GENERAL
Why Queens?
No stop to New York would be complete without a stop in New York City’s largest and most diverse borough. And while we may not have the skyscrapers and glamour of the city, when it comes to the food scene, Queens is king!
We are NYC locals, is this tour right for us?
Absolutely! As a native, you will be pleasantly surprised to learn what’s been right under your nose. Opportunity exists to discover new restaurants and try food items you may not have had before. You will hear fascinating facts about the neighborhood’s history, architecture, and culture. Also, being a local, you will have the unique opportunity to re-visit many of the eateries we will visit, as well as others we recommend at your leisure. Nearly every single one of our local guests tells us: “I would’ve never knew, or found this place if not for you guys!”
We are first time NYC visitors, is this tour right for us?
If its your absolute first time in NYC, than we actually encourage you to visit Manhattan first and do all the “touristy” things. Take a food tour there while you’re at it. After that, come check us out. We’ll show you a totally different side of New York. But if you’re not interested in the usual tourist activities and just want to eat from some of the tastiest “off the beaten” places in New York City, than you’ll love us!
TICKET RELATED
Do I have to purchase tickets in advance? Can I pay cash?
Tickets must be purchased in advance on our website, as Queens Food Tours often sell out quickly. Tickets can only be purchased with a Visa, Mastercard or AMEX. We suggest purchasing your tickets early to guarantee your desired tour date, time and number of tickets you prefer. Cash and/or walk-up the day of the tours are not accepted.
If a food tour is sold out, can I get on a waiting list?
We do not provide a waiting list. If a date and time is sold out, we may add an additional tour on that day. Please email us to let us know what date you are interested in if you do not see availability.
Are gift certificates available?
Yes. To purchase a gift certificate, please click here.
Can I book a private tour?
Yes. To arrange a private tour, please click here.
Does the tour guide accept gratuities?
Gratuities are greatly appreciated, though not mandatory. A tip of 15-20% is customary in the tourism industry.
Can I get a refund or reschedule my tickets?
Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded or rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed on the event. Our events often sell out. No partial credits or rescheduling is allowed for partial attendance, no shows, or late arrivals. It is your responsibility to show up at the right location, on time. The events commence promptly
FOOD RELATED
What restaurants will we visit on the tour?
It’s a secret…You see, we believe that part of the fun of taking a food tour is the element of surprise. So you’ll just have to book our tour and find out. Trust us, you’ll love it.
How much food is served on a food tour?
A lot! You see in Queens we have a saying: Go to Manhattan to taste, but comes to Queens to eat. But the end of the tour, most are pleasantly full.
Do you accommodate food restrictions or allergies?
We can accommodate certain dietary restrictions with advance notice. Please list them during the booking process. However, please note our Food Tours have been designed to highlight the best and most distinctive foods from each establishment, and sometimes there isn’t always the next best alternative. We thank you for understanding.
Can you provide vegetarian options?
Yes. Just let us know during the booking process.
Do I need to purchase a ticket even if I’m not eating?
Yes- all guests must purchase a ticket whether they plan to partake in the food tastings or not. Non-paying individuals will not able to join the tour for any reason. The ticket fees help cover the costs of all the food samplings and also to pay for your tour guide’s wages, who offer valuable commentary on historical, architectural, cultural and restaurant aspects of our tours.
I’m not a foodie. Is this tour really right for me?
If you LOVE to eat, than you’ll love our tours.
Are there any beverages served on the tour?
Water is available in all our tasting locations. However, you may also have the option to purchase additional beverages from certain food tasting locations.
TOUR RELATED
How much walking is involved?
Not more than you can handle! While we are on our feet for a good part of the 3 hours, there will be sittings at some of the tour stops and tasting locations. The pace we walk is moderate and usually convenient for everyone.
How long does the tour last?
Our tours last approximately 3 hours.
Do we only walk around and eat?
Eating is just one part of the tour. Our guided tours combine architectural commentary, history, local culture and culinary insight into a unique and one-of-a-kind tour experience. You will discover Queens up close and personal while eating local artisan’s most delicious foods.
Where does the tour begin and end? Does the tour end at the same place we begin?
The exact beginning and end locations will be provided at the time of ticket purchase(s). Queens Food tours do not finish at the same location as the meeting point. Our ending location is usually a few blocks away from the start
Are restrooms available on the tour?
Yes. Restrooms are available during the tour at selected food-tasting locations.
If I’m bringing an infant, do I still need to purchase tickets?
You do not need to purchase a ticket for an infant / very young child if they will not be participating in the tastings. However, please let us know if you will be attending with an infant or young child at the time of purchase.
Is the tour wheelchair and baby stroller accessible?
Yes.
Can children participate?
Children may certainly participate in the tour. Our culinary and cultural tours were developed with food, architecture and history lovers in mind. Parents, who know their children best, should decide whether a 3 hour long food tour is appropriate for their own children. Since there is quite a bit of standing and walking, please consider this when deciding whether the tour is appropriate for your child.
Is there parking available near the tour meeting point?
Yes, there is parking, public and private, located near the meeting point. Specific parking details are included in the meeting location directions provided after purchasing ticket(s).
Are tours given on bad weather?
All of our tours are held rain or shine with the exception of extreme weather conditions. In the event of inclement weather, we will be able to go inside many of the establishments on the tour. We will not be outside for the entire 3 hours. Before purchasing tickets, we advise to check the weather conditions for your days event and dress appropriately.
Are the tours offered only in English?
Yes, at this time we only offer tours in English.
Are pets allowed on the tour?
We love pets, but due to the policies of the various food establishments we visit, pets of any kind are not allowed on the tour.
Can we take pictures?
Absolutely! Feel free to take as many pictures as you like, and don’t forget to tag us on facebook, instagram, and/or twitter.