The Best North End Food Tours in Boston’s Little Italy – 2024

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Looking for the best North End food tours in Boston?

If you’re looking for a prime experience in Boston, look no further than taking a tour through the historic North End neighborhood (aka Little Italy of Boston, MA). This area is home to some of the best Italian restaurants and food in the city!

From historic walking tours (there’s lots to see here!) to a North End pizza tour, this list is exactly what you’ve been looking for.

As a former Boston resident, I’ve spent plenty of time exploring this beautiful neighborhood with winding narrow streets and the popular (and busy) Hanover Street. With all of that time spent in this area, I’ve come up with a list of the best North End food tours in Boston for you. Ready to dig in?

The Best North End Food Tours in Boston

Ready to dive into Boston’s culinary scene? For all of you foodies, let’s explore these iconic North End food tours in Boston!

1. Boston’s Little Italy North End Pizza & History Walking Food Tour

Slice of pizza - a popular item on the menu for a North End food tour

⭐️ RATING: 4.5 Stars | 😍 721+ reviews | BOOK HERE

This Boston North End Pizza Tour and Italian Food is the perfect way to experience a unique and tasty side of Boston. 

As you take this Boston foodie tour through the historic neighborhood, you’ll get to try several pizza slices from popular pizzerias, learn about the area’s rich history from your knowledgeable guide, and even get a free cannoli at the famous Modern Pastry.

Plus, you’ll also be able to walk along the Freedom Trail, making this an unforgettable food and history experience. Whether you’re a pizza lover or just looking for a fun way to explore Boston’s North End, this leisurely-paced walking tour is sure to be a hit!

  • Good for: Those who love finding the best pizza and those who love history
  • Meeting Point: Modern Pastry, 263 Hanover Street, Boston, MA 02113, USA
  • Tour Duration: 2.5 hours

🍕 Check Pricing on this North End Little Italy Food Tour

2. Cocktails & Cannoli: Boston’s North End Dessert Tour

Espresso martinis - a popular cocktail in Boston's North End
One of my favorite cocktails to have in the North End (a great night activity) – an Espresso Martini! You’ll get to sip on some on this Boston food tour.

⭐️ RATING: 5.0 Stars | 😍 290+ reviews | BOOK HERE

Boston is a city full of delicious culinary experiences, and one of the tastiest ways to explore its historic North End neighborhood is with this Cocktails & Cannoli: Boston’s North End Dessert Tour.

On this all-inclusive walking food tour, you’ll get to sample some of the best italian pastries in the area—including classic cannoli and gelato—all while visiting renowned landmarks like the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church.

Plus, you’ll get to sip on three delicious cocktail samples and participate in a blind cannoli tasting on this two-hour tour. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or an adventure-filled afternoon, this tour has something for everyone!

  • Good for: If you have a sweet-tooth or you’re looking for amazing cocktails
  • Meeting Point: 191 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113, USA
  • Tour Duration: 2 hours

🍹 Check pricing on the Cocktails & Cannoli tour

3. Quincy Market & North End Food and Walking Tour

The Old North Church in Boston's North End - popular on tours
The Old North Church in Boston’s North End – One of the many historic sites to see on this tour!

⭐️ RATING: 5.0 Stars | 😍 140+ reviews | BOOK HERE

Join this Quincy Market & North End Food and Walking tour for a fun and educational food tour that will take you through one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Boston—the historic North End. With its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and buzzing food markets, the North End is a must-visit.

On this small group North End market tour, you’ll get to navigate the bustling Quincy Market, explore the streets of the North End, find the best places for food and sample a variety of snacks along the way.

Plus, your knowledgeable guide will share interesting stories and facts about the area, taking you back in time as you visit landmarks such as Faneuil Hall and its Marketplace, Old North Church, and more.

  • Good for: Those who want to explore Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market
  • Meeting Point: Samuel Adams Statue, Boston, MA 02109, USA
  • Tour Duration: 2 hours

🍝 Check availability on the Quincy Market and North End Food Tour

4. Boston’s North End Walking Food Tour

Cannolis - A popular dessert and pastry in the North End

⭐️ RATING: 5.0 Stars | 😍 669+ reviews | BOOK HERE

If you’re looking for a delicious and informative way to explore Boston’s North End, be sure to check out the North End Walking Food Tour. On this tour, you’ll get to try some of the best food that the neighborhood has to offer, including pizza, pastries, meats and cheeses.

Plus, you’ll also get to see some of the most iconic landmarks in the area, like Old North Church and Paul Revere’s House.

What makes this tour different from other food tours is that you’ll have a knowledgeable guide who will share interesting stories and facts about the area with you. So if you’re looking for an enjoyable and educational experience, be sure to check out the North End Walking Food Tour!

