FAQ
TICKET PURCHASE
Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
Yes, please purchase all tour tickets well in advance. Most tours sell out.
Can I get a refund or reschedule my ticket?
Sorry, all tickets are nonrefundable and tours cannot be rescheduled once booked. Our tours usually sell out and we are holding a spot for you. No partial credits or rescheduling is allowed for partial attendance, no shows, or late arrivals.
If a tour is sold out, can I get on the waiting list?
We do not offer a waiting list, but please Contact Us if a tour is sold out. We may add another tour that day.
Is gratuity included?
No, our tour guides appreciate your tips. 15-20% is customary in the tourism industry.
Do you offer discounts for children and seniors?
We currently do not offer discounted tickets for children and seniors.
Do infants need a ticket?
If you are bringing a child under 2 and he/she will not be participating in the tastings, you do not need to purchase a ticket. All children age 3 and over will need a ticket.
What if a tour doesn’t meet the minimum requirement?
Gourmet Walks will contact you at least 2 days before the tour to reschedule or offer a refund.
TOUR LOGISTICS
What happens if it rains?
Our tours are held rain or shine regardless of weather conditions. Please bring an umbrella during the winter months, just in case. And don’t worry, you will stay cozy and dry inside the shops and restaurants.
How hard is the walk?
Most reasonably active people should be able to handle our walks. There are no major hills. The Chocolate Tour (1 ½ miles) is our longest walk and our Gourmet SF: Hayes Valley (less than 1 mile) is our shortest walk. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
How long does the tour last?
All tours are approximately 3 hours, depending on the size of the group.
Are there any opportunities to sit?
Yes, there is some time to sit and eat on all our food tours and the ULTRA Chocolate Tour. On the Chocolate Tour there is one rest stop.
Are there bathroom breaks?
Yes, we will alert you when it is time to use restroom facilities.
What should I bring with me?
We suggest bringing a refillable water bottle, a resusable bag (if you plan on shopping) and wearing comfortable shoes. During the winter months, an umbrella.
Does the tour end at the same place where we began?
No, most tours begin and end in different locations. Please check the tour detail page for specifics, or Contact Us.
Is there parking nearby?
Yes, there are paid parking lots convenient to all our tours. Your confirmation email will include some suggestions. There is free parking at Oxbow Market for the Gourmet Napa Tour.
Can I take public transportation?
Yes, our Chocolate and ULTRA Tours are very convenient to BART. Our Hayes Valley Tour is a 10 minute walk from the Civic Center BART. Please Contact Us if you’d like suggestions on how to best get to your tour meeting location.
Are cameras allowed?
Absolutely! We love it when tour guests take pictures and send to us, or post on Facebook.
WHO CAN COME
Are there any age restrictions?
Children are allowed on the tours, although anyone over the age of 3 will need a ticket. Please keep in mind that there is a good deal of walking and listening involved. Tour content is not geared toward young children.
Customers must be over 21 on the ULTRA Chocolate Tour. On the Gourmet Napa Tour there is one wine tasting stop and customers must be 21 and up in order to participate in tastings.
How physically fit do I need to be?
Our tours do require a certain level of physical stamina. The walks average a little over a mile, however there are no major hills on any of our tours.
All tours will have at least one opportunity to sit.
Can I bring my dog?
Due to the shops and restaurants we visit, pets are not allowed on the tours.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, when you purchase your ticket please us know if you will have a wheelchair.
Are the tours appropriate for San Francisco natives?
Definitely! Locals have a great time on our tour and often attend when family is in town or when celebrating a special occasion. You will visit off-the-beaten path shops and restaurants and learn new things about chocolate, wine, cheese and more.
FOOD & DRINK TASTINGS
How much food is included?
We include a generous amount of tasting on all our tours. On both our Chocolate Tours, you will typically end up with a bag of extra gourmet goodies to eat later. Our Food Tours aim to provide enough food for lunch for most people.
Should I eat first?
It’s best to arrive on our tours with an appetite!
What if I have dietary restrictions?
When you purchase your ticket, please list all food allergies and dietary restrictions. With enough advance notice we can usually accommodate, however we cannot accommodate vegan diets.
Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, we can usually make appropriate substitutions.
GIFTS
Do you sell gift certificates?
Absolutely! We will email you the gift certificate within 24 hours of your order. Click here to purchase.
How do I redeem a gift certificate?
You can redeem your gift certificate by clicking here. Choose the tour you’d like to reserve from our Calendar. There is a box for “Have a code?.” Enter your gift certificate number in that box. You will receive an automatic email confirmation for the tour. Any troubles email us info@gourmetwalks.com.