Known for its lush green forests, picturesque lakes and scenic mountains, Seattle is more than just the ‘birthplace’ of Starbucks. In fact, in plain sight lies a buzzing food scene just waiting to be explored.
Seattle is home to some glorious foodie neighbourhoods that gives it character as a cornerstone of the national food scene in the USA. We know the best way to get to know a city intimately is through its food, and without some pointers on which particular areas to explore, it can be a daunting task to tackle.
Fret not – we have compiled this guide of the best food tours in Seattle to give you a helping hand. Hop onboard to uncover incredible culinary gems that are hidden throughout Seattle.
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Food in Seattle – Why is it Special?
What makes the food in Emerald City one of a kind is the rich culture that is embedded in its food scene. A variety of distinctive food and restaurants fill the streets wherever you stay in Seattle and whichever way you turn.
Its agricultural background, fisheries, and plentiful wineries contribute to making the Seattle culinary scene what it is today. Fresh seafood in abundance has become an important part of the identity here, and your time would be incomplete without trying the staple shellfish and oysters.
Over the years, Seattle has grown to host a wonderful line of strong breweries with the uniqueness of a family-friendly atmosphere, something that is rare but not to this city.
Let’s not forget, the mix of different cultures from around the world can be found right in the heart of the city. This ticket to the East boasts delicious bowls of Pho, tastes of Cambodian dishes, thriving Korean restaurateurs, and amazing hot pots that just melt in your mouth.
Pike Place Market Food Tour
- > Where: 1600 1st Ave, Seattle
- > Includes: Chef guide, a discount card with 10% off at all partner vendors, nine vendor food stops, and food samples
- > Duration: 2 hours
- > Price: $61 per person
Seattle’s Underground Donut Tour
- > Where: Top Pot Doughnuts, Seattle
- > Includes: Curated donut tasting, Guided tour of Belltown, downtown Seattle, and Pike Place Market
- > Duration: 2 hours
- > Price: $30 per person
Local Fish Store Visit And Sushi Rolls Class
- > Where: 1508 25th Ave S #3708, Seattle (Fumiko’s private cooking class kitchen)
- > Includes: Food, drinks, and equipment
- > Duration: 3 hours
- > Price: $99 per person
Seattle Foodie Neighbourhood Breakdown
Capitol Hill is home to a great variety of food in every style and at every budget. In this best Seattle gayborhood, there is no shortage of vibrant music venues and restaurants with cozy cafes at every corner with appetizing meals.
From Mexican tacos to Laotian pork jowl smash burger, and a popular walk-up Malaysian joint, it is an inviting place to try the best food at affordable prices.
If you’re looking for a diverse neighbourhood with cuisines that will tingle your taste buds, make your way to Chinatown International District.
Experience Seattle’s famous and freshest seafood with an Asian take in any of these amazing restaurants. From the likes of mouth-watering Thai curries, Saigon dumplings, and spicy wontons, it truly brings the taste of Asia right to you.
Next, dubbed as the “tastiest area of them all”, the beautiful neighbourhood of Ballard offers not only scenic views of the snow-capped Olympic Mountain but also a host of culinary delights to ravish.
Once a fishing village, it has now transformed into a food scene that we would describe as bold and experimental in a way that makes you never want to leave. Think chilli-soaked anchovies, banana leaf-wrapped tamales, cinnamon-spiked Mexican coffee – the options are endless, really.
Located north of the city just east of Ballard is Fremont, another bustling food arena. It is a great spot for a cheap salivating burger, or even if you’re looking to go on a date somewhere fancy. There are many so many places to choose from. You best come with an empty stomach for some darn good short-ribs, burger fiends and more!
Best Food Tours in Seattle
Now that we’ve got your appetite all fired up to experience the culinary atmosphere of Emerald City, buckle up and let’s take a dive into food in Seattle. Find out what the buzz is about!
Pike Place Market Food Tour
- Where: 1600 1st Ave, Seattle
- Duration: 2 hours
- Includes: Chef guide, a discount card, food stops, and samples
- Price: $61 per person
Explore the culture and food scene at one of Seattle’s most famous landmarks, the Pike Place Market. This guided tour has it all – from site visiting, cold brews and pizzas to artisanal chocolate tasting all while getting a scoop of the history behind the local businesses.
Learn how truly good food is made with behind-the-scenes insights into chocolate and cheese making. What’s best, you get to enjoy a 10% discount at every partner vendor that is visited on the tour.
If you’re in Seattle for the first time, we highly recommend taking this one early on in your stay so you have time to revisit some of the chef’s recommendations, and Pike Place Market, on your own later. You’ll catch a glimpse of employees throwing salmon, which has become a tourist attraction.
Savour the flavours and take in the sights on one of the many appetizing food tours in Seattle.
