FAQ

What types of places will we visit and What food will we be eating?

Tasting stops may vary by tour however every tour will provide a variety of cuisine, presentation, history and uniqueness. You will visit at least five restaurants, bars, bakeries or specialty food shops that are locally owned by proud members of our community. Many of the chefs and artisans that you will meet are working hard to source their ingredients locally. Our restaurants represent a wide selection of favorites such as Italian, pub and brunch food, southern fare, vegan dishes, desserts, appetizers and much more. See list of our participating eateries.

How much food is served on the tour?

At least 5 eateries will be providing bite sized tastings for you to enjoy. Generally, there is enough food served that most participants will be full by the end of the tour. Because the food is consumed over a 2 to 3 hour period, we do recommend eating a late breakfast prior to the tour.

What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?

Please be sure to let us know if you (or anyone in your group) has a dietary restriction (e.g. vegetarian, celiac, allergy, etc.) when you purchase your tickets. As long as we know at least 24 hours in advance, we will work to accommodate your needs. Please be aware that substitutions are not “exact” (i.e. regular gnocchi will not be substituted with a gluten-free version for gluten allergies). The restaurants on our tour have kitchens that are seasonal in nature and while a substitution will be made if possible, it may be quite different from what is served for the regular tasting. We’re sure you’ll enjoy the adventure!

Are beverages included in the tour?

In the Ultimate Foodie Tour, Round the World Tour and Pub and Grub Craw we will pair wine or beer with the tasting at at least 3 stops. Underage tour-goers and people who do not consume alcohol will be provided an alternative option. Please write this request on the registration where it asks for dietary restrictions. Additionally, some of the restaurants may provide other non-alcoholic beverages. The Dessert Tour will be accompanied by water or other non-alcoholic beverage at some of the stops. Feel free to bring your own bottled water.

When should I take the tour and are there incentives to go back to the establishments visited on the tour?

Anytime is great but if you want to experience several establishments before making decisions on what to see, do and eat while you are here, take the tour at the beginning of your visit. Now there is even more of an incentive to go back to one our partner establishments. We will provide you with a journal where you can jot down where we go and what you have to eat and drink. Show this journal to any of the establishments you visited on the tour within 2 weeks of the tour date and receive a special discount or treat!

How much walking is involved? Is it a fast-paced tour?

The Creative Mountain Food Tours cover less than 2 miles in downtown Black Mountain with easy walking, pretty much on level ground with a few inclines and stops for food tasting and historical tidbits. The tours generally last between 2 ½ and 3 hours and participants can expect to be standing or walking for a majority of the time. We walk at a leisurely pace and will spend an average of 20 minutes at each location. We recommend that you wear comfortable and sensible shoes.

What about locals – is there anything for us?

Definitely! A number of our attendees live right here in Black Mountain and surrounding areas. You will learn more about some of your favorite restaurants and perhaps explore some great new ones while meeting food experts and learning new things about local cuisine. It is a great staycation activity or an opportunity to impress your visiting guests! We will provide you with a journal where you can jot down where we go and what you have to eat and drink. Show this journal to any of the establishments you visited on the tour within 2 weeks of the tour date and receive a special discount or treat!

What is included in the ticket price?

All food and drink tastings, restaurant gratuity, a guided tour of the area and a fun filled experience is included in the ticket price.

Tour prices are subject to change without prior notice.

Is gratuity for the tour guides included in the ticket price?

No, gratuity for the tour guides is not included but greatly appreciated. Standard in the industry is 18%

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

Yes, tickets must be purchased in advance. Tours are limited to 15 participants and often sell out so we suggest purchasing your tickets early to guarantee your desired tour day. You can buy your Creative Mountain Food Tours tickets with Visa, MasterCard or American Express on this website. If you are trying to book a tour the morning of the event, and registration is closed online, please call us at 828-357-7089 to check availability.

If a tour is sold out, can I get on a waiting list?

Tour tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but you may contact us directly by email or phone to be put on a waiting list. If we experience high volume, additional tours will open up so continue to visit our calendar for availability.

Will the tour still happen if it’s raining, snowing or if extreme conditions exist?

Yes, we tour snow, rain or shine! Please dress appropriately, carry an umbrella to be prepared for the weather conditions. In rare cases where severe or unusual weather conditions are expected like heavy snow, severe rain, heavy wind or in case of fire or low air quality, the tour may be cancelled. In this case a full refund or gift certificate will be issued.

Can I get a refund on my ticket?

Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded or rescheduled because we have reserved space for you on the tour and with the restaurants. Occasionally, we will reserve the right to cancel a tour if there are not enough participants or very unusual weather conditions. If this occurs, we will provide a refund, gift certificate or reschedule your tour.

Is parking provided near the start of the tour?

Yes there is street and lot parking provided near the starting point of each tour. Starting points vary and detailed instructions are provided after ticket purchase is made.

Are cameras allowed on the tour?

Yes. Cameras and filming are allowed during the tour. We strongly encourage participants to take photos and share them with us!

Are bathrooms available during the tour?

Yes, bathrooms are available during the tour at selected food-tasting locations.

Can I bring my children on the tour?

These tours are geared more toward adults, however children 10 and up might enjoy the Dessert, or Ultimate Foodie Tours. The tours are up to three hours long and some children have a limited attention span; therefore the tours may not be appropriate for them. Since there is a lot of standing, walking and listening, please consider this when deciding whether the tour is appropriate for your child.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Most restaurants are wheelchair accessible. Email or call us and we can let you know by tour if there are any restaurants with steps or inclines. You are the best judge of your abilities to push and/or assist over any obstacles.

Are tours pet-friendly?

Even though you are visiting one of the most pet-friendly cities on earth, animals are not allowed inside places that serve food. Please leave your pooches snuggled up in their beds. If you will be accompanied by a service animal please let us know when you book your tour.

What if I still have questions?

What else should I know?

Creative Mountain Food Tours acts only as an agent for the eateries that supply food and beverages on the tours and cannot be held responsible for losses, accidents, injuries and delays caused by persons engaged in carrying out the services provided by the tour. Photos and/or videos may be taken on the tour. Please let us know if you would prefer not to be photographed or filmed. Many photos on this website are courtesy of Max Cooper, our State Magazine, October 2014.