'Classic' Tennessee Eatery Named 'Oldest Restaurant' In The State
By Sarah Tate
May 16, 2025
Have you ever dined at the oldest restaurant in Tennessee?
Restaurants open and close all the time but there are some that have lingered for decades, the establishments that have created a lasting legacy in some fashion, whether through charming decor, laid-back atmosphere or simply good food and service.
Using reviews, awards and accolades as well as first-hand experience, LoveFood compiled a list of the "oldest restaurant" in each state that is "worth seeking out and still serves great food." These are the establishments that have stood the test of time and have continued to draw in diners who return again and again to explore what the eatery has to offer.
So which Tennessee restaurant was named the oldest in the state?
The Arcade
This Memphis eatery has been around for more than a century and has even brought in some famous customers, including none other than the King himself, Elvis Presley. The Arcade, which has a 4.1 star rating on Google and more than 4,100 reviews, is located at 540 S. Main Street.
Here's what LoveFood had to say about this "classic" eatery:
"Open since 1919, The Arcade is the oldest café in Memphis. It's loved for its menu of classic Southern dishes and its retro décor, which has been in place since the 1950s. Elvis Presley was a fan of the joint and, these days, not only can you reserve a spot in what was his favorite booth, but you can also enjoy his dish of choice: a peanut butter, bacon, and banana sandwich."
See the full list at lovefood.com to read more about the most historic restaurants around the country. You can also see our previous coverage of the eatery named the "best cult-favorite restaurant" in Tennessee.