Some restaurants come and go—but others become living legends. Tucked inside small towns, bustling cities, and roadside outposts, these enduring eateries have survived the test of time, weathered changing tastes, and welcomed generation after generation through their doors. What do they all have in common? A deep-rooted connection to the communities they serve and a menu of comfort that never goes out of style.
Across all 50 states, there’s at least one historic dining spot that’s more than just a place to eat—it’s a piece of living history. Whether it’s a Colonial-era tavern that once hosted Revolutionary soldiers, a Gold Rush-era saloon frequented by outlaws, or a no-frills chili parlor with over a century of loyal customers, each of these restaurants tells a story that stretches back decades—or even centuries.
Some of these establishments still feature the original fixtures, handwritten menus, and heirloom recipes passed down through generations. Others have evolved with the times while carefully preserving their legacy. And while their specialties range from lobster bisque and cioppino to fried chicken and chili dogs, every single one offers a dining experience that feels like stepping into a time capsule.
From the oldest oyster house in Boston to a remote general store deep in the Ozarks, these iconic restaurants are much more than culinary destinations—they’re cultural touchstones, where food and history meet. Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or a curious traveler, you’ll want to add these timeless spots to your bucket list. So pull up a creaky wooden chair, order the house specialty, and savor the taste of tradition—because these are the oldest, most iconic restaurants still standing in every single U.S. state.
1. Alabama – The Bright Star (Bessemer)
Step into Southern history with a Greek twist at The Bright Star, Alabama’s oldest family-owned restaurant, in business since 1907. Tucked inside an early-1900s dining room with original architectural details, the ambiance is both elegant and homey.
What sets The Bright Star apart is its flavorful fusion of Greek and Southern cooking—think seafood gumbo, beef tenderloin, and snapper prepared with Mediterranean flair.
The menu has evolved gently through generations, honoring tradition while embracing regional bounty. Service here reflects a legacy of hospitality that’s hard to match. Whether you’re a local or traveler, you’ll feel like family the moment you walk in.
2. Alaska – The Historic Skagway Inn (Skagway)
History lovers and hungry travelers will adore The Historic Skagway Inn, a Gold Rush relic originally built in 1897. Once a brothel, today it’s a charming B&B where each room whispers frontier tales.
The dining experience is rich with Alaskan flavors—halibut cheeks, king crab, and hearty stews that reflect the rugged land. Menus change with the season and spotlight locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
What truly enchants is the sense of place. From antique furnishings to period decor, dining here feels like stepping into a living museum of Klondike-era hospitality with a culinary soul.
3. Arizona – The Palace Restaurant & Saloon (Prescott)
Step into the Wild West at The Palace Restaurant & Saloon in Prescott, Arizona. Established in 1877, this historic venue on Whiskey Row offers a slice of frontier life.
Steaks and spirits flow freely in an ambiance where legendary figures like Wyatt Earp once wandered. The saloon’s rich history is palpable in every corner, offering a dining experience steeped in Western lore.
With its iconic Old West charm, The Palace serves up more than just meals—it delivers the spirit of a bygone era, where every visit feels like a step back in time.
4. Arkansas – Oark General Store (Oark)
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Arkansas, the Oark General Store stands as a testament to time. Serving since 1890, it’s a beloved pit stop for bikers and road travelers seeking comfort in its hearty offerings.
Known for its giant burgers and homemade pies, this no-frills eatery celebrates simplicity and tradition. The store’s rustic charm and mountain setting create an inviting atmosphere for all who wander in.
Oark is more than just a store; it’s a piece of Arkansas’s culinary history, offering flavors and experiences that echo the past.
5. California – Tadich Grill (San Francisco)
San Francisco’s Tadich Grill, dating back to 1849, is a Gold Rush-era gem famed for its seafood. Known for dishes like cioppino and grilled fish, it offers a dining experience rich in history and flavor.
The wood-paneled setting evokes the spirit of old San Francisco, inviting guests into a realm of culinary tradition. Each meal at Tadich is a journey through time, celebrating the city’s vibrant heritage.
With a steadfast commitment to quality, Tadich Grill remains a cornerstone of San Francisco’s dining scene, offering timeless tastes amidst historic charm.
6. Colorado – The Buckhorn Exchange (Denver)
Denver’s Buckhorn Exchange, established in 1893, is a frontier steakhouse teeming with history. Exotic meats like elk and yak grace the menu, offering adventurous diners a taste of the wild.
