Original NYC Guided Food Tour of Chinatown and Little Italy

New York City , United States of America

Original NYC Guided Food Tour of Chinatown and Little Italy

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About this experience

The original food tour of Little Italy and Chinatown since 2009 explores the tastes and history of two diverse NYC neighborhoods. This woman owned and operated business ensures that animated and friendly guides allow their guests to learn these neighborhoods through fascinating historical stories and culinary delights. There are 2-3 seated tastings and 5-6 on-the-go tastings to ensure that you explore both neighborhoods in 3 hours. We can accommodate guests who are vegetarian and gluten free. Water, tea and a choice of wine or beer is included.

The delicious food tastings range from delicious dumplings to a sit-down authentic Italian meal. For guests 21 and up there will be an option to have a glass of wine at the seated tasting.

One leaves this tour fully satisfied, along with a new found confidence in navigating the neighborhoods with a provided recommendation list in hand. This tour is a must if you're a local or visitor looking to get off-the-beaten path and taste amazing foods.

Available options

Morning tours

Morning Tours : Explore the tastes and history of two ethnic NYC neighborhoods, Chinatown and Little Italy.

What's included

Vegetarian and gluten free tastings upon request- 48 hrs

Local guide

Bottled water

Alcoholic Beverages

Detailed itinerary

Food tasting

What you'll see

Discover two ethnic and delicious NYC neighborhoods, Chinatown and Little Italy on this three-hour food and walking tour. You will begin your tour in Chinatown at a popular tea house, enjoying a cup of tea with a classic Chinese pastry. As you explore Chinatown you will see the vibrant colors of this neighborhood, hear the Chinese language and feel immersed. The highlight of your visit to Chinatown is a traditional meal, seated in a fun and vibrant restaurant. In addition to all the food, your guide will lead you on a historical path of Chinatown revealing hidden secrets as you discover its historical landmarks. During this portion of the tour, you will be fascinated with stories of the past and Chinatown's beautiful culture. Lastly—before making your way over to Little Italy you will savor a famous Beijing style dumpling.

The second portion of the tour takes place in Little Italy. Once you enter Little Italy, you will see the bright décor and buzzing excitement. You will soon learn about Little Italy’s fascinating past by visiting historical landmarks and hearing colorful stories. From there your guide will lead you to explore the mom and pop specialty shops of Little Italy, samplings include fresh mozzarella with prosciutto, imported cheeses and olives and fresh pasta. Before saying arrivederci, your guide will take you to the well-known and historic pasticceria, Ferrara's Bakery and Café. This is where your guide will provide you with an in-depth description of the Italian American immigrants while you enjoy Ferrara's ever famous cannoli.

The final destination is in close proximity to Chinatown allowing you to continue to explore both neighborhoods on your own and retrace your steps. Each participant is provided a helpful handout at the beginning of the tour which includes a list of all the tastings, a map, a recommendation list and coupons. The handout will be helpful, post tour, as you return to pick up your delicious tour mementos!

What's not included

Gratuities

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

549 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

1,596 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Not recommended for children aged 5 and under

Please mention food allergies or dietary restrictions in special requirements. (Must be received 48 hours prior to tour date)

A maximum of 4 people per booking

A minimum of 2 people per booking

Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour

Meeting point

Take subway lines 6, N, R, or Q to Canal St. Exit the station walk east along Canal Street, at Mott Street turn right (walking south) until you reach Silk Road Cafe. Contact Number (518) 332-4386

Important notes

• Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the departure time
• Please email info@ahoynewyorkfoodtours.com no less than 48 hours prior to the tour if you have any food allergies, dietary restrictions, vegetarians, etc. in your party. We may not be able to provide substitute tastings without advanced notice.
•There are 2-3 seated tastings and 5-6 on-the-go tastings to ensure that you explore both neighborhoods in 3 hours
• Tour takes place rain or shine, please dress for the weather
• Tour takes place mainly outdoors, there is 1/2 mile of walking
• Please consider a light breakfast prior to the tour
• Restrooms are available at the tour meet up location

Detailed Arrival Directions:
The tour meets in front of Silk Road Café at 30 Mott Street, NY, NY 10013, (between Pell & Mosco street, across from the church). If you are running late or cannot find us, please call (518) 332-4386

By Subway (suggested):
You may take the subway lines 6, N, R, or Q to Canal Street or B or D lines to Grand Street. Please be advised that on weekends trains may be rerouted due to construction.

Once you exit the Canal Street subway station, walk a few blocks east, you will see signs for the Manhattan Bridge. Continue walking until you reach Mott Street, walk south on Mott Street until you reach Silk Road Cafe, 30 Mott Street (it is across the street from the Transfiguration Church), this takes roughly 7 minutes to walk. If you exit the Grand Street Subway station, walk a few blocks west until you reach Mott Street, turn left (walking south) on Mott until you reach Silk Road Cafe, 30 Mott Street (it is across the street from the Transfiguration Church), this takes roughly 8 minutes to walk.

By Taxi:
Instruct your driver to drop you at 30 Mott Street (between Pell and Mosco Streets).

COVID-19 health & safety measures:
Face masks suggested for travelers & guides while indoors and not eating
Hand sanitizer available to travelers & staff

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information