Locals and visitors alike will now have an insider's view of the culturally -- and culinarily - rich past and present of this often undiscovered San Francisco nook. Winding through the cobblestone passageways and unassuming mall hallways of Japantown, Edible Excursions will take participants along a flavorful path of seven stops including century-old, family-owned businesses, artisan shops and restaurants. 'Local celebrity' hotspots, historic tidbits and fun food facts will also be shared along the way, enlightening attendees with in-the-know details and enticing ideas for future visits.

Tastings will include both sweet and savory delights such as the slightly sweet but very addictive mochi at one of the last remaining manufacturers, Benkyodo, since 1906. Amongst a collection of tastings, guests will enjoy a layered, savory "Japanese pancake" called Okonomiyaki, at Izumiya. They will also experience a sweet potato latte that provides a healthy and flavorful alternative to caffeinated morning beverages. A one-of-a-kind 'Geisha Float' from Cafe Hana that offers non-geishas a sweet and exotic journey through the combination of several seemingly unrelated ingredients will also be tasted in betwixt and between a host of other bites. The tour concludes with a sit-down ramen. Along the way, shop and restaurant owners will share anecdotes and histories that reveal Japantown's cultural relevance to San Francisco as well as to the rest of the nation. Participants are welcome to learn more about Japantown's history by taking the self-guided walking tour.

The Japantown Culinary Excursion is offered from 11am - 2:30pm Fridays and the second Saturday of every month. The cost of the tasting tour and a sit-down lunch is $85 per person. Additional experiences of Japantown through Edible Excursions are also available, including an upgrade to a multi-course lunch at the buzz-worthy Japanese French fusion restaurant, Bushi Tei, an in-home private sushi making class and inclusive sake tasting, or even a fascinating trip back in time to a traditional tea ceremony. Private tours for groups of 8+ are also available. Inquiries and registration for the Japantown Culinary Excursion can be made through the Edible Excursions website http://edibleexcursions.net/japantown_tour.htm or by phone at 415-806-5970.