Frequently Asked Questions...
How much food?
We have crafted our culinary walking tours so that at each stop we taste much more food than just a tiny bite but less than a full meal. We like to eat and know you do too…that’s why you’re on a food tour! So we make sure that by the time you leave, you will have eaten the equivalent of a full meal. (Make your dinner plans later in the evening!)
Dietary restrictions, allergies, vegetarians?
We do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies and can almost always arrange something to suit your needs. Please make sure to advise us in advance during the ticket booking process so we can make arrangements prior to the start of the tour. We cannot make substitutions once the tour is under way. Our food tours are appropriate for vegetarians, but perhaps a bit difficult for vegans & gluten free. Please review each tour to find the one best suited to your needs. You can always CALL & ASK US! Call us at (503) 234-3663 or email us at info@forktown.com. We are happy to help!
What if it rains?
Our Portland food tours take place rain or shine—it’s the Pacific Northwest! Please wear comfortable, weather appropriate shoes and clothing. An umbrella is always a worthwhile accessory here in Portland, Oregon.
How much walking?
Our tours are culinary walking tours that take place in local Portland neighborhoods. We do not walk more than 1.5 miles, and we keep the pace slow to moderate. The tours are all on city sidewalks that are relatively flat. We will not walk the entire time, and there are many opportunities to sit down & relax along the way.
Children?
We love kids! That being said, we don’t offer reduced price tickets, this tour may not be appropriate for very young children who have limited palates or attention spans, and some stops may be 21+. Please inquire prior to booking to determine if this experience is right for your needs.
Alcohol?
Our culinary walking tours include about 2 alcoholic beverages. Please let us know if you prefer non-alcoholic beverages (or prefer wine, but not beer). Also please note you may be carded by our vendors before being served alcohol, so please bring your ID if you would like to partake.
Discounts for no alcohol?
If you are a non-tippler, that’s no problem! We are happy to offer interesting non-alcoholic beverage pairings. Because we provide a fun, small-batch or locally made non-alcoholic beverages, we do not provide discounts for those who opt for non-alcoholic beverages.
Group size?
During the 2021 season, we are currently only offer limited size, private tour groups of 2-4 people. In a normal year, our groups are 12 - 14 people. We enjoy small group sizes so we can get to know you and offer a more personal experience. You won’t find us shouting into a portable microphone!
What Should I Bring?
Please wear comfortable walking shoes. If it's a warm day, we recommend you bring your own refillable water bottle, as most, but not all stops will have a drink of some sort included. And bring a healthy appetite! Printed tickets or vouchers are not necessary
What about private groups?
During the 2021 season, we are currently only offer limited size, private tour groups of 2-4 people. We will be happy to create a private group tour for you. Click here to check out our Private Tours page for ideas during a normal year.
What about tipping?
If you had a great time while on tour and want to recognize your guide for great service, 15-20% is standard in the tourism industry. Our guides work hard to provide a fun & informative atmosphere while on tour and we highly recommend a reward for their performance!
Tour guides?
The owner, Heidi Burnette, is currently the guide for all tours. In addition to being a professional tour guide since 2005, she has lived in Portland close to 20 years and LOVES this city!
Getting to and from?
Each tour can be reached either via public transportation or by car. Once you purchase your tickets, we will email you detailed parking and public transportation information.
Gift certificates?
Yes! We think experiences make the very best gifts. Click here to purchase gift certificates.You may gift any amount your wish to the recipient and they may use the amount towards any of our regularly scheduled tours. And if you’re redeeming a gift certificate, please kindly contact our office so we can assist in booking.
Discounts?
Due the high quality (and therefore cost) of food we provide, we are unable to offer discounts on any of our tours.
Reservations?
Advance reservations are required. We must arrange in advance with all of our wonderful vendors and it is very difficult to accommodate last minute drop-ins. If a tour has already been removed from the booking list, but you would like to join us, please call our office to see if we have space and can accommodate your request. Please, no drop-ins!
Dogs/Pets?
For the health & safety of all of our guests, pets are not allowed on any of our tours, unless they are guide dogs wearing their certified vests. While we love our furry friends, our tours visit restaurants and thus we are obligated to follow health department rules regarding animals. We also will not allow dogs to be tied up outside any of our venues - many of the places we visit do not have areas for shelter from the sun or rain, and we will not allow an animal to walk place to place with the group for liability reasons. We recommend searching online for one of the many dog/pet-sitting services in the city.
Who takes Forktown Food Tours?
Our guests range from locals, out-of-town visitors, repeat guests, recent transplants, corporate and government groups, honeymooners, wedding parties and families. Our Portland food tours are for people who want to experience some of the best restaurants, food carts, and artisan food shops in Portland.
Cancellation Policy?
Have more questions?
We'd love to chat! Call us at (503) 234-3663 or email us at info@forktown.com.