Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to purchase tickets in advance? Can I pay cash?
Tickets must be purchased in advance as tours typically sell out quickly ahead of time. To maximize your chances of getting the day, time, and number of tickets you prefer, please book well in advance. Tickets can only be purchased with a Visa, AMEX, or MasterCard from Zerve Ticket Center. Cash is 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, there is always a chance that we will add an additional tour on that day. Please email us to let us know what date you are interested in.
How much food is served on the food tour?
Currently, the Near North Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour contains 8 stops for tastings. Enough food is served that, for most people, lunch is not necessary afterwards.
Does the tour leader accept gratuities?
Gratuities are greatly appreciated, although not mandatory.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
Please be sure and let us know if you (or anyone in your group) has a dietary restriction (e.g. vegetarian, diabetic, etc.) when you purchase your tickets. As long as we know well in advance, we can accommodate your needs.
Can I shop on the tour?
We ask that you please wait to shop until after the tour so that we can stay on schedule and continue with the informative tour and food tastings in a timely manner. We ask you allow time at the end of the tour to return to your favorite locations and/or stores.
Are there kosher options on the tour?
A majority of the food tastings are not guaranteed kosher.
What about taking children on the tour?
While we offer both adolescent and children tickets, the tour is three hours long and some children have a limited attention span and therefore the tour may not be appropriate for some of them. Parents, who know their children best, should assess the situation individually. Since there is a lot of standing and walking, please consider this when deciding whether the tour is appropriate for your child.
Is the tour wheel chair and baby stroller accessible?
Yes, our tour routes and food tasting establishments are wheel chair and baby stoller friendly and accessible.
Are gift certificates available?
Yes, gift certificates are available for Chicago Food Planet tours. Please email us to purchase or learn more about our gift certificates.
Are there vegetarian options on the tour?
Yes, currently there are no meat tastings on the tour.
Are there any beverages served on the tour?
We do participate in a tea tasting, but neither water nor other beverages are otherwise provided during the tour. You can, however, purchase water and/or beverages at the beginning of the tour at the specified meeting place. Additionally, most of the tasting locations sell water and/or beverages.
Does the tour end at the same place we meet?
No, the food tour does not finish at the same starting point, however participants are provided detailed return directions and a map.
Is wine tasting included on the tour?
Currently, we do not participate in wine tasting during the tour.
What types of foods are served on the tour?
We taste foods from various establishments. Currently on the Near North Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour, we visit a fudge and confectionary specialty shop, a Middle-Eastern delicatessen, a tea specialty store, a spice and herb specialty shop, a local chocolate lounge, an olive oil and balsamic vinegar store, a gourmet food and catering store, and America's first Heart Healthy pizzeria. Food-tasting locations can change without notice.
Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private tours are available. Please email us to inquire about a private tour.
Do we only walk around and sample food?
Absolutely not! Aside from sampling delicious food, you will also experience life in Chicago's downtown, Gold Coast, Old Town, and Lincoln Park neighborhoods. The tour is fully narrated by your guide, who will discuss the history, culture, architecture, entertainment offerings, and both on and off-course off-the-beaten-path establishments.
What restaurants will we visit on the tour?
We do not sample food from any sit-down restaurants during the tour. All of the tastings are done on the go, and the food is provided by ethnic eateries and specialty food shops. However, insights to restaurants are shared.
How much walking is involved? Is it a fast-paced tour?
Tours generally last between 3 and 3.5 hours, and we are on our feet for approximately 3 hours. Although we cover a lot of ground and information, we walk at a moderate pace and do provide two places to sit and rest.
Are tours offered only in English?
Yes, we only offer tours in English at this time. Please email us if you would like to make arrangements for your own interpreter to join the tour.
What happens if it rains or snows?
The tours are held rain, shine, or snow. In the event of inclement weather, we will be able to go inside many of the establishments on the tour. You should still dress appropriately for the day's weather conditions.
May I bring my dog on the tour?
Due to the various food establishments we visit, pets of any kind are not allowed on this tour.
Does this tour have anything to offer a native Chicagoan?
Definitely! Many of our attendees live right here in Chicago. Locals often attend to learn about the neighborhoods and the city in which they live. We should all be tourists even in our own towns and cities!
If I am bringing an infant/very young child, do I need to purchase a ticket for them?
If you are bringing an infant/very young child, and they will not be participating in the tastings, you do not need to purchase a ticket for them. However, please do let us know if you will be attending with an infant or young child when you purchase tickets.
Are bathrooms available during the tour?
Yes, bathrooms are available during the tour at selected food-tasting locations.
Are cameras allowed on the tour?
Yes. Cameras and filming are allowed during the tour. We strongly encourage participants to take photos during the tour.
Is there parking nearby the tour meeting point?
Yes, there is parking located near the meeting point. Specific parking details are included in the meeting location directions after purchasing ticket(s).