tour guide and led us on an incredibly informative tour along Argyle (uptown) and Andersonville. Altogether it was maybe a couple of miles (very easy walk) but so much history, culture and food (!) along the way. Thoughtful and organized; I would absolutely recommend this tour.

Such an amazing food tour!! Phyllis is very knowledgable about both food and the Uptown neighborhood...Portions were big, and I was so full by the end. I'm a vegetarian and all of the veggie options were very tasty. I will definitely be going back to these restaurants. Totally worth it!

The tour is HIGHLY recommended, both for the delicious nibbles across multiple cute locales and for the highly valuable information relayed by it's wonderful host, Phyllis. My only wish is that every neighborhood had a Phyllis to guide me around and feed my hungers for food and knowledge and discovery! Thanks Phyllis!

Having spent the past 16 years living in and around the Uptown/Andersonville area, I thought I had a handle on the diverse cuisine and culture of the neighborhood; it turns out, I didn't know the half of it...Its an absolutely wonderful way for an adventurous traveler to spend an afternoon off the beaten trail in Chicago, but equally fascinating for a local like myself!

Our experience with Phyllis and the Chicago Foodways tour could not have been better. We spent the afternoon sampling Vietnamese and Swedish delights and learning about the history of the Argyle and Andersonville neighborhoods. Can't wait to return to Chicago and take Phyllis' other tour!

Well researched, thoughtful food choices. The Saigon to Stockholm tour was an exceptional 2 1/2 hour excursion through two of the cites more obscure communities. Phyliss’s engaging story telling and exceptional food knowledge crafted a memorable experience.

Absolutely amazing food tour of really unique and historic areas of Chicago! Fantastic history and context for the equally delicious food we had. Would highly recommend this tour, especially if you're wanting a unique perspective on real Chicago life!

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CHICAGO'S BEST CULTURAL FOOD TOURS

The world is just around the corner, fun food experience.

Embark on an adventure as we taste our way through Chicago's eclectic and diverse neighborhoods. Discover unique cultures, rich history, and exotic foods in small interactive groups. Spice of Life Tours offers Chicago's ultimate cultural food experience.

The history, culture, architecture, and entertainment offerings that makes Chicago’s ethnic neighborhoods so unique from the rest of Chicago. Discover delicious food, eclectic neighborhoods, and the hidden gems of Chicago, plus much more!

the savory flavors of exotic food. You taste a variety of traditional flavors and food. Whether you are visiting Chicago for the first time or have been an avid foodie, you will gain a profound understanding of Chicago’s culinary scene. Our guided tour has many stops that include many sit-down tastings.

The imported goods on your favorite tour. Learn the meaning behind the shop items, what they are used for, and the traditions of specific shop items. Whether its imported novelties, food, or clothing you can indulge. The shops you experience place a big role in the tour experience.

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WALKING FOOD TOURS IN CHICAGO

Explore our chicago food tours.

One of the best ways to get to know a city is by tasting the local food. Sidewalk Food Tours of Chicago’s three-hour food and history walking tours unlock the city’s most interesting neighborhoods by exploring their culinary delights. We sample delicious food at amazing specialty food stores, ethnic eateries, well-known food purveyors, and off-the-radar establishments. At the end of our tours, you are able to use your newfound culinary perspectives and put the neighborhood and the city into a new, exciting context.

Along the way, our expert local guides provide an entertaining insider’s view into the culture, history, and architecture that define Chicago, tying it together with the wonderful tastings we enjoy. Tours are leisurely paced and suitable for all age groups and fitness levels. So eat as the locals eat, and see what the locals see – join us on one of Sidewalk of Chicago’s food tours!

• recommended tour!

RIVER NORTH FOOD TOUR

Come enjoy the luxury and opulence of River North on this culinary tour through the historically affluent neighborhood. Savor foods from 5 amazingly delicious eateries serving classic Chicago-style dishes.

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• Clock 11am-2pm
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WICKER PARK FOOD TOUR

The Wicker Park food tour takes guests on a delicious trip through the scenic city blocks, stopping for tastings and to point out the local landmarks.

• Clock Flexible
• Calendar 7 days a week

CHICAGO PRIVATE FOOD TOUR

Sidewalk Food Tours of Chicago offers the best private walking food tours for all our tour options. The Sidewalks team will work with you to create the perfect tour suited to your group’s interests and showcasing your desired city’s best foodie neighborhoods!

CHICAGO CORPORATE TEAM BUILDING TOUR

Sidewalk Food Tours specializes in curating the best corporate team building food tour experiences in Chicago. Our tours are a great opportunity for your team to get outside of their usual office environment and hit the streets to taste delicious treats from our favorite spots in your city’s neighborhood!

