In business for nearly a century and a half, Weidmann’s in Meridian is the state’s oldest restaurant. Several things have changed at the restaurant throughout the years, but one thing has remained the same – Weidmann’s is just as much a local favorite now as it was when it first opened its doors all those years ago. Having survived since the late 1800s, the renowned restaurant has it all - mouthwatering fare, a historic atmosphere and one truly incredible past.

Weidmann’s was first opened in 1870 by Felix Weidmann. It was originally located in the Union Hotel, and contained only a counter and four stools.

Prior to opening the restaurant, Felix, a Swiss immigrant, worked as a chef on a transatlantic steam ship.

By 1923, Weidmann’s moved to its present location.

At this time, the restaurant was owned by Felix’s grandson, Henry Weidmann.

Over the next few decades, Weidmann’s became increasingly popular, gaining both local and national recognition.

The amazing food at Weidmann’s was in such high demand, the restaurant was open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, closing only for Christmas day.

In the 1960s, Shorty McWilliams and his wife, Gloria Weidmann, took over ownership of the restaurant.

A former football star at Mississippi State and West Point, Shorty finished in the top ten for the Heisman Trophy on two different occasions.

Ownership changed again in the 1980s, and then again in 1999, when a group of 54 investors purchased the iconic restaurant.

After purchasing Weidmann’s, the new owners completely renovated the building and reopened the new and improved Weidmann’s in 2000.

In 2010, Charles Frazier took over the restaurant and had a very specific vision for Weidmann’s.

The restaurant would focus on serving outstanding, yet affordable, southern cuisine in a historic setting.

Because Weidmann’s had long been a local favorite, Frazier chose to use many of the restaurant’s original recipes, making only slight changes.

The menu is also filled with signature creations.

Among the restaurant’s top dishes is the southern classic, shrimp and grits.

The mouthwatering fare includes quite the variety – from steaks and seafood to pastas and gourmet sandwiches.

And, probably the restaurant's most famous dish, Black Bottom Pie.

The decadent pie was recognized as "best in the world" and mentioned in Peter Greenberg’s book, "The Best Places for Everything."

Even if you're just in the mood for a few drinks, Weidmann's is the place to go.

The restaurant's Balcony Bar is the perfect spot for some drinks with friends. Appetizers are available on the balcony, and during dinner hours, the full dinner menu is available as well.

Aside from the mouthwatering food, guests can’t get enough of the historic atmosphere.

If you want to learn more about Weidmann’s, just ask your server. All of the restaurant’s employees are extremely knowledgeable of Weidmann’s past and its role in the state’s history.

Another part of the restaurant’s appeal is the numerous traditions that have been in place for decades.

Since butter was scarce during WWII, Weidmannn’s began serving crackers with peanut butter – a tradition that lives on to this day.

Another of the restaurant’s traditions is the Treasure Chest. After kids clear their plate, they’re allowed to get a prize from the chest.

Throughout the years, Weidmann’s restaurant has been featured in countless books, magazines, cookbooks and television shows.

And as its popularity has grown over the years, so has the amount of celebrity diners. Photo of famous diners cover the walls of the restaurant. One celebrity that is likely to be spotted is actress and Meridian-native, Sela Ward, who is an investor in the restaurant.

Visit Weidmann’s at 210 22nd Avenue in Meridian on Monday – Thursday, from 11 am – 9 pm, Friday – Saturday, from 11 am – 11 pm, and on Sunday, from 10 am – 2 pm.

Have you ever dined at this historic Mississippi restaurant? If you liked this article, be sure to check out "These 15 Old Restaurants In Mississippi Have Stood The Test Of Time."