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Open Since 1826 Boston's Union Oyster House

Known for it’s U-shaped oyster bar, the Union Oyster House is America’s oldest continuously operating restaurant.

In the 19th century the American people were enveloped in an oyster craze. In every town there were oyster parlors, oyster cellars, oyster saloons, oyster bars, oyster houses, oyster stalls and oyster lunchrooms.

The building itself dates back to before 1714, initially occupied by Hopestill Capen’s fancy dress goods and later served as the publication office for the Massachusetts Spy, long known as the oldest newspaper in the United States in 1771.

Prior to becoming the Union Oyster House in 1926, it was home to the Atwood and Bacon Oyster House.

A National Historic Landmark situated on Boston’s Freedom Trail, it’s known for its award winning clam chowder and chilled lobster roll. Their clam chowder recipe dates back 200 years, which they sell 10,000 gallons a year, including serving a million oysters a year on the half shell. 

This charming vintage, historic setting has numerous seafood options, from baked stuffed clams, fish, scallops and shrimp. 

Daniel Webster was a regular customer and John F. Kennedy favored the lobster stew. Today you could sit at the Kennedy booth. 

One last note, the toothpick was first used in the United States at the Union Oyster House. An enterprising Charles Forster of Maine, first imported the picks from South America to promote his business. He hired well-dressed Harvard University scholars to dine there and ask for toothpicks out loud. 

Of course they have Boston cream pie.

David Garland Jul 30, 2026 Boston MA Back in Time Bars Restaurants

Location: 41 Union St, Boston, MA 02108
David Garland
David Garland
Jul 30, 2026
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