Astoria Food Walking Tour in New York

Why we recommend this tour

We recommend this tour for curious foodies and culture enthusiasts eager to explore New York City beyond Manhattan. It offers a unique opportunity to taste global flavors and connect with local stories in a single afternoon.

About this tour

This Astoria Food Walking Tour is a guided culinary journey through one of New York City's most diverse neighborhoods, offering authentic tastes of Greek, Middle Eastern, and Latin American cuisines. You'll explore vibrant streets and learn the stories behind family-run eateries. Starting in "Little Greece," you'll experience the atmosphere of a Mediterranean village, complete with traditional bakeries and cafes. The tour then transitions to "Little Egypt," where aromatic spices lead you to savory Middle Eastern specialties. The experience continues with flavors from various South and Central American cultures, showcasing Astoria's true "melting pot" character. This tour provides a genuine insight into the neighborhood's rich cultural tapestry through its diverse and delicious food scene.

Highlights

• Walk through Astoria's 'Little Greece' (Greektown)
• Sample authentic Greek pastries and savory dishes
• Explore the businesses and flavors of 'Little Egypt'
• Taste Middle Eastern specialties
• Discover culinary influences from South and Central America
• Learn stories behind family-run local eateries
• Experience Astoria's vibrant, multicultural atmosphere
• Enjoy a full lunch through various food tastings

Who is this tour for?

• Food enthusiasts seeking diverse international flavors
• Travelers interested in local culture and history
• Visitors looking to explore beyond Manhattan
• Small groups or couples wanting an authentic neighborhood experience
• Anyone curious about Astoria's 'melting pot' identity

Insider tips

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be on your feet for several hours.
• Come hungry! The tour includes generous tastings that serve as lunch.
• Bring a reusable water bottle, though bottled water is provided.
• Consider arriving early to explore Astoria Park for waterfront views of Manhattan.
• Public transportation (N/W subway lines) is the easiest way to reach Astoria.

What's included

• Bottled water
• Lunch
• Food expert guide

What's not included

• Gratuities

Itinerary

1. 1

   Stop 1

   Our first stop! Say cheese for Pão de Queijo AKA traditional cheese bread, which blends three cheeses: mozzarella, swiss and parmesan. So delicate yet crunchy… you’re thanking us already and you haven’t gone on the tour yet.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   Just a short subway ride from Manhattan, Astoria is a vibrant and unique neighborhood in Queens. It’s a cool and appealing spot, celebrated for its cultural diversity and its rich array of delicious, eclectic food options from authentic Greek cuisine to Middle Eastern fare. It’s a melting pot of cultures, and that’s not a cooking metaphor. The Doughnut Plant Russ & Daughters

3. 3

   Stop 3

   Mediterranean Foods You’ll step into Greece almost literally by going into this Greek market for a sample of olives and feta cheeses. Opa!

4. 4

   Stop 4

   The Corner Spot There are so many things to choose from their menu (their coffee is among the best in all of NYC), but for us, their Spinach Pie is one of the best food items in all of New York City. This delicious, savory Greek pie with phyllo dough is spectacular.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   Arayes is a grilled pita filled with ground meat, onions, spices and herbs yet to just put it that way doesn’t make it sound as breathtaking as it is. Arguably the scene stealer of this tour, this Middle Eastern dish is already part of your “five-star” review for this tour. You just don’t know it yet.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   Having a food experience you’ve never had before is rare. That’s where Al-Sham’s Knafeh comes in. Chances are having this traditional Arabic dessert, a spun pastry soaked in syrup and cheese, comes in. You’ve had nothing like this. Part dessert, part pizza — all everything.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   Spiked ice scream FTW? You know it. We end our tour with an All American classic with a twist. Get a shot of boozy ice cream with a side of, what else, baklava. Non-Alcoholic flavors available.

Frequently asked questions