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Welcome to Chicago Food Walks with Rebecca Wheeler. Private food tours in Chicago's most interesting neighborhoods.

Southeast Asian

The Argyle Tour blends immigrant history with Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese flavors

The Chinatown Tour is jam-packed with fascinating history, architecture, shopping, and above all, amazing food!

Indian & Pakistani

The Devon Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the best of Devon Ave. and features a variety of delicious Indian and Pakistani eats.

Taste. Shop. Learn.

What makes Chicago Food Walks with Rebecca Wheeler special?

Rebecca Wheeler offers Chicago visitors and locals an unforgettable experience that’s off the typical tourist path. You won’t go to any deep-dish pizza places or hot dog joints that you can find on your own. Instead, we go deep into the neighborhoods that are the heart and soul of the immigrant diversity Chicago is famous for. Each food tour is private for your group of 1-10 guests. No tour guide scripts, megaphones or name tags here. Chicago Food Walks are perfect for entertaining out-of-town guests or just spending time with friends and family.

Rebecca Wheeler is a cooking instructor and world traveler who serves as a cultural ambassador for Chicago’s diverse  neighborhoods. Each tour features plenty of carefully selected tastings along with authentic insights into the history and cultural significance of the cuisine, backed by her own culinary travels and studies in these countries. The result is a fun, personal and mouth-watering learning experience that will last beyond the tour into your own kitchen and future dining experiences.

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Tour Reviews

"The private tour with Rebecca was so wonderful! It is absolutely the highlight of my stay in Chicago."

— FoodieNetherlands —

"The food at each stop was better than the next and included generous samples of flavorful authentic dishes."

— dbweiss —

"My boyfriend surprised me with the Chinatown food tour for our anniversary and it couldn't have been more amazing! We definitely look forward to checking out another Chicago neighborhood with Rebecca!"

— Charlotte G. —

"Rebecca was the perfect tour guide. She provided a lot of information and introduced us to amazing restaurants and bakeries."

— Melissa H. —

"As a local I went on the Argyle food tour with out of town family and was totally impressed."

— Mike —

"I left the tour with the same open-minded, fulfilled feeling I get when I've been traveling."

— Emily Q. —

"Rebecca was everything you want in a guide: super friendly, incredibly knowledgable, and a genuine pleasure to spend time with. We cannot recommend her more highly."

— BeeKnees —

"Fabulous & fun! Excellent way to experience the city!"

— Kay T. —

"Our tour with Rebecca was amazing! ...more than anything, she chose unusual food that satisfied everyone in the group (and we had children in tow!!!)"

— Barbara D. —

"Amazing Experience with Rebecca - truly recommend any of her tours. We would go again in a heartbeat."

— jcummings —

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Chicago Foodways

Beyond the usual tourist destinations, visitors to Chicago and life-long residents alike may experience numerous cultures and traditions in ethnic enclaves throughout the vast city.  Vietnamese specialties, European and Mexican baked goods, traditional beverages and all manner of exotic tastes are available to sample if you know where to look. Sounds exciting, but for some of us venturing into the unknown can be intimidating. So let’s get some help.

We caught up with Phyllis Petrilli, an accomplished chef, food industry professional, and proprietor of Chicago Foodways to learn more about the rich diversity of cultures that contribute to the ethnic food scene in Chicago.  In the hip North Chicago neighborhood known as Andersonville, Phyllis guides her guests through a multicultural moving feast, all within a few city blocks.

LM: Why did you choose the Andersonville/Argyle neighborhood for your food tour? Ever since I took a food tour in Boston’s North End, I daydreamed about someday creating my own tour in Chicago.  When I moved from Old Town to Andersonville after graduating from culinary school, I realized I had stumbled onto the ideal place to do it.  While Andersonville is widely known as a Swedish neighborhood, I was amazed at the diversity of eateries, groceries and bakeries that co-existed with each other in so few blocks.   These are not trendy, themed Lettuce-Entertain-You- type restaurants, but family businesses that have been rolling along for 20, 30, even 80 years.  And they are still bustling and important to the community today.  Then make the short trek from Clark Street to Broadway, and it starts all over again with Vietnamese, Thai and Chinese businesses that also mingle with African and Caribbean markets.  I worked at Epcot Center in college and I loved to hang out in the World Showcase after my shifts.  Here was my World Showcase, only it’s so much better because it is  real.   And the people are so much better because they are not Disney cast members but real Chicagoans, no matter where they were born.

LM: What do your tour guests experience? They join me for a one-and-a-half-mile walk through two neighborhoods that are both listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  We make seven stops in various groceries or bakeries to sample the food (and in one case, the drink) they are known for.  We talk about the history of the business but also about the history of the neighborhood and how the various ethnic groups came to settle in that part of Chicago.  We even stop at a famous but forgotten location once the hotspot of the nation’s silent film industry.

