Cod, Tea and Candy a Boston Food History Walking Tour

2 h 30 min Free cancellation

Cod, Tea and Candy a Boston Food History Walking Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Boston’s story didn’t end with the American Revolution—it only got more delicious. Shaped by waves of immigration, global trade, and constant innovation, Boston and its food have evolved. Every bite tells a piece of the city’s history, even some we're not proud of.

Food reflects who we are—your culture, your environment, and your economy—and in Boston, that spans centuries of change.

On this walking tour, you’ll explore Boston’s rich history through the lens of what its people have harvested, eaten, and produced—from pre-Colonial Native Americans to the 20th century. Discover how molasses fueled candy and commerce, cod fed empires, science expanded diets, and tea sparked revolution.

We’ll taste classic New England dishes and modern Boston favorites, plus some sweet surprises you might not realize have local roots!

If you’re hungry to go beyond the Freedom Trail and experience Boston’s history through its flavors, this tour is for you. Bring your appetite and your walking shoes.

Private and Luxury Walking Tours Coffee & Tea Tours Dessert Tours Short term availability Weather Dependent - Low Agent Low Quality Product

At a glance

Duration: 2 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 15 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: Eating American

Ages: Children (6–17 years) · Adults (18–120 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Meals: We'll make multiple stops for food, including dessert, that will be the equivalent of lunch.

Not included

Not included: Alcoholic beverages: We'll talk about rum and cider but won't provide any, although some will be available for purchase.

Itinerary

Salada Tea Doors

10 min

An overlooked glimpse into the city's connection to the tea trade.
Boston Common

10 min

The heart of the city for 400 years.
Chinatown

20 min

We'll learn about the long history of China and tea, and how the Chinese arrived in Boston, then stop into a local shop for a bite.
Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

10 min

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Boston Irish Famine Memorial

10 min

We'll talk about the impact of Irish immigration on Boston.
Haymarket

30 min

We'll stop by a 300 year old market where Bostonians still get produce today, and stop into the Public Market for some local fare.
North End

10 min

We'll talk about the city's history of immigration, and how the North End today compares to 100 years ago, stopping for some cannoli.
Great Molasses Flood Plaque

10 min

We'll learn about how Boston's long history with molasses came crashing down with a tragic flood of molasses that killed 21 people.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

The guide will meet you at the Salada Tea Doors, which are near both Back Bay, Copley and Arlington T Stations.

End point

The tour will end a short walk from North Station as well as the North End.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.