Historic Restaurants in All 50 States: explore the foundation of American cuisine

historic restaurants iconic

Curious about the top historic restaurants in each of the nation’s 50 states? There is no denying that these iconic restaurants (listed by region below) have stood the test of time and have made significant contributions to their respective state’s culinary history.

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Pacific/West | Midwest | Northeast | South

Historic Restaurants in the Pacific/West

Hawaii:

  • House Without a Key (Honolulu) – Operating since the 1920s, it’s a historic restaurant located in the Halekulani Hotel, known for its Hawaiian music and traditional dishes.
  • Duke’s Waikiki (Honolulu) – Founded in 1917, it’s a historic beachfront restaurant and bar named after Duke Kahanamoku, known for its seafood and tropical cocktails.
  • The Hau Tree Lanai (Honolulu) – Operating since 1905, it’s a historic restaurant offering oceanfront dining and classic Hawaiian cuisine.
  • Mama’s Fish House (Paia) – Established in 1973, it is renowned for serving fresh, locally sourced seafood while showcasing Hawaiian flavors and culture.
  • The Old Lahaina Luau (Lahaina) – Operating since 1986, it’s a historic luau offering traditional Hawaiian food, music, and hula performances.

Alaska:

  • The Arctic Bar (Nome) – Operating since 1906, it’s a historic bar and restaurant known for its gold rush-era decor and friendly atmosphere.
  • The Marx Bros. Café (Anchorage) – Founded in 1979, it’s a historic restaurant offering fine dining and classic American cuisine.
  • The Historic Skagway Inn’s Red Onion Saloon (Skagway) – Established in 1897, it’s a historic saloon and restaurant known for its Gold Rush theme and pub fare.
  • The Talkeetna Roadhouse (Talkeetna) – Operating since 1917, it’s a historic roadhouse known for its home-cooked meals and communal dining.
  • The Historic Anchorage Hotel’s Crush Bistro & Wine Bar (Anchorage) – Built in 1916, it’s a historic hotel restaurant offering modern American dishes and a wide selection of wines.

California (NorCal and SoCal):

  • The Tadich Grill (San Francisco) – Founded in 1849, it claims to be California’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, known for its seafood dishes.
  • The French Laundry (Yountville) – Established in 1978, it’s a world-renowned fine-dining restaurant, known for its innovative cuisine.
  • The Firehouse Restaurant – Housed in a historic fire station dating back to 1853, this restaurant in Old Sacramento serves contemporary American cuisine.
  • Philippe the Original (Los Angeles) – Operating since 1908, it’s known for inventing the French dip sandwich and its vintage ambiance.
  • The Grant Grill (San Diego) – Located in the US Grant Hotel, this restaurant has been a San Diego institution since 1951, offering upscale dining and classic cocktails.

Oregon:

  • Huber’s Café (Portland) – Established in 1879, it’s famous for its Spanish coffee and traditional American dishes.
  • Jake’s Famous Crawfish (Portland) – Operating since 1892, it’s an iconic seafood restaurant with a rich history.
  • The Heathman Restaurant & Bar (Portland) – Opened in 1927, it’s a historic hotel restaurant known for its elegant dining experience.
  • The Old Spaghetti Factory (Portland) – Founded in 1969, it’s a classic family-friendly restaurant with a vintage trolley car dining experience.
  • Salty’s on the Columbia (Portland) – Operating since 1980, it’s renowned for its waterfront dining and Pacific Northwest cuisine.

Washington:

  • Canlis (Seattle) – Opened in 1950, it’s an iconic fine-dining restaurant with stunning views of Seattle.
  • The Palace Café (Ellensburg) – Operating since 1892, it’s a historic restaurant known for its homestyle cooking.
  • The Pink Door (Seattle) – Founded in 1981, it’s known for its Italian-American cuisine and lively cabaret performances.
  • Ray’s Boathouse (Seattle) – Established in 1952, it’s a classic seafood restaurant with views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
  • Salty’s on Alki Beach (Seattle) – Operating since 1985, it’s known for its seafood buffet and waterfront location.

Idaho:

  • State Street Grill (Boise) – Operating since 1934, it’s a historic eatery famous for classic American diner food.
  • The Snake Pit (Enaville) – Founded in the 1880s, it’s a well-known stop for travelers along the Coeur d’Alene River Scenic Byway.
  • Chandlers Steakhouse (Boise) – Established in 2007, it’s a fine-dining restaurant known for its steaks and live jazz performances.
  • Moon’s Kitchen Café (Boise) – Operating since 1955, it’s a classic diner serving breakfast and comfort food all day.
  • Casanova Pizzeria & Ristorante (Coeur d’Alene) – Opened in 1985, it’s a local favorite for Italian cuisine and wood-fired pizza.

