Massachusetts has been here since the birth of the nation, and we have some amazing restaurants that have been serving delicious meals for almost as long. There's nothing like tucking into a mouthwatering dish surrounded by decades of local history. Check out these ten historic restaurants that have proven themselves to be worthy of a visit.
1. Publick House Historic Inn, Sturbridge
This spot features traditional New England fare with a large menu and an enticing drink menu. Savor dishes like lobster macaroni and cheese, pan-roasted salmon and deep-fish apple pie. The sticky buns and pumpkin muffins here are absolutely mind-blowing. Best of all, you can grab a batch to take home from their bakery. (277 Main Street, Sturbridge)
2. Whately Diner, Whatley
This cozy diner isn't anything fancy, but it will fill you up with homemade grub that tastes like something out of grandma's kitchen. There are also jukeboxes at every table so you can dine to the sounds of yesteryear. (372 State Road, Whately)
3. Old Yarmouth Inn, Yarmouth Port
This cozy spot was established in 1696 and is the oldest inn on Cape Cod. It’s been serving generations of travelers and is still an amazing place to stop in for a bite to eat. The dining ambiance is warm and welcoming, and classic dishes like glazed short ribs, clam chowder, and caramelized sea scallops make for a traditional New England dining experience. (223 Route 6A, Yarmouth Port)
4. Miss Florence Diner, Florence
This historic diner was manufactured by the famed Worcester Lunch Car Company in 1941, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Most importantly, however, the Miss Florence Diner serves a mean slice of apple pie. Expect an old-fashioned diner counter experience and simple yet flavorful breakfast and lunch classics. (99 Main Street, Florence)
5. Union Oyster House, Boston
The Union Oyster House in Boston is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in America. Built in 1704, the restaurant has been in business since 1826. They’ve had plenty of time to perfect their recipes for things like tender stuffed lobster, decadent clam chowder and, of course, oysters that are to die for. Stop by for lunch or dinner and dine in the same place that Daniel Webster, President John F. Kennedy and King Louis Philippe of France once slurped platters of oysters. (41 Union Street, Boston)
6. The Art Cliff Diner, Martha's Vineyard
Longtime regulars at Art Cliff will tell you that this place has the best pancakes on the island, and it's easy to agree. The Art Cliff Diner has been around since 1943, and still has plenty of old-school charm. Cozy up to a slice of their amazing homemade pie, or just grab a savory omelet and a mug of steaming coffee. (39 Beach Road, Vineyard Haven)
7. The Whately Inn, Whately
The Whately Inn is nestled at the feet of the Berkshire Mountains and located on a scenic, shady street in Whately. This charming spot has been serving up delicious hot meals for over 50 years, and offers fine dining in a relaxing atmosphere. Try the baked stuffed mushroom caps, the roast crisp duckling bigarade or the stuffed Boston scrod with lemon butter. (193 Chestnut Plain Road, Whately)
8. Bluebonnet Diner, Northampton
This spot has been a local mainstay since it opened in 1950s. Though interior space in the front is limited, there's free parking and unbeatable portions. The service is just what you'd expect from a classic neighborhood diner, and you're bound to come here more than once. Visit for comfort foods, cocktails and breakfast that's served all day long. (324 King Street, Northampton)
9. Carl's Oxford Diner, Oxford
This classic local spot has stood the test of time by following a simple formula: delicious food served in massive portions. You definitely get your money's worth at this Oxford gem. If you ask for a large side of bacon, you'll be served with the above. (291 Main Street, Oxford)
10. Ralph's Diner, Worcester
Come and experience an old-fashioned rock n' roll diner at this historic spot in Worcester. Originally established in the 1930s, Ralph's has been churning out tasty food and drink for decades. Though it may seem small from the outside, Ralph's offers a 400-capacity dining room and live music club that will keep you happy till the wee hours. (148 Grove Street, Worcester)
For more old-fashioned fun around Massachusetts, check out these retro places that will take you back in time or these historic homes that are worth a visit.
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