  • Good for: Those who want to experience the area as a local (with great food and tour guide!)
  • Meeting Point: 222 State Street, Boston, MA 02109, USA
  • Tour Duration: 2 hours

🍕 Check out availability on the North End Walking Food Tour

Bonus: Best Food Tour in Boston

I wouldn’t be doing the city of Boston justice if I just stopped my recommendations of best food tours with the North End.

5. Boston Seafood Lovers Food & History Walking Tour

Lobster roll with fries - a popular food in Boston

⭐️ RATING: 5.0 Stars | 😍 85+ reviews | BOOK HERE

If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable food experience in Boston, this Boston Seafood Lovers Food & History Walking Tour is definitely the way to go!

You’ll get the chance to sample iconic dishes like lobster rolls and clam chowder, visit two restaurants, see some Freedom Trail sites, and take in the picturesque Boston harbor front. Plus, you’ll get to explore Boston’s history on this tour as well, learning about some of the city’s colonial and revolutionary past.

And with a max group size of seven, you’ll have lots of personalized attention from your local guide. What more could you ask for out of this incredible seafood tasting experience?

  • Good for: Seafood lovers and those who prefer a smaller group
  • Meeting Point: Modern Pastry, 263 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113, USA
  • Tour Duration: 2.5 hours

🦞 Check availability on the Boston Seafood Lover’s Tour


What is the Best Food in the North End?

The patio at the popular  restaurant Mare Oyster Bar in North End Boston
The outdoor patio at the popular restaurant Mare Oyster Bar in North End Boston (Tours may not stop here but you should look into it!)

In the historic North End of Boston, the food scene is inspired by diverse cultures.

The neighborhood is famously known for its incredible Italian food (you’ll find some of the best Italian in North End, Boston). So don’t miss out on the authentic pasta, lasagna, or the thin crust pizza (like New York) that has locals and tourists alike lining up for a slice. And let’s not forget the cannolis, Boston cream pie, and other Italian pastries that are a must.

The North End also has amazing seafood dishes, from mouth-watering lobster rolls to warm bowls of clam chowder.

Here are some top-rated restaurants in the North End of Boston that are worth a visit:

  • Mamma Maria – Known for their home-style Italian dishes with an elegant twist and cozy, rustic ambiance.
  • The Daily Catch – A seafood haven that serves up fresh seafood
  • Trattoria Il Panino – This trattoria is celebrated for its authentic pasta dishes and warm family-friendly atmosphere.
  • Neptune Oyster – This small, charming spot offers some of the best lobster rolls and oysters in town.
  • Modern Pastry – A must-visit bakery for indulging in classic Italian pastries
  • Mike’s Pastry – Another must-visit Italian bakery with an array of pastries & desserts
  • Bova’s Bakery & Café – Perfect spot artisanal breads and freshly baked desserts (and open 24/7, one of my favorites!).

FAQs About North End Culinary Tours

What Types of Food Will You Have on a North End Boston Food Tour?

The types of food you’ll enjoy will vary, depending on the specific tour you opt for. Rest assured, whether it’s seafood, Italian local cuisine, or pastries, there’s a tour to satisfy all taste buds! These Boston North End tours will give you the chance to taste many of these!

What is the North End in Boston Known For?

The North End, Boston’s oldest neighborhood, is famous for its history, landmarks like the Paul Revere House and the historic Old North Church, and vibrant Italian culture. This Little Italy of Boston is a foodie’s paradise, with authentic Italian restaurants, bakeries, cafes, and delicious seafood joints serving the city’s best clam chowder and lobster rolls.

Where Do Locals Eat in North End, Boston?

Locals in the North End of Boston often frequent spots like the family-run Trattoria Il Panino, for authentic pasta dishes, or Neptune Oyster, which serves some of the city’s best seafood. For a sweet treat, they head to bakeries like Modern Pastry or Bova’s Bakery & Café, both known for their delicious artisanal pastries.

What is the Famous Street in the North End of Boston?

The famous street in the North End of Boston is Hanover Street, bustling with life and energy. It’s known for its mix of charming Italian restaurants, vibrant cafes, Italian delis, and iconic pastry shops, making it a hot spot for locals and tourists alike. It’s a popular place for a North End Walking tour as well!

Why Should You Take a North End Food Tour?

Boston food tours North End offer a great opportunity to not only sample a variety of delicious foods but also discover hidden gems tucked away in this vibrant neighborhood. It’s a foodie’s adventure complete with rich history and lots of charm!


Final Thoughts: North End Food Tours in Boston

Boston is a beautiful city that’s rich in history and culture, and there’s no better way to experience it than through its food! With these North End food tours, you’ll have the chance to try some of the best dishes in the neighborhood. You’ll also get to explore some of the most iconic landmarks in the area.

So whether you’re looking for something fun to do or you’re looking for the best food or hidden gems in the area, these food tours are a great time and will have you feeling like a local.

Enjoy all of that pasta and dessert on one of these North End tours Boston offers!

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