Nevada:

  • The Golden Steer Steakhouse (Las Vegas) – Opened in 1958, it’s Las Vegas’s oldest steakhouse and a favorite among celebrities.
  • The Peppermill Restaurant & Fireside Lounge (Las Vegas) – Established in 1972, it’s known for its retro ambiance and diverse menu.
  • The Hofbrauhaus Las Vegas (Las Vegas) – Operating since 2004, it’s a lively German beer hall with traditional Bavarian cuisine.
  • Café du Parc (Las Vegas) – Opened in 1905, it’s one of Nevada’s oldest restaurants, with a long history in downtown Las Vegas.
  • Louis’ Basque Corner (Reno) – Operating since 1967, it serves home-cooked food reflecting the state’s Basque heritage.

Montana:

  1. The Grizzly Bar & Grill (Roscoe) – Founded in 1962, it’s a historic roadhouse known for its prime rib and Old West charm.
  2. The Montana Club (Missoula) – Operating since 1885, it’s one of Montana’s oldest and most iconic eateries.
  3. Bison Witches Bar & Deli (Missoula) – Established in 1995, it’s a popular spot for deli sandwiches and a variety of beers.
  4. The Notorious P.I.G. (Missoula) – Opened in 2011, it’s a renowned BBQ joint with a focus on smoked meats and creative sides.
  5. Chico Hot Springs (Pray) – Operating since 1900, it’s a historic hot springs resort with a restaurant featuring local and organic ingredients.

Wyoming:

  1. The Wort Hotel’s Silver Dollar Bar & Grill (Jackson) – Established in 1941, it’s a historic bar and grill with an impressive collection of silver dollars.
  2. The Cowboy Café (Dubois) – Opened in the 1940s, it’s a classic Wyoming diner serving hearty meals.
  3. The Mangy Moose Restaurant & Saloon (Teton Village) – Founded in 1967, it’s a popular après-ski spot with a diverse menu.
  4. The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar (Jackson) – Operating since the 1930s, it’s a famous Western-style bar with saddle barstools.
  5. The Busy Bee Café (Buffalo) – Established in 1951, it’s a classic diner known for its breakfast and comfort food.

Utah:

  1. The Shooting Star Saloon (Huntsville) – Established in the 1870s, it’s one of Utah’s oldest continuously operating bars.
  2. Red Iguana (Salt Lake City) – Opened in 1985, it’s a beloved restaurant known for its Mexican cuisine.
  3. The Old Spaghetti Factory (Salt Lake City) – Founded in 1969, it’s a family-friendly restaurant with a vintage trolley car dining experience.
  4. Ruth’s Diner (Salt Lake City) – Operating since 1930, it’s a historic diner known for its breakfast and comfort food.
  5. Hell’s Backbone Grill (Boulder) – Opened in 2000, it’s a restaurant with a focus on sustainable, farm-to-table cuisine.

Colorado:

  1. Casa Bonita (Lakewood) – Operating since 1974, it’s a quirky restaurant and entertainment complex known for its Mexican cuisine and diversions.
  2. Buckhorn Exchange (Denver) – Established in 1893, it’s Denver’s oldest restaurant, renowned for its wild game dishes and Western charm.
  3. The Fort (Morrison) – Opened in 1963, it’s a historic adobe restaurant serving traditional frontier-inspired fare.
  4. Denver Biscuit Company (Denver) – Founded in 2009, it’s known for its large, savory biscuits and creative toppings.
  5. Sam’s No. 3 (Denver) – Operating since 1927, it’s a classic diner with an extensive menu, serving breakfast all day.

Arizona:

  1. El Tovar Dining Room (Grand Canyon) – Built in 1905, this historic restaurant offers magnificent views of the Grand Canyon and classic American cuisine.
  2. Durant’s (Phoenix) – Opened in 1950, it’s a classic steakhouse and a favorite dining spot for locals and celebrities alike.
  3. The Turquoise Room (Winslow) – Established in 1998, it’s a restaurant located inside the historic La Posada Hotel, offering Southwest-inspired cuisine.
  4. El Charro Café (Tucson) – Operating since 1922, it’s one of Arizona’s oldest Mexican restaurants, known for its traditional dishes.
  5. Barrio Café (Phoenix) – Founded in 2002, it’s a popular spot for contemporary Mexican cuisine and creative cocktails.

