This Illinois Restaurant Has Been Welcoming Guests Since Before the Civil War

It’s always fun to find out which establishments have been welcoming guests the longest. Any business that can stay open for years is a success. Restaurants come and go, but the Village Tavern in Long Grove, Illinois has been getting it done since the mid-19^th century. Officially the oldest restaurant in Illinois.

Village Tavern - Long Grove, Illinois

1847 was the year that the Village Tavern opened up as a wagon shop. That’s pre-Civil War. 178 years ago. In 1849 it became a restaurant. Back then Long Grove was a German settlement area and the Village Tavern still reflects that old heritage in the form of pork schnitzel or bratwurst. The menu is varied and vast with broasted chicken or fish, but features an Illinois favorite the locals have cherished for many years - the Village Tavern’s Chili.

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Like many businesses in the 21^st century, The Village Tavern has integrated itself into more local activities than just being a place to eat. They feature theme nights, musical performers, vintage artist events and host a pool league in their billiards room. The Village Tavern has that rustic and historic vibe that a place almost 200 years on should. Next time you are north of Chicago, chart a path to Long Grove, Illinois and become the next person in a long tradition of travelers to dine at the Village Tavern.