NYC: The Story Of Lower East Side's Food Culture

based on 923 reviews

Duration:3 hours (approx.)
Location: New York City, New York

From $79

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Join this 3-hour New York City walking tour to sample the best ethnic foods in the Lower East Side. But this experience includes much more than sampling delicious foods, as you’ll learn about the history of the dishes, establishments, sites, and people along the way from your guide.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

WHAT TO EXPECT

1. African Burial Ground National Monument
We discuss the discovery of the burial ground and the building of the memorial and monument, including the significance of some of the design. We also talk a little bit about the early African experience in New York through those that were brought here as slaves and those that were freed.
2. New York City Supreme Court
We talk about the history of the surrounding area that was once a poor Irish community and before that a polluted pond. You get to see the building that is now most famous for being featured on most episodes of Law & Order.
3. Columbus Park
We briefly walk through this park on the edge of Chinatown and talk about what used to be here: the notorious neighborhood of the Five Points. We discuss the Irish immigration and show photos of what the neighborhood used to look like.
4. Chinatown
We walk through part of the neighborhood, discuss Chinese immigration, and visit a dumpling shop that is a local favorite. We also give tips on where else to visit in the large community.
5. Little Italy
We head up and around Mulberry Street and discuss Italian immigration. We get to see some amazing modern street art, hear stories about organized crime, and visit an historic local Italian food shop for a delicious tasting.
6. Nolita
We cruise through one of the most trendy neighborhoods in New York today and discuss the changing neighborhood. This used to be Little Italy, but today it’s loaded with hip bars and restaurants and we get to see some of the best street art in the city.
7. St. Patrick's Old Cathedral
As we walk through Nolita, you get a chance to see the original St. Patrick’s and learn about the hardships Catholic immigrants first suffered when coming to this country.
8. Sara D Roosevelt Park
Learn about the history of this park, named for FDR’s mother, and take a quick stroll through the northern end. We’ll also stop at the M’Finda Kalunga Garden inside the park to discuss Latin American immigration and how this neighborhood has changed throughout the decades.
9. Lower East Side
See the transformation of the neighborhood from an area filled with run-down tenements and poverty to one that is currently being gentrified. See lots of great street art and community gardens. Learn about Jewish, German, and Latin American immigration in this neighborhood and sample some traditional food.
10. Tenement Museum
We share stories about the founding of the museum and its important part in Lower East Side history. Our tour ends very close to the museum and our guides can give you tips on how to get tickets and explore their excellent gift shop.

ADDITIONAL INFO

CANCELLATION POLICY

Posted By : stankai
A guide makes or breaks a tour - Bruce is a real maker! His knowledge of NYC runs deep, and his passion for the LES and its quirks and stories runs even deeper. I have never seen a man so passionately in love with Grand St, and oh boy does he make his case. He has a trove of at-the-ready anecdotes, but he also can address any random question with a just as good an anecdote and story. Last not least: he takes care of the logistics in a seamless stride, "buy water here", "here's napkins for the pizza", "what's your empanada order for 20 min from now" etc. Thanks Bruce!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-05-10 10:16:22

Posted By : A8542MTandreab
We were looking for a way to experience NYC that was not typically “touristy.” This was the perfect answer. Our guide, Mickey, was knowledgeable and patient as she took us through a few of the local neighborhoods giving us the history and sharing great stories. It felt like an insider’s view of the area. The bonus was the food…the dumplings in particular really stood out. We lucked out with perfect walking weather. Our group included a couple of octogenarians and this tour was comfortably manageable for them as well.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-30 14:52:01

Posted By : Geraldine_K
I enjoyed the tour but found it a little rushed. Overall it was very good regarding the information given however the interval between the food sampling was way too short and rushed
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-30 13:17:19

Posted By : 69letitiaw
Bruce shared his extensive knowledge about the city. What a welcomed history lessen. The food at each stop was delicious, but the icing on the cake was learning more about the NYC eclectic culture.
I highly recommend the Lower East Side Food Culture Tour with Bruce.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-28 13:49:37

Posted By : D2737CVdinab
We loved the Tenements Tales and Tastes walking tour by Bruce.
These were places in New York I never saw on tv.
Thanks for the stories en history.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-24 10:35:23

Posted By : andrewjbrandt
Had a great time with our 7 and 9 year old girls. The food was also very kid friendly, which was a bonus!

Bruce knew a ton about the area and it was fun learning the history behind the neighborhood and food
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-20 18:55:33

Posted By : Andrew_B
Had a great time getting to know the city and eating some great food. We had our 7 and 9 year old daughters with us. It turned out the food we got was very kid appropriate. Potstickers, pizza, empanada, etc. they actually ate most of the food we tried, which was a bonus!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-20 18:50:50

Posted By : Beth_V
Eric did an amazing job explaining the history of New York, immigration, and the growth of the metropolis! He was interesting, fun,
and very personable! The food was delicious, however, I do feel it should have included at least two more tastings.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-14 13:58:05

Posted By : Ian_G
We had a terrific three hours on a beautiful NYC day with our excellent guide, Alex. Interesting history and a very personable guide. The only reason for not giving five stars, is we only had four food stops. And only two of those were particularly excellent. Still worthwhile, but other food tours we have taken have had six or seven different food stops.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-10 11:14:40

Posted By : sashaf488
We did this tour with Bruce, and it was fantastic! There was not a question he did not know the answer to, and all the food we had was delicious! Could not recommend him enough!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-04-04 21:46:39