Historic Restaurants in the Midwest

Illinois:

  1. Berghoff Restaurant (Chicago) – Established in 1898, it’s one of Chicago’s oldest restaurants, known for its German-American cuisine and historic bar.
  2. The Walnut Room at Macy’s (Chicago) – Opened in 1905, it’s Chicago’s oldest restaurant still in operation, offering classic American dishes.
  3. The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge (Chicago) – Operating since 1907, it’s a historic jazz club and restaurant with a vintage ambiance.
  4. Gene & Georgetti (Chicago) – Founded in 1941, it’s one of Chicago’s oldest steakhouses, serving classic Italian-American dishes.
  5. The Pump Room (Chicago) – Opened in 1938, it’s a historic restaurant that has hosted numerous celebrities and iconic figures.

Indiana:

  1. St. Elmo Steak House (Indianapolis) – Founded in 1902, it’s an iconic steakhouse known for its delicious steaks and classic cocktails.
  2. Hollyhock Hill (Indianapolis) – Established in 1928, it’s known for its family-style fried chicken and historic farmhouse setting.
  3. The Bluebird Restaurant (Morristown) – Opened in 1902, it’s a historic eatery serving American comfort food and homemade pies.
  4. The Milano Inn (Indianapolis) – Operating since 1934, it’s a historic Italian restaurant known for its classic dishes and romantic atmosphere.
  5. Nick’s Kitchen (Huntington) – Established in 1904, it’s a historic diner known for its breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches.

Iowa:

  1. The Lincoln Café (Mount Vernon) – Opened in 2001, it’s a historic cafe known for its farm-to-table dishes and commitment to local ingredients.
  2. Breitbach’s Country Dining (Balltown) – Operating since 1852, it’s one of Iowa’s oldest restaurants, famous for its comfort food and pies.
  3. The Hamburg Inn No. 2 (Iowa City) – Established in 1948, it’s a historic diner known for its breakfast dishes and famous pie shakes.
  4. Smitty’s Tenderloin Shop (Des Moines) – Operating since 1952, it’s a classic diner known for its breaded pork tenderloin sandwiches.
  5. Archie’s Waeside (Le Mars) – Founded in 1949, it’s a historic steakhouse known for its prime rib and traditional supper club atmosphere.

Kansas:

  1. Brookville Hotel (Abilene) – Operating since 1870, it’s a historic restaurant known for its family-style fried chicken dinners.
  2. Cozy Inn (Salina) – Opened in 1922, it’s an iconic diner famous for its small, slider-style hamburgers.
  3. TWA Museum Restaurant (Kansas City) – Housed in the TWA Museum, it offers a historic aviation-themed dining experience.
  4. Central Market (Prairie Village) – Founded in 1955, it’s a historic European-style market with a variety of food vendors and restaurants.
  5. Cassoday Café (Cassoday) – Established in 1878, it’s a historic eatery known for its home-cooked meals and Kansas hospitality.

Michigan:

  1. The Chop House (Ann Arbor) – Operating since 1998, it’s a historic steakhouse known for its aged prime beef and elegant dining.
  2. The Whitney (Detroit) – Built in 1894, it’s a historic mansion-turned-restaurant offering fine dining and classic American dishes.
  3. Lafayette Coney Island (Detroit) – Opened in 1917, it’s an iconic diner famous for its Coney Island hot dogs.
  4. The English Inn (Eaton Rapids) – Housed in a Tudor-style mansion built in the 1920s, it offers fine dining and an elegant atmosphere.
  5. Red Haven Restaurant (Okemos) – Established in 2007, it’s known for its farm-to-table dishes and commitment to local ingredients.

Minnesota:

  1. The Nook (St. Paul) – Operating since 1938, it’s a historic restaurant known for its Juicy Lucy burgers and classic bar fare.
  2. The Lexington (St. Paul) – Opened in 1935, it’s a historic restaurant and bar with a focus on American cuisine and craft cocktails.
  3. Matt’s Bar (Minneapolis) – Founded in 1954, it’s an iconic diner credited with inventing the original Juicy Lucy burger.
  4. The Ideal Diner (Minneapolis) – Operating since 1949, it’s a historic diner with a classic menu and retro interior.
  5. Mickey’s Diner (St. Paul) – Opened in 1939, it’s a historic 24/7 diner with a distinctive Art Deco exterior.

