Union Oyster House
The country's oldest restaurant in continuous service lures touristy crowds with its fresh seafood and award-winning chowder.
(617) 227-2750
41 Union St
(at North Street)
Boston,
MA
02108
42.3612
-71.0569
Neighborhoods: Downtown, Central
Hours:
Sun-Thu 11am-9:30pm
Fri-Sat 11am-10pm
Price:
$$$
Last updated 6.12.09
What People Are Saying About Union Oyster House
The Owner
Union Oyster House
Owner
The Union Oyster House, located on the Freedom Trail near Faneuil Hall, enjoys the unique distinction of being America's oldest restaurant.
This Boston fixture is housed in a building dating back to pre-revolutionary days and started serving food in 1826. The stalls and oyster bar where Daniel Webster was a regular customer are in their original positions. Today's politicians, celebrities and tourists still come in to enjoy the food.
We are the third family in nearly two centuries to own the Union Oyster House.
The Editor
Eric Grossman
Citysearch
In Short
Dating back to 1826, the Union Oyster House maintains a suitably old-fashioned tavern decor, with lots of weathered wood and a casual atmosphere. Tourists and locals rub shoulders to slurp down oysters and tuck into thick chowders and substantial pieces of grilled or baked fish. Bivalve lovers gather around the old-school raw bar to sample fresh cherrystones, littlenecks and steamers. Desserts include hot Indian pudding, homemade gingerbread and warm apple cobbler.
User Reviews
CarolD
April 15, 2009
Not sure what all the hype is. Not traditional New England seafood . It's for out of towners.. that do not know where to get good New England Seafood. Anyone can get Chowder from a can, and through some clams in it!!!! Not worth the $$$$.
read full reviewAnonymous
December 28, 2008
The Union Oyster House is America's longest continuously operated restaurant. Despite the age, the food remains great. The lobster ravioli is phenomenal and so is the rest of the menu. Not to die for, but definitely great!
read full review
gelly88
November 18, 2008
I have been here 2 times over the last year and stuck with the Clam Chowder and a Sam Adams. I've eaten at the bar every time. Based on the mixed reviews here, I haven't tried anything else. I want to keep going back here for the traditional New England Clam Chowder. It is made with the traditional ingredients and I haven't had anything else in Boston that comes close. It's thick and flavored just right. The clams have always been fresh. Note, the cornbread is downright horrible, so just stick to the basics of beer and chowda and you'll understand why this place is still around. Plus, the original side of the restaurant has some great history. Be sure to walk around. I love this place and will keep going back for the right reasons.
read full reviewThe Details on Union Oyster House
Know Before You Go:
Tables fill up on the oddest nights, and patrons aren't rushed once they're seated, so claim your seats in advance.
When to Go:
You can get a bite at the bar (including raw bar treats) until midnight on weekends.
Category:
Seafood, Banquet Rooms, Restaurants, Attorneys
Payment Methods:
American Express, Discover, Diners Club, Visa, MasterCard, Travelers Check
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Special Occasion Dining, Celeb Hangout, Private Rooms, Historic Setting, People Watching, Business Dining, Group Dining, Dine At The Bar
Cuisine:
Smoking Permitted:
No
As Seen In…
Message from Union Oyster House
- Nearby historic attractions
- Meetings and functions
- Celebrity sightings
The Union Oyster House, located on the Freedom Trail near Faneuil Hall, enjoys the unique distinction of being America's oldest restaurant.
This Boston fixture is housed in a building dating back to pre-revolutionary days and started serving food in 1826. The stalls and oyster bar where Daniel Webster was a regular customer are in their original positions. Today's politicians, celebrities and tourists still come in to enjoy the food.
We are the third family in nearly two centuries to own the Union Oyster House.
