The restaurant industry helped birth America and is now celebrating its 250th anniversary

Boston’s Union Oyster House claims to be the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the U.S. | Photo courtesy of Alicia Kelso

I recently went to Boston with my family for Spring Break. It was the first time any of us had been there, despite my obsession with American history and my son’s school curriculum focused on the same topic. Needless to say, we poured into everything we could in our short time there — the Freedom Trail, the Paul Revere House, Boston Common, the Boston Massacre site — name it.

My favorite experience, however, was having a meal at the Union Oyster House, which opened in 1826 and touts itself as “America’s Oldest Restaurant.” Of course, a quick Google search shows that such a claim is up for debate, as The White Horse Tavern in Newport, Rhode Island, was built in 1652, while ’76 House in Tappan, New York, was established in 1686. The caveat is that Union Oyster House specifically claims it is the “oldest continuously-operating restaurant.”

The point is that the history of the restaurant industry runs parallel to the history of the United States. Union Oyster House was a favorite spot for historical figures, for example, like Daniel Webster and, much later, John F. Kennedy (who has a booth dedicated to his memory). Nearby Bell in Hand Tavern, which opened in 1795, was named after the handheld bell owner Jimmy Wilson rang to deliver news, including the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Preceding both is Boston’s Green Dragon Tavern, founded in 1654, which hosted revolutionaries as they planned the Boston Tea Party. 

In other words, restaurants (in Boston and beyond) literally served as the spaces where strategies were created to form the union. 

How fitting then that restaurants throughout the country — big and small, fine and quick and everything in between — have made room on their busy marketing calendars to make sure they are celebrating America’s 250th anniversary this weekend. Though companies don’t break out their marketing budgets for this specific occasion, we do know that overall U.S. advertising spending is projected to grow about 9.5% in 2026 because of major events like America250 (along with the FIFA Men’s World Cup). We also know the milestone is important to many consumers; a new CivicScience survey shows that two-thirds of American adults are at least “somewhat” open to purchasing from brands with America 250-themed activations.

That said, let’s look at some of the creative ideas our industry has come up with to mark this milestone.

Before we get into chain territory, the first fine-dining restaurant in the U.S. — Delmonico’s in New York City — opened in 1837 and is reimaging its signature Baked Alaska for the occasion. The new America 250 Baked Alaska includes Pawpaw ice cream, wild blueberry lemonade sorbet, pecan cake, mixed berry jam, toasted meringue, and seasonal mixed berries. 

 “The story of America’s first 250 years cannot be told without acknowledging the restaurants, chefs, and culinary traditions that helped shape the nation,” Dennis Turcinovic, owner and executive culinary partner, said in a statement. 

Now for the chains: 

From July 3-5, Hardee’s rewards members can get a free Star-Spangled Biscuit, with sprinkles, berry flavors, and icing. Rewards members at sibling chain Carl’s Jr. can get a Double Cheeseburger for $2.50 during that timeframe.

Checkers & Rally’s is celebrating America’s 250th birthday on July 4 with a $2.50 All-American Duo, including an All-American Hamburger topped with pickles, ketchup, and mustard, and an apple pie. 

Taco John’s is offering its signature Beef & Bean Super Burrito for $2.50 July 1-2. From July 3-5, TJ Rewards members can earn 250 bonus points with any qualifying purchase of $1 or more.

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria has launched a Red, White and BBQ menu, with new pizza, salad, dessert, and beverage flavors. It is available through Sept. 14. 

From July 3-5, PDQ is offering a limited-time USA 250 Float for just $2.50 at all locations. The float includes Cherry Fanta, vanilla soft-serve, whipped cream, and blue sprinkles. 

Pinkbox Doughnuts is offering a star-spangled lineup of doughnuts to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. The selection is available July 3-4 and includes flavors like American Diva, Hot Dawg, and It’s Ya Birthday. 

For July 4, Topgolf is offering $17.76 off Gameday, as well as a limited-time menu priced at $17.76, with items such as four Smash Burger Sliders paired with chips and cookies and a bucket or pitcher of domestic beer. 

Wienerschnitzel is selling exclusive 250th anniversary gear, including coolers, four-pack hot dog carriers, and more. It is also launching an All-American Meal Deal and funnel cakes.

Portillo’s has teamed up with fellow Chicago brand Vienna Beef to introduce the new, limited-time Char’diniera Dog, a grilled beef hot dog infused with giardiniera and provolone cheese, specifically to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. Portillo’s is also rolling out limited-edition patriotic packaging featuring stars and stripes, available for a limited time.

From July 3-5, Logan’s Roadhouse guests can purchase a $25 digital gift card for $17.76. Logan’s is also serving a limited-time Red, White & Blue Cake featuring layers of vanilla cake and white chocolate mousse, topped with whipped cream. Guests dining in from July 3-5 can also enjoy Logan’s signature rolls with red, white, and blue butter.