Missouri:

  1. The Cliff House (St. Louis) – Opened in 1861, it’s a historic restaurant overlooking the Mississippi River, offering American and international cuisine.
  2. Tony’s (St. Louis) – Operating since 1946, it’s a historic fine-dining restaurant known for its Italian-American cuisine.
  3. Charlie Gitto’s (St. Louis) – Founded in 1981, it’s a historic Italian restaurant famous for its toasted ravioli and classic dishes.
  4. The Blue Owl Restaurant & Bakery (Kimmswick) – Opened in 1983, it’s known for its homemade pies and historic building.
  5. Ted Drewes Frozen Custard (St. Louis) – Established in 1929, it’s a historic custard stand famous for its concretes and frozen custard treats.

Nebraska:

  1. The Drover (Omaha) – Operating since 1969, it’s a historic steakhouse known for its whiskey-marinated steaks and old-school atmosphere.
  2. Johnny’s Café (Omaha) – Opened in 1922, it’s one of Omaha’s oldest steakhouses, known for its classic dishes and nostalgic vibe.
  3. Glur’s Tavern (Columbus) – Founded in 1876, it’s Nebraska’s oldest bar and restaurant, offering classic American dishes.
  4. M&N Sandwich Shop (Lincoln) – Operating since 1963, it’s a historic sandwich shop known for its steak sandwiches and classic diner fare.
  5. Runza (Lincoln) – Founded in 1949, it’s a historic fast-food chain known for its signature Runza sandwich.

North Dakota:

  1. Peacock Alley American Grill & Bar (Bismarck) – Opened in 1933, it’s a historic restaurant known for its classic dishes and historic ambiance.
  2. Hi-Ho South (Fargo) – Operating since 1960, it’s a historic drive-in restaurant known for its fast food and nostalgic setting.
  3. Pirogue Grille (Bismarck) – Established in 1998, it’s a fine-dining restaurant offering a blend of American and French cuisine.
  4. Kroll’s Diner (Various locations) – Founded in 1972, it’s a historic diner chain known for its German-Russian comfort food and kitschy decor.

Ohio:

  1. The Golden Lamb (Lebanon) – Founded in 1803, The Golden Lamb is Ohio’s oldest continuously operating inn and restaurant, with a rich history and classic American fare.
  2. The Pine Club (Dayton) – Operating since 1947, The Pine Club is a renowned steakhouse known for its exceptional cuts of beef and old-school charm.
  3. Tony Packo’s Café (Toledo) – Established in 1932, it’s a historic restaurant famous for its Hungarian hot dogs and autographed bun tradition.
  4. The Thurman Cafe (Columbus) – Founded in 1942, it’s a historic burger joint known for its massive “Thurmanator” burger and casual atmosphere.
  5. The Maid-Rite Sandwich Shoppe (Greenville) – Operating since 1934, it’s a historic diner known for its loose-meat sandwiches and vintage decor.

South Dakota:

  1. The Alpine Inn (Hill City) – Established in 1981, it’s a historic restaurant known for its German cuisine and quaint setting.
  2. The Custer Wolf (Custer) – Operating since 1937, it’s a historic restaurant known for its hearty breakfast and homestyle dishes.
  3. Phillips Avenue Diner (Sioux Falls) – Opened in 1934, it’s a historic diner with a retro interior and classic American dishes.
  4. The Corn Palace Café (Mitchell) – Established in 1921, it’s a historic restaurant known for its corn-themed decor and American cuisine.
  5. Harry’s Yellow Submarine (Sioux Falls) – Operating since 1979, it’s a historic sandwich shop known for its submarine sandwiches and vintage vibe.

Wisconsin:

  1. The Old Fashioned (Madison) – Opened in 2005, it’s a historic tavern known for its Wisconsin-centric menu and extensive selection of Wisconsin beers.
  2. The Safe House (Milwaukee) – Founded in 1966, it’s a historic spy-themed restaurant and bar with interactive experiences and classic dishes.
  3. The Norske Nook (Osseo) – Operating since 1973, it’s a historic restaurant and bakery known for its award-winning pies and Scandinavian dishes.
  4. The HobNob Restaurant (Racine) – Established in 1954, it’s a historic diner known for its classic American dishes and nostalgic atmosphere.
  5. Mars Cheese Castle (Kenosha) – Operating since 1947, it’s a historic cheese shop and restaurant known for its Wisconsin cheese offerings.

Historic Restaurants in the Northeast

Maine:

  1. The White Barn Inn (Kennebunkport) – Operating since 1860, it’s a historic inn and restaurant known for its fine dining and luxurious accommodations.
  2. The Jordan Pond House (Bar Harbor) – Established in 1870, it’s a historic restaurant known for its popovers and stunning views of Jordan Pond and the Bubbles.
  3. The Maine Diner (Wells) – Opened in 1983, it’s a popular diner with a retro vibe, serving classic Maine comfort food.
  4. The Harraseeket Inn (Freeport) – Founded in 1795, it’s a historic inn and restaurant known for its elegant dining experience.
  5. Moody’s Diner (Waldoboro) – Operating since 1927, it’s a classic roadside diner known for its homemade pies and traditional American dishes.