Local Fish Store Visit And Sushi Rolls Class
- Where: 1508 25th Ave S #3708, Seattle
- Duration: 3 hours
- Includes: Food, drinks, and equipment
- Price: $99 per person
Put your cooking skills to the test in this small-group, hands-on sushi class with an experienced Japanese chef. Seattle is known for fresh fish, and you will get a lot of it on this tour.
It with a visit to Seattle’s historic fish market where you can pick from a variety of appealing seafood choices and ingredients.
You will then make your way back to the chef’s kitchen to get started on your sushi, and all the fun. From learning how to roll rice, to designing sushi according to your personal tastes, this workshop will teach you all the crafts of sushi-making, and afterwards, you can sit down to devour your creations.
With wasabi, smoked salmon, sashimi-grade fish, and many more delicacies, this has got our taste buds tingling. It is the perfect activity for families or groups of friends looking to let the good times roll (pun intended)!
Be sure to add this food tour to your Seattle itinerary!
Seattle’s Underground Donut Tour
- Where: Top Pot Doughnuts, Seattle
- Duration: 2 hours
- Includes: Curated donut tasting and guided tour
- Price: $30 per person
After a whole day of exploring the city of Seattle, why not wind down with one of the sweetest Seattle foodie tours – the underground donut tour.
Learn about the history of some long-standing Seattle sites, as well as each donut shop you visit, all while munching down some delicious treats.
You will experience four of the most unique shops Seattle has to offer. Starting in Belltown, you will make your way to Pike Place Market, and set your palates on some interesting flavors created by professionally trained pastry chefs. You won’t want to miss out on Dahlia Bakery!
Be sure to bring an appetite and pace yourself, as this tour will leave you filled to the brim. You will be left blown away by the fluffiness and taste of each deliciously crafted donut. It’s a must-try food in Seattle.
Fishermen’s Terminal Brewery Tour
- Where: Urban Family Brewing Co, Seattle
- Duration: 3 hours
- Includes: Six beer tastings per brewery, and a beer scorecard
- Price: $70 per person
If you’re a beer enthusiast, this is the tour for you. Strap in for a good time with wonderful company and brilliant brews. Experience story-telling not only of the origins of beer but also the culture and history of Seattle from this sea-going neighborhood.
Take in the sights at Seattle’s historic Fishermen Terminal, home of the North Pacific Fishing Fleet and a vibrant fishing tradition. One thing is for sure, you will be pushed out of your beer comfort zone.
On this tour, you will learn the art of properly tasting, smelling, and enjoying beer. The brewers honor brewing history and styles of the old world, while maintaining a contemporary edge.
While you’re here, don’t miss out on the Fishermen’s Memorial dedicated to the nearly 500 Seattle men and women who have lost their lives at sea since 1900. This Seattle food tour is an absolute must if you ever find yourself in The Emerald City.
Hands On Chocolate Making Class
- Where: USI holdings, Seattle
- Duration: 3 hours
- Includes: Drinks, supplies, ingredients, and equipment
- Price: $90 per person
If you have ever been curious about making a delicious chocolate treat, pleasing not only to the eyes but also to the taste buds, then this experience will not disappoint. Treat yourself to a few hours spent with an experienced chocolatier ready to hold your hand through the delicate process.
From the principles of tempering chocolate, crafting the heavenly bites, to making mouth-watering ganache, this is a great introduction to the world of exquisite chocolate-making.
At the end of the class, you can bring home your newfound tips, and leave with your very own box of chocolates. It is an awesome experience for anyone looking for something fun and full of laughter.
If you are looking to get your hands dirty, this is the food tour for you.
Mad Scientist Cocktail and Mocktail Lab
- Where: Greenfire Loft inside Melrose Market, Seattle
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Includes: Samples of cocktails and/or mocktails, and light snacks
- Price: $78 per person
If you’re on the hunt for a fun group activity, look no further. Brace yourself for a high-concept cocktail class and lots of experimenting to satisfy your inner curious cat with this fun and engaging tour.
Dabble in the creative world of mixology and join the Mad Scientists crew for an unforgettable time.
This class is suitable for all levels of experience, whether you are a newbie or have had a hand with cocktail/mocktail making before. You get the opportunity to work with a plethora of ingredients, and try out different combinations of drinks.
In fact, you have the freedom to make your own customizable drink and learn the different tools involved in cocktail making. At the end of the tour, you will leave with a few good recipes to try out at home.
Final Thoughts
What did you think of this jam-packed list of food tours in Seattle? The food speaks for itself, and a tour is the perfect way to sample all the best bits of town.
Whether you’ve explored the city before, or have never stepped food into the donut haven, these tours will take you to all the hidden gems as well as add some skills to your repertoire.
Get packing, and we’ll see you on a tour in the one and only foodie haven of Seattle.
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