LM: You didn’t start out as a chef and food expert.  What path brought you to this profession? I graduated from Penn State before “yuppie” became a dirty word, and I wanted the corporate, professional career that came with it.  I landed it by getting hired by Ford Motor Co. in Detroit, and later transferred to Chicago.  I fell in love with the city instantly.  I was dazzled by the number of restaurants and the wonderful things you could find in stores like Whole Foods and Treasure Island.  Soon I found myself sitting in business meetings and thinking about what new thing I would attempt to make for dinner that night.  I was pretty much self-taught by the Joy of Cooking and Cooking Light by the time I decided to go to culinary school.  I honed my craft every year by hosting an elaborate Christmas party featuring handmade hors d’ oeuvres made in my tiny, six-square foot,  kitchen.

LM: You love to cook and entertain.  What are your favorite sources for the best ingredients? With the expansion of Whole Foods and Mariano’s, I think we are in the golden age of grocery stores in Chicago.  That being said, I prefer to shop small and only hit the big guys for what I can’t find elsewhere.  For my day-to-day shopping I like to hit Mexican produce markets.  They have all the essentials plus heaps of fresh, budget friendly produce.  My favorite is Edgewater Produce in Andersonville.  Great quality produce, organic eggs, and tortillas from El Milagro that are often still warm to the touch.  Since it’s a small place, I’m in and out in less than ten minutes with a week’s worth of groceries.

For dry grains and spices, I go to Middle East Bakery and Grocery at the corner of Foster and Clark.  They have this lovely black rice that releases a dark purple starch as it cooks.  It’s striking on a plate and has a rich, unique flavor. After a citywide quest, here I finally found pomegranate molasses.  In fact, Jim would sell it to me by the case for the restaurant I ran.  They make their own pita, and it’s always hot and steamy on the shelf.  This place is a wonderland and run by the nicest people.

If I’m making Thai or Vietnamese food, I hit Tai Nam on Broadway for lime leaves, galangal, tamarind and all kinds of basil and mint.  Since these cuisines rely so heavily on fresh herbs, you’ll never get the true flavor by using canned goods or more mainstream substitutes.

LM: What are some of your favorite places to eat in Chicago? Although I love to experiment with world cuisine, I’m still an Italian girl at heart.  I used to be reluctant to name a favorite Italian restaurant because each has a unique specialty.  Now I have two neighborhood favorites that nail it…food, wine, service, authenticity, atmosphere.

If you’re looking to revive memories of your recent trip to Italy, go to Spacca Napoli on Sunnyside and Ravenswood.  Their specialty is real Neapolitan pizza (they import their flour from Naples) but everything they do is on point.  Try the minestrone and the Prosciutto e Rucola pizza.  If the burrata appetizer is on the menu, don’t hesitate, just do it.

I also love Anteprima in Andersonville.  The cuisine is authentic, comforting and ever-changing.  I once had a very simply prepared grilled rabbit dish that was out of this world. Their prices are friendly for the quality and quantity of food compared to some “downtown” Italian restaurants.  Check them out Monday through Thursday for a three-course fixed-price menu for $29.

My latest find is Cookies and Carnitas in Edgewater.  These are meat guys, you can tell.  Our trio sampled the tacos made with carnets (pork shoulder), skirt steak and goat (yes, goat).  Everything was succulent and well-cooked.  Treat yourself to a Kitchen Floor cookie on your way out.

LM: What’s next for Chicago Foodways? This business started with a daydream and I just keep going.  My focus this season will be to build participation and add extra guides to the Argyle/Andersonville tour.  I want to expand to other neighborhoods as much for the fun of putting together another tour as for the profit potential.  Lincoln Square and Edgewater are on my short list but so many places in this city fascinate me.  I’m even entertaining the prospect of doing one-time tours to further flung areas likes Bridgeport and Edison Park.

Join Phyllis for one of her regularly scheduled tours by visiting her website ChicagoFoodways.com to book online.  The Andersonville neighborhood is easily accessible by public transportation within the Chicago area. Street parking is available throughout the neighborhood.  And be sure to see our Andersonville Guide for more information on this great Chicago neighborhood.

All photos courtesy of Chicago Foodways.

This article appeared in the Spring 2015 issue of Lakeshore Magazine.   Subscribe HERE.  

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Chicago Foodways Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• North America
• A Culinary Tour Through Chicagos...

