A restaurant doesn't have to be a century old to be popular. However, continuing to serve great food through those years usually means it has built a loyal following of discriminating fans and generations of their families. These are favorite century old restaurants to visit in your travels:

City Tavern, Philadelphia PA (1773): Near Independence Square, City Tavern (138 S. Second St.) has been part of Philly history since before there was the U.S. It was where delegates John Adams, Ben Franklin and other patriots gathered to write the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Favorites include West Indies pepperpot soup, a delicious concoction of beef, taro root, onions and fresh greens. Also enjoy fresh-made turkey pot pie, served as it was more than two centuries ago in pewter casseroles.

Keens Steakhouse, New York City (1885): A city landmark, Keens (72 W. 36th St.) is near Herald Square and the Empire State Building. Its dark wood-paneled walls are covered with photos, news clippings, and other memories. Its ceiling displays a large collection of pipes from famed smokers, including Albert Einstein, General Douglas MacArthur, John Barrymore and many others.

A favorite on the menu is the king's cut of prime beef rib with Keens creamed spinach and boiled baby potatoes. Keens also still offers a main course, sheep mutton chops, not usually seen in restaurants any more.

The Burghoff, Chicago (1898): Serving traditional German food and beers, The Burghoff (17 W. Adams) is a Chicago Loop destination for locals and visitors who enjoy the traditional German and Austrian fare. A favorite is wiener schnitzel (breaded veal cutlet) with a foaming glass of Burghoff Hefeweizen.

Commander's Palace, New Orleans (1880): All of the food served at Commander's Palace (1403 Washington Ave.) comes from within 100 miles of New Orleans. It’s typical Louisiana French, exotic and spicy. A favorite is Commander's blue crab soup, a creamy seafood medley, with cayenne pepper and caviar. Follow with grilled Black Angus filet mignon with a side of grilled onions and mushrooms.

Philippe The Original, Los Angeles (1908): This down-to-earth, downtown eatery (1001 N. Alameda St.) still packs in happy customers daily. There are great dip sandwiches, cold beers, and sawdust on the floor. Try  the beef dip special (also turkey, lamb or pork), and save room for great desserts.