The oldest restaurant in every state
- Replies 0
When you sit down at a restaurant, you’re not just about to enjoy a meal; you're about to experience a story—often decades, if not centuries, old.
From Revolutionary War-era inns to classic diners, the oldest operating restaurants across the United States have witnessed pivotal moments in history, while continuing to serve dishes that reflect the unique flavors of their time.
These establishments not only offer classic American comfort food but also share their historical significance, welcoming both locals and travelers with the same warmth and charm that they've offered for generations.
Let’s take a look at the oldest restaurant in every state—a journey that spans centuries of culinary tradition and American history.
Alabama: Payne's Sandwich Shop and Soda Fountain, Scottsboro (1869)
Located in Scottsboro, Alabama, Payne’s Sandwich Shop and Soda Fountain has been serving classic American dishes like chicken melts and ice cream sundaes since 1869.
Whether you choose to sit at a booth or right at the iconic soda fountain, the atmosphere instantly transports you back in time.
Alaska: The Historic Skagway Inn, Skagway (1897)
In the picturesque town of Skagway, Alaska, Olivia’s Bistro at The Historic Skagway Inn serves locally sourced seafood such as smoked salmon puff pastry and elk meatballs.
Established in 1897, it remains a beloved spot for both locals and visitors to the Last Frontier.
Arizona: The Palace Restaurant and Saloon, Prescott (1870s)
Known for its rustic charm, The Palace Restaurant and Saloon has been a Prescott staple since the 1870s. This frontier saloon serves up hearty meals and drinks, with the added bonus of a Western-themed dinner theater.
Arkansas: Oark General Store, Oark (1890)
A local favorite for over 130 years, Oark General Store, located in the Ozarks, offers more than just groceries and gasoline. Its breakfast and burger menu continues to attract locals and travelers alike.
California: Tadich Grill, San Francisco (1849)
Tadich Grill in San Francisco is a historic gem, serving classic seafood dishes like cioppino since 1849. Passed down through generations, this iconic restaurant is a must-visit for those seeking a taste of the city’s culinary history.
Colorado: The Buckhorn Exchange, Denver (1893)
The Buckhorn Exchange, a staple in Denver since 1893, is famous not just for its steaks but for its unique décor, featuring an extensive collection of taxidermied animals. It stands as one of the oldest steakhouses in the U.S., offering both history and delicious meals.
Connecticut: The Griswold Inn, Essex (1776)
The Griswold Inn in Essex has been welcoming guests since 1776, making it one of the oldest inns in America. The inn serves up historic dishes like clam chowder and a 1776 sausage sampler, all while preserving its 18th-century charm.
Delaware: Kelly’s Logan House, Wilmington (150+ years)
Kelly’s Logan House is Delaware’s oldest restaurant, serving hearty Irish pub fare since its opening in the 1800s. The restaurant has also become a center for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Wilmington, embodying a rich history of both food and community.
Florida: Columbia Restaurant, Tampa (1905)
Founded by Cuban immigrants in 1905, Columbia Restaurant in Tampa has evolved into a local institution known for its devil crab croquettes and tapas. This beloved spot highlights the deep-rooted Cuban influence in Florida’s culinary scene.
Georgia: The Plaza Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Thomasville (1909)
For over a century, The Plaza Restaurant & Oyster Bar has been serving up meals with a Greek flair in Thomasville, Georgia. Whether you're a local or just passing through, the Plaza's signature dishes are a true taste of Southern history.
Hawaii: Manago Hotel Restaurant, Captain Cook (1917)
Located in Captain Cook, Hawaii, the restaurant at Manago Hotel has been serving hearty family-style meals like pork chops since 1917. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere, it remains a local favorite for visitors to the Big Island.
Idaho: The Snake Pit, Kingston (1880)
The Snake Pit in Kingston, Idaho, has been operating for over 140 years. Known for its rustic setting and local cuisine, it has long been a favorite stop for travelers heading through the Coeur d'Alene National Forest.
