These 10 Longest-Standing Restaurants In North Carolina Have Served Mouthwatering Meals For Decades

North Carolina has plenty of amazing places to eat; we’re absolutely a foodie haven. While the ‘new’ restaurants might contain plenty of glitz and glam, there’s something endearing about the oldest restaurants in the state. Those that have stood the test of time and continue to attract customers year after year…some even from the 1920s. These 10 are your best bet for a delicious meal with a side of history.

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/

1. Carolina Coffee Shop Yelp / William J. As the oldest restaurant in the state, Carolina Coffee Shop is more than a Chapel Hill landmark. Opened in 1922, this quaint cafe serves breakfast, lunch and dinner...but you can't beat brunch on the weekends. There's a reason they've stayed in business for so long. Bonus - if you're planning for dinner, stay after for drinks - things can get a bit rowdy here after dark! 2. Snappy Lunch Yelp / David H. Coming in at a (very) close second, Snappy Lunch has been a Mt. Airy landmark since 1923. Located in the quaint setting that inspired Andy Griffith's Mayberry, it even got a mention on the show. Try the signature pork chop sandwich, you won't regret it! 3. Mecca Restaurant Yelp / Ronald H. Located in Raleigh and established in the 1930's, you can dine on a variety of American fare in a cozy, historic setting. 4. Harvey Inn and Restaurant Yelp / Harvey Mansion While the restaurant wasn't established until wayyy later, the historic Harvey Inn dates back to 1804. It's one of the last remaining examples of the thriving seaport New Bern once was. If you're looking for a romantic, semi-upscale meal...visit here. 5. The World Famous Open Kitchen Yelp / Rob W. Sometimes good, authentic Italian can be hard to find, but the World Famous Open Kitchen has been dishing out the best to Charlotte residents since 1952. 6. Dan'l Boone Inn Restaurant Facebook / Dan'l Boone Inn Named after the famous Dan'l Boone himself, for centuries travelers and locals alike have loved to visit for the family-style, southern food you can't find anywhere else (besides Grandma's house). 7. The Roast Grill Yelp / Meg S. Looking for the perfect hot dog? The Roast Grill has got you covered. Located in Raleigh, for generations this has been a Capital City staple of the historic downtown. 8. Thompson's Store and Ward's Grill Thompson's Store Thompson's store was opened in the late 1800s. In the 1950s, Ward's Grill was opened by Roy Ward with his eldest son Jack. Located in the quaint mountain town of Saluda, it's the perfect stop for the most delicious greasy burgers, hot dogs, and even a shake to finish it off. 9. Shatley Springs Yelp / Cliff H. Have a seat on a rocking chair on the front porch, eat some delicious southern food and it will be no surprise why generations of travelers have stopped in Crumpler for Shatley Springs. While all the southern fried goodness is delicious, you can't beat the breakfast. 10. Kelly's Outer Banks Restaurant and Tavern Yelp / Karia B. Amidst all the tourist hustle and bustle of the Outer Banks, Kelly's has maintained a steady crowd for over 31 years. If you're looking for some fried, fishy goodness, or even a place to grab a drink while on vacation in Nags Head, stop here.

It’s really amazing how long these restaurants have been in North Carolina! Have you dined at any of these before?

On the complete other end of the spectrum, sometimes new IS good, like these two North Carolina restaurants that were just listed by Southern Living as the Best New Restaurants in the South.