The Lower East Side Food Tour

4.9(7)2hFree · tip-basedRun by CityShuffles

Join the Lower East Side Food Tour and discover NYC’s historic Jewish neighborhood. Taste iconic treats like knishes, dumplings, pickles, and sweets while exploring hidden gems and vibrant local culture.

Vegan-friendly. Not gluten-free friendly.

Discover why the Lower East Side is one of New York City's best neighborhoods for food. For generations, immigrants from around the world brought their traditions and flavors here, creating one of NYC's most diverse culinary destinations.

Unlike most food tours, you choose what you'd like to eat and how much you'd like to spend at each stop. Sample favorites like a Jewish potato knish, bialy (or bagel), New York-style pizza, Chinese fried dumplings, a classic New York pickle, a decadent tres leches doughnut, and candy from around the world.

Between bites, your guide—a real New Yorker—shares the fascinating history behind the neighborhood. Discover how it transformed from one of the most densely populated places on Earth into one of Manhattan's trendiest districts. Hear stories about Lady Gaga's connection to a 180-year-old synagogue, a statue of Vladimir Lenin on a rooftop, and other hidden gems.

We can't wait to share our favorite foods, local stories, and love for the Lower East Side! On rare occasions, a stop may be closed, but we'll substitute another delicious local favorite.

Meeting point

Outside Yonah Schimmels knishery

Before you go

Length: About 2h
Languages: English
Usual start times: 13:30 (New York time)
Coming up: 27 departures in 3 months, 3 this week

Questions about this tour

How much does this tour cost?

Nothing up front. You book for free and tip your guide at the end. Many travellers tip around €5 to €15 per person, depending on the length and quality of the tour.

How long does it take?

About 2h.

Where does it start?

The meeting point is Outside Yonah Schimmels knishery. The map on this page shows the exact spot.

What languages is it in?

Upcoming departures are in English. Pick your language in the calendar to see only those.

When does it run?

27 departures are listed in the next three months, 3 of them in the next 7 days, usually at 13:30. Times are local to New York.

Do I need to book?

Booking is a good idea: groups are limited and popular times fill up. Create a free Tripsora account, pick a day and time, and press Book to finish with the tour provider.