Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance? Can I pay cash?

Tickets must be purchased in advance, and tours often sell out quickly due to their limited size. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please book well in advance. Tickets can only be purchased with a Visa or MasterCard. Cash is not accepted. Ticket purchase cut off is 5pm the night prior to the tour.

Do you offer custom private group tours?

We welcome custom group tours with prior booking of up to 24 people. Discounted rates are available for groups.  Please email us and let us know the details of your request.

Does the tour include lunch?

No. However, our Chinatown tour offers an optional Dim Sum component as outlined on the tour page. Most clients find that the samples provided on the tour are more than enough to replace a meal.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

We will be tasting a number of samples during the tour. If you have dietary restrictions (vegetarian, diabetic, allergies, etc.), simply refrain from those particular tastings.  It is always a good idea to let your guide know at the beginning of the tour.

Can I shop on the tour?

We ask that you wait to shop until after the tour so that we can spend more time learning about the fabulous foods and enjoying the tastes we have arranged. Hopefully, you will allow yourselves some extra time at the end of the tour to return to your favorite stores.

What is the maximum number of people on a tour?

Since the shops are very small, and all tours are personalized, we limit the regular tour to 8 people.

Do you require a minimum number of tickets for the tour to take place?

Yes, we require a minimum of 2 people to run our tours. In the rare situation where we cancel a tour, we will contact you ahead of time to reschedule your tickets or issue a full refund, whichever you prefer.

What if it rains or the weather is inclement?

The tours are held rain or shine. In the event of rain, we recommend appropriate clothing and an umbrella.

Who will be leading the tour?

All of Edible BC’s tours are led by local chefs who are well versed in the area they are guiding.

Where do the tours start?

Upon registration you will receive a confirmation email within 48 hours, indicating where you are to meet the tour group.

I’m a native Vancouverite and have shopped in the Chinatown for years – will the tour offer me anything new?

We have had many local Vancouverites participate in Edible events and they have been amazed with their new food finds. We aim to offer an experience that will cater to locals and visitors alike.

What if I don’t live in Vancouver, why would I want to take the tour?

To learn about one of the most vibrant food cities in Canada!  Since the tour is a walking food tour, you will learn about how Vancouverites shop and eat, the best ingredients and how to buy them, special cooking tips, and general information on the city’s food scene. What better way to experience a culture than through its food!

Will there be any place to sit down during the tour? Is it a fast paced tour?

None of the stores we will visit has seating. The tour involves long periods of standing and walking but we do try and take a break and sit down to learn more about each of the people on the tour. You should plan to be on your feet for at least 2-3 hours, so wear comfortable walking shoes. We do walk at a relatively quick pace.

Is the tour appropriate for children?

Since children have their own interests and pace, our public market tours are not appropriate.  However, we proudly offer private market tours for families. With a minimum of 2 adults at full fare, we welcome up to 6 children under 16 years old at a 25% discount.  Children 5 and under are free of charge.  The guide will tailor your tour to your family’s needs and preferences.

Are the tours offered only in English?

Yes, we only offer tours in English. If you would like to make arrangements for your own interpreter to join the tour, please contact us. Many of our chefs speak other languages.

Are gift certificates available?

Yes, what better gift than the gift of food! An Edible Adventure is a unique way to say Happy Birthday, Happy Anniversary, Happy Holidays or Thank You.  To purchase an Edible BC gift card, please call our retail store at 604-662-3606 or send us an email.

Can we take photos during the tour?

Still camera shots are welcomed but video cameras are not permitted.  The exception is for media filming a piece, and requires prior written approval from Edible BC.

Are bathrooms available during the tour?

Public washrooms are available in various locations on the tours.

What is your cancellation policy?

All tickets sold are non-refundable and may not be exchanged or rescheduled. In the rare situation where we cancel a tour that fails to attract minimum enrollment, we will contact you ahead of time to reschedule your tickets or issue a full refund, whichever you prefer. We reserve the right to limit the number of participants and to cancel a tour that fails to attract minimum enrollment. The tour is held rain or shine.