The 14 Oldest Steakhouses in America You Must Visit

Steak lovers, gather ’round! Ever wondered where you can find the oldest and most iconic steakhouses in the United States? These places are more than just restaurants; they’re pieces of history, each with its own unique story and mouth-watering menu. From New York City’s bustling streets to the charming corners of San Francisco, these steakhouses have stood the test of time, serving up juicy steaks and unforgettable experiences for decades.

Old Homestead Steakhouse, New York City

Old Homestead Steakhouse, established in 1868, is one of the oldest continuously operating steakhouses in the United States. Located in Manhattan’s trendy Meatpacking District, it boasts a rich history that spans over 150 years. The restaurant is renowned for its massive portions and high-quality beef, sourced from some of the finest purveyors in the country. Patrons can enjoy a classic, old-school steakhouse atmosphere complete with dark wood interiors and white tablecloths. Its signature dish, the Gotham Rib Steak, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Old Homestead continues to be a cornerstone of New York City’s dining scene.

Keens Steakhouse, New York City

Keens Steakhouse, established in 1885, is another historic New York City institution known for its iconic mutton chop. The restaurant originally served as a gentlemen’s club and retains much of its old-world charm. Keens is famous for its collection of churchwarden pipes, which line the ceilings and walls, creating a unique and memorable dining ambiance. The steakhouse’s menu features a range of prime steaks and classic sides, making it a popular destination for meat lovers. Keens’ reputation for quality and tradition has made it a favorite among celebrities and dignitaries over the years. It remains a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of New York’s culinary history.

Peter Luger Steak House, Brooklyn

Peter Luger Steak House, founded in 1887, is a Brooklyn landmark renowned for its exceptional steaks and no-frills service. This Michelin-starred chophouse has maintained its reputation for quality by dry-aging its beef on-site and hand-selecting each cut. The restaurant’s rustic, wood-paneled interiors and communal seating create a convivial atmosphere. Its signature porterhouse steak, cooked to perfection and served sizzling, is a must-try. Despite its old-school approach, Peter Luger continues to attract a diverse clientele, from local regulars to international visitors. Its enduring popularity speaks to its consistent excellence and commitment to tradition.

The Buckhorn Exchange, Denver

The Buckhorn Exchange, established in 1893, is Denver’s oldest steakhouse and a National Historic Landmark. Founded by Henry “Shorty Scout” Zietz, a former scout for Buffalo Bill, the restaurant is steeped in Western history. The Buckhorn Exchange is known for its exotic game meats, including buffalo, elk, and alligator, as well as its traditional steaks. The walls are adorned with an extensive collection of taxidermy and Wild West memorabilia, creating a unique dining experience. Its historic saloon, which has held Denver’s first liquor license, offers a selection of local craft beers and spirits. The Buckhorn Exchange remains a beloved institution for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of the Old West.

Delmonico’s, New York City

Delmonico’s, founded in 1837, is often credited with being America’s first fine dining restaurant and the birthplace of the modern steakhouse. Located in the Financial District, it has introduced numerous iconic dishes, including the Delmonico steak, eggs Benedict, and baked Alaska. The restaurant’s opulent interiors and white-glove service reflect its storied past and commitment to excellence. Delmonico’s has hosted countless luminaries over the years, from Mark Twain to John F. Kennedy. Its legacy of culinary innovation and hospitality continues to make it a top destination for discerning diners. Delmonico’s remains a symbol of New York’s rich culinary heritage.

Jess & Jim’s Steakhouse, Kansas City

Jess & Jim’s Steakhouse, established in 1938, is a beloved Kansas City institution known for its hearty portions and friendly, no-nonsense service. The family-owned restaurant has built a loyal following over the decades, thanks to its high-quality beef and relaxed atmosphere. Jess & Jim’s offers a range of cuts, including its famous Playboy Strip, named after a feature in Playboy magazine. The steakhouse’s casual, unpretentious vibe makes it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Its commitment to tradition and consistency has earned it numerous accolades and a place in the hearts of Kansas City residents. Jess & Jim’s continues to be a testament to the enduring appeal of a great American steakhouse.

Gorat’s Steak House, Omaha

Gorat’s Steak House, established in 1944, is an Omaha landmark and a favorite of billionaire investor Warren Buffett. Known for its classic Midwestern hospitality and hearty steaks, Gorat’s has become synonymous with Omaha’s culinary scene. The restaurant offers a range of cuts, including the signature T-bone, served with traditional sides like hash browns and creamed spinach. Gorat’s unassuming, retro decor and friendly service create a welcoming atmosphere for diners. Its association with Buffett has drawn visitors from around the world, eager to experience the steakhouse’s legendary fare. Gorat’s remains a pillar of Omaha’s dining community, celebrated for its history and quality.

