Scottsdale isn’t just about luxury resorts and stunning desert scenery—it’s a food lover’s paradise packed with diverse flavors, vibrant local eateries, and a lively culinary scene. What makes Scottsdale especially appealing for food tours is the city’s mix of historic charm, modern dining, and a love for authentic southwestern and international cuisine.
Whether you’re into tasting handcrafted pizzas, traditional tacos, or exploring Scottsdale’s artsy streets while sampling local treats, there’s a tour that fits your style.
We particularly enjoy the Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour for its insider access to beloved local restaurants and its friendly, knowledgeable guides. This walk offers a great balance of history and bites, making it perfect for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike.
While Scottsdale offers a variety of culinary experiences, our list highlights four top food tours, each with unique features. From intimate walking adventures in Old Town to a lively waterfront exploration, these tours provide a taste of the city’s rich flavors and culture. Read on to find the perfect fit for your appetite and schedule.
1. Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (248 reviews)
Price: $70
Duration: Approx. 3 hours
Location: Scottsdale, USA
At number 1, the Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour stands out for its comprehensive look at the city’s most popular restaurants. This 1.5-mile walking tour takes you through Scottsdale’s historic core, where you’ll sample top dishes at beloved spots like Craft 64, Cornish Pasty Co, and Ruze Cake House.
Each stop offers a taste of local culture, from handcrafted, scratch-made pizza to hearty English pasties, and artisanal macarons.
What makes this tour special is the blend of food and history. Guides share insider tips on Scottsdale’s dining scene while you indulge in flavorful bites and refreshing drinks—think a frozen margarita paired with tacos at Cien Agaves. Vegetarian options are available, making it adaptable for different diets.
Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and fun attitude, with many noting they’ve been on this tour multiple times and recommend bringing friends. The $70 price includes all tastings, and the 3-hour duration makes it a manageable yet satisfying experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a detailed culinary introduction to Scottsdale’s Old Town, with a good mix of food, culture, and local insight.
2. Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (159 reviews)
Price: $70
Duration: Approx. 2 hours 45 minutes
Location: Scottsdale, USA
For a slightly shorter but equally flavorful experience, the Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour offers a walk through the lively downtown district along the river. This tour emphasizes Scottsdale’s top eateries with stops at places like Barrio Queen, TeaTime Scottsdale, and One Handsome Bastard Distillery.
You’ll sample Mexican street tacos made with fresh tortillas, sip over 80 teas from a local shop, and enjoy craft cocktails featuring house-distilled spirits.
What sets this tour apart is the variety of stops—covering Mexican cuisine, tea culture, and innovative cocktails—all in about 2 hours 45 minutes. It’s a good choice if you prefer a brisk pace and diverse flavors. It also includes a guaranteed spot at popular restaurants, saving you from long waits.
Travelers love Maggie, their guide, for her engaging storytelling and local knowledge. The tour is best suited for those comfortable walking and wanting a lively, social experience.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those interested in a well-rounded, fast-paced taste of Scottsdale’s culinary and drink scene, especially if you enjoy exploring multiple cuisine types in one outing.
3. Old Town Scottsdale Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Rating: 5.0/5 (45 reviews)
Price: $105.00 per person
Duration: Approx. 3 hours 30 minutes
Location: Scottsdale, USA
At number 3, the Old Town Scottsdale Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours takes a slightly longer and more in-depth approach. This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive look at Scottsdale’s roots and its modern culinary scene.
Starting with a dive into Scottsdale’s early days over citrus groves, the tour visits historic spots like Los Olivos Mexican Patio, the Scottsdale Rodeo Museum, and the Old Adobe Mission.
The highlight here is the chance to taste signature dishes from historic establishments and learn about their significance. You’ll also explore Scottsdale’s arts district, with stops at galleries and shops, adding a cultural layer. The price reflects the extensive experience and in-depth storytelling.
Reviewers particularly praise guide Chris for his attentiveness and knowledge, making the tour feel personal and meaningful.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history buffs and those eager for a deeper cultural experience combined with authentic food tastings, especially if they wish to understand Scottsdale’s evolution.
4. Scottsdale: Food Walking Tour
Rating: 4.4/5 (7 reviews)
Price: $101
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Arizona, United States
The Scottsdale: Food Walking Tour offers a more intimate, small-group experience focused on the city’s flavors of the Southwest. This tour emphasizes local stories and secret spots, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at Scottsdale’s culinary scene. The tour includes food samples and local insights, making it ideal for travelers who want a personalized experience.
While it’s slightly more expensive at $101, it’s limited to smaller groups, which means more interaction and tailored stories. This tour is perfect for those who want to explore Scottsdale’s culinary scene in a relaxed, less touristy setting. The reviews are positive, highlighting the experience’s authenticity and the engaging guide.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers seeking a more exclusive, personalized tasting experience, especially those interested in local secrets and hidden culinary treasures.
How to Choose the Perfect Scottsdale Food Tour
When selecting a food tour, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If you want a deep dive into Scottsdale’s history along with tastings, the Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour offers a comprehensive experience. For a quicker, more varied tasting in a lively setting, the Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour is a great pick.
If history and culture are your focus, the Old Town Scottsdale Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours provides a richer storytelling experience.
Lastly, for those who prefer a small-group, intimate journey, the Scottsdale: Food Walking Tour offers personalized insights.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, and consider the tour duration and walking level to match your energy and time constraints.
Scottsdale’s food scene is as diverse as its desert landscapes, with options for every taste and style. Whether you pick a comprehensive Old Town walk, a waterfront exploration, or something more intimate, each tour offers a tasty way to see the city.
For first-timers, the Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour is a reliable favorite, but don’t overlook the variety and depth offered by the other options. Book early, come hungry, and enjoy discovering Scottsdale through its flavors.