A Culinary Tour Through Chicago's Ethnic Food Scene

Don’t worry about stacking vacation days or blowing your money on plane tickets. When you’re in Chicago , you can let your taste buds do the traveling. The city has a rich ethnic food scene supported by its strong and traditional neighborhoods. Each one brings something different to the Chicago melting pot, and you can sample the best so long as you know where to go.

Italian – little italy.

You can’t go wrong with Italian food in Chicago as the options are endless. But even though you can find a decent spot for pizza and pasta almost anywhere in the city, you have to head to Taylor Street in Little Italy for the best of the best. The history of the area and its people are enough to draw in tourists, but a treasure trove of incredible restaurants makes the neighborhood what it is. Try Pompei , The Rosebud , or Francesca’s .

Little Italy, Chicago, IL, USA

Mexican – Pilsen

Pilsen, Chicago, IL, USA

Indian – West Ridge

There’s no better place in Chicago for authentic Indian food than the stretch of Devon Avenue through West Ridge. It’s a far trek up north, but worth it for all the chicken tikka masala and curry you can eat. Try Ghareeb Nawaz , Uru Swati , or JK Kabab House for top-rated dishes, and remember that if you aren’t finding what you want, you only have to walk a few doors down for another delicious option.

West Ridge, Chicago, IL, USA

Greek – Greektown

Greektown may be small, but it’s mighty in terms of entertainment, nightlife, and cuisine. Greek restaurants are scattered throughout the city, but the best are clustered around Halsted Street on the West Side. It’s a short walk from the overrated and crowded Loop spots, making it the perfect weekend or after-work getaway. Whether you’re craving upscale Mediterranean seafood or all-night gyros, you’ll find your perfect fit. Try 9 Muses , Mr. Greek Gyros , Roditys , or Greek Islands .

Greektown, Chicago, IL, USA

Chinese – Chinatown

Chinatown might feel like an obvious option for Chinese food, but there’s a reason the ethnic neighborhoods in Chicago are such big tourist attractions and are so densely populated. The Windy City’s branch of Chinatown is one of the largest Chinese neighborhoods in the United States, so you know it’s as genuine as you can get. There are dozens of options throughout Armour Square, but Xi’an Cuisine , Phoenix Restaurant , and Lao Sze Chuan are excellent options.

Chinatown, Chicago, IL, USA

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Chicago Food & City Tours is the premier tour operator for Chicago experiences—providing not only better experiences for you and your guests, but also the best and most reliable process from start to finish. We’re locals who love sharing the real Chicago. Chicago Food & City Tours was recognized for its ongoing contribution as the “Best Chicago Tour” by Lonely Planet and rated the #1 Activity by TripAdvisor with over 2,500 reviews. Experience the classic dishes that made the Windy City famous on our Iconic Foods of Chicago tour. Discover Chicago’s hottest foodie neighborhood as you nosh on cuisine from the master chefs that started a dining revolution in the West Loop. Dine at the most authentic, hidden gems on our newest Street Foods of Pilsen tour. Explore the remarkable culture and foods that define Hong Kong and mainland China as you taste authentic Canton, Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine from Chinese owned and operated restaurants, food stores and ethnic bakeries on the Chinatown Lunch Tour. Or – allow us to create a custom experience to meet your needs through Chicago’s vibrant food scene. Our team of event planners plan and guide with all the excitement of a lifetime Chicagoan hosting friends for the weekend. From intimate 3-hour tours to full-day and multi-day itineraries, we offer a variety of experiences to showcase the best of Chicago. Whether you’re looking for a corporate event, a day out with friends and family, or a tour operator planning a multi-day exploration of Chicago, we’re here to create the perfect experience for you.

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A Guide to Chicago’s Best Food Tours

• by Chicago Team
• October 22, 2023 April 4, 2024

Chicago’s food is legendary for its breadth and depth. It has all sorts of delectable dishes to please any palate. Take a journey with this guide to explore the city’s yummy food tours. It’s like taking a time machine that transports you to different places and times! On these tours, you can feast on scrumptious dishes and learn about the history and culture that created the cuisine.

The Chicago Pizza Tour is a must for pizza lovers. You’ll explore the best pizzerias in town, discovering the artistry and craftsmanship behind each slice. Traditional tavern-style pizzas are included, as well as innovative creations.

The Food Truck Extravaganza Tour offers a taste of street food. It showcases various cuisines served from food trucks, such as gourmet tacos and Korean-infused burgers. You can learn about the stories and inspirations behind each truck.

The Ethnic Flavors Food Tour celebrates Chicago’s multiculturalism through its cuisine. Take a tour of neighborhoods, like Chinatown and Little Italy, tasting dishes from different cultures. Explore the vibrant flavors and traditions that have shaped Chicago’s culinary landscape.

