A diner in Providence, Rhode Island
Vehicle
12 Dorrance StPhone: (401) 862-6703
Status: Open for business
Last Updated: Jan. 17, 2019
Condition: Fair amount of change
Notes:
RHFQ+H2 Providence, Rhode Island
SW corner Dorrance & Fulton Sts. Diner is mobile and is elsewhere when not in service.
Oldest restaurant of any kind in Providence, and oldest continuous diner operation in the world. Originally opened at least as early as 1888, then replaced in 1893 with Buckley White House Cafe, then 1906 Barrier wagon. The current fabrication was built on a Freuhauf flatbed by Fred W. Morse Co., who were located on Dyer St. It was refurbished in the early 2000s, losing its iconic neon sign.
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Described variously as an icon and a health risk, Haven Brothers has plenty of ambience, albeit not of the sort most people tend to seek out. Authorities have tried to have the establishment shut down or moved on a number of occasions, but it has always had more friends in high places than enemies.
Haven Brothers Diner in Providence, Rhode Island, is one of the oldest restaurants on wheels in America and was founded in 1888 as a horse drawn lunch wagon.