Beyond Juicery + Eatery has launched a limited-time Fourth of July Razzle Dazzle Smoothie, with raspberries, strawberries, banana, coconut water, and lime, finished with a coconut swirl and blue spirulina.

Tender Greens is celebrating the 4th of July with a limited-time catering promotion in which guests receive a $20 gift card with orders of $200 or more, or a $30 gift card with orders of $300 or more.  

From July 4–5, Teriyaki Madness Mad Rewards members who spend $15 or more online will score 250 bonus points. 

Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar has a new nationwide campaign inspired by beach bars, boardwalks, and American nostalgia. At the center of the campaign is a limited-time summer menu featuring American-inspired food and drink creations, like Cyclone Chargrilled Oysters filled with chili, hot dog medallions, cheese, mustard, and onion, Double Play Dogs, Boardwalk Fries, the Firecracker Smirnoff Crush, and more. 

MilkShake Factory is offering a buy-one-get-one free promotion July 4, including a limited-time lineup inspired by America’s 250th birthday, such as the All-American Apple Pie Milkshake and Root Beer Float

From July 1-4, participating Ford’s Garage locations will offer guests an American Standard Burger, fries, and select draft beers or a soft drink for $17.76. 

Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard has brought back its 4th of Gelati, a 5-layer stack of blue Italian Ice, Vanilla Frozen Custard, and red Italian Ice, all topped with Firecracker Glitter. Also, through July 5, Rita’s Ice app users who purchase the Gelati will receive double loyalty punches. 

Sonic has introduced the America $2.50 Menu, available through July 12. The lineup includes the Red, White & Blue Slush Float, Jr. Double Cheeseburger, All-American Hot Dog, and medium onion rings, all available for $2.50 each. Sonic also has limited-edition cups commemorating America’s 250th birthday. Sonic’s Red, White & Blue Slush Float has also returned.

Chicken Salad Chick’s “Red, White & Blue… Quick Chicks For You!” promotion — available July 3 and 4 only — features two Large Quick Chicks for just $17.76.

From July 1-8, Whataburger guests who purchase a Whatameal with a Coca-Cola beverage through the App will be entered for a chance to win a four-night National Park adventure for themselves and up to five guests at a destination of their choice within the chain’s 17-state footprint.

To mark the country’s milestone, Del Taco has brought back slow-cooked Pork Carnitas, one of its most requested proteins, available in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or on loaded fries or nachos. The chain has also brought back Independence Poppers, a limited-time beverage collection featuring strawberry fruit-flavored popping boba pearls and blue raspberry syrup. And, Funnel Cake Fries return for $2.50.

Shipley Donuts is celebrating the milestone with limited-edition Fourth of July-themed donuts, featuring red, white, and blue icing and sprinkles. 

On July 4, all Little Woodrow’s locations will offer $2.50 select drafts. Also, through September 6, there are two limited-time offerings, including Hot American Sliders and Electric Cherry Limeade.

Peter Piper Pizza will feature a Family Mix Deal July 4 for $35.99, featuring a large specialty pizza, a large one-topping pizza, and Cinnamon Crunch Dessert. 

Dave & Buster’s has debuted a three-tier Pretzel Dog Tower to celebrate America’s 250th. Available through July 5, the tower features pretzel dogs, crispy fries, and frazzled onions. Also, Red, White & Play Fest July 3 includes unlimited gameplay, a pretzel dog eating contest, live entertainment, game challenges, and an all-American BBQ experience for $25 per person.

Happy Joe’s Pizza & Ice Cream is hosting AMERICA250-inspired experiences, including block parties, themed giveaways, and complimentary red, white, and blue popcorn. The chain is also featuring BBQ Brisket Pizza, BBQ Chicken Pizza, and America250 Birthday Cake.

Shoney’s is offering slices of its signature Legendary Strawberry Pie for $2.50 to honor the nation’s milestone.

On July 4, Burger King Royal Perks members can order a $2.50 Whopper Jr. exclusively via the BK app or website. The chain is also offering a limited-edition Firecracker Cookie Pie while supplies last.

Through July 6, The Human Bean is selling any Shaken Espresso, Lemonade, or Iced Tea with a flavor for $2.50 — up to 24 ounces.

HTeaO has launched a Blue Razzler Energy Refresher, with vanilla cold foam and red, white, and blue sprinkles. It is served in a limited-edition America’s 250th Cup with a red straw. The chain is also offering three gallons of tea for $17.76 from July 1-4. 

Jack’s Family Restaurants is celebrating America’s 250th birthday with the launch of two new limited-time menu items: the Red, White & Blueberry Sundae, $3.49, and the Blueberry Biscuit, $1.69.

