Food, drink, and revelry have been lovingly interwoven throughout America’s history. This enthusiasm for dining and drinking has created a thriving restaurant and tavern culture throughout the entire country. Dining establishments and bars are more than just places to indulge and be merry; they have played an integral role in the creation of American history. America’s origin story is peppered with accounts of revolutionaries gathering, plotting, hiding, and refueling at restaurants and taverns that still exist and serve customers. For example, the ‘76 House in Tappan, New York had a significant effect on the Revolutionary War.
It was an iconic meeting place for patriots and acted as a prison for the revolution’s most notorious spy, British major John Andre. The White Horse Tavern in Newport, Rhode Island (established in 1673) served as a shelter for Tories and British troops during Newport’s British occupation during the American Revolution. This infographic explores the oldest restaurant in every state, providing fascinating glimpses into American history.