Illinois: The Village Tavern, Long Grove (1847)
Since 1847, The Village Tavern has been serving comfort food in the charming village of Long Grove, Illinois. It remains a beloved stop for hearty favorites like onion rings and Reuben sandwiches.
Indiana: The Log Inn, Haubstadt
The Log Inn in Haubstadt takes pride in its deep historical roots. Not only did President Abraham Lincoln dine here in 1844, but the restaurant has continued to serve up American comfort foods like homemade pies for nearly two centuries.
Iowa: Breitbach’s Country Dining, Balltown
Breitbach’s Country Dining has been a family affair for six generations. Known for its deep-fried pork tenderloin, the restaurant has remained a staple in Balltown since 1852 and has earned a spot on the Iowa Pork Association’s Pork Tenderloin Trail.
Kansas: Hays House 1857, Council Grove (1857)
Established by Seth Hays, a descendant of the legendary Daniel Boone, Hays House has served as both a restaurant and a trading post since 1857. It offers a rich historical experience with every meal.
Kentucky: The Old Talbott Tavern, Bardstown (1779)
The Old Talbott Tavern, which dates back to 1779, has seen it all—pioneers, explorers, and ghostly encounters. This historic tavern, located in Bardstown, Kentucky, continues to serve American classics in an ambiance steeped in history.
Louisiana: Antoine’s Restaurant, New Orleans (1840)
Antoine’s, the oldest restaurant in New Orleans, has been delighting customers with its sophisticated Creole cuisine since 1840. The restaurant is renowned for its oysters Rockefeller and elegant atmosphere, reflecting the cultural melting pot that is New Orleans.
Maine: Palace Diner, Biddeford (1927)
Palace Diner, housed in an old train car in Biddeford, Maine, has been serving up classic diner fare like fried chicken sandwiches and breakfasts since 1927. Its unique setting and nostalgic menu continue to draw crowds.
Maryland: Middleton Tavern, Annapolis (1750)
Located in historic Annapolis, Middleton Tavern has been serving seafood and other Maryland specialties since 1750. Guests can enjoy crab cakes and mussels in a cozy, maritime-inspired setting.
Massachusetts: Warren Tavern, Charlestown (1780)
The Warren Tavern, located in Charlestown, Massachusetts, has been a cornerstone of local history since 1780. Its menu even includes a "Sons of Liberty" burger, a nod to the revolutionary spirit of its early patrons.
Michigan: The White Horse Inn, Metamora (1850)
Operating since 1850, The White Horse Inn in Metamora is a cozy Michigan favorite. Its menu of ribeye steaks and fish fry continues to attract guests, particularly during Michigan’s chilly winters.
Minnesota: Hubbel House, Mantorville (1854)
The Hubbel House has been a beloved part of Mantorville since 1854. With dining rooms named after historical figures and a menu featuring comfort dishes, it offers a truly historical dining experience.
Mississippi: Weidmann’s, Meridian (1870)
Weidmann’s in Meridian has been serving up comfort food like peanut butter and crackers (a tradition since World War II) since 1870. The Swiss immigrant-founded restaurant remains a fixture of local cuisine.
Missouri: J Huston Tavern, Arrow Rock (1834)
J Huston Tavern in Arrow Rock is famous for its fried chicken and mashed potatoes, offering a taste of history and warmth since 1834.
Montana: Pekin Noodle Parlor, Butte (1911)
Montana’s Pekin Noodle Parlor, founded by immigrants in 1911, is one of the oldest Chinese-American restaurants in the U.S. The restaurant’s fusion of Chinese dishes and American favorites makes it a must-visit.
Nebraska: Glur’s Tavern, Columbus (1876)
Glur’s Tavern in Columbus, Nebraska, has been a local favorite since 1876. Known for its burgers, it was once frequented by the famous Buffalo Bill Cody.
Nevada: The Martin Hotel, Winnemucca (1898)
The Martin Hotel specializes in Basque cuisine and has been serving locals in Winnemucca, Nevada, since 1898. Its signature dishes like pork loin simmered with garlic continue to delight patrons.