New Hampshire:

  1. The Common Man (Various locations) – Founded in 1971, it’s a historic restaurant chain known for its warm hospitality and New England-inspired dishes.
  2. The Bedford Village Inn (Bedford) – Operating since the 18th century, it’s a historic inn and restaurant known for its fine dining and elegant ambiance.
  3. The Wentworth (Jackson) – Established in 1869, it’s a historic hotel and restaurant offering a refined dining experience.
  4. The Yankee Farmer’s Market (Warner) – Opened in 1895, it’s a historic market and cafe known for its locally sourced products and traditional New England fare.
  5. The Woodstock Inn & Resort (Woodstock) – Operating since 1793, it’s a historic inn and restaurant with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

Vermont:

  1. The Red Mill Restaurant (Wilmington) – Established in 1948, it’s a historic restaurant known for its classic Vermont dishes and rustic charm.
  2. The New England House Restaurant (Brattleboro) – Operating since 1842, it’s a historic inn and restaurant serving American comfort food.
  3. The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa (Manchester Village) – Founded in 1769, it’s a historic resort with several dining options and a focus on locally inspired cuisine.
  4. Simon Pearce Restaurant (Quechee) – Founded in 1981, it’s located in a historic mill and offers a unique dining experience overlooking the Ottauquechee River.
  5. The Dorset Inn (Dorset) – Operating since 1796, it’s one of Vermont’s oldest continuously operating inns, known for its classic New England fare.

Massachusetts:

  1. Union Oyster House (Boston) – Operating since 1826, it’s one of the oldest restaurants in the United States and is known for its seafood dishes and historic ambiance.
  2. Durgin-Park (Boston) – Founded in 1827, it’s a historic restaurant known for its traditional New England dishes and communal seating.
  3. The Old Mill (Westminster) – Operating since 1761, it’s one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in the United States, known for its classic New England fare.
  4. The Publick House Historic Inn (Sturbridge) – Founded in 1771, it’s a historic inn and restaurant offering traditional New England cuisine.
  5. The Salem Cross Inn (West Brookfield) – Operating since 1961, it’s a historic inn and restaurant known for its classic New England dishes and colonial atmosphere.

Rhode Island:

  1. The White Horse Tavern (Newport) – Operating since 1673, it’s one of the oldest taverns in the United States, offering a historic dining experience.
  2. The Coast Guard House (Narragansett) – Established in 1945, it’s a historic restaurant known for its seafood and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  3. The Brick Alley Pub (Newport) – Opened in 1980, it’s a popular restaurant housed in a historic building, known for its casual atmosphere and diverse menu.
  4. The Black Pearl (Newport) – Operating since 1927, it’s a historic restaurant and pub known for its seafood and waterfront location.
  5. Castle Hill Inn (Newport) – Operating since the late 1800s, it’s a historic inn and restaurant offering fine dining and beautiful views of the ocean.

Connecticut:

  1. The Griswold Inn (Essex) – Established in 1776, it’s one of the oldest continuously operated inns in the United States, offering classic New England dishes.
  2. The White Horse Country Pub & Restaurant (Marbledale) – Opened in 1768, it’s a historic pub known for its classic British cuisine and warm ambiance.
  3. The Bee & Thistle Inn (Old Lyme) – Operating since 1756, it’s a historic inn and restaurant offering fine dining and New England-inspired dishes.
  4. The Mill on the River (South Windsor) – Founded in 1969, it’s a historic restaurant located in a renovated mill, known for its contemporary American cuisine.
  5. The Griswold Inn (Madison) – Opened in 1735, it’s one of the oldest continuously operating inns in the United States, offering classic New England dishes.

New York:

  1. Delmonico’s (New York City) – Established in 1837, it’s one of the oldest fine dining restaurants in the United States, known for its steak and classic dishes.
  2. Katz’s Delicatessen (New York City) – Operating since 1888, it’s a historic deli known for its pastrami sandwiches and vibrant atmosphere.
  3. Peter Luger Steak House (Brooklyn) – Founded in 1887, it’s an iconic steakhouse known for its dry-aged steaks and historic charm.
  4. The Old Erie Restaurant (Middletown) – Opened in 1829, it’s a historic restaurant known for its classic American dishes and vintage ambiance.
  5. Keens Steakhouse (New York City) – Operating since 1885, it’s a historic steakhouse known for its mutton chops and historic pipe collection.

