Immigrant New York Food Tour: Lower East Side, Chinatown & Little Italy
Things to know
- Duration: 3 Hours
- Tour Includes: 6 tastings: enough food for lunch + licensed local expert & tour guide
- Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarian & Vegan friendly; Gluten Free not currently available on this tour.
- Walking Distance: 2 miles. Guests must be able to move at a moderate pace.
- Meeting Location: Essex Market
- Tour Capacity: 4 people minimum, 14 people maximum
New York City is a city built by immigrants; take a walk in their footsteps and explore the tenements of the Lower East Side, the busting streets of Chinatown and the iconic heart of Little Italy.
Featured Food Stops
Social Impact Partner - Essex Market Community Fridge
The Essex Market Community Fridge is a 24/7, plant-based mutual aid initiative. Launched in 2021 through a collaboration between the Essex Street Market Vendor Association and the grassroots organization Artists, Athletes, and Activists, the fridge aims to provide free, healthy, and accessible food to anyone in need, while also promoting sustainability and reducing food waste.
What does Social Impact mean to us?
We believe exploring like a local means connecting with the people and causes shaping our communities. That’s why we partner with inspiring, grassroots organizations and highlight their work along the way. Just as we carefully choose the food and spots you’ll experience, we also choose partners who are making a real difference. By joining our tours, you’re not just seeing the city—you’re helping it thrive.
Tour Highlights
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the immigrant experience in New York City’s Lower East Side, brought to life through its diverse and historic culinary landscape. Join us for a journey that not only offers a taste of the neighborhood’s flavors but also celebrates the stories of perseverance and cultural richness brought by immigrants.
Lower East Side
Chinatown
Essex Market
Little Italy
FAQ
How much walking is involved and what is the pace?
Our tours vary from 1-2 ½ miles over a 3 hour period. We walk at a leisurely pace and stop frequently to discuss interesting points along the way.
We do recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Keep in mind that you are on your feet for most of the tour. All tours include at least 1 stop where you can sit for your tasting.
The least walking would be attending our Chelsea Market + High Line Tour and opting to skip the High Line walk portion that culminates the tour.
Our Flatiron Food Tour is the least walking (1 mile) followed by Chelsea Market & High Line Food Tour (1.5 miles) Lower East Side (2 miles), and Williamsburg Food Tour (2 miles).
Are your tours in English only?
Our public tours are conducted in English with the exception of tours in Spanish offered on Saturdays at 4:30 PM. Outside of this, we can accommodate foreign language private tour bookings. Our guides speak Spanish, Italian and French. If you need a tour in another language, please contact us and let us know.
Will locals enjoy the tours as well or is it mostly for tourists?
Absolutely! While you may be familiar with our route and some of the stops, you will also have the opportunity to discover new things about the wonderful neighborhood you live in! Additionally, this tour is an excellent way to entertain out-of-town guests, celebrate a special occasion or encourage professional team building.
We regularly hear from local customers that they found a new favorite spot while on tour with us!
How do I book a private tour for more than 16 people?
Please fill out our contact form, or email us with details about your group at reservations@likealocaltours.com.
Do I have to purchase tour tickets in advance?
Yes! Booking in advance is required. Our tour guides do not accept cash on site for tickets.
Ready to book a public tour? Click here.
Looking for something more intimate? Book a private tour here.
What are your cancellation policies?
Public Tours
Plans sometimes change. We get it; it happens to us too. So we’re happy to provide a hassle-free, 100% refund if you give us 48 hours’ notice.
Inside of 48 hours, we’ve already started preparing for your visit, and can’t easily fill your slot, so we sadly can’t provide you a refund in that case.
Private & Corporate Tours
Do you cancel for inclement weather?
Tours will run rain, snow or shine. We ask that you check the weather forecast and dress accordingly if inclement weather is predicted.
In the case of extreme weather, we will reach out to you if we need to cancel your tour and reschedule you to a time when it is safe!
How can I amend my booking number of guests?/How can I remove or add guests?
If you booked directly with us, you should’ve received a confirmation email. Please click ‘change booking’ located directly below the photo/event details. You should be able to modify there.
If you booked through a third party or reseller, please contact them directly to make the change. This includes booking made through Viator, TripAdvisor, GetYourGuide, Fever, Cozymeal.
What do I do if I am late to a tour?
Don’t panic! You can join the tour up to 30 minutes after it has started. Please call us at +1(347)542-7998 and follow the menu options to contact your tour guide.
They will let you know exactly where you can find the group and join the tour!
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