Top Chicago Food Tours Worth Booking This Season

As we all Chicagoans know that our Chicago isn’t just the Windy City, but I would say it’s the foodie city. Sure, people come here for the skyline, Lake Michigan views, and iconic architecture, but let’s be real, knowing so much about diversified food options, most visitors also show up with one thing in mind… to eat.

I would say that famous Deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, all those are the classics. But you believe me or not but the city’s food scene runs so much deeper. From Chinese dumplings in Chinatown to Swedish pastries in Andersonville and authentic banh mi on Argyle, it is very easy to get overwhelmed with available dining options in Chicago’s neighborhoods. Yes, it really sounds like a global buffet.

Now, you could try to hunt all of this down on your own, but honestly speaking if you are visiting Chicago for few days then the easiest and most delicious way to experience it is by booking a food tour.

Local guides know exactly where to take you, and they’ll share the stories behind the dishes too. I have noticed that Viator is always offering some amazing Chicago food tours that are totally worth putting on your travel list.

Here are some of the best ones to check out. Trust me, you’ll want to come hungry.

1. Chicago Favorites: Ultimate Food and Walking Tour

If you’re visiting Chicago for the first time then this tour is a no-brainer. It covers all the city’s iconic eats in about three hours. Think of famous deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs with all the “proper” toppings (no ketchup here), Italian beef sandwiches dripping with flavor, and even a sweet chocolate brownie.

What I love about Chicago favorites food tour is that it combines eating and sightseeing. You’ll stroll through Millennium Park, wander the Loop, and hear fun stories about Chicago’s food history. It’s a walking tour, but don’t worry because the distance and effort is easy. Also the food portions are big enough to feel like a full meal.

👉 Book it on Viator here

2. Downtown Chicago Food Tour

Are you short on time but still want to taste the city? This downtown walking tour is all about Chicago’s greatest hits. You’ll try deep-dish pizza, Italian beef, a true Chicago dog, gourmet popcorn, and a surprise dessert. The guide also sneaks in some history about Chicago’s architecture and downtown landmarks as you walk between tastings.

In my personal opinion, this tour is perfect if you’re staying in the Loop and want to keep things close by. It’s also family-friendly so this tour makes it a great option if you’ve got kids or just want a shorter, more casual experience.

👉 Check it out here

3. Chicago in a Day: Food, History & Architecture

Let’s say you’re only in Chicago for one day and want to make the most of it. I believe that this tour is your easy pass ticket. It’s a half-day experience that combines food tastings, history lessons, and architecture highlights.

You’ll see the Riverwalk, stroll the world famous Magnificent Mile, and stop by landmarks like the Wrigley Building. On the way you will be enjoying popular deep-dish pizza, Italian beef, hot dogs, and other local favorites. It’s like getting a crash course in Chicago culture, with snacks included.

Since it’s capped at small groups, you get a more personal experience. You can ask questions, hear insider stories, and even get tips on what else to eat and do during your stay.

👉 See the details on Viator

4. Chinatown Food and Walking Tour

Chicago’s Chinatown is also a hidden gem that a lot of visitors miss and honestly speaking as local that’s a mistake. This neighborhood is packed with authentic restaurants that represent different regions of China, and this tour helps you explore them without the guesswork.

In about three hours of Chinatown food and walking tour you’ll sample dim sum, spicy Szechuan dishes, Xi’an-style street food, and more. The guide also explains the cultural significance of the dishes and gives you a deeper understanding of the community.

If you’re the type of traveler who likes to go beyond the “expected,” this is a tour you’ll love.

👉 Reserve your spot here

5. Argyle & Andersonville Ethnic Food Tour

Looking for something truly off the beaten path? Head north to Argyle (Chicago’s “Little Saigon”) and Andersonville. This tour is all about global flavors in local neighborhoods.

You’ll taste Vietnamese banh mi, refreshing iced coffee, Swedish pancakes, Middle Eastern bites, and even some Mexican treats. Each stop tells a different story about the immigrant groups who shaped these neighborhoods.

