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The White Horse Tavern is the "oldest operating restaurant in the U.S" and is acknowledged as the 10th oldest in the world according to the White Horse Tavern website.
Located in Newport, Rhode Island, this National Historic Landmark has been serving guests since 1673 and is the very essence of 17th century American architecture!
No building is believed to be more typical of colonial Newport - Inside there are giant beams, a small stairway against the chimney, a tiny front hall, and big fireplaces that create such an encaptivating atmosphere!
Originally, the White Horse Tavern was built as a two-story, two-room residence for Francis Brinley. It was then acquired in 1673 by William Mayes, Sr. and converted to a tavern to begin its legacy!
This was the meeting place of the Colony's General Assembly, Criminal Court, and City Council.
Considering that this historical restaurant dates back to the 1600's, there was quite a few different owners. One of the most intriguing owners, William Mayes, a notorious pirate that operated in the Red Sea and returned to Newport with his bounty, succeeded his father as innkeeper and was granted a license to sell 'all sorts of strong drink' in 1702! One can only imagine what the tavern was like full of pirates and drink!
If you're intrigued to learn more about the history of White Horse Tavern, click here to visit their website.
It's certainly a surreal experience to walk into a building and be surrounded by the past and the present all at once! Book your reservation today through The White Horse Tavern website and dine at one of the oldest restaurants in the U.S!
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