Surrounded by mounted game and historic memorabilia, patrons are immersed in a bygone era. The Buckhorn’s eclectic ambiance and daring dishes create an unforgettable dining adventure.
Known for its bold offerings and unique decor, this restaurant isn’t just about food; it’s a celebration of Colorado’s rich heritage, where every meal tells a story of the frontier.
7. Connecticut – The Griswold Inn (Essex)
Since 1776, The Griswold Inn in Essex, Connecticut, has welcomed guests into its historic embrace. Renowned for chowder and scallops, it serves up maritime and Revolutionary War history alongside its dishes.
Oil-lamp-lit dining rooms offer a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere, where stories of the past echo with every meal. The inn’s walls, adorned with maritime artifacts, invite diners into a world of New England charm.
A visit to The Gris is more than just dining; it’s an immersion into history, where each bite is a taste of Connecticut’s vibrant past.
8. Delaware – Jessop’s Tavern (New Castle)
Step back in time at Jessop’s Tavern in New Castle, Delaware. Operating since 1724, this colonial tavern offers pot roast and shepherd’s pie in candlelit rooms.
Servers in period attire add to the authentic atmosphere, transporting guests to a bygone era. The tavern’s historic charm and hearty fare create a dining experience that’s both delicious and immersive.
With its unique blend of history and hospitality, Jessop’s Tavern stands as a beloved landmark, preserving Delaware’s rich heritage with every meal served.
9. Florida – Columbia Restaurant (Tampa)
Tampa’s Columbia Restaurant, open since 1905, is Florida’s oldest dining venue. It’s a grand, tile-filled space where Spanish and Cuban traditions blend beautifully.
Flamenco shows and sangria transport diners to another world, offering an experience as rich as the flavors on the plate. The Columbia’s vibrant atmosphere and historic charm make every visit memorable.
This iconic restaurant is not just a feast for the palate but a celebration of culture, where each dish tells a story of passion and heritage.
10. Georgia – The Pirates’ House (Savannah)
The Pirates’ House in Savannah, Georgia, dating back to 1753, is a treasure trove of maritime history. Known for its fried chicken and pecan pie, it offers diners a taste of Southern tradition.
Maritime relics and tales of real pirates fill the tavern, creating an engaging atmosphere where history and flavor converge. Guests are drawn into a world of adventure and charm with every visit.
More than just a meal, dining at The Pirates’ House is a step into the past, where each dish is a piece of Georgia’s storied culinary legacy.
11. Hawaii – Manago Hotel Restaurant (Captain Cook)
Since 1917, Manago Hotel Restaurant in Captain Cook, Hawaii, has been a beloved Big Island icon. Known for its succulent pan-fried pork chops, the restaurant exudes a vintage plantation-era atmosphere that’s both charming and inviting.
Stepping inside, one feels transported to a bygone era where simplicity and warmth reign. The wooden decor and modest furnishings add to the authentic feel.
Frequented by locals and tourists alike, Manago Hotel Restaurant remains a testament to enduring culinary traditions and a cherished gathering place for all.
12. Idaho – The Snake Pit (Enaville)
The Snake Pit in Enaville, Idaho, has been serving hearty meals since 1880. This rustic roadhouse is famous for its Rocky Mountain oysters and savory ribs, set in a charming log cabin filled with frontier lore.
The ambiance is a delightful mix of history and hospitality, with antique furnishings adding character. Guests are transported to the frontier days as they enjoy the hearty menu.
A favorite among history buffs, The Snake Pit offers a unique dining experience where every corner tells a story of the old west.
13. Illinois – The Village Tavern (Long Grove)
Established in 1847, The Village Tavern in Long Grove, Illinois, stands as the state’s oldest tavern. Its antique mahogany bar and historic charm offer a unique backdrop for enjoying comfort classics like pot roast and fried chicken.
The tavern’s cozy atmosphere is enhanced by its vintage decor and warm lighting. Visitors appreciate the welcoming environment that harks back to simpler times.
This venerable establishment continues to serve as a beloved community hub where history and hospitality come together over delicious meals.
14. Indiana – The Log Inn (Haubstadt)
Operating since 1825, The Log Inn in Haubstadt, Indiana, is a storied log cabin restaurant visited by Abraham Lincoln. Known for its family-style fried chicken and hearty roasts, it offers a dining experience steeped in history.
