New Orleans: Magazine Street Foodie Tour

If you’re looking to experience New Orleans beyond the crowded French Quarter, the Magazine Street Foodie Tour offers a relaxed, authentic look at the city’s culinary scene. This 3-hour walk takes you through the charming Garden District’s Uptown neighborhood, where you’ll sample more than just typical tourist fare — expect tasty surprises like gumbo empanadas and muffuletta egg rolls. It’s a chance to taste local dishes that blend history and culture with every bite.

What draws many people to this tour are two key points: first, the opportunity to enjoy 7+ thoughtfully selected dishes that go beyond the usual jambalaya and po’boys, and second, the chance to learn about the neighborhood’s historical and cultural background from a knowledgeable guide. One possible consideration is that the tour is quite food-heavy — it’s an entire meal by the end, so if you’re not a big eater or have specific dietary restrictions, it’s worth planning accordingly.

This experience suits food lovers eager to explore neighborhoods like a local, those with a curious palate, and travelers who want a more laid-back alternative to busy city tours. If you enjoy discovering hidden gems and authentic flavors in a friendly small-group setting, this tour is a smart choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Neighborhood Experience: Explore the relaxed, vibrant atmosphere of Uptown’s Garden District beyond the tourist hotspots.
• Diverse Food Sampling: Tastes include 4 savory dishes, a sweet treat, and creative twists on classic New Orleans cuisine.
• Informative Guide: Learn about the area’s history and culture through engaging storytelling.
• Full Meal in 3 Hours: This isn’t just a snack — it’s a comprehensive food experience.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to nine participants, fostering a more personal experience.
• Value for Price: At $139, it offers a full meal, drinks, and insider knowledge, making it a good value for those interested in local flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Magazine Street Foodie Tour

An Introduction to the Neighborhood

The tour kicks off just outside Mahonys Po-Boys on Magazine Street. It’s a prime spot to start your laid-back exploration of one of New Orleans’ most beloved streets. Unlike the bustling French Quarter, Magazine Street boasts a more relaxed vibe — lined with boutiques, cafes, and charming homes. This quieter, more residential setting makes for a pleasant walking tour, covering about half a mile while stopping at five carefully selected eateries.

The Food Stops: A Feast for Your Senses

Each restaurant is chosen for its culinary significance and local flair. The menu is thoughtfully curated to showcase the city’s culinary diversity, history, and inventive spirit.

First stop: the savory bites. You might find a gumbo empanada — a creative twist that combines Louisiana’s famous stew with a Latin-inspired pastry. It’s a wonderful example of how New Orleans chefs merge culinary traditions. Next, muffuletta egg rolls offer a fun, portable version of the iconic Italian sandwich, filled with olives, ham, and cheese, encased in crispy skin.

Alligator hot dogs add a bit of local wildlife to your plate, giving a taste of the region’s unique ingredients. The roast beef po’boy is a classic, but here, it’s served with a twist that elevates the humble sandwich into a memorable experience.

The sweet ending comes with macarons, a lighter, more refined dessert that pairs well with the prior rich dishes, providing a satisfying finish to the meal.

Learning About the Area

Throughout the tour, your guide shares engaging stories about the neighborhood’s history, architecture, and cultural evolution. This enriches the tasting experience, transforming it into a window into the city’s soul. One reviewer appreciated the great storytelling skills and insider knowledge, which made the tour more memorable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details & What You Need to Know

The tour is about 3 hours long, offered in the morning or afternoon, and includes a pint of beer or soda with your meal. The group size is limited to 9 participants, ensuring a friendly, personalized atmosphere.

Cost-wise, at $139 per person, it covers everything from guided commentary to all food tastings and gratuities. You just need to cover transportation — it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must. Weather can be unpredictable, so dress accordingly.

The Authenticity and Value

This tour offers a more genuine taste of New Orleans than more touristy options. The focus on local eateries and creative dishes provides an insightful culinary journey. Many reviews highlight the delicious food and excellent guide as standout features.

The food quality and storytelling have earned high praise. One participant called it “such a fun and delicious tour,” noting the “creative twists on New Orleans classics,” which makes it clear that this tour isn’t just about quantity but also about memorable, well-crafted bites.

Considerations and Limitations

As it’s a full meal, there’s a good chance you’ll want to skip lunch afterward. The tour does not cater to vegan, low, gluten-free, kosher, or reduced-sodium diets, so if you have dietary restrictions, plan ahead. Also, children under six may find the pace or food options unsuitable, and some eating venues may be crowded, making strollers challenging.

For those with mobility issues, the tour is wheelchair accessible with advanced notice, but expect about 8 stairs at one indoor location if not arranged beforehand.

Overall Impression

This experience is well-suited for foodies, history buffs, and curious travelers looking for an authentic, flavorful taste of New Orleans’ neighborhood life. It offers a relaxed pace, tasty dishes, and insightful storytelling, making it a well-rounded way to explore the city’s culinary side without the chaos of the French Quarter.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re eager to explore New Orleans among locals and appreciate inventive takes on traditional dishes, this tour delivers. It’s especially ideal for those who want more than just eating; they want a story and a sense of place. The small group setting fosters a convivial atmosphere, perfect for travelers who enjoy engaging conversations and personalized attention.

However, if you’re vegan, gluten-sensitive, or have specific dietary restrictions, this tour might not be the best fit. Likewise, if you’re traveling with very young children or prefer a less food-intense experience, consider other options.

All in all, for culinary curiosity combined with cultural insights, the Magazine Street Foodie Tour offers a tasty slice of New Orleans in a setting that feels both intimate and authentic.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each eatery and hear stories from your guide.

Where does the tour meet?
You meet just outside Mahonys Po-Boys on Magazine Street at 3454 Magazine Street in the Lower Garden District.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair friendly with advanced notice. There might be about 8 stairs at one location if not arranged ahead of time.

What food is included?
You’ll enjoy more than 7 dishes, including savory items like gumbo empanadas and muffuletta egg rolls, a roast beef po’boy, alligator hot dogs, and a dessert of macarons.

Are drinks included?
Yes, each guest receives a pint of local beer or soda as part of the experience.

Can I book this tour if I have dietary restrictions?
No, the tour does not accommodate vegan, gluten-free, low-sodium, kosher, or reduced-sodium diets.

What is the size of the group?
Limited to 9 participants, ensuring a personal experience and plenty of interaction.

Is this a tasting or full meal tour?
It’s a full meal — by the end, you’ll have eaten enough for a complete lunch or dinner.

How much does it cost?
The price is $139 per person, which covers guided commentary, all food, drinks, tips, taxes, and fees.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing for some flexibility.

To sum it up, the Magazine Street Foodie Tour offers a delicious, educational peek into New Orleans’ culinary landscape. Perfect for those wanting to savor local flavors in a friendly, intimate setting, it combines great food, engaging storytelling, and a chance to see a different side of the city. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just eager to enjoy authentic neighborhood eats, this tour is a worthwhile addition to your New Orleans itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: