What’s better than going out for a delicious meal? Going out for a delicious meal in a place steeped in valuable local history. Pennsylvania, as a state full of history itself, has numerous restaurants which have witnessed incredible events in our country’s past. Here are some of the most incredible historic restaurants in Pennsylvania.

1. Primanti Bros. in Pittsburgh
Primanti Bros./ Facebook
Primanti's famous sandwiches include french fries and cole slaw, so that you can enjoy an entire meal between two pieces of bread. Though it might be difficult to fit the sandwich in your mouth, it originated as a convenient way for truckers to eat while driving. Primanti's began as a small cart in the Strip District run by Joe Primanti, who sold the sandwiches to truck drivers between the hours of 3 am and 3 pm during the Great Depression. Today, Primanti's has 17 locations in Pittsburgh and can also be found in other states. To learn more, visit the website for Primanti Bros. in Pittsburgh.
2. Penn State Berkey Creamery
Penn State Berkey Creamery/ Facebook
The Penn State Creamery has been an important landmark in Pennsylvania for over 150 years. It was first established in 1865 and since then the workers here have perfected the art of making fantastic ice cream. The creamery produces not only ice cream, but other dairy products such as milk and butter, all created with milk from Penn State's very own herd of cows. Visit the website for Penn State Berkey Creamery to learn more.
3. McGillin's Olde Ale House in Philadelphia
McGillin's Olde Ale House/ Facebook
McGillin's, established in 1860, is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the state. It is older than Independence Hall itself; the restaurant opened the year Lincoln was elected. You can still see every liquor license the establishment has held since 1871 on the wall, making it one of the most fascinating historic restaurants in Pennsylvania. To learn more, visit the website for McGillin's Olde Ale House in Philadelphia.

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4. Jean Bonnet Tavern in Bedford
Jean Bonnet Tavern/ Facebook
Although McGillin's is the oldest operating restaurant in the state, the Jean Bonnet Tavern has been open even longer; it doesn't get the title of oldest restaurant because it is an inn. Opened in 1762, the inn has seen many famous historic faces, including George Washington and his troops. One of the most notable parts of the establishment's history was in 1794, when farmers met here to organize the Whiskey Rebellion. Visit the Jean Bonnet Tavern website to learn more.
5. The Dobbin House in Gettysburg
Dobbin House Tavern/ Facebook
President Lincoln's famous Gettysburg Address would have been visible from the balcony at the Dobbin House, which was built in 1776. During the mid-1800s, the tavern served as an important stop on the Underground Railroad for runaway slaves. For more information about this historic restaurant in Pennsylvania, check out the website for The Dobbin House in Gettysburg.
6. The Original Pat's King of Steaks in Philadelphia
The Original Pat's King of Steaks/ Facebook
This one might cause controversy depending on you cheesesteak allegiance, yet Pat Olivieri, who founded Pat's in 1930, is commonly credited with inventing the cheesesteak sandwich as we know it today. Originally a hot dog stand, one day Pat was in the mood for something different... So he threw some steak meat on a hoagie bun with onions. At the suggestions of a taxi cab driver, the entire structure of his business changed from that point forward. For more info, visit the website for The Original Pat's King of Steaks in Philadelphia.
7. Bube's Brewery in Mount Joy
Bube's Brewery/ Facebook
Bube's Brewery is one of the only remaining 19th century breweries left intact. Alois Bube, a German immigrant, purchased the brewery in 1876. It closed shortly before the Prohibition began and opened again shortly after it came to a close. The restaurant today includes various rooms, including the Catacombs Restaurant which is underground and the outdoor Biergarten. Visit the website for Bube's Brewery to learn more.

Have you been to any of these historic restaurants in Pennsylvania? Which one is your favorite? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below! And if you know another Pennsylvania eatery with a rich history, nominate it for a chance to be featured.

For more mouthwatering meals, check out the best family-owned restaurants in Pennsylvania.

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More to Explore

historic restaurants in Pennsylvania

Elisa Regulski | September 22, 2020

What is the oldest restaurant in Pennsylvania?

McGillin’s Old Ale House, located in Philadelphia, claims to be the oldest restaurant in Pennsylvania. If you’ve never experienced this fascinating place for yourself, add it to your PA dining bucket list!

What are the best nostalgic restaurants in Pennsylvania?

For a step back in time, enjoy a meal at Coney Island Lunch in Scranton. This unique lunch counter opened its doors in 1923, and it’s been delighting hungry patrons ever since. There is something so comforting and delicious about their chili cheese dogs. Stop by and try it for yourself! It’s one of the best nostalgic restaurants in Pennsylvania.

What are the most famous restaurants in Pennsylvania?

While we love a good hidden gem, the famous restaurants in Pennsylvania are also worth visiting. From our historic eateries to our down-home diners, our state has it all. If you need some ideas of where to start, check out our list of the best restaurants in Pennsylvania. You won’t be disappointed by any of the cafes on this list.

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Featured Addresses
Primanti Bros., 115 Federal St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA
119, Rodney A. Erickson Food Science Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA
McGillin's Olde Ale House, 1310 Drury St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
6048 Lincoln Hwy, Bedford, PA 15522, USA
Dobbin House Tavern, 89 Steinwehr Ave, Gettysburg, PA 17325, USA
Pat's King of Steaks, 1237 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA
Bube's Brewery Dining & Entertainment, 102 N Market St, Mount Joy, PA 17552, USA