Nothing Bundt Cakes is promoting its lineup of cakes for Independence Day celebrations, including Red Velvet, Patriotic Decorated Cake, Fireworks and Freedom Bundtini Toppers, and S’mores made with Hershey’s. Also, beginning July 6, the brand is introducing its Cinnamon Roll Pop-Up Flavor, available through July 19 while supplies last.

Dunkin’s limited-edition Eagle Cup is available nationwide while supplies last, giving fans a patriotic collectible just in time for America’s 250th birthday festivities.

Captain D’s and PepsiCo have launched the Alaska Family Cruise Sweepstakes in celebration of America’s 250th. The sweepstakes includes a seven-night Alaska cruise for six adults, roundtrip airfare, a $3,000 travel stipend, and more. It runs through July 27. To enter, guests need to visit any participating Captain D’s location, purchase any Pepsi  beverage with their meal and text “ALASKA” to the number printed on their receipt along with a photo of the receipt.

Krispy Kreme has launched a new Fourth of July Collection featuring USA Doughnut (filled with Cookies ‘n Kreme, dipped in red icing with stars and a USA sugar piece) and Firework Doughnut (dipped in vanilla-flavored icing with gold glitter and a firecracker sugar piece). It also includes the Freedom Ring Doughnut and Chocolate Iced with Patriotic Sprinkles. From July 2 through 5, guests can add an Original Glazed dozen for $2.50 with the purchase of any dozen or 16-count Minis at regular price. Also, guests who wear red, white, and blue July 4 will receive a free Original Glazed doughnut.

Marble Slab Creamery has launched a new Stars & Stripes Swirl Ice Cream, blending strawberry, blue cotton candy, and sweet cream ice cream. Sibling chain Great American Cookies has introduced new Stars & Stripes Sprinkles, available across its cookie lineup.

Huey Magoo’s has launched All-American Celebration, a months-long tribute to America’s 250th birthday, including three Southern BBQ entrees and Peach Lemonade. Also, available through Sept. 20, Huey Magoo’s has launched a new Southern BBQ sauce, available with the Southern BBQ Sandwich, Southern BBQ Wrap, and Southern BBQ Salad, as well as a standalone dip with any order of tenders or Tender Bites. The chain is also bringing back the Family Four Pack for $29.99 and introducing a new 8-Piece Tender Bites Meal for $9.99. Also participating restaurants will serve all large beverages in an All-American Souvenir Collectible Cup while supplies last. 

Bojangles is celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary with its patriotic, limited-edition Big Bo Box. From now through July 26, $1 from every Big Bo Box sold will support Folds of Honor and the Veteran Golfers Association, benefiting military personnel and their families across the U.S. In addition, guests will be able to round up their orders at checkout to further support the cause.

In celebration of America’s milestone, McDonald’s has brought back its Fried Apple Pie for the first time since 1992. 

Andy’s Frozen Custard is serving a new America’s 250th Birthday Concrete, with vanilla frozen custard, a slice of fudgy chocolate cake, and swirls of rainbow confetti sprinkles. It is available July 4-6.

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is launching a commemorative Big Yellow Cup to mark the 250th milestone. The chain is also offering $5 off online or app orders of $25 or more from July 2-5 using the code FIREWORKS, and $15 off of $75 or more orders using the code JULY1776. 

PJ’s Coffee has launched a new Firecracker Lemonade, available July 5, featuring blue raspberry lemonade and red glitter. A 16-ounce option is available for $2.50 at participating locations.

Logan’s Roadhouse has launched The Great American Road Trip, a summer menu timed to coincide with the nation’s 250th birthday. It features U.S. BBQ traditions, including Cedar Planked Chicken with Alabama White Sauce, Carolina Gold Fried Ribs, NOLA BBQ Shrimp, a 12 oz. Texas Ribeye, and more. There is also a new Red White & Booze cocktail menu available, as well as The Patriot, a red, white, and blue vanilla cake layered with white chocolate mousse and garnished with sprinkles.

Chuck E. Cheese is offering a Fourth of July deal where guests can buy 60 Play Points and get 30 free. 

On July 4-5, Salad and Go is offering a buy-one-get-one free Caesar Salad or wrap using the code USA.

Dog Haus has launched Glizzy SZN 250, a nationwide campaign inspired by America’s milestone. It includes the new Big Hac Dog in collaboration with food creator Josh Elkin, as well as various deals. 

Paris Baguette’s limited-time America’s 250th collection includes Stars & Stripes Berry Trifle Cake, Red, White & Blue Mochi Donuts, and Watermelon Sweet Cream Energy Infusion. 

Chip City is celebrating with a promotion that includes two Chewie cookies for $2.50 with any purchase of $10 or more for a limited time. Chewies typically retail for $3.50 each. 

Contact Alicia Kelso at Alicia.Kelso@informa.com 

Follow her on TikTok: @aliciakelso