The rustic interior, complete with log beams and vintage decor, invites guests to enjoy meals in a setting reminiscent of the 19th century. It’s a place where tradition meets taste.
As Indiana’s oldest restaurant, The Log Inn remains a favorite for those seeking a taste of history along with their meal.
15. Iowa – Breitbach’s Country Dining (Balltown)
Breitbach’s Country Dining in Balltown, Iowa, has been delighting diners since 1852. As the state’s oldest restaurant, it offers a buffet of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and meringue pie in a charming country tavern setting.
The rustic decor and welcoming ambiance create a homey feel that keeps patrons coming back. Rebuilt with resilience, it stands as a testament to tradition and community.
Families and locals alike cherish Breitbach’s for its comforting meals and the sense of heritage that permeates every visit.
16. Kansas – Hays House Restaurant (Council Grove)
In Council Grove, Kansas, Hays House stands as a testament to frontier hospitality. Established in 1857 by a descendant of Daniel Boone, this eatery offers a nostalgic culinary journey.
Travelers on the old Santa Fe Trail would find comfort here with classic fried chicken and biscuits. The ambiance is a walk through history, with each corner telling tales of yore.
The establishment’s legacy is not just in its food but in its role as a gathering point for weary travelers seeking rest and community connection.
17. Kentucky – Old Talbott Tavern (Bardstown)
Bardstown’s Old Talbott Tavern has been a cornerstone of Kentucky history since 1779. This stone inn’s walls have witnessed travelers like Lincoln and Jesse James.
Inside, the antique-filled dining rooms evoke a sense of timelessness, where guests indulge in spoonbread and country ham.
With each bite, diners partake in a rich tapestry of stories, making every meal an intimate connection to the past. The inn continues to be a beloved local landmark, cherished for its historic significance.
18. Louisiana – Antoine’s Restaurant (New Orleans)
Antoine’s Restaurant in New Orleans has been a cornerstone of Creole culture since 1840. Nestled in the French Quarter, it offers a dining experience steeped in tradition.
The themed dining rooms are a visual feast, reflecting the rich history of Louisiana. Guests savor Creole classics like Oysters Rockefeller, each dish a tribute to culinary innovation.
Antoine’s is more than a restaurant; it’s a historical journey through flavors and stories that define New Orleans.
19. Maine – Palace Diner (Biddeford)
There’s something unmistakably magnetic about the Palace Diner, housed in a 1927 Pollard railroad car that feels frozen in time. As Maine’s oldest diner, it’s a throwback to when breakfast came hot off the griddle and counter stools were the best seats in the house.
The menu leans into hearty classics like fluffy buttermilk flapjacks, crispy bacon, tuna melts, and burgers with perfectly golden hash browns. Every dish is crafted with precision and presented with diner swagger.
With just 15 seats and no frills, the vibe is charmingly retro. Lines form early, the coffee flows freely, and regulars know they’re part of something special.
20. Maryland – The Horse You Came In On Saloon (Baltimore)
Boldly claiming the title of America’s oldest continuously operating saloon, The Horse You Came In On has been serving drinks since 1775. Located in Baltimore’s Fell’s Point, it has a spirited past—Edgar Allan Poe allegedly had his final drink here.
While the food menu offers standard bar fare, the real draw is the energy—live music, clinking pints, and a crowd that’s as eclectic as the décor. Swinging doors and vintage signs add to the rowdy, nostalgic charm.
It’s less about fine dining and more about atmosphere. For history buffs and revelers alike, “The Horse” is a place to raise a glass to the past.
21. Massachusetts – Union Oyster House (Boston)
As the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the United States, Union Oyster House has been serving New England fare since 1826. Located steps from Boston’s Freedom Trail, it offers a delicious lesson in colonial history.
The oysters are legendary, of course—freshly shucked at the original U-shaped bar where Daniel Webster once sat daily. Other highlights include clam chowder, broiled scrod, and lobster rolls, all served in cozy, wood-paneled dining rooms.
Everything about the Union Oyster House exudes authenticity. From the low-beamed ceilings to the antique furnishings, it’s a must-stop for anyone craving both heritage and perfectly briny seafood.
22. Michigan – New Hudson Inn (New Hudson)
Nestled along an old stagecoach route, the New Hudson Inn has been welcoming guests since 1831. This unassuming tavern is the oldest bar in Michigan, and over the years, it’s worn many hats—including a post office and general store.
