11 Coolest San Francisco Food Tours for 2025
San Francisco is a culinary paradise in the U.S., standing proudly alongside New York, Chicago, and New Orleans. With over 4,000 restaurants and new ones constantly emerging, it's no wonder that food tours in San Francisco have surged in popularity. These tours are an excellent way to explore the city and discover eateries you might have otherwise missed.
This guide is for both locals and tourists. Unless you've dined at all 4,000+ restaurants (if you have, kudos to you!), this ultimate guide to San Francisco food tours will be invaluable.
1. Mission District Food Tour
Avital's Mission District Food Tour highlights the innovation and trendy restaurants as well as the renowned Mexican cuisine of this neighborhood – the best in San Francisco! Stroll through the historic Latin area, learning about its culinary history and colorful murals, while hearing stories from chefs, restaurant owners, and industry experts. The tour concludes with mouth-watering desserts near Dolores Park.
2. North Beach Food Tour
Another great tour from Avital Food & Drink Experiences is the North Beach Food Tour which delves into the Italian restaurant scene and the former Barbary Coast, once America's most notorious neighborhood during the Gold Rush. Visit hidden tunnels where booze was smuggled during Prohibition and experience traditional Italian culture. Savor food and drink in this culturally rich San Francisco food tour.
3. Chinatown Food Tour
Get ready to explore one of the oldest and most established Chinatowns in the U.S. with the Chinatown Food Tour. Over three hours, you'll sample three different types of dim sum, taste both hot and cold tea, visit the first fortune cookie factory, and wander the vibrant alleyways of Chinatown. Alongside delicious food, you'll hear fascinating stories of the Gold Rush and Chinese immigration.
4. Ferry Building and Farmer’s Market Tour
Though not a district, the Ferry Building and Farmer’s Market is iconic enough to deserve its own tour. Dating back to 1898, it serves as a transportation hub and a landmark for some of the city's best food artisans. In a 90-minute tour, you'll taste handmade chocolates, French macarons, spring rolls, and more, while learning about the building's history. History, food, and stunning views – what more could you want?
5. Oakland Food Tour
Oakland, the largest city in the East Bay, is a must-visit. Whether you join the tour in San Francisco, at the Ferry Building, or in Oakland itself, you'll be immersed in the diverse culture of the “Brooklyn of the West,” including its food, spirits, and art. Book this Oakland Food Tour.
6. The Marina Food Tour
Explore the Marina/Pacific Heights district with The Marina Tour. Over 2-3 hours, you'll learn about the area's history and Art Deco architecture while enjoying delectable foods like croissants, tacos, and donut bread pudding. Hear stories about entrepreneurial chefs and gain insights into the neighborhood's institutions.
7. Savor Healdsburg Food Tours
For those who prefer wine and dine experiences, the Savor Healdsburg Food Tour is perfect. Over 3.5 hours, you'll taste the unique flavors of local artisans, winemakers, and nationally acclaimed chefs in Wine Country. This tour offers an unparalleled culinary experience in Sonoma County.
8. Japantown Food Tour
San Francisco's Japantown is one of only three remaining in the U.S., dating back to the 1860s. On A Taste of Japantown tour, you'll visit authentic markets, restaurants, cafes, and tea houses, sampling six to seven varieties of Japanese food while learning about the area's rich history.
9. Alamo Square Breakfast Tour
Start your day sweetly with the Coffee, Sweets, & The Painted Ladies tour in Alamo Square and Hayes Valley. Over 2-2.5 hours, make seven stops to indulge in coffee, fancy toasts, chocolate, ice cream flights, and macarons. You'll also get an in-depth history lesson about these unique neighborhoods. And who wouldn't want ice cream for breakfast?
10. Downtown San Francisco Cocktail Tour
San Francisco boasts some of the finest cocktails, crafted by award-winning and published bartenders. The SF Downtown Craft Cocktails tour starts with a cocktail-making lesson followed by a tasting tour of Downtown’s high-end cocktail bars, featuring off-menu cocktails made by professionals.
11. All Over Town Tour
Why limit yourself to one neighborhood when you can explore multiple? The Original Tour covers the Financial District, Jackson Square, North Beach, and Chinatown. You'll hear fascinating stories while savoring delicious food like paninis, dim sum, and sea salt taffy.
Final Thoughts on San Francisco Food Tours
San Francisco food tours are unique, blending rich history with incredible cuisine. Remember to wear good shoes, stretchy pants, bring a water bottle, and keep your phone charged for all the Instagram-worthy moments.
