- Today
- Holidays
- Birthdays
- Reminders
- Cities
- Atlanta
- Austin
- Baltimore
- Berwyn
- Beverly Hills
- Birmingham
- Boston
- Brooklyn
- Buffalo
- Charlotte
- Chicago
- Cincinnati
- Cleveland
- Columbus
- Dallas
- Denver
- Detroit
- Fort Worth
- Houston
- Indianapolis
- Knoxville
- Las Vegas
- Los Angeles
- Louisville
- Madison
- Memphis
- Miami
- Milwaukee
- Minneapolis
- Nashville
- New Orleans
- New York
- Omaha
- Orlando
- Philadelphia
- Phoenix
- Pittsburgh
- Portland
- Raleigh
- Richmond
- Rutherford
- Sacramento
- Salt Lake City
- San Antonio
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- Seattle
- Tampa
- Tucson
- Washington
Three Iconic St. Louis Restaurants Celebrate Over a Century of Dining Tradition
Beffa's, Piccadilly, and Chili Mac's define the city's enduring culinary heritage
Mar. 28, 2026 at 1:24pm
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
St. Louis is home to some of the oldest restaurants in the region, each with a unique story to tell. Beffa's Bar & Restaurant, The Piccadilly at Manhattan, and Chili Mac's Diner have all been serving the community for over a century, adapting to changing times and tastes while preserving their distinct identities. From Beffa's origins as a neighborhood saloon to Piccadilly's status as the oldest continuously operating restaurant, and Chili Mac's legacy as a downtown diner staple, these establishments represent the depth and diversity of St. Louis' dining traditions.
Why it matters
These three restaurants are more than just places to eat - they are living pieces of St. Louis history that have endured for generations. Their longevity speaks to the importance of supporting local, independent businesses that have contributed to the community over time. As the restaurant industry continues to evolve, establishments like Beffa's, Piccadilly, and Chili Mac's provide a sense of continuity and connection to the city's past.
The details
Beffa's Bar & Restaurant traces its origins back to 1898, making it the earliest-founded of the three. The Piccadilly at Manhattan dates to 1901 and is widely regarded as the oldest continuously operating restaurant still serving customers today. Chili Mac's Diner began around 1904, earning its place as one of the city's longest-running diners. Each restaurant has had to adapt to major historical changes, from Prohibition to shifting dining trends, in order to maintain their presence in the community.
- Beffa's Bar & Restaurant was established in the late 19th century, in 1898.
- The Piccadilly at Manhattan opened in 1901.
- Chili Mac's Diner began operating around 1904.
The players
Beffa's Bar & Restaurant
A neighborhood saloon that evolved into a restaurant, Beffa's has adapted to major historical changes over the decades, including Prohibition, while remaining a reliable gathering place for locals.
The Piccadilly at Manhattan
Opened in the early 20th century, The Piccadilly at Manhattan is widely regarded as the oldest continuously operating restaurant still serving customers in St. Louis.
Chili Mac's Diner
Established in the early 1900s, Chili Mac's Diner has built a reputation as one of the most recognizable diners in downtown St. Louis, known for its classic diner fare and round-the-clock service.
What’s next
As these historic restaurants continue to navigate the changing restaurant industry, community support and a balance of tradition and innovation will be key to their future success.
The takeaway
Beffa's, Piccadilly, and Chili Mac's represent the enduring legacy of St. Louis' dining traditions. Their ability to adapt while preserving their distinct identities over the course of a century is a testament to the importance of supporting local, independent businesses that have contributed to the fabric of the community.
