From Valleynewslive · · 1m 10s
Ariston Cafe: Route 66's Oldest Restaurant
Route 66's oldest continuously operating restaurant serves customers since 1924.
In brief
Route 66's oldest continuously operating restaurant serves customers since 1924. The Ariston Cafe, opened in 1924 by Greek immigrant Pete Adams, remains Route 66's oldest continuously operating restaurant. Originally reported by Valleynewslive.
Route 66's 100th Anniversary
Route 66 celebrated 100 years in 2026, linking Chicago to Los Angeles with hundreds of rural communities.
Ariston Cafe's History
The Ariston Cafe on old Route 66 holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating restaurant on the historic highway, serving customers since 1924.
Pete Adams' Story
Greek immigrant Pete Adams started the cafe as a candy store in Carlinville before moving it to Litchfield when Route 66 was built.
Current Owners
Will Law, one of the current owners, said the business moved to where the action was when Route 66 was built through Litchfield.
Generational Legacy
Adams' son Nick ran the restaurant for 50 or 60 years before Law and partners bought it and changed nothing.
Global Tourists
The cafe attracts visitors from around the world, especially European travelers from March through October on Route 66 tours.
At a glance
The Ariston Cafe, opened in 1924 by Greek immigrant Pete Adams, remains Route 66's oldest continuously operating restaurant.