New Jersey:

  1. The Washington Inn (Cape May) – Operating since 1840, it’s a historic inn and restaurant offering fine dining and Victorian charm.
  2. The Iron Horse Restaurant (Westwood) – Founded in 1922, it’s a historic restaurant known for its classic American dishes and nostalgic setting.
  3. The Ryland Inn (Whitehouse Station) – Operating since the 1700s, it’s a historic inn and restaurant offering fine dining and farm-to-table cuisine.
  4. The Cranbury Inn (Cranbury) – Established in 1780, it’s a historic inn and restaurant known for its classic American dishes and colonial atmosphere.
  5. The Clinton House (Clinton) – Operating since 1743, it’s a historic restaurant known for its classic American cuisine and vintage setting.

Pennsylvania:

  1. City Tavern (Philadelphia) – Established in 1773, it’s a historic tavern and restaurant known for its colonial-era dishes and period ambiance.
  2. The Pineville Tavern (Pineville) – Operating since the 1750s, it’s a historic tavern and restaurant known for its classic American dishes.
  3. The Union League of Philadelphia (Philadelphia) – Founded in 1862, it’s a historic private club with several dining rooms and a focus on classic American cuisine.
  4. The Dobbin House Tavern (Gettysburg) – Established in 1776, it’s a historic restaurant offering period dining and traditional American dishes.
  5. The William Penn Inn (Gwynedd) – Operating since 1714, it’s a historic inn and restaurant offering fine dining and classic American cuisine.

Maryland:

  1. The Old Stein Inn (Edgewater) – Operating since 1983, it’s a historic restaurant known for its German cuisine and beer garden.
  2. The Inn at Perry Cabin (St. Michaels) – Established in 1816, it’s a historic inn and restaurant offering fine dining and Chesapeake Bay-inspired cuisine.
  3. The Tidewater Inn (Easton) – Operating since 1948, it’s a historic inn and restaurant known for its classic American dishes and elegant atmosphere.
  4. G&M Restaurant & Lounge (Linthicum Heights) – Founded in 1974, it’s a historic restaurant known for its crab cakes and seafood dishes.
  5. The Harryman House (Reisterstown) – Operating since the 1700s, it’s a historic inn and restaurant known for its farm-to-table cuisine.

Delaware:

  1. The Green Room at Hotel du Pont (Wilmington) – Opened in 1913, it’s a historic fine-dining restaurant known for its luxurious ambiance and gourmet cuisine.
  2. Jessop’s Tavern (New Castle) – Operating since the 17th century, it’s a historic tavern and restaurant offering colonial-era dishes and a cozy setting.
  3. The Columbus Inn (Wilmington) – Founded in 1849, it’s a historic restaurant known for its classic American dishes and elegant dining room.
  4. Back Burner Restaurant (Hockessin) – Established in 1978, it’s a historic restaurant known for its American and Continental cuisine.
  5. Buckley’s Tavern (Wilmington) – Operating since 1937, it’s a historic tavern and restaurant known for its classic American dishes and casual atmosphere.

Historic Restaurants in the South

Alabama:

  1. The Bright Star (Bessemer) – Operating since 1907, it’s Alabama’s oldest restaurant, known for its Greek-American cuisine and classic dishes.
  2. The Original Oyster House (Mobile) – Founded in 1983, it’s one of the Gulf Coast’s oldest seafood restaurants, offering fresh Gulf seafood.
  3. Chris’ Hot Dogs (Montgomery) – Opened in 1917, it’s a historic hot dog stand serving its famous “hot dogs with the works.”
  4. The Irondale Café (Irondale) – Operating since 1928, it’s a historic restaurant known for its Southern comfort food and role in the novel “Fried Green Tomatoes.”
  5. Wintzell’s Oyster House (Mobile) – Established in 1938, it’s a historic seafood restaurant known for its oysters and casual atmosphere.

Arkansas:

  1. Doe’s Eat Place (Little Rock) – Founded in 1941, it’s a historic restaurant known for its steaks and tamales.
  2. The Venesian Inn (Tontitown) – Operating since 1947, it’s a historic Italian restaurant known for its family-style dinners and Italian dishes.
  3. The Little Rock location of Franke’s Cafeteria (Little Rock) – Established in 1922, it’s a historic cafeteria offering Southern comfort food and classic dishes.
  4. McClard’s Bar-B-Q (Hot Springs) – Operating since 1928, it’s a historic barbecue joint known for its ribs and unique sauce.
  5. The Ohio Club (Hot Springs) – Opened in 1905, it’s one of Hot Springs’ oldest bars and restaurants, known for its lively atmosphere and classic cocktails.

