The History Of The Walnut Room, The Oldest Operating Department Store Restaurant - Tasting Table

The Walnut Room, a historic restaurant opened in 1907, stands out as America's longest-running restaurant in a department store, evolving yet maintaining its rich tradition.

Originally called the South Grill Room, the Walnut Room was renamed for its striking interior, which features Austrian crystal chandeliers and Russian Circassian walnut paneling.

Serving as a social hub for women in the early 20th century, department store restaurants like The Walnut Room transformed public dining into an acceptable social activity.

Today, The Walnut Room combines traditional elegance with thoughtful modern updates, continuing to serve iconic dishes like Mrs. Hering's chicken pot pie, loved since 1890.

Read at Tasting Table