Today, it’s a relaxed bar and grill offering cold beers and handcrafted burgers, along with a loyal crowd that keeps the historic vibe alive. The food is straightforward but satisfying—think loaded sandwiches and crispy fries.
Dark wood, exposed brick, and old signage remind patrons of its frontier past. It’s the kind of place where the walls hold stories and the regulars make new ones.
23. Minnesota – Hubbell House (Mantorville)
Before Minnesota was even a state, the Hubbell House was welcoming travelers and dignitaries as a stagecoach stop back in 1854. Today, it stands as a beautifully preserved relic of frontier hospitality with a touch of supper-club sophistication.
Steaks, pan-fried walleye, and shrimp cocktail headline the menu, which blends hearty Midwestern comfort with a nod to timeless tradition. Each dish is served in stately rooms adorned with antique oil lamps and portraits of long-gone guests.
From the creaky hardwood floors to the vintage bar, every detail adds to its historic charm. It’s a rare place where elegance and frontier grit coexist.
24. Mississippi – Weidmann’s (Meridian)
Opened in 1870, Weidmann’s is a cornerstone of Meridian’s dining scene—and a testament to Southern hospitality. Its enduring presence has weathered wars, economic downturns, and even multiple ownership changes.
Signature dishes include black bottom pie, shrimp and grits, and buttery biscuits that practically melt in your mouth. A unique touch? The crock of house-made peanut butter placed on every table, a tradition since the 1940s.
What makes Weidmann’s unforgettable is its warmth. The ambiance blends casual comfort with deep tradition, making every visit feel like you’ve stepped into someone’s well-worn family recipe book.
25. Missouri – J. Huston Tavern (Arrow Rock)
In the heart of a preserved historic village stands the J. Huston Tavern, Missouri’s oldest restaurant, serving travelers since 1834. Its brick walls have witnessed centuries of American life, from Civil War echoes to modern-day tourists.
On the menu, expect comforting Midwestern staples like crispy fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and warm cobbler. Meals are hearty, familiar, and rooted in the agricultural soul of the region.
Dining here feels like stepping into a stagecoach stop frozen in time. From the antique decor to the handwritten specials, it’s a slow, savory trip back into Missouri’s culinary past.
26. Montana – Pekin Noodle Parlor (Butte)
Above a faded stairwell in Butte’s old Chinatown, the Pekin Noodle Parlor has quietly made history since 1911. Touted as America’s oldest continuously operating Chinese restaurant, it’s a true cultural time capsule.
Diners settle into private curtained booths to enjoy chop suey, pork fried rice, and chow mein served just as it was a century ago. The menu may be old-school, but the flavors are timeless.
What sets this place apart is its unwavering authenticity. With pink walls, vintage signage, and loyal patrons, Pekin Noodle Parlor doesn’t chase trends—it preserves them with pride.
27. Nebraska – Glur’s Tavern (Columbus)
Buffalo Bill Cody once tipped back a beer at Glur’s Tavern, Nebraska’s oldest bar, established in 1876. Tucked away in Columbus, this unpretentious watering hole remains rooted in the state’s frontier past.
The menu is unfussy but beloved—juicy burgers, cold beer, and a no-nonsense approach that draws regulars and curious travelers alike. It’s not trying to impress—it’s trying to feed you well.
Inside, the saloon-style space hums with authentic Americana. With creaky floors, worn barstools, and photos dating back generations, Glur’s is less a business and more a living museum with ketchup on the side.
28. Nevada – Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon (Virginia City)
Tucked into the hills of Virginia City, the Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon dates back to 1859 and started as a miners’ boarding house during the Comstock Lode boom. Today, it remains Nevada’s oldest operating hotel and a favorite dinner destination.
The saloon and steakhouse serve hearty meals like grilled trout and cowboy-cut steaks in a warmly worn 1860s setting. Expect flickering gaslight ambiance, antique furniture, and floorboards that remember boots from centuries past.
Staying or dining here feels cinematic. Guests soak up ghost stories and Gold Rush history alongside generous pours of whiskey and frontier-style feasts.
29. New Hampshire – The Fox Tavern (Hancock)
Inside the 1789 Hancock Inn, The Fox Tavern delivers a delicious slice of New England’s colonial heritage. This cozy spot is New Hampshire’s oldest continuously operating inn and continues to enchant with its rustic charm.
Traditional dishes like clam chowder, buttered lobster rolls, and pot roast are served in candlelit dining rooms with low wood-beam ceilings and fireplace warmth. Every plate reflects a deep respect for regional flavors.
