Taste your way through Santa Barbara’s top taco spots on a relaxed 3.5-hour walking tour filled with delicious bites and lively stories. Ready your appetite for a taco adventure you won’t forget!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic stamina for walking city streets is recommended.
Wildlife
History
Santa Barbara’s taco heritage reflects the blending of Mexican and coastal Californian food traditions dating back decades.
Conservation
Local eateries prioritize sustainable sourcing of ingredients, supporting organic farmers and reducing food waste.
Taste Santa Barbara Food Tours
Taste your way through Santa Barbara’s top taco spots on a relaxed 3.5-hour walking tour filled with delicious bites and lively stories. Ready your appetite for a taco adventure you won’t forget!
Taste Santa Barbara Food Tours offers guided culinary experiences in downtown Santa Barbara, California. The company specializes in private and small-group walking tours that showcase local restaurants, taquerias, wineries, and specialty food partners. Tours include the Private Tour: The Original Downtown Santa Barbara Food Tour, Private - Not Just Taco Tuesday Tour, The Santa Barbara Taco Tour, Wine & Walking Tour Santa Barbara, Private Tour: To-Go-Food Tour, and a Virtual Tour of Downtown Santa Barbara.
Most walking tours run about 2 to 3.5 hours: the taco and private downtown experiences are approximately 3.5 hours, the wine and walking tour is a 2-hour experience, and the to-go private tour lasts roughly 3 to 3.5 hours. The virtual tour is an engaging 1 to 1.5 hour online session featuring live Q&A and a guided look at downtown architecture and history.
Guides are local hosts who provide historical context, cultural insights, and recommendations for further dining and drinking in Santa Barbara. Many tours emphasize supporting local businesses and include visits to a winery or multiple tasting locations, plus a mix of savory and sweet samples.
Private options allow groups to tailor pacing and selections for families, corporate groups, or special events. The company highlights safety and local partnerships while delivering relaxed, informative outings that connect guests with Santa Barbara's food scene. Several experiences are suitable for all ages and offer memorable days of exploration, tasting, and learning about Santa Barbara's Spanish and Mexican heritage, and relaxed social atmosphere available.
Location
Santa Barbara, CA
Downtown culinary destinations
Tours Offered
6 tours
Taco, wine, virtual, private options
Tour Lengths
1–3.5 hrs
From virtual to extended walking tours
Private Options
Available
Custom group tours and private experiences
Reserve a private or public tour, join a taco or wine walk, or schedule a live virtual tour — experience downtown Santa Barbara through local food and stories.
Bring cash for tips and extras
While most stops accept cards, having cash on hand makes tipping easy and supports small vendors.
Wear comfortable walking shoes
You’ll be strolling through city streets for several hours, so opt for supportive footwear.
Stay hydrated
Sampling tacos and drinks can be salty and spicy, so bring a water bottle to stay refreshed.
Notify dietary restrictions in advance
Inform the tour guide ahead of time about allergies or preferences to accommodate your needs.
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for navigating city streets and maintaining comfort during the 3.5-hour tour.
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated while enjoying salty and spicy foods on the walk.
Light jacket or layer
Useful for cooler spring evenings or unexpected breezes near the coast.
spring
Sun protection (hat & sunscreen)
Protect yourself from sun exposure during daytime stops and outdoor walks.
summer