Read next:
Have you ever dined at a historic restaurant? What’s your favorite meal tied to American history? Share your thoughts below and let’s celebrate these culinary landmarks together!
From Revolutionary War-era inns to classic diners, the oldest operating restaurants across the United States have witnessed pivotal moments in history, while continuing to serve dishes that reflect the unique flavors of their time.
These establishments not only offer classic American comfort food but also share their historical significance, welcoming both locals and travelers with the same warmth and charm that they've offered for generations.
Let’s take a look at the oldest restaurant in every state—a journey that spans centuries of culinary tradition and American history.
Alabama: Payne's Sandwich Shop and Soda Fountain, Scottsboro (1869)
Located in Scottsboro, Alabama, Payne’s Sandwich Shop and Soda Fountain has been serving classic American dishes like chicken melts and ice cream sundaes since 1869.
Whether you choose to sit at a booth or right at the iconic soda fountain, the atmosphere instantly transports you back in time.
Alaska: The Historic Skagway Inn, Skagway (1897)
In the picturesque town of Skagway, Alaska, Olivia’s Bistro at The Historic Skagway Inn serves locally sourced seafood such as smoked salmon puff pastry and elk meatballs.
Established in 1897, it remains a beloved spot for both locals and visitors to the Last Frontier.
Arizona: The Palace Restaurant and Saloon, Prescott (1870s)
Known for its rustic charm, The Palace Restaurant and Saloon has been a Prescott staple since the 1870s. This frontier saloon serves up hearty meals and drinks, with the added bonus of a Western-themed dinner theater.
Arkansas: Oark General Store, Oark (1890)
A local favorite for over 130 years, Oark General Store, located in the Ozarks, offers more than just groceries and gasoline. Its breakfast and burger menu continues to attract locals and travelers alike.
California: Tadich Grill, San Francisco (1849)
Tadich Grill in San Francisco is a historic gem, serving classic seafood dishes like cioppino since 1849. Passed down through generations, this iconic restaurant is a must-visit for those seeking a taste of the city’s culinary history.
Colorado: The Buckhorn Exchange, Denver (1893)
The Buckhorn Exchange, a staple in Denver since 1893, is famous not just for its steaks but for its unique décor, featuring an extensive collection of taxidermied animals. It stands as one of the oldest steakhouses in the U.S., offering both history and delicious meals.
Connecticut: The Griswold Inn, Essex (1776)
The Griswold Inn in Essex has been welcoming guests since 1776, making it one of the oldest inns in America. The inn serves up historic dishes like clam chowder and a 1776 sausage sampler, all while preserving its 18th-century charm.
Delaware: Kelly’s Logan House, Wilmington (150+ years)
Kelly’s Logan House is Delaware’s oldest restaurant, serving hearty Irish pub fare since its opening in the 1800s. The restaurant has also become a center for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Wilmington, embodying a rich history of both food and community.
Florida: Columbia Restaurant, Tampa (1905)
Founded by Cuban immigrants in 1905, Columbia Restaurant in Tampa has evolved into a local institution known for its devil crab croquettes and tapas. This beloved spot highlights the deep-rooted Cuban influence in Florida’s culinary scene.
Georgia: The Plaza Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Thomasville (1909)
For over a century, The Plaza Restaurant & Oyster Bar has been serving up meals with a Greek flair in Thomasville, Georgia. Whether you're a local or just passing through, the Plaza's signature dishes are a true taste of Southern history.
Hawaii: Manago Hotel Restaurant, Captain Cook (1917)
Located in Captain Cook, Hawaii, the restaurant at Manago Hotel has been serving hearty family-style meals like pork chops since 1917. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere, it remains a local favorite for visitors to the Big Island.
Idaho: The Snake Pit, Kingston (1880)
The Snake Pit in Kingston, Idaho, has been operating for over 140 years. Known for its rustic setting and local cuisine, it has long been a favorite stop for travelers heading through the Coeur d'Alene National Forest.
