Today we’d like to introduce you to Rebekah Bloom.
Rebekah, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I began the tours 15 years ago because I wanted to share the incredible food, rich history, and unique stories that make Kansas City such a special place. At the time, food tours were still a relatively new concept, but I saw an opportunity to connect people with the local restaurants, chefs, and neighborhoods that give our city its character.
What started as a passion project has grown into a business that has welcomed thousands of guests—from visitors experiencing Kansas City for the first time to locals discovering hidden gems in their own backyard. Over the years, I’ve built strong relationships within the community and have had the privilege of watching many of the businesses featured on our tours grow and thrive.
Today, I’m proud that the tours offer more than just great food. They create meaningful experiences, celebrate small businesses, and give people a deeper appreciation for Kansas City’s culture and history. Fifteen years later, I still love introducing people to this city and helping them fall in love with it the same way I have.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not at all. Like any small business owner, there have been plenty of challenges along the way. One of the hardest parts of this business has been watching small businesses come and go. Over the years, I’ve built relationships with restaurant owners, chefs, and entrepreneurs, so when a beloved local business closes, there is a real sense of loss—not just professionally, but personally as well.
Of course, the biggest challenge came in 2020 when COVID brought everything to a standstill. Overnight, all tour operations had to cease. Like many in the hospitality industry, I found myself navigating an unprecedented situation with no clear roadmap. Starting the tours back up again proved to be more difficult than I anticipated. Consumer confidence had changed, staffing shortages impacted many of our restaurant partners, and I had to rebuild momentum after months of uncertainty.
That experience taught me a great deal about adaptability, perseverance, and the importance of community. It reinforced why supporting local businesses matters so much. While the road certainly hasn’t always been smooth, each challenge has strengthened my commitment to this work and deepened my appreciation for the guests, partners, and community members who have supported us throughout the years.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Taste of Kansas City Food Tours was Kansas City’s very first food tour company, and over the past 15 years it has become the blueprint for many others that have followed. Today, I remain the only small, independently owned food tour company in Kansas City, and I take great pride in offering experiences that are deeply rooted in community, authenticity, and personal connection.
I specialize in sharing the history, culture, and flavors of the Crossroads Arts District through guided walking food tours that showcase some of the city’s most beloved local businesses. Guests enjoy thoughtfully curated food and drink experiences while learning the stories behind the neighborhood, its architecture, its artists, and the entrepreneurs who help make Kansas City unique.
In addition to our public tours, I also offer private group experiences, corporate outings, team-building activities, convention and visitor experiences, and customized tours designed to fit a variety of interests and occasions. Whether it’s a company looking for a memorable way to connect employees, a family celebrating a special event, or visitors wanting an authentic introduction to Kansas City, I strive to create experiences that are engaging, welcoming, and unforgettable.
What sets us apart is our local perspective and the relationships we’ve built over the years. As a small business owner, I’m personally involved in every aspect of the experience, and I genuinely care about the guests who choose to spend part of their day with us. The tours aren’t just about eating great food—they’re about connecting people to the heart of Kansas City and supporting the small businesses that help our city thrive.
Brand-wise, what I’m most proud of is the trust we’ve earned within the community. For 15 years, we’ve introduced thousands of guests to Kansas City through its food, helped shine a spotlight on locally owned businesses, and created experiences that leave people with a deeper appreciation for our city. I want readers to know that when they choose Taste of Kansas City Food Tours, they’re not just booking a tour—they’re supporting a local business that has been passionate about celebrating Kansas City since day one.
What does success mean to you?
I define success by impact. If I’ve helped guests create lasting memories, introduced them to a new favorite local business, and played a small part in supporting the community I love, that’s success to me. The fact that I’ve been able to do that for 15 years is something I’m incredibly proud of.
Pricing:
- $93 PP
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tasteofkansascityfoodtours.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tasteofkcfoodtours/
