Frequently asked questions
This page is dedicated to answering questions on our Food Tours and Culinary Events. For additional details, please email us at info@dcmetrofoodtours.comDo I have to purchase tickets in advance? Can I pay cash?
Tickets must be purchased in advance as tours usually sell out quickly ahead of time. To maximize your chances of getting your desired day, time, and number of tickets, please book well in advance. Tickets can only be purchased with a Visa, AMEX, or Mastercard. Cash is not accepted. Click here to purchase tickets through Zerve now.
How much food is served on the tour?
There are 4-5 stops on the tour where you will be served small specialty meals. Do not eat lunch prior to any of our tours. For most people there is enough food that dinner afterwards is not necessary.
Buy food tour tickets online:
Old Town Food Tour Capitol Hill Food Tour
Georgetown
Little Ethiopia
Eastern Market
Fells Point
What types of foods are served on the tour?
We will stop at 3-4 sit down restaurants during each tour. Food ranges from local specialties to ethnic dishes directly reflecting the area's history and population.
The types of food served at the restaurants is varied depending on the Food Tour you take. You can, however expect some combination of the following: Lebanese, Anglo-Indian, Salvadorian, Thai, seafood, virginia style ribs, soul food, and eastern european desserts. You may also enjoy cuisine and drinks at a gourmet coffee and specialty store and a local chocolate shop. Restaurant locations may change without notice.What if I have dietary restrictions?
Please let us know if anyone in your group has a dietary restriction (e.g. vegetarian, diabetic, etc.) when you purchase your tickets. As long as we know well enough in advance, we can often accommodate your needs. If we do not find out about the special needs until the day of the tour, it is usually not possible for us to appropriately adjust the food on the tour.
Are there kosher options on the tour?
Unfortunately we do not serve kosher food on the tour. Contact us for more information on our Kosher events.
Are there any beverages served on the tour?
Each restaurant will also serve water or other beverages with each meal. Alcoholic beverages can be paired with each dish on the tour for an additional cost. For more information, email us.
If I am bringing an infant/very young child, do I need to purchase a ticket for them?
If you are bringing children below the age of 7 and they will not be eating the dishes, you do not need to purchase tickets for them. However, please do let us know if you will be attending with an infant or young child when you purchase tickets.
Do we just walk around and sample food?
Absolutely not! Aside from sampling delicious food, you will also experience life as we traverse the streets of our favorite Washington DC area neighborhoods. The tour is fully narrated by your guide, who will discuss the history, culture, architecture and entertainment that each Washington DC area neighborhood has to offer.
Are bathrooms available during the tour?
Yes, bathrooms are available during the tour at each establishement.
How much walking is involved? Is it a fast-paced tour?
We are on our feet for approximately half of the tour. We cover a good deal of information yet walk at a comfortable pace. We sit at most restaurants for 15-20 minutes each. Remember to wear comfortable shoes.
Are tours offered only in English?
Yes, we only offer tours in English at this time. If you would like to make arrangements for your own interpreter to join the tour, please contact DC Metro Food Tours by clicking here
Does the tour leader accept gratuities?
A . Leader gratuities are greatly appreciated, although not mandatory.
What happens if it rains or snows?
The tours are held rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather, we will be able to go inside many of the establishments on the tour. We will not be outdoors for the entire tour. You should still dress appropriately for the day's weather conditions.
May I bring my dog on the tour?
Unfortunately, pets of any kind are not allowed on this tour.
Does this tour have anything to offer DC area residents?
Absolutely! Many of our attendees live in the Washington DC area. Locals often take the tours to learn about the unique neighborhoods that surround the nation’s capital. We mainly stay off the beaten path, and thus avoid being consumed by crowds of tourists.
Can I shop on the tour?
We ask that you wait to shop until after the tour so that we can stay on schedule and continue with the tour in a timely manner. Hopefully, you will allow time at the end of the tour to return to your favorite locations and/or stores.
Where does the tour finish?
The tour finishes within the same vicinity as where it starts. Additionally, each participant will receive specific direction details at the beginning of the tour in order to gain familiarity with the area.
Are cameras allowed on the tour?
Yes. Cameras and filming are allowed during the tour. We strongly encourage participants to take photos throughout the tour.
Is there parking nearby the tour meeting point?
Yes, there is a parking garage located near each meeting point. Specific parking details are included in the meeting location directions after purchasing ticket(s).
Advanced purchase required - Tours usually sell out well in advance
Check availability and buy tickets online at Zerve:
Historic Old Town Alexandria Food Tour
Or to purchase by phone, call Zerve at (800) 979-3370
- October 31, 2009 Little Ethiopia Food Tour BeginsOur newest Food Tour, the Little Ethiopia Food Tour started...
- June 26, 2009 Eastern Market reopens after 2 yearsOne of the stops on our Capitol Hill Food Tour is back and better than ever...
- May 31, 2009 DC Metro Food Tours new website launch and branding promotionThe home of Food Tours and Culinary Events in the Washington DC area
- May 25, 2009Foods of Eastern Market Tour starts June 28thThe first of the DC Metro Food Tours "Market Tours" series is opening in our favorite Southeast Washington DC neighborhood...