Illinois: The Village Tavern, Long Grove (1847)
Since 1847, The Village Tavern has been serving comfort food in the charming village of Long Grove, Illinois. It remains a beloved stop for hearty favorites like onion rings and Reuben sandwiches.
Indiana: The Log Inn, Haubstadt
The Log Inn in Haubstadt takes pride in its deep historical roots. Not only did President Abraham Lincoln dine here in 1844, but the restaurant has continued to serve up American comfort foods like homemade pies for nearly two centuries.
Iowa: Breitbach’s Country Dining, Balltown
Breitbach’s Country Dining has been a family affair for six generations. Known for its deep-fried pork tenderloin, the restaurant has remained a staple in Balltown since 1852 and has earned a spot on the Iowa Pork Association’s Pork Tenderloin Trail.
Kansas: Hays House 1857, Council Grove (1857)
Established by Seth Hays, a descendant of the legendary Daniel Boone, Hays House has served as both a restaurant and a trading post since 1857. It offers a rich historical experience with every meal.
Kentucky: The Old Talbott Tavern, Bardstown (1779)
The Old Talbott Tavern, which dates back to 1779, has seen it all—pioneers, explorers, and ghostly encounters. This historic tavern, located in Bardstown, Kentucky, continues to serve American classics in an ambiance steeped in history.
Louisiana: Antoine’s Restaurant, New Orleans (1840)
Antoine’s, the oldest restaurant in New Orleans, has been delighting customers with its sophisticated Creole cuisine since 1840. The restaurant is renowned for its oysters Rockefeller and elegant atmosphere, reflecting the cultural melting pot that is New Orleans.
Maine: Palace Diner, Biddeford (1927)
Palace Diner, housed in an old train car in Biddeford, Maine, has been serving up classic diner fare like fried chicken sandwiches and breakfasts since 1927. Its unique setting and nostalgic menu continue to draw crowds.
Maryland: Middleton Tavern, Annapolis (1750)
Located in historic Annapolis, Middleton Tavern has been serving seafood and other Maryland specialties since 1750. Guests can enjoy crab cakes and mussels in a cozy, maritime-inspired setting.
Massachusetts: Warren Tavern, Charlestown (1780)
The Warren Tavern, located in Charlestown, Massachusetts, has been a cornerstone of local history since 1780. Its menu even includes a "Sons of Liberty" burger, a nod to the revolutionary spirit of its early patrons.
Michigan: The White Horse Inn, Metamora (1850)
Operating since 1850, The White Horse Inn in Metamora is a cozy Michigan favorite. Its menu of ribeye steaks and fish fry continues to attract guests, particularly during Michigan’s chilly winters.
Minnesota: Hubbel House, Mantorville (1854)
The Hubbel House has been a beloved part of Mantorville since 1854. With dining rooms named after historical figures and a menu featuring comfort dishes, it offers a truly historical dining experience.
Mississippi: Weidmann’s, Meridian (1870)
Weidmann’s in Meridian has been serving up comfort food like peanut butter and crackers (a tradition since World War II) since 1870. The Swiss immigrant-founded restaurant remains a fixture of local cuisine.
Missouri: J Huston Tavern, Arrow Rock (1834)
J Huston Tavern in Arrow Rock is famous for its fried chicken and mashed potatoes, offering a taste of history and warmth since 1834.
Montana: Pekin Noodle Parlor, Butte (1911)
Montana’s Pekin Noodle Parlor, founded by immigrants in 1911, is one of the oldest Chinese-American restaurants in the U.S. The restaurant’s fusion of Chinese dishes and American favorites makes it a must-visit.
Nebraska: Glur’s Tavern, Columbus (1876)
Glur’s Tavern in Columbus, Nebraska, has been a local favorite since 1876. Known for its burgers, it was once frequented by the famous Buffalo Bill Cody.
Nevada: The Martin Hotel, Winnemucca (1898)
The Martin Hotel specializes in Basque cuisine and has been serving locals in Winnemucca, Nevada, since 1898. Its signature dishes like pork loin simmered with garlic continue to delight patrons.
Read next:
