New England is, of course, full of historical gems– Boston alone is home to at least a dozen of them, like the oldest restaurant, Union Oyster House–but despite their high status as museums, monuments and battlefields, none are quite like Newport’s White Horse Tavern. Built in 1652 as a home that would after be converted into the tavern, they’ve been welcoming hungry Americans since even before the US was born(which is considered to be 1776 according to USA Gov). The building is considered a National Landmark and it’s even among the 10 oldest restaurants in the world, according to The Travel!
Originally meant as a private residence for English immigrant, Francis Brinley, the White Horse was built in 1652. The two-story building complete with clapboard walls, a gambrel roof, giant wooden beams, and cavernous fireplaces, was the quintessential 17th-century American residence. Just 20 years later, Brinley sold his house to William Mayes, Sr. who converted the building into a tavern in 1673.
Since then, the White Horse has been through some serious history involving Criminal Courts, pirates–yes, William Mayes, Jr. who inherited the tavern from his father, was actually a notorious pirate from the Red Sea, very popular with the townspeople!–and the American Revolution.
Fast forward 350 years of history (and a house renovation involving the addition of a third floor to the old residence) and the White Horse Tavern is still doing what it does best–feeding our empty bellies. Nowadays, the tavern functions as an upscale restaurant serving excellent New American fare in the heart of historic Newport. Its contemporary menu features a rotating selection of New England classics, such as clam chowder and lobster bisque, as well as other classic dishes including steak frites and beef Wellington.
The White Horse Tavern offers both indoor and outdoor dining on its gorgeous patio. If you’re not one for history, you still shouldn’t skip this tavern. Their food is highly acclaimed, there’s a reason they have been around so long! Head across the border and contribute a little grain of sand in the history of the US’s longest-running tavern!
Find White Horse Tavern at 26 Marlborough St, Newport, RI 02840