Florida:

  1. Columbia Restaurant (Tampa) – Operating since 1905, it’s Florida’s oldest restaurant and the oldest Spanish restaurant in the United States, known for its Spanish-Cuban cuisine.
  2. Joe’s Stone Crab (Miami Beach) – Established in 1913, it’s a historic seafood restaurant famous for its stone crab claws.
  3. The Floridian (St. Augustine) – Operating since 1933, it’s a historic restaurant known for its Minorcan dishes and Southern comfort food.
  4. The Breakers’ Flagler Steakhouse (Palm Beach) – Founded in 1896, it’s part of the historic Breakers resort and offers classic steakhouse fare.
  5. The Yearling Restaurant (Hawthorne) – Established in 1952, it’s a historic restaurant known for its Florida Cracker cuisine and unique setting.

Georgia:

  1. The Varsity (Atlanta) – Operating since 1928, it’s a historic drive-in restaurant known for its hot dogs and iconic “What’ll ya have?” greeting.
  2. Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room (Savannah) – Founded in 1943, it’s a historic boardinghouse known for its family-style Southern meals.
  3. The Grey (Savannah) – Operating since 1938, it’s a historic restaurant housed in a former Greyhound bus terminal, offering Southern-inspired dishes.
  4. The Pirates’ House (Savannah) – Established in 1753, it’s one of Georgia’s oldest restaurants, known for its Southern cuisine and pirate lore.
  5. Mary Mac’s Tea Room (Atlanta) – Opened in 1945, it’s a historic tea room known for its Southern comfort food and welcoming atmosphere.

Kentucky:

  1. The Brown Hotel (Louisville) – Home to the Hot Brown sandwich, The Brown Hotel is a historic property with a renowned dining room dating back to the 1920s.
  2. The Beaumont Inn (Harrodsburg) – Operating since 1919, it’s a historic inn and restaurant offering classic Southern dishes.
  3. The Seelbach Hilton Hotel’s Oakroom (Louisville) – Established in 1905, it’s a historic restaurant and bar known for its elegant dining and classic cocktails.
  4. Wagner’s Pharmacy (Louisville) – Operating since 1922, it’s a historic diner near Churchill Downs, known for its breakfast and sandwiches.
  5. Claudia Sanders Dinner House (Shelbyville) – Founded in 1968 by Colonel Sanders’ wife, it’s a historic restaurant known for its Southern cuisine and fried chicken.

Louisiana:

  1. Antoine’s (New Orleans) – Operating since 1840, it’s one of the oldest family-run restaurants in the United States, known for its French-Creole cuisine and historic dining rooms.
  2. Commander’s Palace (New Orleans) – Founded in 1880, it’s a historic restaurant known for its Creole cuisine and elegant ambiance.
  3. Café du Monde (New Orleans) – Established in 1862, it’s a historic coffee stand famous for its beignets and café au lait.
  4. Tujague’s (New Orleans) – Operating since 1856, it’s the second-oldest restaurant in New Orleans, known for its classic Creole dishes and historic bar.
  5. The Court of Two Sisters (New Orleans) – Housed in a historic building dating back to the 1830s, it’s known for its jazz brunch and Creole cuisine.

Mississippi:

  1. The Crystal Grill (Greenwood) – Operating since 1927, it’s a historic restaurant known for its Southern comfort food and classic dishes.
  2. Doe’s Eat Place (Greenville) – Established in 1941, it’s a historic restaurant known for its steaks and tamales.
  3. The Crown Restaurant (Indianola) – Founded in 1904, it’s one of Mississippi’s oldest restaurants, known for its soul food and classic dishes.
  4. The Tomato Place (Vicksburg) – Operating since 1902, it’s a historic restaurant known for its tamales and Southern cuisine.
  5. Taylor Grocery (Taylor) – Founded in 1889, it’s a historic restaurant known for its catfish and casual setting.

North Carolina:

  1. The Fearrington House Restaurant (Pittsboro) – Operating since 1980, it’s a historic restaurant offering fine dining and farm-to-table cuisine.
  2. The Angus Barn (Raleigh) – Established in 1960, it’s a historic steakhouse known for its prime rib and rustic atmosphere.
  3. Crook’s Corner (Chapel Hill) – Founded in 1982, it’s a historic restaurant known for its Southern cuisine and innovative dishes.
  4. The Bluebird Diner (Morganton) – Operating since 1932, it’s a historic diner known for its breakfast dishes and classic American fare.
  5. The Mast Farm Inn Restaurant (Valle Crucis) – Established in 1812, it’s a historic inn and restaurant offering Southern-inspired dishes.

