Running a food tour involves rather more than simply turning up and eating—although, admittedly, eating is an important part of the job!
We regularly visit restaurants, cafés, bars and other independent venues across our tour cities and towns. This helps us ensure that our guests experience some of the best local food and drink each destination has to offer.
It also means that when we recommend somewhere beyond the venues included on a tour, those recommendations come from genuine, first-hand experience.
Three venues in one busy weekend
During one recent weekend, in between hosting several tours, Gareth visited three different venues to assess whether they might be suitable for a future partnership – or simply deserve a place among the independent businesses we recommend to our guests.
The first visit was unfortunately disappointing. Although the food itself was perfectly acceptable, the service fell well short of what we would want our guests to experience. Good food is important, but warmth, consistency and hospitality matter just as much when we choose potential tour partners.
A brilliant venue – but perhaps too popular!
The second stop was a popular independent venue that was already bustling before midday.
The service was excellent, the food was delicious, the portions were generous and the prices represented great value. It ticked almost every box – but its popularity means that it would be difficult to include reliably on one of our tours. It doesn’t accept reservations and is frequently extremely busy.
Not every wonderful independent venue can become a tour stop. However, visiting places like this means that Gareth and the team can still recommend them enthusiastically. We don’t just host tours; we’re local food and drink ambassadors who love helping people discover more of each destination.
An exceptional dining experience
The final venue is somewhere we already visit as part of one of our tours. Guests enjoy food there during a wine experience, but Gareth wanted to explore more of its varied menu.
It proved to be one of the best dining experiences he had enjoyed for quite some time. From the starter and small plate through to dessert, every dish was outstanding.
The visit was not only extremely enjoyable – it was also genuinely useful. Having experienced more of the menu, we’re confident that guests can look forward to enjoying even more delicious food there in the future.
Research you can taste
Our regular venue visits are part of what makes a Walking Food Tours UK experience special. We continually explore the local independent food and drink scene, assess potential partners and revisit existing favourites.
This ensures our tours remain fresh, authentic and filled with places we genuinely believe our guests will love.
You’re probably wondering about the identities of those final two venues. We’re afraid you’ll just have to join us on a future food tour to find out!
