Posted in New York History September 02, 2021 by

The Oldest Restaurant In New York Has A Truly Fascinating History

There are a lot of restaurants in New York City, but one that’s distinctly unique is Fraunces Tavern. This is the oldest restaurant in NYC, the second oldest in New York, and thought to be the oldest standing building in Manhattan. The first building on the property was constructed in 1671 by the Mayor of New York, and the current structure was put up in 1719. Amazingly, it’s been standing ever since, and now serves as both a restaurant and museum!

The building was originally constructed of yellow bricks that were imported from the Dutch Republic. It originally served as a private home; but in 1762, it was purchased by Samuel Frances, who turned the building into a tavern.
Daniel Steinert/Google Maps
Originally, the bar was named the Queen's Head. It served as a meeting place for the Sons of Liberty, an underground colonial group that fought against oppressive rule by the British.
Anthony Valenzuela/Google Maps
During the Revolutionary War, a cannon was actually fired through the roof of Fraunces Tavern.
At the Revolutionary War's end, General George Washington held a feast at Fraunces Tavern with his Continental Army officers.
L.M. Glackens/Library of Congress
The event was so famous it was later mocked in a political cartoon featuring Theodore Roosevelt and (future) President William Howard Taft.
Shortly after the Constitution was signed, New York City was the nation's capital. In that time, several government departments actually had their office at Fraunces Tavern.
Alok Sandal/Google Maps
In the 1800s, Fraunces Tavern suffered several fires. Additional stories were added and the building was briefly turned into a hotel called the Broad Street House.
Fraunces Tavern/Google Maps
The building narrowly escaped demolition when its owners wanted to turn the site into a parking lot. The structure was purchased by the Sons of the Revolution in 1904, and they still own it today.
In 1975, a Puerto Rican paramilitary operation detonated a bomb inside Fraunces Tavern. Four people were killed in the explosion, and no one was prosecuted.
Fraunces Tavern/Google Maps

Today, Fraunces Tavern is still a functioning restaurant. There’s also a museum there that displays Revolution-era memorabilia and art.

Did you know the incredible history of Fraunces Tavern? As the second oldest restaurant in New York, it sure has a fascinating story. Learn more about the tavern, including hours and museum information, at the official website.

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Address: Fraunces Tavern, 54 Pearl St, New York, NY 10004, USA