Viator Rating : 5 (214 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.6/10 (Verified Excellent)
Monterey & Carmel
Monterey Food Tour: Savor History & Hidden Gems
210
Overview
The Old Monterey Walking Food Tour lets people discover Monterey by tasting yummy food. It's like a fun walk with food! This tour takes you to the best local food spots and secret places to eat. You'll walk around the historic downtown and try tasty things at five different stops. Think good snacks, fresh crepes, local beer, and yummy ice cream.
As people walk, their guide tells cool stories about Monterey's past, interesting people, and important places. You'll also help local restaurants and shops. Some places you might want to visit again later. Expect to see Old Fisherman's Wharf, Historic Monterey, and Alvarado Street. You'll also visit an Artisan Ice Cream Shop and see Monterey's Historical Buildings.
This tour includes gratuities at food and drink stops, a local guide, alcoholic drinks, lunch, and beverage tastings (including wine, beer, and/or hard cider). It does not include gratuities for your guide, which are optional. The Old Monterey Walking Food Tour is a delicious and fun way to see the city, with expert guides, featured locations, and rich cultural experiences. The tour focuses on the tastes of Monterey. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Crowd Density (8 - Empty / Light) : Very few people, free movement
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (9 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
Highlights
Taste Local Flavors: Enjoy delicious food and drinks from five different Monterey spots.
Learn Monterey History: Hear interesting stories about the city's past and important places.
Support Local Businesses: Visit local restaurants and shops and help them grow.
Walk Through Historic Areas: See Old Fisherman's Wharf, Alvarado Street, and other cool places.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers really liked trying the different foods and drinks.
-
The guides were very friendly and knew a lot about the area.
-
Many people said the tour was a great way to learn about Monterey's history.
-
People enjoyed walking around and seeing the sights while they ate.
Some people wished they had more time at each stop.
-
A few customers felt like there was too much food on the tour.
The Journey
Old Fisherman's Wharf
Begin your culinary journey at the iconic Old Fisherman's Wharf, Monterey's bustling heart where the sea's bounty meets vibrant history. Originally a hub for the sardine industry immortalized by Steinbeck, the Wharf now offers a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and aromas. Observe playful sea lions, sample fresh seafood, and soak in the maritime charm that has drawn visitors for generations. More than just a pier, it’s a living monument to Monterey's fishing heritage.
Historic Monterey
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Monterey's history. Savor delectable small bites within a historic setting, where echoes of the past resonate with every flavor. From the Spanish colonial era to its pivotal role in California's statehood, Monterey's historical sites whisper tales of explorers, pioneers, and artists. Enjoy a culinary journey interwoven with the city's captivating past.
Alvarado Street
Venture into the heart of downtown Monterey and discover the hidden culinary gems of Alvarado Street and its surrounding back streets. This vibrant area, favored by locals, boasts an eclectic mix of flavors. Indulge in dishes ranging from traditional Indian and Greek cuisine to local cider, inventive pasta at a gastropub, and satisfying deep-dish pizza. Experience the true taste of Monterey beyond the tourist hotspots.
Artisan Ice Cream Shop
Treat yourself to a sweet interlude at a local artisan ice cream shop, where handcrafted creations are made with passion and flair. Sample unique and flavorful ice cream while getting a behind-the-scenes look at the ice cream kitchen. It’s more than just a dessert; it's an experience that combines culinary craftsmanship with pure indulgence.
Monterey Historical Buildings
Continue your exploration past Monterey's numerous historical buildings, including some of California's very first structures. Hear captivating stories about Monterey's past and present as you walk through the city's storied streets. These buildings stand as silent witnesses to key moments in California's history, offering a tangible connection to the state's rich heritage.
Local Wine and Cheese Tasting
Conclude your epicurean journey with a delightful tasting of local wine and cheese. Savor the flavors of Monterey's terroir as you sample handcrafted wines and artisanal cheeses. This final stop is a celebration of the region's culinary bounty, offering a perfect ending to a memorable tour. Feel free to linger and enjoy the ambiance after the tour concludes, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere of Monterey.
Know Before You Go
This food tour takes care of tips at the food and drink stops. A friendly local guide will lead the way, and people can enjoy alcoholic drinks (like beer and wine), lunch, and yummy food tastings. The tour does not include tips for the guide; this is up to the person. The meeting point for the Old Monterey Walking Food Tour is at a central location in downtown Monterey, easily accessible by public transportation or car. Be sure to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. The tour ends near the starting point.