This tour feels less “touristy” and more like you’re just hanging out with a local friend who knows all the best spots.

👉 Learn more about Tour

6 Underground Donut Tour

Okay, confession time: I have a serious sweet tooth. So when I heard about a donut tour, I couldn’t sign up fast enough. This one is a two-hour walking tour where you hop from one donut shop to the next.

From classic glazed to funky flavors like maple bacon, it felt like dessert heaven. Everyone has different appetite but personally the portions are just enough so you can sample without hitting a sugar crash, and walking between stops gives you time to actually enjoy each bite.

It’s such a fun and different way to explore Chicago if you’ve already done the savory tours.

👉 Check it out here

Tastes of Chicago Bike Tour

Yes, I felt that this one’s for the active foodies. You hop on a bike and cruise through neighborhoods like Wrigleyville, Old Town, and Lincoln Park, stopping for pizza, hot dogs, cupcakes, and even a cold beer.

I loved this because you get to see so much more of the city than on a walking tour, and the food stops are perfectly spaced out. Sometimes people get scared when they hear biking, but don’t worry if you’re not a serious cyclist.

Tour pace is easy and the focus is definitely on the food. It was one of the most fun tours I’ve done because it combined my love for exploring neighborhoods with my love of eating.

👉 Check it out here on Viator

Behind-the-Scenes Pizza Tour by Coach

If you’re a pizza lover (and really, who isn’t?), this behind the scene pizza tour is a perfect. Instead of sticking to the usual tourist spots, you hop on a bus and head out to different neighborhoods to taste slices at pizzerias locals actually go to.

I learned so much about the different pizza styles here when I first moved here in Chicago. Yes, from that I can tell that for those who doesn’t know on this tour you will enjoy thin crust tavern-style, stuffed, and of course, deep-dish.

Plus, not having to walk between stops was a nice break. By the end, I had a whole new appreciation for just how seriously Chicago takes its pizza.

👉 Learn More on Viator here

 Quick Tips: All restaurants selection may change based on season. I highly recommend to check tour details at the time of booking.

Above all information was correct at the time of writing this post. But considering the nature of these tours and restaurants, itinerary may have changed.

How to Pick the Right Chicago Food Tour

Not sure which one is right for you? Here are a few quick tips:

• Time: If you only have a few hours? Then I recommend to go with the Downtown or Favorites tours. If you got half a day then Choose Chicago in a Day or Argyle/Andersonville.
• Neighborhoods: I feel that visitors must stick with downtown if they want convenience. Pick Chinatown or Andersonville if you’re into cultural food adventures.
• Walking comfort: Most tours involve a mile or two of walking. Wear good shoes!
• Style: Do you want iconic eats? Then choose the Favorites Tour. If you Want something different then Go with Chinatown or the North Side ethnic food tour. For pizza lovers, I highly recommend behind the scene pizza tour by coach.

Insider Tips to Make the Most of Your Food Tour

• Arrive hungry – Don’t eat a big breakfast; you’ll regret it when the pizza comes out.
• Dress for the weather – Our Chicago weather can change from sunny to chilly fast, so bring layers.
• Bring water — It’s easy to forget when you’re focused on the food.
• Talk to your guide — They’ll give you extra restaurant recommendations for later.
• Book early — Tours do sell out, especially in summer and fall.

I feel that if you are a foodie then food tours are one of the best ways to understand Chicago. You’re not just eating but you’re also learning about neighborhoods, history, and the people who shaped the city.

Whether you stick with the deep-dish and hot dogs or branch out into Chinatown dumplings and Swedish pastries, I guarantee you that you’ll walk away full and happy.

If it’s your first time in the city, I’d recommend starting with the Chicago Favorites Tour to get the classics. Then, if you’ve got another day then try something more unique like the Chinatown tour or the Argyle & Andersonville adventure.

Either way, Chicago food tours make your trip unforgettable because in this city, eating is just as important as sightseeing.