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San Francisco, Napa and Healdsburg
Because I’m an adult, I make a point of being punctual at all times. I typically show up early to social functions, only to become frustrated with latecomers who hold up impending festivities. So you can imagine the horror I felt as traffic came to a screeching halt miles before the Bay Bridge on my way into San Francisco FOR A FOOD TOUR! Although I gave myself an HOUR of driving-time cushion, I sat as precious minutes ticked away, and I imagined every morsel and crumb I was missing out on.
I did what any sensible traveler would do: I called Gourmet Walks and told them that unfortunately, I was running late. They happily gave me the tour guide’s cell phone number so I could catch up with the group when I made it into the city.
I spotted my (also late) friend in the parking lot and we called the group to catch up. Luckily, we had only missed one stop on the tour; our conscientious guide, Shane, handed us a to-go box containing a slice of Chicago-style pizza that we had missed, and we proceeded on. We were off to a great start!
Food tours are the best way to explore a city since guides typically live in the area you’re touring. They know where to eat, what to do, how to get there, and little nuggets of trivia along the way. It’s really the best education you can receive while systematically stuffing your face. Our NoPa/Alamo Square tour was a feast for the senses exploring the neighborhood near Golden Gate Park.
Don’t bother with lunch, people. A very light breakfast will suffice as you’ll gorge on several items on an evolving tasting menu. In addition to pizza, this particular Saturday offered expertly grilled fish tacos, artisan cheeses and fresh-baked breads, strong alcoholic beverages, and not one, but TWO amazing dessert courses. Along the way, you’ll learn that most of the ingredients for these treats are locally sourced and why it’s so important to support nearby food producers.
Gourmet Walks offers tours in San Francisco, Napa and Healdsburg, running the gamut from savory to sweet. Three tours are dedicated solely to chocolate, with one that pairs the sweet stuff with wine and cocktails. Tours fill up quickly, so wipe the drool from your chin and make your reservations today!