20 Oldest Restaurants In USA

Ready to take a culinary journey back in time? Here are the 20 oldest restaurants in the USA, where each meal serves up a hearty slice of history. From colonial taverns to Wild West saloons, these spots offer more than just food; they offer a taste of America’s rich past.

White Horse Tavern, Newport, RI (1673)

Imagine going to dinner in a place that has been around since the 1600s. The White Horse Tavern in Newport is just that. It is the oldest tavern in America, and stepping inside feels like a trip back in time. They serve up traditional New England dishes. Don’t miss this if you love seafood!

Fraunces Tavern, New York, NY (1719)

In the middle of all the skyscrapers in Manhattan, there is Fraunces Tavern, where George Washington said goodbye to his troops. It is part pub, part museum, and totally worth a visit. You can grab a drink from where the founding fathers once plotted the revolution. Moreover, the food is a solid mix of good old American favorites.

The ’76 House, Tappan, NY (1754)

Not far from NYC, The ’76 House started as a home in the 1600s, turned into a meeting place for revolutionaries, and even held a British spy captive. Now, it is a cozy spot for a meal and maybe some live music. It has a great vibe if you are into places with a real story to tell.

McGillin’s Olde Ale House, Philadelphia, PA (1860)

McGillin’s in Philly is the kind of place you go to watch a game, hang out with friends, and enjoy a good beer. It has been open since before the Civil War, so they have had plenty of time to perfect their pub menu. It is friendly, lively, and filled with locals.

Antoine’s Restaurant, New Orleans, LA (1840)

Antoine’s in New Orleans is all about fancy Creole cooking. This place invented Oysters Rockefeller, so you know they are serious about food. It is classy and historic, and going there feels like you are part of an old New Orleans tradition. Definitely dress up a bit; it is that kind of place.

Union Oyster House, Boston, MA (1826)

If you are ever in Boston, you cannot miss the Union Oyster House. It is one of the oldest restaurants and right on the Freedom Trail. The vibe? Pure old Boston with waiters who might tell you a story or two about the place. They are famous for their oysters (obviously), but everything on the menu has that New England charm. Plus, it is said that JFK loved their clam chowder.

Columbia Restaurant, Tampa, FL (1905)

Heading down to Tampa, the Columbia Restaurant is a real gem. It is the oldest restaurant in Florida and is known for its Spanish cuisine. Ever tried authentic Spanish paella or Cuban sandwiches? This is your spot. The place is huge and decorated with beautiful Spanish tiles; it is like a mini vacation to Spain.

McCrady’s Tavern, Charleston, SC (1778)

McCrady’s in Charleston is a place that blends the old with the new. The building dates back to 1778 and has seen its fair share of history, including a visit from George Washington. Today, the menu is a modern take on Southern cuisine, so think upscale comfort food in a setting that is pure elegance.

Breitbach’s Country Dining, Balltown, IA (1852)

Out in Balltown, Iowa, there is Breitbach’s Country Dining. It is the oldest food joint in Iowa, run by the same family since 1852. This place feels like home the second you walk in. They serve up hearty meals that are all about comfort. It’s community-centered, often hosting local events, and eating here makes you feel like part of the family.

Tadich Grill, San Francisco, CA (1849)

Next is Tadich Grill in San Francisco. This place is as old-school as it gets, known for being California’s oldest restaurant. They are famous for their seafood, especially the cioppino, a rich seafood stew that is a San Francisco original. The wood-paneled interior and white tablecloths give it a classic vibe.

The Buckhorn Exchange, Denver, CO (1893)

This is Colorado’s oldest restaurant, and it is filled with Old West memorabilia, including mounted animal heads and vintage firearms. It is known for its game meats, like bison, elk, and even rattlesnake. The atmosphere is like a frontier saloon, making it a unique place to grab a hearty meal and maybe a local brew.

Commander’s Palace, New Orleans, LA (1880)

Back in New Orleans, Commander’s Palace is a landmark in the Garden District. This is not just a restaurant; it is an experience. Known for its haute Creole cuisine and its jazz brunches, dining here feels like stepping into a lavish Southern party. The turquoise and white striped exterior is as iconic as the turtle soup—a must-try. 

Katz’s Delicatessen, New York, NY (1888)

Katz’s Deli in NYC is legendary, especially if you are a fan of classic deli fare. Famous for its massive pastrami sandwiches, Katz’s has been a New York staple since the late 1800s. The vibe here is bustling and authentically New York. When you walk in, you are hit with the aroma of cured meats and fresh rye bread.

The Old Talbott Tavern, Bardstown, KY (1779)

In Bardstown, Kentucky, The Old Talbott Tavern has been serving travelers since the days of stagecoaches and pioneers. The building itself is rumored to be haunted, which just adds to the ambiance. They serve Southern classics, and the bourbon selection is top-notch. It is the kind of place where you can enjoy a warm meal by a fireplace.

Scholz Garten, Austin, TX (1866)

And then there is Scholz Garten in Austin, the oldest operating biergarten in America. The German influence is strong in the food and beer selections. With live music often playing in the background, it is a laid-back spot to enjoy a beer and some schnitzel under the Texas sky.

Parker’s Restaurant, Boston, MA (1855)

You walk into Parker’s Restaurant, and it is like stepping back to a fancier, more polished era. It is tucked inside the historic Omni Parker House Hotel, the birthplace of the Boston cream pie and those buttery Parker House rolls that melt in your mouth. The dining room’s elegant wood panels and chandeliers feel pretty grand. 

Keens Steakhouse, New York, NY (1885)

Keens is right in the middle of Manhattan, and stepping inside is like taking a trip to old New York. It is cozy, with low ceilings and walls lined with dark wood and historical memorabilia. They are famous for their mutton chops and have this massive collection of churchwarden pipes. For meat lovers, Keens is a dream.

Cincinnati’s Golden Lamb, Lebanon, OH (1803)

The Golden Lamb is Ohio’s oldest continually operating business, and it is basically a living history book. Imagine eating in a place where 12 U.S. presidents have dined. The rooms are filled with antiques, and each corner tells a story. Their classic American menu fits perfectly with the vibe, totally worth a visit if you are into history.

Griswold Inn, Essex, CT (1776)

Locally known as “The Gris,” this inn in Connecticut is instantly welcoming. Its nautical theme nods to the area’s maritime roots. With cozy interiors and hearty American dishes, it is ideal for either a relaxed dinner or a lively evening with music.

The Old Ebbitt Grill, Washington, D.C. (1856)

Just a stone’s throw from the White House, the Old Ebbitt Grill is where D.C.’s power players mingle with tourists. Known for its top-notch raw bar and that old-school saloon vibe, it has polished wood everywhere. If you are in D.C., it is the perfect place for some oysters and whiskey.