Hot Tip
Some people suggest eating a small breakfast before the tour, so you're not too full at the start. Also, wear comfy shoes because you'll be walking a lot!
Review Summary
People find this tour to be a delightful way to experience Monterey's culinary and historical highlights. Positive reviews frequently mention the knowledgeable and engaging guides, especially Valerie, and praise the variety and quality of food tastings—especially the crepes, fish tacos, and ice cream. The small group size contributes to a personalized atmosphere. Some reviews note the moderate walking distance, which may be challenging for some, but the wheelchair accessibility is appreciated. Overall, travelers recommend this tour highly for first-timers and locals alike seeking an insightful and delicious downtown adventure.
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
San Francisco
$179
Sonoma Wine Tour from San Francisco: All Tastings Incl.
4.9
(1534 reviews)
Duration: 570
minutes
The Small-Group Wine Country Tour from San Francisco with Tastings takes travelers to the beautiful Sonoma Valley for a fun-filled day. With a friendly guide, guests will learn about this famous wine region and taste many delicious wines. This tour is for anyone who loves wine and wants to see Northern California's wine country.
What to Expect: This small-group tour, limited to 12 people, visits three of Sonoma’s best boutique wineries. Each stop lasts about an hour. The tour also includes a stop in the charming town of Sausalito and a photo opportunity at the Golden Gate Bridge. Travelers will also stop for lunch in Sonoma's historic square, with its many great restaurants. For those who want to explore, Mission San Francisco Solano offers a glimpse into the past. All wine tasting fees are included, so guests can relax and enjoy the experience. Key stops include a scenic drive from San Francisco to Sonoma Valley, visits to multiple Sonoma Boutique Wineries, and a stop at Sonoma Square, plus Sausalito & Golden Gate Bridge.
The tour includes alcoholic beverages, a professional driver/guide, live commentary, and transport by air-conditioned minivan. Hotel pickup and drop-off are available from selected hotels. Lunch, the Sausalito Ferry, and gratuities are not included. With excellent quality and a low supplier cancellation rate, this curated experience has earned Viator Experience Awards from 2022 to 2025.
San Francisco
$69
Mixology Magic: Whiskey Cocktail Class with Skyline Views
5.0
(205 reviews)
Duration: 80
minutes
Local Distillery Cocktail Class offers a unique Bay Area experience, mastering three iconic whiskey cocktails: Old Fashioned, Whiskey Sour, and Paper Plane. Enjoy local whiskeys, uncover tasting notes, and delve into whiskey craftsmanship. A scenic ferry ride from San Francisco enhances this unforgettable journey.
San Francisco
$129
Vintage VW Wine Adventure: Painted Ladies & Sonoma Valley Delights
4.9
(372 reviews)
Painted Ladies Wine Country Tour: Explore San Francisco's history in a vintage VW bus before indulging in Sonoma Valley's finest wines. Visit three award-winning wineries, including a unique wine cave. Enjoy an Italian lunch with wine tasting. Conclude with vineyard exploration and memorable photo opportunities.
San Francisco
$99
North Beach's Gourmet Ghostly Encounters: A Culinary & Haunting Adventure
5.0
(50 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
North Beach: Gourmet Ghost Tour blends culinary delights with chilling tales in San Francisco's 'Little Italy'. Explore haunted sites, taste diverse foods beyond pizza, and hear Beatnik stories. Experience a full meal while uncovering the sinister past and hidden gems of North Beach. A unique fusion of food and fright!
Monterey & Carmel
$159
Sip and Stroll: A Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Tasting & Walking Adventure
5.0
(54 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
The Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a blend of curated wine tastings and local insights. Explore Carmel's history off the beaten path with expert guides and discover unique climates producing world-renowned wines. Get personalized recommendations for restaurants, bars, shopping, and more, for an immersive experience.
San Francisco
$96
Chinatown & North Beach Food Tour: Bites & History
4.8
(1052 reviews)
Duration: 240
minutes
Explore two of San Francisco's most exciting neighborhoods on the Chinatown & North Beach/Little Italy Walking Tour. This adventure awakens new flavors and embraces diverse cultures. Discover the secrets of Chinatown and North Beach as a local guide leads the way, offering a special experience of the city.
