Fodor's Expert Review Hays House Restaurant and Tavern

Dining here is a step back into history. Dating back to 1857, it is the oldest continuously operating restaurant west of the Mississippi. Daniel Boone's great-grandson, Seth Hays, arrived in Council Grove in 1847 and a decade later he built this restaurant, which, at the time, included a trading post. Historic pictures of the building and area line the walls, and antique church pews serve as booths. Hearty portions range from the signature "trail mix" (eggs scrambled with green chilis, ham, hash browns, and cheese, with a fluffy biscuit on the side) for breakfast to salmon and prime rib for dinner.