The Hot Dog Delight Tour is a must for Chicago-style hot dog stands. Sample some of the best dogs in town with classic toppings and condiments. Learn about the history and cultural significance of this beloved Chicago staple.

These food tours offer delicious food and insights into Chicago’s culture and history. Every tour is crafted to show off the city’s gastronomic gems and tell the stories behind each dish. So, whether you’re a foodie or just looking for something special, these food tours will leave your appetite for adventure fulfilled!

What are food tours?

Food tours are an exciting journey. Explore the city’s culinary delights! These immersive experiences will take you on a guided tour of different flavors and cultural influences. As you wander through the streets, your taste buds will come alive with each sample.

Food tours provide a selection of local eateries. From hidden gems to renowned restaurants, these tours offer the best places to dine. Try traditional dishes, regional delicacies, and even innovative fusion creations.

Not only will you enjoy the delectable cuisine, but also learn about the history and cultural significance behind each bite. Find out about the origins of deep-dish pizza or the traditions of Chicago-style hot dogs.

Interact with passionate local chefs and restaurant owners. Gain insights into their culinary techniques and witness their craft firsthand. It’s a unique opportunity to appreciate the artistry of creating memorable dishes.

Discover Chicago’s connection to Prohibition-era speakeasies. These secret bars still exist within the city’s food scene, reminding us of the past. Uncover the mystery and intrigue of these speakeasies on a food tour.

Indulge in one of Chicago’s best food tours. Enjoy expertly crafted itineraries, delectable delights, and captivating stories. This culinary journey will leave you craving more. Discover the vibrant flavors that make Chicago an unparalleled foodie destination.

Benefits of going on a food tour in Chicago

Going on a food tour in Chicago is a delightful and immersive experience. The city has a vibrant mix of flavors and dishes to satisfy any palate. Here are the cool benefits of going on a food tour:

• Uncover hidden gems: A food tour can help you find eateries off the beaten path.
• Taste lots of cuisines: Chicago’s diverse food scene means you can sample deep-dish pizza, Mexican street food and more.
• Learn about local history: Many food tours give you insights into the city’s culture, including iconic landmarks and neighborhoods.
• Meet passionate chefs and owners: Food tours let you meet the people behind the city’s thriving dining establishments.
• Support local businesses: Food tours help sustain small-scale restaurants that are an integral part of Chicago’s food culture.
• Socialize with fellow food fans: Food tours let you connect with others who share your passion for great cuisine.

Chicago’s food tours have unique offerings like guided bike tours combining exercise and culinary exploration, as well as themed tours focusing on specific cuisines or neighborhoods.

Did you know that deep-dish pizza, an iconic dish of Chicago, was invented by accident? In 1943, at Pizzeria Uno, owner Ike Sewell tried to create a pizza different from the thin-crust ones around the city. His thick-dough, cheesy and saucy creation became a hit in an instant.

So, if you’re in Chicago or curious about your own city’s food culture, go on a food tour. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors and stories that make Chicago’s culinary scene special.

Popular food tour companies in Chicago

Chicago is a haven for foodies! Exploring its scrumptious food scene is an experience not to be missed. Here are some popular food tour companies to check out:

• Chicago Food Planet is known for its diverse walking tours. You can savor deep-dish pizza and gourmet doughnuts.
• Tastebud Tours offer themed tours that focus on specific types of food, like chocolate, pizza, or tacos.
• Bobby’s Bike Hike combines a bike ride with delicious food stops. Sample iconic dishes, like Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches.
• Chicago Food Planet’s Signature Dishes and Drinks tour takes you to renowned restaurants with exquisite dishes.
• Craving pizza? Don’t miss the Chicago Pizza Tour . It showcases the city’s best pizza spots.

These food tours provide an immersive experience. Insights into the city’s history and culture come with delectable dishes. Pro Tip: Check availability and schedules beforehand – they may vary.

Highlights of Chicago’s best food tours

Discover Chicago’s delightful food scene on the city’s best tours! With guides, scrumptious nibbles, and a cultural experience, these tours are a must for foodies. Sample famous deep-dish pizza, savor authentic ethnic cuisine, and explore the flavors of Chicago-style hot dogs. Plus, uncover lesser-known gems off the beaten path.

Suggested experiences for the tour:

• Engage with local guides for insightful stories and insider recommendations.
• Interact with fellow food enthusiasts and share recommendations.
• Be open to trying new flavors and cuisines.

Embark on this gastronomic journey and let your taste buds show you the way. Enjoy the city’s iconic pizzas, hot dogs, and international flavors. Join a food tour and experience Chicago’s mouthwatering food culture!

