Food Critic Visits 6 of America's Oldest Restaurants

Project marks 250th anniversary of the nation's dining establishments

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Washington Post food writer Tom Sietsema spent months visiting six of the oldest restaurants in the United States as part of a project to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the nation's dining establishments.

Why it matters

As the restaurant industry continues to evolve, with many iconic eateries closing due to economic pressures, Sietsema's project shines a light on the history and longevity of some of America's most venerable dining institutions.

The details

Sietsema visited restaurants across the country, including Tadich Grill in San Francisco, which opened in 1849, and the Union Oyster House in Boston, which has been serving customers since 1826. His goal was to explore the stories behind these establishments and how they have managed to endure for centuries.

  • Sietsema spent months working on this project in 2026.
  • The project marks the 250th anniversary of the nation's dining establishments.

The players

Tom Sietsema

A food writer for the Washington Post who undertook a months-long project to visit six of the oldest restaurants in the United States.

Tadich Grill

A restaurant in San Francisco that opened in 1849, making it one of the oldest restaurants in the country.

Union Oyster House

A restaurant in Boston that has been serving customers since 1826, making it one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in the United States.

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What they’re saying

“These restaurants have weathered so many changes over the decades, yet they've managed to maintain their core identities and keep customers coming back.”

— Tom Sietsema, Food Writer, Washington Post (NPR)

What’s next

Sietsema plans to publish a book later this year that compiles his findings and stories from his visits to the six oldest restaurants in America.

The takeaway

Sietsema's project highlights the enduring appeal and resilience of some of the nation's most historic dining establishments, which have managed to adapt and evolve while still preserving their unique character and traditions.