Oldest Restaurants in Every US State

A comprehensive list has identified the oldest continuously operating restaurants across all 50 states, featuring establishments with histories spanning from the 1600s to the early 1900s. These venues offer diners a chance to experience authentic American history alongside classic comfort foods.

The collection includes some of the nation's most historic establishments, with several predating the United States itself. From Revolutionary War-era taverns to classic diners and family-owned businesses, each restaurant tells a unique story through its architecture, menu, and enduring legacy.

Key highlights include:

• The White Horse Tavern in Newport, Rhode Island (1673) - one of the oldest in the country
• The '76 House in Tappan, New York (1686) - site of Revolutionary War events
• Multiple establishments serving notable historical figures including presidents
• A diverse range of culinary traditions from across the nation
• Many restaurants remain in the same family for multiple generations

The oldest restaurants in the country date back to the 17th century, offering a direct connection to America's colonial past. The White Horse Tavern in Newport, Rhode Island, stands as one of the most significant, having opened in 1673. This historic tavern is recognized as the 10th-oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world and continues to serve local products including honey, cheese, and seafood.

In New York, The '76 House in Tappan has operated since 1686 and holds a special place in American history. The restaurant witnessed crucial moments during the Revolutionary War and served as a prison for Major John Andre, a spy working alongside Benedict Arnold.

Connecticut's The Griswold Inn in Essex has been operating since 1776, the year of American independence. The inn provides lodging alongside its restaurant and taproom, serving historic menu items like clam chowder and the 1776 sausage sampler.

Other colonial-era establishments include:

• Middleton Tavern in Annapolis, Maryland (1750)
• The Red Fox Tavern in Middleburg, Virginia (1728)
• The Old Talbott Tavern in Bardstown, Kentucky (1779)
• Warren Tavern in Charlestown, Massachusetts (1780)

The 19th century brought a proliferation of historic restaurants across the expanding nation. Tadich Grill in San Francisco, California, opened in 1849 during the Gold Rush and has remained in the same family since the late 1920s. The restaurant specializes in classic San Francisco cuisine including seafood cioppino.

In the American West, The Buckhorn Exchange in Denver, Colorado, opened in 1893 and is one of the oldest steakhouses in the United States. Guests are drawn not only to the menu but to the unique décor featuring a large collection of taxidermied animals.

Several establishments served as important stops for travelers during the frontier era. The Stagecoach Inn in Salado, Texas (1852) was named for its original purpose as a stop for traveling stagecoaches. In Kansas, Hays House 1857 in Council Grove was founded by Seth Hays, great-grandson of explorer Daniel Boone, and served as a trading post and restaurant.

Notable 19th-century restaurants include:

• Payne's Sandwich Shop and Soda Fountain in Scottsboro, Alabama (1869)
• The Palace Restaurant and Saloon in Prescott, Arizona (1870s)
• Oark General Store in Oark, Arkansas (1890)
• Huber's Cafe in Portland, Oregon (1879)
• Horseshoe Cafe in Bellingham, Washington (1886)

Many historic restaurants have maintained their status through multi-generational family ownership. Breitbach's Country Dining in Balltown, Iowa, has been in the same family for six generations. The restaurant takes its food seriously, with their deep-fried pork tenderloin earning a spot on the Iowa Pork Association's Pork Tenderloin Trail.

Cultural heritage plays a significant role in several establishments. Columbia Restaurant in Tampa, Florida, was founded by Cuban immigrants in 1905 and originally served Cuban coffee and sandwiches. Today, it's known for devil crab croquettes and tapas. In Montana, Pekin Noodle Parlor in Butte was founded by immigrants in 1911 and takes pride in being one of the first Chinese-American restaurants in the US.

Some restaurants have unique traditions that have endured for decades. Weidmann's in Meridian, Mississippi (1870) still places a jar of peanut butter and crackers on every table, a practice that began during World War II butter shortages. Huber's Cafe in Portland, Oregon, was once known for serving complimentary turkey sandwiches with drinks, though this now requires payment.

Family-owned establishments featured:

• The Log Inn in Haubstadt, Indiana (1847) - visited by Abraham Lincoln
• Manago Hotel Restaurant in Captain Cook, Hawaii (1917) - serves family-style pork chops
• Red Circle Inn & Bistro in Nashotah, Wisconsin (1848)
• Golden Lamb in Lebanon, Ohio (1803) - 12 US presidents have stayed

Several historic restaurants offer distinctive atmospheres that set them apart. Palace Diner in Biddeford, Maine, is housed in a former train dining car that has operated since 1927. Despite its cramped quarters, visitors flock to this unique venue for classic diner breakfast and fried chicken sandwiches.

Some establishments have gained fame for their supernatural reputation. The Old Talbott Tavern in Bardstown, Kentucky, claims a long history of "ghost encounters" and has "always been known for the ghostly stories told by the locals and some guests."

Entertainment remains part of the experience at several venues. The Palace Restaurant and Saloon in Prescott, Arizona, features Western-themed dinner theater alongside its authentic rustic dining. Henry's On The Market in Charleston, South Carolina, has become a popular spot for live music with a rooftop bar and dance lounge.

Other unique venues include:

• Glur's Tavern in Columbus, Nebraska (1876) - once frequented by Buffalo Bill
• North End Tavern & Brewery in Parkersburg, West Virginia (1899) - features its own brewery
• Legends Steakhouse in Deadwood, South Dakota (1903) - hosted Theodore Roosevelt
• Miners and Stockmen's Steakhouse & Spirits in Hartville, Wyoming (1862) - oldest bar in the state

These historic establishments continue to serve as living museums, preserving culinary traditions and architectural heritage while providing modern diners with a tangible connection to America's past.