South Carolina:

  1. The Peninsula Grill (Charleston) – Operating since 1997, it’s a historic restaurant known for its elegant dining and coconut cake.
  2. Hyman’s Seafood (Charleston) – Founded in 1890, it’s a historic seafood restaurant known for its classic dishes and celebrity guests.
  3. Hominy Grill (Charleston) – Operating since 1996, it’s a historic restaurant known for its Southern comfort food and breakfast dishes.
  4. The Beacon Drive-In (Spartanburg) – Established in 1946, it’s a historic drive-in restaurant known for its chili cheeseburgers and onion rings.
  5. The Green Boundary Club (Aiken) – Founded in 1913, it’s a historic private club offering fine dining and Southern hospitality.

Tennessee:

  1. The Pancake Pantry (Nashville) – Operating since 1961, it’s a historic breakfast spot known for its wide selection of pancakes.
  2. Loveless Café (Nashville) – Founded in 1951, it’s a historic café known for its Southern comfort food and famous biscuits.
  3. The Hermitage Hotel’s Capitol Grille (Nashville) – Established in 1910, it’s a historic restaurant known for its elegant dining and Southern-inspired dishes.
  4. Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack (Nashville) – Operating since the 1940s, it’s a historic restaurant known for its spicy hot chicken.
  5. Arnold’s Country Kitchen (Nashville) – Founded in 1982, it’s a historic meat-and-three restaurant known for its classic Southern dishes.

Texas:

  1. The Driskill Grill (Austin) – Operating since 1886, it’s a historic restaurant known for its upscale dining and Texas-inspired cuisine.
  2. The Guenther House (San Antonio) – Established in 1859, it’s a historic restaurant and museum offering classic American dishes and a charming setting.
  3. The Gage Hotel’s 12 Gage Restaurant (Marathon) – Built in 1927, it’s a historic restaurant offering upscale dining and regional cuisine.
  4. The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation (Houston) – Founded in 1973, it’s a historic restaurant known for popularizing fajitas in the United States.
  5. Joe T. Garcia’s (Fort Worth) – Operating since 1935, it’s a historic Tex-Mex restaurant known for its festive atmosphere and patio dining.

Virginia:

  1. Michie Tavern (Charlottesville) – Operating since 1784, it’s a historic tavern offering Southern-inspired buffet meals in a colonial setting.
  2. The Inn at Little Washington (Washington) – Established in 1978, it’s a historic inn and restaurant known for its fine dining and exceptional cuisine.
  3. The Jefferson Hotel’s Lemaire Restaurant (Richmond) – Founded in 1895, it’s a historic restaurant known for its elegant dining and seasonal menu.
  4. The Lady & Sons (Savannah) – Operating since 1989, it’s a historic restaurant owned by Paula Deen, known for its Southern comfort food.
  5. The Peanut Shoppe (Savannah) – Founded in 1949, it’s a historic candy store known for its wide variety of nuts and sweets.

West Virginia:

  1. The Greenbrier Resort’s Main Dining Room (White Sulphur Springs) – Operating since 1778, it’s a historic restaurant offering fine dining in a luxurious setting.
  2. The Wonder Bar Steakhouse (Clarksburg) – Established in 1946, it’s a historic steakhouse known for its classic dishes and old-school ambiance.
  3. The Bridge Road Bistro (Charleston) – Operating since 2001, it’s a historic restaurant offering American cuisine and seasonal dishes.
  4. General Lewis Inn’s Thistle Restaurant (Lewisburg) – Built in 1834, it’s a historic inn and restaurant known for its Southern dishes and charming atmosphere.
  5. Morrison’s Drive-In (Logan) – Opened in 1949, it’s a historic drive-in restaurant known for its burgers and classic American fare.

Please keep in mind that any restaurant, including these historically significant restaurants, can be closed/shut down at any time, so make sure to check their hours when (and if) they are open.

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Hello! I'm Kristina

Kristina Reynolds is the Founder & CEO of Glutto and an alumna of the University of California, San Diego. She writes articles & posts for Glutto Digest with insights from fellow industry experts. Furthermore, she is the author of The Fittest Food Lovers: How EVERY BODY Can be Incredibly Fit and Still Enjoy Food, a collaborative philanthropic book with proceeds going to charities that fight world hunger.