This Is AmericaLists and lists of the things that make each US State unique, from the weirdest laws to the most popular drinks and dog breeds to the shows residents are streaming most on Netflix.
Sitting in the same halls that pioneers, soldiers, and settlers did to enjoy a hearty meal can be a thrilling experience for any history nut. If this sounds like your kinda thing, we’ve compiled a culinary roadmap of the most historical restaurants in all 50 states. The stories of how these eateries endured throughout the years is bound to bring inspiration and hunger in equal amounts. Happy dining!
When the Bright Star restaurant first opened its doors in 1907, it was a tiny café with only 25 seats around its horseshoe-shaped bar. Over the next several years, its growth and popularity led it to relocate three times before landing at its present location in 1914.
Much of the décor from the Bright Star's original design remains, including the hand-painted murals, mirrored walls, and antique ceiling fans. But what's truly given this landmark its longevity is the scrumptious food it offers.
Guests can feast on Greek-style beef tenderloin and snapper, or Southern favorites like broiled seafood platters, lobster and crabmeat au gratin, and hearty seafood gumbo.
The Historic Skagway Inn has served many purposes since its creation in 1897. It has been a tavern for prospectors in the Gold Rush, a brothel, a boarding house, a family residence, and a frontier inn. Today, it not only offers comfortable accommodations as a bed-and-breakfast but also good eating at Olivia’s restaurant.
Located in the historic district of the Klondike Gold Rush National Park, the Skagway Inn features sumptuous, locally sourced king crab legs, fish and chips, and halibut cakes. Enjoy a plate of caribou medallions as you take in over 100 years of rich history.
The district offers a local history tour that includes the inn as well as hors d’oeuvres and a drink-making workshop.
Ever wanted to grab a drink and a meal where the likes of Virgil and Wyatt Earp once hung out? The Palace Restaurant and Saloon in Prescott, Arizona, still maintains the antique bar where Doc Holliday and his peers once drank and shared their stories.
As one of the many saloons on “Whiskey Row,” the Palace stood out amongst its competitors as a central location for political races, mineral claims sales, and cattle spreads. Since its opening in the 1870s, this location has seen its fair share of wild times; Doc Holliday may have even won $10,000 over a game of poker within its walls.
The Palace was so well-loved in its time that, during a 1900 fire, patrons banded together and carried the original Brunswick bar out of harm’s way. You can order a steak and whiskey alongside that very same bar today.
Located in northern Johnson County near the gorgeous Ozark highways, the Oark General Store has been a reliable place to get a good hot meal and much-needed supplies since 1890. This is the oldest continually operated store in all of Arkansas and still retains much of its old-world charm.
Oark's proximity to such natural wonders as the Mulberry River and the wild national forests makes it an ideal spot to stop and get a bite before or after a day of adventuring in the wilderness. American comfort food - thick cheeseburgers, BLT sandwiches, pie with ice cream - are all available alongside a general store and gas station.
For four generations, the Pacific Dining Car in Downtown Los Angeles has been serving up savory steaks out of what began as a railway train car.
Original owners Fred and Grace modified a train car to house their restaurant on a rented lot at 7th and Westlake but lost the spot to skyrocketing rent in 1923. Luckily, their establishment had wheels. They moved the restaurant car to 6th and Witmer, where it still stands to this day.
The PDC takes well-earned pride in its prime, personally selected cuts of beef that are expertly aged on the premises. With this tempting menu of steak, fries, and homemade pies, the PDC grew decade by decade, adding extensions to meet with demand while also keeping its original flair.
You can get an authentic taste of historical fare at the Buckhorn Exchange. The eatery is still serving up the quail, buffalo prime rib, salmon, elk, baby-back ribs, game hen, and classic beef steaks that have made them famous since 1893.
This establishment worked to fill the hungry bellies of silver miners, cowboys, Native American chiefs, railroad workers, and gamblers alike. It makes sense when you realize this place was founded by Henry H. "Shorty Scout" Zietz, a man who rode with Buffalo Bill and Sitting Bull for years.
Located in Denver, Colorado, the Buckhorn will immerse you in a historic atmosphere from the moment you arrive. The décor is filled with hunting trophies, genuine historical artifacts, and a wealth of memories from its storied clientele.
