thepariskitchen

Who are these tours for?

These tours are for curious independent travelers over 16+ years of age — including enthusiasts, chefs and industry pros—who would love to learn about bread, pastry, cheese, wine, chocolate, charcuterie and produce in-depth while eating through wonderful markets, award-winning bakeries, artisanal cheese and chocolate shops and wine bars.

Are the Paris Kitchen Food Walks suitable for children?

Each walking tour was created specifically for adults interested in learning about Paris’ food, culture and wine. Since children have a limited attention span and we do a lot of standing, the 3-hour walking tours and wine bars are just not suitable for them.

Is this strictly an eating & drinking & shopping tour?

Each of Wendy’s 3 ½ hours private food and wine tours are filled with tastings, personal introductions and fun local knowledge that will enable you to experience culinary Paris on a deeper level. The walks of course provide an opportunity to eat, drink and shop for various French foods, but first and foremost are informative experiences created so that you come away with a deeper understanding of France’s food, culture and customs.

Before you taste anything, you will learn the back-story of the vendors & the various food customs associated with each. You’ll soon realize there is much to discover beyond the food. You’ll also wonder how you will remember everything without taking notes, but there won’t be a quiz and the memories will stay with you.

I have dietary restrictions and don’t drink wine, are these tours for me?

You will enjoy learning information about France’s beautiful cheeses, cured hams and sausages, pastries, bread, chocolate and wine – but you are not obligated to eat anything you are not comfortable with. Wendy will do her best to work with individuals who have specific allergies. However, if you have more than one or a combination of restrictions: lactose intolerant, allergic to gluten, a vegetarian and a non-drinker –  these tours are definitely not for you. Your confirmation provides you with an area to let Wendy know about dietary restrictions.

How should I dress for the weather?

All tours take place out of doors while it is raining, freezing, snowing and the sun is shining brightly. During the summer you will be in direct sunlight and will need sunglasses, sunblock and hats. During the winter, your toasty-warm accommodations can be deceiving so be sure to dress for freezing weather and cold brisk wind, including socks and outerwear. The food tours cannot stop for buying these types of purchases unless it is a real emergency. Check the weather conditions in advance and daily on weather.com, and dress appropriately (e.g., umbrella, boots, hats, sunblock).

Do I need to be physically fit?

The food tours are not speed walking tours but you should be fit enough to be on your feet for three hours. Stores are not always wheelchair accessible, street benches are few and far between and most cafes not willing to share chairs to rest without ordering food or drinks. Just let Wendy know in advance if you have any concerns.

What about photography?

You are able to take photos everywhere on tour, except the interiors of bakeries & pastry shops.

What times are the tours held?

The various three-hour tours are held Tuesday through Saturday at 10:00 a.m.

How many of my family & friends can come along?

Tours are private with a 2 person minimum and limited up to 4 people of your choosing. Once you register for a date, it belongs solely to you. These small intimate tours allow you to experience a Paris neighborhood authentically — blending in like a local with a local.

Where do we meet?

Once reservations are made, our exact meeting time and location (and transportation suggestions) will be sent to the email you registered with immediately after booking with a few food and wine questions to answer so that Wendy can know your tastes and preferences in advance.

What is the cost of the tours and walks?

Private tours are priced at 160€ per person, food and drink included. Personal purchases are not included.

Do I have to purchase reservations in advance? What are accepted forms of payment?

Reservations must be made in advance to hold a date, and can only be purchased by debit or credit card using Paypal. Cash is not accepted. One payment per date and group.

Can I reschedule my reservation or receive a refund?

All reservations are nonrefundable because your space is being guaranteed for your private tour, no exceptions. Walks start promptly. Late arrivals beyond 15 minutes and no shows will be treated as cancelations. It is your responsibility to be on time at the correct location a few minutes early, especially if you are not familiar with Paris. Cancelation policies also apply to any agreed upon rescheduled tour. Although every attempt is made to accommodate last-minute requests, tours are often sold out months in advance and cancellations are rare.

How do I register for a tour?

Simply read the available dates for each different tour, go to the Calendar & Bookings page, select an available date and tell me which tour you are interested in taking.

How do I know that my registration has been completed?

Once The Paris Kitchen has received your request and payment, a confirmation will be sent immediately to the email address provided during registration. This confirmation gives all details related to the tour, along with a brief questionnaire about your tastes and preferences so that it can be tailor-made where possible.