It’s not just about the food—it’s about the mood. You feel time slow as you dine, surrounded by antiques, local lore, and an unshakable sense that you’re part of something enduring.
30. New Jersey – The Cranbury Inn (Cranbury)
Merging two 18th-century taverns into one historic institution, The Cranbury Inn offers a rare chance to dine in Revolutionary-era architecture. With origins in the 1750s, it has long been a beloved gathering place for locals and history lovers alike.
Inside, warm fireplaces flicker beside Colonial-style furniture and candlelit tables. The menu leans traditional—prime rib, cranberry apple pie, and crab cakes served with old-fashioned hospitality.
What elevates the experience is the sense of continuity. Every meal here feels like an homage to centuries past, served with care in a space where the past never quite let go.
31. New Mexico – El Farol (Santa Fe)
El Farol, meaning “the lantern,” has been lighting up Santa Fe’s dining scene since 1835. Tucked into a charming adobe building on Canyon Road, it’s the oldest restaurant and cantina in New Mexico.
The lively menu features Spanish tapas and Northern New Mexico favorites—paella, carne adovada, and patatas bravas served with sangria and spice. Flamenco nights and live music elevate the atmosphere into something unforgettable.
With walls adorned in local art and music echoing through its historic halls, El Farol is far more than a restaurant—it’s a celebration of Santa Fe’s vibrant cultural soul.
32. New York – The ’76 House (Tappan)
Built in 1754, The ’76 House served as both tavern and prison during the Revolutionary War—it once held the British spy Major André. Today, it remains New York’s oldest tavern, offering a rich pairing of food and history.
The menu features colonial comfort foods: roast chicken, pot pie, and mashed potatoes with gravy, all served in cozy, fire-warmed rooms. Servers in period attire enhance the immersive, time-travel experience.
Stone walls, wooden beams, and candlelight give every meal a sense of historical gravity. Dining here isn’t just about eating—it’s about stepping into the very pages of early American history.
33. North Carolina – Carolina Coffee Shop (Chapel Hill)
Since 1922, the Carolina Coffee Shop has anchored Franklin Street with a welcoming spirit and Southern staples. It holds the title of North Carolina’s oldest restaurant and remains a cherished part of Tar Heel tradition.
Popular dishes include shrimp and grits, biscuits with honey butter, and stacked breakfast plates served in a warm, wood-paneled space. The laid-back vibe feels part campus hangout, part community cornerstone.
Wall-to-wall memorabilia, friendly service, and a soundtrack of quiet conversation make this café more than a restaurant—it’s a living scrapbook of Chapel Hill’s past and present.
34. North Dakota – Peacock Alley (Bismarck)
Housed in a historic train hotel and open since 1933, Peacock Alley is North Dakota’s oldest bar and grill. Its origin as a Prohibition-era gathering place is still evident in its gleaming Art Deco details and vintage allure.
The kitchen leans heavily into steakhouse fare—perfectly grilled prime rib, buttery filet mignon, and fresh seafood round out a classic American menu. Each plate comes with a side of timeless charm.
What truly stands out is the atmosphere. With jazz-age flair, polished woodwork, and a dedicated local crowd, Peacock Alley feels like a living piece of Bismarck’s golden age.
35. Ohio – The Golden Lamb (Lebanon)
Founded in 1803, The Golden Lamb is more than just Ohio’s oldest inn—it’s a national treasure that’s hosted twelve U.S. presidents. This landmark blends early American hospitality with a warm, vintage dining experience.
The menu features tried-and-true comfort classics—roast turkey with stuffing, fried chicken, and corn fritters served amid antique-filled rooms and wood-paneled walls. Every dish speaks to tradition.
From its creaky staircases to the guestbook filled with notable names, The Golden Lamb offers more than a meal—it delivers a journey through American history served with a side of mashed potatoes.
36. Oklahoma – Cattlemen’s Steakhouse (Oklahoma City)
In the heart of Stockyards City, Cattlemen’s Steakhouse has been serving cowboys, ranchers, and presidents since 1910. It’s Oklahoma’s oldest continually operating restaurant, famous for its no-frills, Western authenticity.
Here, the aged T-bone steaks are legendary, and the lamb fries have their own cult following. The checkered tablecloths and neon signage perfectly match the rugged, boots-on-the-floor vibe.
