Scottsdale: Old Town Food Tour & 6 Tastings Walk

Summary

Old town scottsdale food tour with local stories and classic bites

You’ll taste your way through Old Town Scottsdale on foot—cheese crisp hot from the oven, a classic chocolate malt shake at an old-school counter, pork sliders in a tiki bar you’d never expect here, all while your local guide shares stories you won’t find online. It’s not just about food—it’s about feeling part of the city for an afternoon.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to start a food tour in Scottsdale by hearing about citrus groves, but there we were—standing on a corner where the air still felt a bit sweet, even with all the city bustle. Our guide, Maria, had this way of talking that made me feel like I’d missed out on half the town’s history just by not asking more questions before. She pointed out an old brick building and said it used to be the only place for miles where you could get cold lemonade. Someone in our group laughed and said they’d settle for a cold beer instead—honestly, same.

The first stop was this Mexican place that’s been run by the same family since forever (I think Maria said 1950s?). The cheese crisp came out hot enough to burn my fingers—no warning there—and I probably looked ridiculous trying to eat it gracefully. There was roasted green chili on top, sharp and smoky, and it made me realize how bland my usual Tex-Mex is back home. We wandered past the oldest Catholic church in town after that; people still leave flowers at the door. There was this hush as we walked by—like everyone just sort of respected it without saying anything.

I still think about that chocolate malt at the old-school shop—a little too thick for the straw, but honestly perfect. The owner wore a paper hat and winked when he handed it over. Afterward, we ducked into a tiki bar (yes, really) with bamboo everywhere and these pork sliders they only make for celebrations. I tried to say “mahalo” and totally butchered it; Li behind the bar cracked up and gave me an extra napkin anyway. We finished near that big bronze horse fountain—kids running around, water splashing everywhere—and I realized I’d stopped thinking about my phone hours ago.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scottsdale Old Town Food and History Tour

• Meet and learn Scottsdale history
• Visit oldest Mexican restaurant
• Explore Western history stories
• Learn about oldest Catholic church
• Walk through arts and galleries
• Enjoy traditional malt drink
• Try specialty Luau Pork at tiki bar
• End at Bronze Horse fountain

Top questions

How long does the Scottsdale Old Town Food Tour last?

The tour lasts about 3 hours including walking time between stops.

Are there vegetarian options available on this food tour?

Yes, dietary requirements can be accommodated if you contact in advance.

Is hotel pickup included in this Scottsdale food tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at a central location in Old Town Scottsdale.

How much walking is involved during the tour?

The tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.

What kind of food is included on this Old Town Scottsdale tasting tour?

You’ll try cheese crisp with roasted green chili, Three Sisters garden salad, crispy chimichangas, chocolate malt shake, Hawaiian luau pork sliders, and one secret dish.

Can infants or small children join this Scottsdale food tour?

Yes, infants can ride in prams or strollers and must sit on an adult’s lap if needed.

Does this Scottsdale food tour run rain or shine?

The itinerary may change due to weather or other circumstances but generally runs as scheduled.

What’s included

Your day includes six different tastings—from cheese crisp with roasted green chili to crispy chimichangas and a thick chocolate malt shake—plus pork sliders at a mid-century tiki bar and even one secret dish along the way. All food is covered; just bring comfy shoes and your appetite before meeting your guide in Old Town Scottsdale.