The Historic Restaurant That's Been Around Since Ohio First Became A State
By April Dray|Published December 25, 2018
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April Dray
Author
April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
Ohio has seen its fair share of history since its official statehood was established on March 1, 1803.
It’s interesting to learn about who passed through our state over the centuries, what historical figures and inventions have roots here, and what buildings have stood the test of time. The Golden Lamb, a restaurant and hotel in the small city of Lebanon, is the oldest continually operated business in Ohio. If you’re an Ohio native, it belongs at the very top of your bucket list. Rich with history, charm and an old-world ambiance, a meal or an overnight stay here will make you feel as if you’ve temporarily traveled back in time.
Since 1803, this historic hotel and restaurant has been serving guests exceptional food with unique lodging options. It is one of America's most historic inns and Ohio's oldest continually operated business.
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Because of its location, halfway between Cincinnati and the National Road (which is now U.S. Route 40), this gorgeous inn and restaurant has seen its fair share of historical figures throughout the years — which makes it such a special place to visit today. You'll find it at 27 S Broadway St., Lebanon, OH 45036.
Over the years, 12 U.S. Presidents have visited the inn, as well as several notable authors such as Charles Dickens, Harriet Beecher Stowe, and Mark Twain.
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The hotel proudly displays its rich history. Inside, you'll find several antiques, Shaker artifacts, displays of the innkeeper's possessions, and more.
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Upon arrival, the cozy lobby welcomes you into this rare piece of American and Ohio history.
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(It is rumored that the antique furnishings within the hotel are actually worth more than the building itself.)
Each guest room is named after a famous guest who stayed at the inn or dined in the restaurant. Pictured is the Charles Dickens Room.
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During his first trip to America in 1842, Charles Dickens visited The Golden Lamb. Although he did not stay overnight, he dined at the restaurant, which was then called The Bradley House. He was sad to find no brandy (or any other "spirits" for that matter) and deemed it a "Temperance Hotel."
Downstairs, you'll find four main dining rooms, each with a charm of their own. Pictured is the Lebanon Dining Room.
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Other first-level dining rooms include the Buckeye Room, Shaker Room, and the Dickens Room. The Shaker Dining Room features several Shaker period artifacts, while the Dickens Dining Room features a rare collection of the famous English author's books on display.
On the menu, you'll find several delicious meals to choose from. You'll even find a selection of "Historic Dinners," which have been served since the hotel's beginning.
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Pictured above is the Golden Lamb Roast Turkey Dinner, which is one of the Historic Dinners.
The Golden Lamb is located at 27 S Broadway St., Lebanon, OH 45036. Have you been here before? What was your experience like?
