The United States is home to many longstanding restaurants that have survived wars, economic downturns, and shifting food trends. This list highlights ten historic establishments that are still operating today, based on their original opening dates and their continued service to the public in their original or long-standing locations.
Union Oyster House – Boston, Massachusetts
Opened in 1826, Union Oyster House is recognized as the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the United States. Located on Boston’s historic Freedom Trail, it originally served as a pay station for sailors and remains famous for its classic New England fare. The restaurant has hosted numerous notable figures over the years, including Daniel Webster and JFK, and its oyster bar remains a major draw for visitors.
Antoine’s – New Orleans, Louisiana
Antoine’s has been serving French-Creole cuisine since 1840 and is still operated by the same family. Known for creating iconic dishes such as Oysters Rockefeller, the establishment features 14 historic dining rooms decorated with artifacts from Mardi Gras krewes. Its longevity and influence have made it an essential stop for those interested in New Orleans’ culinary history and traditional fine dining experiences.
Tadich Grill – San Francisco, California
Founded in 1849 during the California Gold Rush, Tadich Grill began as a coffee stand serving miners before transitioning to a full seafood restaurant. Located in the Financial District, it maintains its old-world charm with white-jacketed waiters and a wood-paneled interior. The menu still features signature dishes such as cioppino, making it a landmark for both locals and tourists seeking authentic San Francisco cuisine.
Buckhorn Exchange – Denver, Colorado
Established in 1893, the Buckhorn Exchange is the oldest restaurant in Denver and began as a meeting place for railroad workers and cattlemen. Famous for its wild game offerings such as buffalo and elk, the restaurant also houses a collection of over 500 mounted hunting trophies. It has been visited by presidents and celebrities and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Columbia Restaurant – Tampa, Florida
Opened in 1905 by Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez Sr., Columbia Restaurant is the oldest continuously operated restaurant in Florida and the largest Spanish restaurant in the world. Located in Tampa’s Ybor City neighborhood, it remains family-owned and offers traditional Spanish and Cuban dishes. The restaurant is known for its flamenco shows and hand-painted tiles, preserving its cultural and historic ambiance.
Original Pantry Café – Los Angeles, California
Since 1924, the Original Pantry Café has served classic American comfort food around the clock, famously never closing or even locking its doors. Located in downtown Los Angeles, it was originally opened by former bootlegger Dewey Logan. Its reputation for generous portions and no-nonsense service has made it a landmark among locals, celebrities, and night owls looking for a reliable meal at any hour.
Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room – Savannah, Georgia
Opened in 1943, Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room offers a communal dining experience reflective of Southern hospitality. Known for its traditional Southern dishes such as fried chicken, collard greens and cornbread, guests are seated family-style at large tables. The restaurant, located in a historic townhouse in Savannah’s downtown district, still follows the original founder’s recipes and attracts long lines of patrons daily.
The Varsity – Atlanta, Georgia
Founded in 1928, The Varsity is the world’s largest drive-in restaurant and a staple of Atlanta culture. Known for its chili dogs, onion rings and signature “What’ll ya have?” greeting, it serves thousands of customers each day, including students from nearby Georgia Tech. The restaurant’s size and longevity reflect the popularity of traditional fast food in American history and its strong regional presence.
Arnold’s Country Kitchen – Nashville, Tennessee
Opened in 1982, Arnold’s Country Kitchen is a classic “meat-and-three” restaurant that has become a Nashville institution. Family-owned and operated, the restaurant serves traditional Southern dishes and won the prestigious James Beard America’s Classics Award in 2009. Its cafeteria-style service and emphasis on home-cooked flavors have made it popular among locals and tourists seeking authentic regional cuisine.
Katz’s Delicatessen – New York, New York
Since 1888, Katz’s Delicatessen has been a cornerstone of New York’s Lower East Side, known for its hand-carved pastrami and corned beef sandwiches. Originally opened by immigrant brothers, the deli remains family-owned and continues to use century-old recipes and preparation methods. Its iconic counter service, classic neon signage, and appearances in films have made it a must-visit destination for both history and food enthusiasts.
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