Stepping into a historic restaurant is like stepping back in time. The creaking floorboards whisper tales of bygone eras, the weathered walls have witnessed countless conversations, and the very air seems to hum with the echoes of laughter and clinking glasses from generations past. In America, a handful of remarkable establishments have stood the test of time, serving up not just delicious food but also a generous helping of history.
Let’s embark on a culinary journey through time as we explore the 5 oldest restaurants in America, each with a unique story to tell:
5. The Red Fox Inn & Tavern (Middleburg, Virginia) – Established 1728
Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s picturesque hunt country, the Red Fox Inn & Tavern exudes charm and history. Built in 1728, this cozy inn has welcomed weary travelers and local gentry for nearly three centuries. Its rustic ambiance, complete with exposed beams, fireplaces, and antique furnishings, transports you to a bygone era.
A Taste of History:
- Revolutionary Ties: The Red Fox Inn played a role in the American Revolution, serving as a meeting place for patriots and a stopover for soldiers. Legend has it that George Washington himself once graced its doorstep.
- Literary Connections: The inn has also attracted its share of literary figures, including Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and John Updike, who found inspiration within its historic walls.
- Southern Comfort Food: Today, the Red Fox Inn continues to delight guests with its traditional Southern cuisine, featuring hearty dishes like Virginia ham, fried chicken, and buttermilk biscuits.
Why dine here? For a taste of authentic Virginia hospitality and a glimpse into the region’s rich history, the Red Fox Inn & Tavern is a must-visit.
4. Concord’s Colonial Inn (Concord, Massachusetts) – Established 1716
This charming inn, located in the heart of historic Concord, Massachusetts, has witnessed some of the most pivotal moments in American history. Built in 1716, it served as a storehouse for ammunition during the Revolutionary War and played a role in the Battles of Lexington and Concord.
A Revolutionary Experience:
- Witness to History: The inn’s strategic location placed it at the center of the Revolutionary War. Guests can still see bullet holes from the battle in the inn’s original structure.
- Literary Haunt: The Colonial Inn has also attracted renowned authors, including Henry David Thoreau and Nathaniel Hawthorne, who found inspiration in its historic setting.
- New England Charm: Today, the inn offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere with its antique furnishings, fireplaces, and charming décor. The restaurant serves classic New England fare, featuring fresh seafood, hearty stews, and seasonal specialties.
Why dine here? To immerse yourself in the history of the American Revolution and experience the charm of a classic New England inn, Concord’s Colonial Inn is an unforgettable destination.
3. Ye Olde Centerton Inn (Centerton, New Jersey) – Established 1706
Step back in time at Ye Olde Centerton Inn, a historic gem nestled in the quaint town of Centerton, New Jersey. Built in 1706, this charming inn has welcomed travelers and locals for over three centuries, offering a glimpse into early American life.
A Colonial Gem:
- Stagecoach Stop: In its early days, Ye Olde Centerton Inn served as a stagecoach stop, providing respite for weary travelers along the busy route between Philadelphia and Cape May.
- Revolutionary Refuge: During the Revolutionary War, the inn served as a meeting place for patriots and a safe haven for those seeking refuge from the conflict.
- Traditional Fare: Today, the inn continues to serve traditional American cuisine, featuring classic dishes like prime rib, roast turkey, and homemade pies.
Why dine here? To experience the charm of a colonial-era inn and savor classic American comfort food, Ye Olde Centerton Inn is a delightful destination.
2. The Wayside Inn (Sudbury, Massachusetts) – Established 1686
Immerse yourself in history and literature at The Wayside Inn, a charming inn nestled in the picturesque town of Sudbury, Massachusetts. Established in 1686, this historic landmark has welcomed countless guests, including renowned poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, who immortalized the inn in his famous collection of poems, “Tales of a Wayside Inn.”
A Literary Landmark:
- Longfellow’s Legacy: The Wayside Inn served as the inspiration for Longfellow’s “Tales of a Wayside Inn,” a collection of poems that captured the spirit of the inn and its guests.
- Historic Ambiance: The inn’s rustic charm, with its antique furnishings, fireplaces, and cozy nooks, transports you to a bygone era.
- Classic Cuisine: The restaurant at The Wayside Inn offers a menu of traditional New England fare, featuring fresh seafood, hearty stews, and seasonal specialties.
Why dine here? To experience the literary legacy of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and savor the charm of a historic New England inn, The Wayside Inn is a must-visit.
1. White Horse Tavern (Newport, Rhode Island) – Established 1673
Claiming the title of America’s oldest restaurant, the White Horse Tavern in Newport, Rhode Island, is a true testament to enduring hospitality. Established in 1673, this historic tavern has witnessed over three centuries of American history, serving as a gathering place for locals, travelers, and even revolutionaries.
A Colonial Treasure:
- Revolutionary Hub: During the Revolutionary War, the White Horse Tavern served as a meeting place for patriots, including the Sons of Liberty.
- Colonial Charm: The tavern’s historic ambiance, with its exposed beams, fireplaces, and antique furnishings, transports you to the colonial era.
- Fine Dining Experience: Today, the White Horse Tavern offers a refined dining experience, featuring a menu of contemporary American cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Why dine here? To savor a piece of American history and enjoy a sophisticated dining experience in a truly unique setting, the White Horse Tavern is an unforgettable destination.
Which One Will You Choose?
Each of these historic restaurants offers a unique glimpse into America’s past, combining delicious food with a captivating ambiance. Whether you’re drawn to the Revolutionary War history of Concord’s Colonial Inn, the literary legacy of The Wayside Inn, or the colonial charm of the White Horse Tavern, a dining experience at any of these establishments is sure to be a memorable one.
So, which one would you dine at first? The choice is yours! Embark on your own culinary adventure through time and savor the history and flavors of America’s oldest restaurants.