How to choose the right food tour for you

When selecting the ideal food tour in Chicago, there are a few points to ponder. Here’s a 4-step guide to aid you in making the best choice:

• Investigate: Begin by researching the different food tours on offer in Chicago. Look for reviews and referrals online to gain an idea of what each tour provides.
• Reflect on your Tastes: Consider your food likes and dietary restrictions. Are you a fan of deep-dish pizza or do you prefer sampling ethnic dishes? Choose a food tour that suits your taste buds.
• Duration & Cost: Contemplate the duration and cost of the food tour. Some tours may be longer or pricier than others, so make sure it fits your timeframe and budget.
• Tour Guide Knowledge: Finally, consider the expertise of the tour guides. A clued-up guide can enrich your experience by providing amusing facts and stories about the local food.

Apart from these steps, remember to be flexible. Don’t be scared to experiment with something new or go off-the-beaten-track during your food tour exploration in Chicago.

Pro Tip: Be sure to wear comfy shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking between food stops!

Wrapping up our Chicago food tour exploration, it’s clear this city’s a haven for delicious treats. From deep-dish pizza to Chinatown eats, there’s something for everyone.

We’ve seen there’re many food tour options to explore the diverse flavors in the neighborhoods. Whether you want to stroll through Greektown or eat in Little Italy, these tours let you experience the city’s exciting food scene.

Chicago tours stand out for their storytelling. Each guide brings tales and facts to life. Participants get to connect with the culture and heritage of the city.

One guide shares her grandma’s secret pierogie recipe. While leading hungry visitors through Polish Village, her stories give a real sense of the area. This personal touch adds depth to the experience and shows the passionate people who keep these recipes alive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are the best food tours in Chicago?

A1: Some of the best food tours in Chicago include the Chicago Food Planet Food Tours, Bobby’s Bike Hike Food Tours, and Tastebud Tours.

Q2: How long are the food tours in Chicago?

A2: The duration of food tours in Chicago varies, but on average, they range from 2 to 4 hours.

Q3: Can I customize my food tour itinerary?

A3: Yes, many food tour companies in Chicago offer customizable itineraries to cater to specific dietary restrictions or preferences. It’s best to check with the tour provider for available options.

Q4: Are food tastings included in the tour price?

A4: Yes, food tastings are typically included in the price of the food tours. However, beverages or additional snacks may require separate payment, so it’s always good to clarify with the tour operator.

Q5: Do food tours provide vegetarian or vegan options?

A5: Yes, most food tours in Chicago offer vegetarian and vegan options. It’s advisable to inform the tour operator about any dietary restrictions beforehand to ensure they can accommodate your needs.

Q6: Can I book a private food tour for a group?

A6: Absolutely! Many food tour companies in Chicago offer private tours for groups. It’s recommended to contact the tour provider in advance to discuss availability and pricing.

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Yes, Chef! Chicago: A Bear-Inspired Food Tour

Chicago's only tour that takes you to the hot local spots featured on the hit TV show THE BEAR

On our one-of-a-kind YES CHEF! bus tour, we’ll show you around the neighborhoods Carmy, Sydney and Richie visited in the first two seasons featured on the hit TV sensation, “The Bear,” sharing the fascinating history of the local foodie scene along the way, and tossing in some behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the story’s creation.

• You’ll be saying Yes, Chef! while eating your face off at iconic Chicago restaurants
• Learn what makes Logan Square and the West Loop such culinary meccas
• Get behind-the-scenes stories about the show’s inspiration and creation
• Follow in Sydney’s footsteps around the city
• Fill your sweet tooth with a finale stop at Margie’s Candies

Important Info

• Experience happens rain, shine or snow
• A bus will transport the tour group between stops
• Suitable for all ages and fitness levels
• Small groups of no more than 24 guests
• We offer vegetarian options but cannot accommodate substitutions for other allergies or aversions

What Our Guests Are Saying

A really nice mix of great food, history and conversation. Jordan was a great guide. Highly recommended.

Fantastic tour of the iconic foods of Chicago! Dave was fantastic! Best deep dish pizza ever! The walking was great, even in the rain/drizzle that was passing through. The guide was great! Learned a bunch I never knew.We also did two more tours!

Dave was AMAZING during our Chinatown tour. Everything was taken care of, it was so easy, and he was so knowledge about both the food, customs, and history of the neighborhood. A great mix of experiences in one tour.

As Chicago natives, we felt like we were on a mini vacation exploring new parts of our city! Our tour guides Terry and Ian were fantastic. We had so much fun and ate some great food!

No TV show has better captured the rich and diverse culinary scene of Chicago than THE BEAR. The first two seasons were runaway hits, garnering an astounding 13 Emmy nominations, while showcasing our city’s vibrant city and culture in every single frame.

