Stepping into the realm of history, ancient restaurants carry an enigmatic charm intertwined with the flow of human history. Allow us to present to you a compilation of the world's oldest restaurants, each possessing a unique tale that has unfolded over centuries, leaving an indelible mark on the tapestry of our past.
Honke Owariya, Kyoto, Japan (595 years old)
Established in 1465, Honke Owariya started as a confectionery shop exuding the essence of 'Kyoto.' Enduring through the ages, it offers exquisite dishes in a captivating ambiance. Owariya is renowned among locals and tourists for its soba noodles and soba confections. Over the centuries, it has served famous figures, including monks, generals, and emperors, with its renowned soba dishes.
Presently, the Royal Family often frequents this place for dining whenever they visit Kyoto. Amidst the serene and picturesque setting, surrounded by unique wooden architecture, you'll truly sense the permeating 'Kyoto essence' here.

Honke Owariya, Kyoto, Japan (595 years old)
Stiftskeller St.Peter in Austria (1203 years old)
Regarded as the oldest restaurant globally, Stiftskeller St.Peter boasts over 1200 years of history. Established in 803 AD, it resides within the Archabbey monastery of Saint Peter in Salzburg. Despite enduring millennia, undergoing numerous renovations, Stiftskeller still preserves its Baroque style with grace.
The antique stone interior designs at Stiftskeller still exude historical charm while seamlessly incorporating modern elements. Having hosted numerous royal families, dignitaries, and celebrities, this restaurant is renowned not only for its exquisite cuisine but also for the weekly Mozart dinner, featuring performances by Salzburg's most celebrated musicians. If you find yourself in Austria, don't miss this fascinating destination; come and experience the intriguing offerings at Stiftskeller.

Stiftskeller St.Peter in Austria (1203 years old)
Zum Franziskaner Stockholm – Sweden (551 years old)
Established by German monks in 1421, Zum Franziskaner is a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike. Renowned for its beer brewing technique that stands the test of time, it is considered a 'mariner's tavern' and a premium dining establishment.
Visitors always have delightful and memorable culinary experiences at this restaurant. Indulging in meticulously brewed varieties of beer is a must-not-miss for anyone coming here.

Zum Franziskaner Stockholm – Sweden (551 years old)
Bianyifang Restaurant (Convenient District) in Beijing, China (600 years old)
Bianyifang, the pioneer of Peking duck since 1416 in the Front Gate area of Beijing, China, originally started as a small poultry workshop. Despite renovations and landscape changes, the restaurant still maintains its essence from the Ming Dynasty era.
During the Ming Dynasty, the widespread popularity of Peking duck had a profound impact on the upper class, even becoming a source of poetic inspiration. This is considered the world's oldest Beijing duck restaurant.

Bianyifang Restaurant (Convenient District) in Beijing, China (600 years old)
Sobrino de Botín
Established in 1725 by Jean Botín and his wife, Sobrino de Botín later passed down to Botín's grandson and now belongs to the González family. Despite its modest size, the chefs and staff at Sobrino de Botín strive to preserve the restaurant's taste unchanged over the years.
Over the years, Sobrino de Botín has maintained the ambiance of a traditional Spanish tavern. The restaurant boasts 4 floors and 3 dining rooms: the Bodega room (cellar), the Castilla room, and the Felipe IV room. There's something about Sobrino de Botín that makes diners feel at home, whether it's the warm oak wood decor or the cheerful smiles of the servers. As guests weave through the dining rooms and ascend the narrow stairs, they sense they are entering one of the city's most secretive areas.

Sobrino de Botín
La Tour d’Argent, Paris, France (434 years old)
La Tour d’Argent – Paris – France – 1582: 434 years old and distinctly royal, this Michelin-starred restaurant was a favorite of King Henri IV. Renowned for its minced duck dish featuring ducks raised on the restaurant's own farm, guests can also savor exquisite pâtés and delectable fish dishes.
Additionally, the restaurant's wine cellar houses some of the world's finest wines that survived World War II, rigorously protected. With over 450,000 bottles of gold and 15,000 varieties of 'elixir' valued at up to 25 million Euros, it's noteworthy. Another interesting fact is that the animated film Ratatouille drew inspiration from this restaurant.

La Tour d’Argent, Paris, France (434 years old)
Chojiya – Shizuoka
Located in Shizuoka along the Tokaido National Highway, one of Japan's main highways during the Tokugawa and Edo periods, Chojiya opened its doors in 1596. It served tororo-jiru and tea to passersby and soldiers. The restaurant even displays a painting by Hiroshige, one of the greatest ukiyo-e artists of the Edo period.
Tororo-jiru is a rustic dish, often served with rice or noodles, and stands as one of the signature dishes on Chojiya's menu.

Chojiya – Shizuoka
If you ever get the chance, visit these places to discover exceptional cuisines and marvel at the ancient architectural features. Come and experience it for yourself.
Posted by: Trần Khánh Trực
Keywords: 7 of the Oldest Restaurants in the World