Nothing about Cattlemen’s is polished—and that’s the point. It’s a steakhouse that celebrates the grit of the West, with portions as big as the history it holds.
37. Oregon – Huber’s Café (Portland)
Established in 1879, Huber’s Café is Portland’s oldest restaurant and a beloved institution in the city’s downtown. Known for its traditional turkey dinner, it’s a place where Victorian-era refinement meets Northwest hospitality.
The tableside-carved turkey, served with all the fixings, has earned a cult following, but it’s the flaming Spanish coffee that steals the show. Bartenders perform the fire-lit ritual beneath pressed tin ceilings and wood-paneled grandeur.
While trends come and go, Huber’s stays grounded in its heritage. Each visit offers a theatrical, flavorful nod to the past that Portland locals treasure year-round.
38. Pennsylvania – McGillin’s Olde Ale House (Philadelphia)
Tucked into a narrow alley in Center City, McGillin’s Olde Ale House has been serving pints since 1860, making it Philadelphia’s oldest continuously operating tavern. It opened the year Lincoln was elected and hasn’t looked back since.
Classic pub fare fills the menu—burgers, shepherd’s pie, and fish and chips—accompanied by a wide selection of local brews. The atmosphere is warm and noisy in the best way, with walls papered in memorabilia.
From its fireplace to its bustling beer taps, McGillin’s isn’t just a bar—it’s a Philly tradition where every glass raised echoes over a century of good times.
39. Rhode Island – White Horse Tavern (Newport)
Established in 1673, the White Horse Tavern claims to be America’s oldest restaurant—and it feels every bit the Colonial legend it is. Originally a meeting house, it’s now a fine dining destination rooted in Rhode Island’s coastal charm.
The menu offers refined New England fare: clam chowder, lobster bisque, and beef Wellington served in low-ceilinged, candlelit rooms with centuries-old beams. Every bite feels like a toast to early American craftsmanship.
From the pewter plates to the fireplace warmth, the experience is immersive. Dining here is less about a meal and more about slipping into a preserved pocket of history.
40. South Carolina – Beacon Drive-In (Spartanburg)
Opened on Thanksgiving Day in 1946, the Beacon Drive-In has become a Spartanburg icon, famous for its colossal portions and unapologetically Southern spirit. It’s a must-stop for anyone craving a taste of retro Americana.
Signature dishes include the Chili-Cheese-A-Plenty—a burger piled high with chili, slaw, and fries—and sweet tea served by the gallon. The open kitchen and bustling counter create an energy that’s as filling as the food.
Its unpretentious charm is what keeps crowds coming back. Whether you’re a first-timer or a lifelong regular, the Beacon delivers a nostalgic, sauce-drenched blast from the postwar past.
41. South Dakota – Deadwood Legends Steakhouse (Deadwood)
Housed within the historic Franklin Hotel, the Deadwood Legends Steakhouse captures the spirit of the Wild West with turn-of-the-century opulence. Open since 1903, it has played host to presidents and outlaws alike.
Steaks take center stage here—grilled to perfection and served alongside hearty sides like garlic mashed potatoes and creamed corn. The menu also features casual breakfast and lunch fare in a more relaxed setting.
Velvet drapes, vintage chandeliers, and gold-framed portraits evoke the elegance of a bygone boomtown. Dining here is a theatrical throwback to the days when Deadwood was still a lawless frontier.
42. Tennessee – Varallo’s (Nashville)
Nashville’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, Varallo’s first opened its doors in 1907 as a humble chili parlor. Over a century later, it remains a downtown favorite for simple, satisfying Southern meals.
Chili is still the main draw—thick, savory, and served “five-way” with spaghetti, beans, and onions. You’ll also find meat-and-three plates loaded with fried chicken, mac and cheese, and cornbread.
Despite its age, Varallo’s feels refreshingly unpolished. The tiled floors, retro booths, and loyal regulars lend it a timeless quality that’s hard to find in a city evolving as fast as Nashville.
43. Texas – Scholz Garten (Austin)
Founded in 1866 by German immigrants, Scholz Garten proudly holds the title of America’s oldest biergarten. Located in downtown Austin, it’s long been a lively gathering place for politicians, football fans, and music lovers.
The menu blends German heritage with Texan soul—bratwurst, schnitzel, and potato salad share space with smoky brisket and pulled pork sandwiches. Beer, of course, flows freely from local and imported taps.