We’ll stop for a bite at several of the restaurants featured in the show, including a visit to the Italian beef shop that was THE BEAR’s original inspiration. Pastries, pizza, beef, noodles topped off with a hot fudge sundae for the finale. By the end you’ll be answering every question with a satisfied “YES CHEF!”

• Tour Length 3.5 hours
• Cost $129.00 Adult
• Tour Distance 9 miles
• Neighborhoods River North, West Loop and Logan Square.

Our small group tours regularly sell out!

Don't wait until the last minute. Reserve your spot today!

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North Shore Chicago Christmas Bakery Bus

This tour is complete with treats from 6 bakeries, stories of ethnic holiday traditions, & ample shopping time to purchase additional goods.

Iconic Foods of Chicago Food Tour

Devour all five of the iconic “Chicago-style” dishes from the eateries that perfected them on our most popular downtown tour.

Gateway to The West Loop Food Tour

Discover Chicago’s hottest foodie neighborhood as you nosh on cuisine from the master chefs that started a dining revolution.

The Chinatown Adventure Food Tour

Savor Chinatown with a full immersion into the culinary & ethnic pageantry at five authentic, mouthwatering restaurants

Street Foods of Pilsen

Discover why Pilsen was named one of the “12 Coolest Neighborhoods Around the World” by Forbes on our Tacos & Tequila Tour.

Buildings and Bites

Stroll through Chicago's architectural epicenter then enjoy a light lunch and a dessert treat.

Chicago Sweets and Treats Dessert Tour

Satisfy your sweet tooth with decadent desserts in Chicago's West Loop neighborhood

Wrigleyville Brunch Tour

Explore Wrigleyville's unique past, as you enjoy brunch, Bloodies & architectural highlights that have made this a legendary neighborhood.

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Slow Travel. Eat Local.

Ethnic Chicago

//  by  Lisa 4 Comments

I love living in a city that can make me feel like I’m traveling. Chicago is a concentrated microcosm of America — that veritable stew of people from all over the world, bringing their culture and fabulous flavors to our city. I’ve learned so much from traveling , but also right here in my own backyard and am fortunate to live in a place where I can meet and intersect with new people and try new, flavorful foods.

I recently wrote a piece for the Scandinavian Traveler Magazine (SAS Airlines) on three of my favorite ethnic neighborhoods in Chicago. Here are some of my photos from these vibrant areas.

Click below to read the full story.

Devon Avenue

Argyle Street

Click here for the full article:

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Lisa Lubin is an established travel/food writer and photographer, three-time Emmy® award-winning TV producer, video consultant, and travel industry expert. After more than a decade in broadcast television she took a sabbatical, which turned into three years traveling around the world. She created this blog in 2006. Lisa also owns LLmedia, a media & video consulting business. Her writing and photography has been published by American Way, Hemispheres, Wall Street Journal, Chicago Tribune, West Jet Magazine, Scandinavian Traveler, Orbitz, and Luxury Las Vegas. Her book, The Ultimate Travel Tips: Essential Advice for Your Adventures, is available on Amazon.

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Reader Interactions

June 21, 2017 at 6:39 pm

Chicago is so great! Hope I could visit there again this year.

This year is the Canada 150. On Canada Day, the Canadian Consulate in Chicago will host a celebration event. Maybe you can find chocolates there from the Prince Edward Island, the found place of Canada and the home of Anne of Green Gables.

August 21, 2017 at 8:31 am

Thanks William! Happy B-day to Canada!

June 29, 2017 at 3:19 pm

Awesome to see you got published in an airline magazine … well done!

Thanks Franks! I’ve been writing for American Airlines mostly for a few years now, but this was my first piece in SAS!

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Brett Gelman’s book tour not going exactly as planned

Actor has drawn protesters for his stance on israel's war with hamas.

CHICAGO — Rabbi Steven Stark Lowenstein, of the Am Shalom synagogue in Glencoe, looked out on the more than 300 people sitting in front of him and Brett Gelman on Tuesday night. “Raise your hand if you were at Brett’s bar mitzvah,” the rabbi said. About 20 people did.

“Ah,” said Gelman, wearing faux-leather pants and a long white sweater and a single earring. “Now that was the one thing that kept me from killing myself! That was my only good day in junior high, my bar mitzvah. I was deluded enough to believe I had friends.”

Gelman’s book tour was not going the way it was planned initially.

For one, publishers tend to prefer bookstores, not religious venues. He pulled a decent crowd at the Jewish Community Center in New York (which was planned from the start), but the Book Stall in Winnetka backed out in February, as did Book Soup in Los Angeles and Book Passage in San Francisco. The problem, two of the stores said, was safety; they could not provide the level of security such a controversial figure required. Book Passage went a step further and said Gelman had made “intemperate” remarks against “ethnic and social groups,” but it declined to cite examples. Gelman said the cancellations were driven by protester intimidation and antisemitism, and then he changed plans.

