Notes:

73C4+5Q Roanoke, Virginia

Founded by Isaac N. “Nick” Bullington, an advance man for Ringling Bros. Circus, who collected short-order recipes in his travels, while also scouting for a good location to settle down and open a restaurant. The famous “chile” is based on a San Antonio recipe he picked up, and inspired the name. The ten-stool eatery was built right where it is now, based on a handshake, and is still in the Bullington family.

Links:

• Texas Tavern (Facebook)