Outdoor picnic tables shaded by live oaks make it the perfect spot to raise a stein. It’s festive, it’s historic, and it’s a true taste of Austin’s multifaceted identity.
44. Utah – Shooting Star Saloon (Huntsville)
Utah’s oldest continuously operating bar, the Shooting Star Saloon has been serving patrons since 1879. Its modest wooden façade hides a quirky, unforgettable interior brimming with Old West character.
The signature Star Burger is a towering beast—two beef patties topped with a knackwurst, cheese, and onions—all served in a paper-lined basket. The menu is small, cash-only, and proudly unpretentious.
What really sticks with visitors is the taxidermy-lined ceiling, especially the 100-year-old stuffed St. Bernard’s head. Between the dollar-covered walls and saloon-style charm, this place is part museum, part dive, and wholly one-of-a-kind.
45. Vermont – Ye Olde Tavern (Manchester)
Dating back to 1790, Ye Olde Tavern offers an immersive Colonial dining experience in the heart of Manchester. It’s Vermont’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, and it shows its age in all the best ways.
Candlelit tables, crackling fireplaces, and 18th-century décor set the mood for hearty New England dishes like roast turkey, cranberry relish, and prime rib. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and full of rustic elegance.
Each meal feels like a celebration of heritage. Whether you’re sipping cider by the fire or admiring antique furnishings, Ye Olde Tavern serves history with every course.
46. Virginia – The Red Fox Inn & Tavern (Middleburg)
Tucked into the rolling hills of horse country, The Red Fox Inn & Tavern has offered food and lodging since 1728. Its stone walls and candlelit interiors whisper tales of presidents, generals, and equestrians past.
The menu leans upscale Southern—think venison, spoonbread, and seared duck breast—served in intimate dining rooms beneath low, timbered ceilings. Seasonal cocktails and local wines round out the refined experience.
Elegance meets history in every corner. From the creaky floors to the hand-carved banisters, dining here feels like being invited into a centuries-old story that’s still being written.
47. Washington – Horseshoe Café (Bellingham)
Open since 1886, the Horseshoe Café is Washington’s oldest restaurant and a late-night institution. What began as a classic frontier diner now doubles as a nostalgic hangout for locals and night owls.
All-day breakfast, towering pies, and chicken-fried steak headline a menu steeped in comfort food traditions. The neon sign still beckons after dark, when the café’s diner-meets-saloon energy really comes alive.
The vibe is part Wild West, part retro roadhouse. With vinyl booths, counter service, and a jukebox in the corner, the Horseshoe doesn’t just serve food—it serves character by the plateful.
48. West Virginia – North End Tavern & Brewery (Parkersburg)
Founded in 1899, the North End Tavern—affectionately called “the N.E.T.”—has been Parkersburg’s go-to for burgers, brews, and camaraderie for more than a century. It’s West Virginia’s oldest operating pub and proudly unpretentious.
Menu staples include the famed NET Burger and house-cut fries, best paired with a pint of Roedy’s Red Ale, their flagship brew since the 1990s. It was crafting small-batch beer before “craft” was cool.
Dark wood, friendly faces, and a long history of local loyalty give it staying power. Whether you’re a regular or just passing through, the N.E.T. feels like home.
49. Wisconsin – Red Circle Inn (Nashotah)
Established in 1848—the year Wisconsin became a state—the Red Circle Inn is a supper club steeped in old-world elegance. Its Bavarian roots remain evident in the carved woodwork and candlelit ambiance.
Specialties like prime rib, filet mignon, and pan-seared walleye define the menu, which marries hearty Midwestern portions with European sophistication. Classic cocktails and fine wine complete the timeless meal.
This isn’t just dinner—it’s an experience. The plush interiors, antique chandeliers, and attentive service transport guests to an era when supper was an occasion, not just a meal.
50. Wyoming – Miners & Stockmen’s Steakhouse (Hartville)
Once a saloon for cowboys and outlaws, Miners & Stockmen’s Steakhouse has been serving Wyoming since 1862. It’s the oldest bar and steakhouse in the state, and it still holds onto every inch of its frontier grit.
Guests enjoy cowboy-cut ribeyes, sizzling sirloins, and stiff whiskey in a dining room adorned with poker tables, bullet holes, and a bar hauled over from Germany by wagon. The ambiance is delightfully lawless.
Eating here feels like dining inside a ghost story. Rugged and atmospheric, Miners & Stockmen’s offers not just a steak, but a slice of the untamed American West.
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