What to Expect: The tour starts in Chinatown, where guests will explore hidden sites and taste moon cakes from one of the oldest bakeries. Guests will enjoy authentic Chinese and Italian spots, uncovering secrets that even locals might miss. Key stops include iconic places in Chinatown and North Beach, like the Dragon Gate.
The tour includes generous tastings of local food and drinks. Guests can indulge in award-winning chocolate from Z. Cioccolato, savor local dim sum, and enjoy a traditional Chinese meal. Sip tea at a local Chinatown tea shop and taste authentic Italian pizza with wine at Mona Lisa Restaurant. The tour excludes gratuities but includes food, a glass of wine, and non-alcoholic drinks.
Nearby Events
Oakland Arena
Oct 06
8:00 PMaespa LIVE TOUR - SYNK : COMPLæXITY - in OAKLAND
Punch Line Comedy Club - San Francisco
Oct 18
4:00 PMAnthony Locascio Live in San Francisco
Anthony Locascio brings his sharp, story-driven stand-up to Punch Line Comedy Club - San Francisco for a night centered on his acclaimed comedy voice and current world-tour momentum. Known for building shows around deeply personal material, Locascio’s latest run, The Divine Comedy*, follows a sold-out Enmore Theatre engagement and presents the kind of introspective, high-impact comedy that has made him a standout on the international circuit.
Anthony Locascio’s work blends candid storytelling, cultural identity, and big emotional swings into a tightly written live set that rewards attentive audiences. Punch Line Comedy Club - San Francisco is one of the city’s best-known comedy rooms, giving the performance an intimate setting suited to club-style stand-up and close-up crowd energy.
Oracle Park
Aug 24
6:45 PMBook Tickets: San Francisco Giants vs. Cincinnati Reds at Oracle Park
San Francisco Giants vs. Cincinnati Reds brings two fierce MLB contenders to Oracle Park for a midday showdown that showcases the best of West Coast baseball. The Giants, known for their resilient pitching and strong home-field advantage at Oracle Park, will face the Reds, a team that has surged in the 2026 season with powerful hitting and dynamic play. This matchup revisits a rivalry that saw the Reds dominate an earlier April series 8-3 before the Giants reclaimed form with a 3-0 victory in their next encounter.
Oracle Park, nestled along San Francisco’s waterfront, is one of baseball’s most iconic venues, famed for its breathtaking Bay views, MBTA-friendly access, and legendary food options like the Garbage Plate. The Giants’ 2026 campaign features a mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent, while the Reds continue to build momentum under a high-energy offensive strategy that has made them a top threat in the National League.
Levi's® Stadium
Sep 20
1:25 PMBuy Tickets: San Francisco 49ers vs. Miami Dolphins at Levi's® Stadium
San Francisco 49ers vs. Miami Dolphins at Levi's® Stadium delivers a high-stakes NFL Week 2 matchup as both teams launch their 2026 campaigns. The 49ers, aiming for a 3-0 start, face the Dolphins in a rivalry game with deep historical ties, including four home wins and seven all-time victories for the 49ers. This contest features two elite franchises with championship aspirations, promising intense play and strategic brilliance on the field. The Dolphins enter their 57th NFL season and 61st overall, showcasing a dynamic roster ready to compete against top-tier opponents. Levi's® Stadium, located in Santa Clara, California, is renowned for its modern architecture and world-class fan experience, offering easy access and premium amenities for every attendee.
San Jose Civic
Oct 28
6:00 PMBe Like Blippi Tour!
Oakland Arena
Aug 29
8:00 PMBook Tickets: J. Cole Live at Oakland Arena 2026
J. Cole: The Fall-Off Tour brings the legendary rapper to Oakland Arena, delivering an electrifying hip-hop experience that supports his seventh and final studio album, The Fall-Off. Fans will witness Grammy-winning artist J. Cole perform iconic tracks alongside new music from the 2026 release that many critics have called his most personal work yet.
J. Cole stands as one of the most influential voices in modern rap, known for lyrical depth and storytelling that resonates across generations. Oakland Arena, a premier venue in California, hosts top-tier concerts and remains a favorite destination for music lovers seeking an immersive live experience.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in San Jose
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in San Jose From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Private Sightseeing Tours & Arts & Theatre in San Jose. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View San Jose Activities