Gene & Georgetti, Chicago

Gene & Georgetti, founded in 1941, is Chicago’s oldest and one of its most beloved steakhouses. Located in the River North neighborhood, the restaurant is known for its generous portions and classic Italian-American fare. The menu features a variety of prime steaks, chops, and seafood, along with house-made pastas and hearty sides. Gene & Georgetti’s old-school ambiance, with its dark wood interiors and checkered tablecloths, transports diners to a bygone era. The steakhouse has a storied history of hosting celebrities, politicians, and sports stars. Its commitment to tradition and quality has made it a staple of Chicago’s dining scene for over 80 years.

Al’s Steak House, Joliet

Al’s Steak House, established in 1959, is one of the oldest steakhouses in the Chicagoland area. Located in Joliet, the restaurant is known for its generous portions and classic steakhouse ambiance. Al’s offers a variety of prime cuts, including its famous prime rib, served with traditional sides like garlic mashed potatoes and creamed spinach. The steakhouse’s cozy, retro decor and friendly service make it a popular spot for family gatherings and special occasions. Al’s commitment to quality and tradition has earned it a loyal following over the decades. The restaurant remains a beloved fixture in the Joliet dining scene.

Gallaghers Steakhouse, New York City

Gallaghers Steakhouse, established in 1927, is a legendary New York City institution known for its dry-aged steaks and Prohibition-era roots. Located in the Theater District, the restaurant has long been a favorite of Broadway stars and sports legends. Gallaghers is famous for its open kitchen, where diners can see their steaks being cooked over hickory coals. The menu features a range of prime cuts, including the signature porterhouse, served with classic sides like creamed spinach and hash browns. The steakhouse’s vintage decor and vibrant atmosphere create a unique dining experience. Gallaghers continues to be a top destination for steak lovers in New York City.

The Palm, New York City

The Palm, founded in 1926, is a classic New York City steakhouse known for its prime steaks, seafood, and iconic caricature-covered walls. Originally opened as an Italian restaurant, The Palm quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality beef and generous portions. The menu features a range of prime cuts, including the signature Prime Double Cut New York Strip, as well as classic Italian dishes. The Palm’s warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive service make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Its commitment to tradition and quality has earned it a loyal following and numerous accolades. The Palm remains a cherished part of New York’s dining landscape.

St. Elmo Steak House, Indianapolis

St. Elmo Steak House, established in 1902, is Indianapolis’s oldest and most iconic steakhouse. Known for its famous shrimp cocktail and prime steaks, St. Elmo has been a cornerstone of the city’s dining scene for over a century. The restaurant’s historic ambiance, with its dark wood interiors and vintage photos, creates a nostalgic dining experience. The menu features a variety of prime cuts, seafood, and classic sides, all prepared with meticulous attention to detail. St. Elmo’s reputation for quality and hospitality has made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The steakhouse continues to be a symbol of Indianapolis’s rich culinary heritage.

Tadich Grill, San Francisco

Tadich Grill, founded in 1849, is San Francisco’s oldest restaurant and one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in the United States. Known for its seafood and steaks, Tadich Grill offers a taste of old San Francisco charm. The restaurant’s vintage decor, with its high ceilings, dark wood interiors, and white-jacketed waitstaff, creates a classic dining atmosphere. The menu features a variety of prime cuts, seafood, and traditional sides, all prepared with a focus on quality and freshness. Tadich Grill’s rich history and commitment to tradition have made it a beloved institution in the city’s dining scene. The restaurant remains a testament to San Francisco’s culinary legacy.

John’s Grill, San Francisco

John’s Grill, established in 1908, is a historic San Francisco steakhouse known for its literary connections and classic fare. Located near Union Square, the restaurant gained fame as a setting in Dashiell Hammett’s novel “The Maltese Falcon.” John’s Grill offers a range of prime steaks, seafood, and traditional sides, all served in a cozy, old-school setting. The restaurant’s vintage decor, with its dark wood interiors and memorabilia-filled walls, creates a nostalgic dining experience. John’s Grill’s reputation for quality and hospitality has made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The steakhouse continues to be a cherished part of San Francisco’s dining history.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout

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