On a normal book tour fronted by a well-known actor selling a book of short stories, you would expect a mix of readers — in Gelman’s case, fans of the show “Stranger Things,” fans of “Fleabag” and fans of a character actor whose burly, bearded comic presence has become a fixture of TV and movies. His Am Shalom appearance attracted a bunch of fans, but also congregants and those who have known him a long time, including family and friends. His mother sat in front, beside his fiancee.

On a normal book tour, such an author would also get asked questions about Hollywood, then read a little from their new book, which, in this case, is a funny, caustic, dark set of thinly autobiographical stories about anxiety, titled “The Terrifying Realm of the Possible.” It shows the clear influence of Woody Allen and Philip Roth, and as Gelman explained before the event, “it’s very much about showing Jewish pride in neurosis.”

On a normal book tour, having grown up in Highland Park, Gelman’s return to the North Shore would have looked somewhat different and probably would’ve been a lot less interesting.

But then Hamas attacked Israel in October 2023, taking hundreds of hostages and killing more than 1,000 Israelis, and then Israel responded by attacking Hamas in Gaza, broadening a conflict that has now killed more than 30,000 Palestinians. Gelman took to social media and loudly supported Israel — though not its government or Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He said he was not anti-Palestinian or against Islam, but certainly anti-Hamas. He said advocating for Jews was not asking for a Palestinian genocide. He called out Gen Z and “all you other fake woke liberals” for not reading enough history.

He leaned prominently into pro-Israeli activism, making a speech at the March for Israel on the Washington Mall, visiting Israel several times in recent months (his fiancee is Israeli American) and appearing on an Israeli TV show satirizing Western protests.

He said many protests against Israel amounted to antisemitism.

In turn, backlash on social media accused him of equating criticism of Israel with antisemitism, soft pedaling the death of Palestinians, and turning a blind eye to both Palestinian evictions and a historical treatment of Palestinians that many consider apartheid.

And that’s how a tour for a little book of stories leads to private security teams placed at either side of the stage and an officer from the Cook County Sheriff’s Office standing at the back while a rabbi asks you what you meant when you told an interviewer that you “woke up from being woke.”

“I don’t know anyone who actually uses that term who’s truly woke,” Gelman replied. “If you were truly woke, you wouldn’t be antisemitic and pervert analytic thinking to defend Islamic jihad — you wouldn’t equate Islam with radical Islam! That’s being very asleep.” He also said the same way that Jews have inherited centuries of trauma, “the rest of the world has inherited antisemitism — both genetically and psychologically. I believe that.”

The audience cheered some, and sat silent some.

Before the event, Gelman talked in Rabbi Lowenstein’s office, across from his mother, Candace Gelman, and singer-songwriter Ari Dayan, his fiancee. He was not surprised at the reaction to his comments. Across the country, institutions and bookstores have canceled appearances by Israeli and Palestinian authors. In January, protesters with Writers Against the War on Gaza broke up a PEN America event featuring comedian Moshe Kasher and actress Mayim Bialik, who has also been a vocal supporter of Israel.

“The other option would have been to retreat and not address this at all,” Gelman said. He said it’s entirely possible that his book gets overshadowed, and he can live with that.

He gets daily online threats.

“(Dayan) and I take our death threats with our morning coffee,” he said. “Aggressive attacks, saying I support genocide. That’s the best thing of what I hear. They attack personally, my appearance, my career. … It’s a means of intimidation. This is their moment, but I don’t see them. I am doing something out in the world, and this is what they are doing?”

He said he’s definitely lost friends in the film and TV industry, but he’s not aware if his activism has cost him future work. Not yet, anyway. Still, he said, he calls his agent frequently to ask if he’s OK, if everything’s fine. He joked that he’s exhausting to be around.

“The Terrifying Realm of the Possible” — which funnels stories of toxic masculinity, ambition and love through five personas, ranging from children to old women — suggests as much about Gelman, who is 47. He said he’s always wanted to be “like the multi-rounded Jewish artists who were my heroes, who acted, wrote, directed, authored.” With “Seinfeld” in the past, the end of “Curb Your Enthusiasm” looming and the cancellation of Woody Allen, he fears the decline of Jewish anxiety as a wellspring of comedy. “You hear that Jews need to move away from the Seinfeldian,” he said, “but we need to lean in. That’s Jewish excellence, artistic excellence. Why be so ashamed?”

His appearance at Am Shalom was his biggest book event so far.

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