Posted in New York July 31, 2016 by

The Oldest Restaurant In New York Has A Truly Incredible History

Located within the small hamlet of Tappan, right along the state border, you’ll find New York’s oldest restaurant. Other states have historic dining establishments that are worth checking out, but do those restaurants not only come with historic value…but also delicious food and paranormal activity? Filled with stories that will have you believing in ghosts and cheesy, bacon goodness that will get your mouth watering, there’s nothing quite like this fascinating tavern.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Known as one of America's oldest taverns, The '76 House is on the United States National Register of Historic Places.
John K/TripAdvisor
The tavern was a popular meeting location for local Patriots of the American Revolutionary War.
Lola R./Yelp
You can even stand at the same railing General George Washington stood at, along with all the other leaders of the Continental Army.
Bill C/TripAdvisor
Outside the restaurant you'll find a historical marker that makes mention of one of the tavern's most well-known incidents.
Risa S./Yelp
In the year 1780, the tavern actually served as... a prison. Taverns during this time period served more than one purpose,and for several days The '76 House housed infamous spy John André. The foolish officer of the British Army is known for trying to surrender one of New York's forts to the British, an action that resulted in him being sentenced to death.
Throughout the restaurant, you'll find four stunning fireplaces that will keep you warm during the colder months.
mhmac/TripAdvisor
Many New Yorkers may not know about this place, but some are drawn to visit here because of its history of paranormal activity!
Bill C/TripAdvisor
Investigated by many, this long-loved tavern has quite a history of strange phenomenon. Some claim that the restaurant's ghosts are from the era of the American Revolutionary War. Near the area where John André was held prisoner, many have claimed to see or experience strange activity such as glasses falling or a change in the room's temperature. Employees and visitors have claimed to have seen actual spirits briefly in the tavern, making it hard to not become a believer in ghosts.
In the late 1980's, a new owner purchased the tavern and went to great lengths to have it restored to its original appearance!
Amanda O./Yelp
Because this structure's history dates back to the late 1600's and mid 1700's, there were quite a few structural issues that needed to be addressed. The restaurant to this day maintains its efforts to keep the Colonial tavern as preserved as possible.
The '76 House may be filled with fascinating history and chilling ghost stories, but there's even more to be discovered here.
Bill C/TripAdvisor
Yan T./Yelp
Serving a Sunday Brunch that you'll never forget, the tavern is open 7 days a week and features a jaw-dropping menu. You may not be able to put your finger on it, but there's something special about taverns like this that date back so far in history. The nostalgic charm is bouncing off of the walls.

How to get here: 110 Main Street Tappan, NY 10978

Hours:
Monday - Thursday:
11:30AM - 3PM / 5PM - 9PM

Friday:
11:30AM - 3PM / 5PM - 9:30PM

Saturday:
11:30AM - 3PM / 5PM - 10PM

Sunday:
11AM - 3PM / 4PM - 9PM

You could easily drive by this historical gem without realizing what it is. Crazy! To find more unsuspecting places to eat, check out these 13 Restaurants That Don’t Look Like Much… But WOW, They’re Good!