14 Iconic American Cafes with a Rich History

Stepping into a cafe isn’t just about grabbing a coffee or a bite to eat; sometimes, it’s like stepping back in time. In the U.S., there are cafes that have been around for decades, some even over a century. These spots have witnessed history, served legends, and built a reputation that stretches far beyond their menus. From the heart of bustling cities to quiet small towns, these cafes offer not just a meal but a slice of American culture and nostalgia.

Caffè Reggio – New York, NY

Established in 1927 in Greenwich Village, Caffè Reggio is one of New York City’s oldest coffeehouses. It is often credited for introducing the first espresso machine to the United States. The café has been a gathering place for artists, writers, and musicians for decades. Its classic Italian design features artwork dating back to the Renaissance period. Many famous personalities, including Bob Dylan and Jack Kerouac, frequented this café. Today, it remains a cultural hub for locals and tourists alike.

Café Du Monde – New Orleans, LA

Café Du Monde, founded in 1862, is an iconic café located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Famous for its beignets and chicory-laced coffee, the café has been a favorite among locals and visitors for over 150 years. The open-air setting and casual atmosphere make it a vibrant spot for people-watching. The café has survived through wars, hurricanes, and economic changes, consistently serving as a cultural touchstone. Its unique blend of coffee and history attracts millions of visitors each year.

Vesuvio Café – San Francisco, CA

Opened in 1948, Vesuvio Café is a cornerstone of San Francisco’s Beat Generation culture. Located in the North Beach neighborhood, it became a popular haunt for writers such as Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg. The bohemian atmosphere, with its colorful murals and eclectic decor, is still a draw for creatives and intellectuals. The café’s commitment to artistic freedom has made it a beloved institution for decades. Vesuvio remains a vibrant part of the city’s literary and cultural landscape.

Café Grumpy – Brooklyn, NY

Founded in 2005, Café Grumpy gained fame for its commitment to direct-trade coffee and a no-frills attitude. Located in the heart of Brooklyn, it quickly became a favorite among locals for its high-quality brews and minimalist aesthetic. The café gained widespread recognition after being featured in the hit TV show Girls. Despite its relatively modern inception, Café Grumpy’s ethos of sustainability and community-focused operations connects it to a broader history of responsible coffee culture.

The Tontine Coffee House – New York, NY

Opened in 1793, The Tontine Coffee House was more than just a café; it was a financial hub where traders and businessmen gathered. Located on Wall Street, it played a significant role in the early financial history of the United States. It eventually became a meeting place for what would evolve into the New York Stock Exchange. While no longer standing, its legacy as a center of commerce and social life is unmatched. The Tontine was a pivotal institution in both American coffee culture and economic history.

Antoine’s Restaurant Café – New Orleans, LA

Antoine’s, established in 1840, is the oldest family-run restaurant in the United States. Though it’s better known for its food, its café section offers a historical ambiance that reflects the rich cultural heritage of New Orleans. Many important political and cultural figures have dined here over the years. Its French-Creole style architecture and décor offer a glimpse into the past. The café has witnessed the city’s transformation while remaining a symbol of tradition.

Formosa Café – Los Angeles, CA

The Formosa Café, which opened its doors in 1939, is a Hollywood legend. Located near the major studios, it became a hangout for movie stars like Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe. The café’s Chinese-American menu and distinctive red and black décor create a nostalgic Hollywood vibe. After a brief closure, it reopened in 2019 with a restoration that preserved its old-school charm. Its long history intertwined with Hollywood makes it an iconic café in American pop culture.

Gran Caffè Gambrinus – New York, NY

Founded in 1860, Gran Caffè Gambrinus brought a taste of European café culture to the U.S. Lavishly decorated with chandeliers, artwork, and statues, it became a favorite of New York’s elite. Like many grand European-style cafés, it became a space for intellectuals and artists to meet and exchange ideas. Though no longer standing, its influence on American café culture remains. It helped establish the café as a place of cultural exchange, rather than just a spot for coffee.

Caffè Trieste – San Francisco, CA

Opened in 1956 by Giovanni Giotta, an Italian immigrant, Caffè Trieste was the first espresso coffee house on the West Coast. Located in San Francisco’s North Beach, it became a meeting spot for writers, artists, and filmmakers. Francis Ford Coppola famously wrote parts of The Godfather script here. With its European atmosphere and rich history, it remains a beloved institution in San Francisco. The café still serves authentic Italian espresso, attracting a new generation of coffee lovers.

Tadich Grill – San Francisco, CA

While primarily known as a restaurant, Tadich Grill, established in 1849, has a café section that captures the ambiance of old San Francisco. It is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in California and one of the oldest in the U.S. The café offers a throwback to a bygone era, with wood-paneled interiors and a classic American menu. Many of the fixtures and décor are original, adding to the historic charm. Tadich Grill has been a favorite spot for both locals and tourists looking for a taste of the past.

Peet’s Coffee – Berkeley, CA

Peet’s Coffee, founded in 1966 by Alfred Peet, played a major role in the development of American coffee culture. Located in Berkeley, California, the original Peet’s introduced high-quality Arabica coffee beans and espresso to a wider American audience. Peet mentored many coffee pioneers, including the founders of Starbucks. Today, Peet’s remains a beloved West Coast institution and a testament to the evolution of craft coffee in America. Its focus on quality and sustainability continues to set it apart.

Saugus Café – Saugus, CA

Established in 1886, Saugus Café is one of the oldest cafés in Southern California. It started as a dining car on the Southern Pacific Railroad and later became a permanent café. Over the years, it has served everyone from Hollywood celebrities to local ranchers. The café’s rustic charm and historic memorabilia transport patrons back in time. Its enduring popularity speaks to its role in the region’s history.

The Last Bookstore Café – Los Angeles, CA

Opened in 2005, The Last Bookstore Café in downtown Los Angeles blends coffee with a passion for literature. Housed in a former bank, the space features high ceilings, massive bookshelves, and a maze of books for sale. The café section is a quiet place to enjoy a cup of coffee while browsing books. It has become a favorite haunt for readers, writers, and tourists alike. The blend of literature and café culture makes it a unique destination.

White Horse Tavern – Newport, RI

While primarily recognized as a tavern, the White Horse Tavern, founded in 1673, also features a cozy café section that retains its colonial-era ambiance. As the oldest continuously operating tavern in the United States, it has earned National Historic Landmark status. Its café offers a peaceful, historically rich setting with rustic wooden beams, low ceilings, and flickering fireplaces that transport guests back to the 17th century. The experience is not only culinary but also deeply cultural, allowing visitors to feel connected to centuries of American history.

Starbucks – Seattle, WA

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Starbucks, founded in 1971 in Seattle’s Pike Place Market, has grown from a single store into a global coffee empire. The original location retains its old-school charm, with vintage décor and a connection to the café’s roots in high-quality coffee. Starbucks helped introduce American consumers to a broader coffee culture, focusing on artisanal brewing techniques and international flavors. Their commitment to sustainability and community involvement also reflects the evolution of modern café culture. While Starbucks locations are now found worldwide, visiting the original store remains a pilgrimage for coffee enthusiasts. The brand’s influence on how Americans drink coffee cannot be overstated, making it a key player in U.S. café history.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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