Magpie
4.8(4 reviews)

Chinatown Guided Food Tour

From$105
2 hours
Commentary: Guide · cmn, en
Philadelphia, USA

About this activity

Discover the flavors and history of Philadelphia's Chinatown on this guided food tour, sampling diverse cuisines and learning about the area's rich cultural heritage.

Highlights

  • Explore Philadelphia's vibrant Chinatown district
  • Taste a variety of authentic Asian cuisines
  • Learn about the rich cultural heritage of the area
  • Visit iconic landmarks like the Chinese Friendship Gate
  • Enjoy a guided tour led by knowledgeable local experts

Full description

Join us as we uncover some gems that contribute to Chinatown’s culture and incredible cuisine. We'll taste foods that represent multiple Asian cultures, all from small locally-owned restaurants, and even venture into cultural stores that play a big role in Chinatown. Tasting our way around Chinatown means highlighting multiple communities and countless regional flavors. We’ll cover nearly all corners of the neighborhood while you’re enjoying dumplings, Szechuan, Cantonese, bubble tea, and more. You’re bound to try something new, learn how our Chinatown came to be, and even pick up a new phrase.Not experienced with chopsticks – no problem! This tour can be enjoyed by first-timers, Asian-Americans, and anyone with an appetite for Asian cuisine. Our local tour guide is a Chinese native and can’t wait to share their personal stories, insider tips, and cultural immersion into Philadelphia's amazing Chinatown.

Included / Excluded

  • Cantonese snack, dumpling, peking duck, Szechuan, and boba tea. Water provided at all seated stops.
  • gratuity

Itinerary

1

Explore nearly all corners of Chinatown through a guided adventure that stops in numerous restaurants and includes historic and cultural topics such as Zodiac medallions, city development projects, grocery stores, and cultural shops.

Duration: 2h 30mAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Important information

Know before you book

  • The tour is conducted in English; ensure you are comfortable with the language.
  • The meeting point is at the Chinese Friendship Gate; plan your arrival accordingly.
  • The tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for the weather.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves walking through the city streets.
  • Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour.
  • Be prepared for varying weather conditions; check the forecast and dress accordingly.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Stroller Accessible
  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • Children age 0-2 are free but will not receive food unless a ticket is purchased

Traveler reviews

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Delightful, Informative Chinatown Food Tour with Surge!

Our Chinatown City Food Tour with Surge was one of the highlights of our Philadelphia holiday weekend! The food was absolutely delicious, with a wonderful variety of dishes, and Surge did an outstanding job explaining the origins, history, and regional influences behind each one. He gave us great context for why different foods developed across various parts of China, which made the experience so much richer than simply tasting the food. Everything was incredibly well organized. Each restaurant was ready for our group, we kept to a comfortable schedule, and the walking pace and distances were easy. Surge was also thoughtful about accommodating dietary restrictions and generously encouraged us to pack up any leftovers to enjoy later. Most of all, Surge was personable, approachable, professional, kind, and exceptionally knowledgeable. His enthusiasm and warmth made everyone feel welcome. We would highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Philadelphia. It's a fantastic way to experience Chinatown through its food, culture, and history.

Atlantageorgia27Jul 5, 2026TRIPADVISOR

City Food Tours Chinatown Tour

Our guide Surge was tremendous! He was friendly, engaging and full of information. The food was awesome. Would absolutely return to the restaurants on our own. Highly recommend this tour!

rickettswMar 15, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Fantastic

The tour was great! Surge was extremely knowledgeable and paid attention to small details. He made sure that our daughter who has dietary restrictions was comfortable and content with the foods she was offered.

Andrea_KDec 21, 2025VIATOR

A great addition to your plans in Philly!

We thoroughly enjoyed our tour with Surg. He provided wonderful information, not only about the food and the restaurants, but the area and the history and cultural significance of the dishes.

G1066ZSkirstendMar 16, 2025TRIPADVISOR
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