by Pennsylvania is packed with history, and some of the state’s oldest restaurants have been serving food and drinks since colonial times. For history lovers and foodies alike, these historic eateries offer a unique chance to step back in time while enjoying classic American cuisine.
From taverns that hosted Revolutionary War meetings to inns that welcomed early travelers, these restaurants are more than just places to eat — they’re living pieces of Pennsylvania’s rich past. Here are 12 of the most historic restaurants in Pennsylvania that you can visit today.
1. King George II Inn — Bristol, PA
Founded in 1681, King George II Inn is the oldest continuously operating inn in the United States. The current building dates back to 1765. It was a key meeting spot during the Revolutionary War and still serves hearty dishes like slow-roasted prime rib and cheesesteak sandwiches.
kginn.com | (215) 788-55362. McGillin’s Olde Ale House — Philadelphia, PA
Since opening in 1860, McGillin’s is Philadelphia’s oldest tavern. It famously sold Philly cheesesteaks in the 1930s and survived Prohibition by focusing on food. Today, it offers classic pub fare and a wide selection of beers.
mcgillins.com | (215) 735-5562
3. Jamison Publick House — Pennsburg, PA
Dating back to 1745, this tavern played a role in the Fries Rebellion tax revolt of the early 1800s.
It offers farm-to-table American fare, including fresh seafood and dishes featuring herbs from its garden.
jamisonpublickhouse.com | (215) 375-8886
4. The Original Oyster House — Pittsburgh, PA
Established in 1870, this historic seafood tavern is Pittsburgh’s oldest bar and restaurant.
Known for its famous fish sandwiches and Maryland-style crab cakes, it has also appeared in several films and TV shows.
originaloysterhousepittsburgh.com | (412) 566-7925
5. Sumneytown Hotel — Sumneytown, PA
Originally called the Red Lion Inn (1762), it was rebuilt in the 1870s after a fire.
Recently restored, it now serves artisanal dishes like short rib poutine and seared sea scallops in a historic setting.
sumneytownhotel.com | (215) 377-9114
6. Rising Sun Inn — Telford, PA
Built in 1739, this inn once sheltered the Liberty Bell and served as a stop on the Underground Railroad.
It now offers farm-to-table brunch and dinners featuring local delicacies such as North American bison.
risingsuninn.net | (215) 721-6350
7. Blue Bell Inn — Blue Bell, PA
Dating to 1743, George Washington stayed here during the Revolutionary War. Converted to a fine dining spot in 1967, it now serves refined American cuisine including seafood, a raw bar, and brunch specials.
bluebellinn.com | (215) 646-2010
8. William Penn Inn — Gwynedd, PA
Founded by William Penn in 1714, this inn remains an award-winning restaurant with colonial artifacts on display. Popular dishes include surf and turf, seafood risotto, and escargot.
williampenninn.com | (215) 699-9272
9. General Warren — Malvern, PA
Established in 1745, it hosted Washington’s troops before the Battle of the Clouds. It has served as a post office and nursing home in the past.
Today, it offers upscale dishes like classic beef Wellington and snapper soup.
generalwarren.com | (610) 296-3637
10. Black Powder Tavern — Wayne, PA
Built in 1746, it was a stagecoach stop and a secret Revolutionary War meeting place. Now a popular tavern, it serves craft beers, Wagyu truffle burgers, and classic pub fare.
blackpowdertavern.com | (610) 293-9333
11. Penn’s Tavern — Sunbury, PA
Dating to 1791, this tavern once served as a ferry house, post office, and railroad station. It features historic rooms and river views, serving American and German fare with a broad beer selection.
pennstavern.com | (570) 286-2007
12. Piper Tavern — Pipersville, PA
Established in 1759 and named after Continental Army Colonel George Piper, this tavern attracted figures like Benjamin Franklin. Today, it serves historic recipes including Lobster Thermidor and crab cakes.
pipertavern.com | (215) 766-7100
Why Visit These Historic Pennsylvania Restaurants?
These eateries offer more than meals — they provide a delicious journey into the past.
Whether you’re exploring Pennsylvania’s colonial roots or just craving classic American dishes with rich backstories, visiting these historic restaurants is a must for locals and tourists alike.
