Waffle House came first.
Founding Chronology of Iconic Southern Diners
When it comes to the long-standing rivalry and history of beloved 24-hour diners, Waffle House predates Huddle House by nearly a decade. This early start gave Waffle House a significant head start in establishing its brand and presence across the Southern United States.
Establishment Dates
The precise founding dates clearly show which restaurant opened its doors first:
| Restaurant Name | Founding Year |
|---|---|
| Waffle House | 1955 |
| Huddle House | 1964 |
Waffle House was founded in Avondale Estates, Georgia, in 1955. Nine years later, in 1964, Huddle House opened its first location in Decatur, Georgia. This time difference means Waffle House had a considerable lead in building its reputation and developing its unique dining experience, allowing it to cultivate a loyal customer base and expand its operations before Huddle House even began. This chronological lead often means that the earlier establishment is seen as having set the benchmark or the initial standard for the subsequent entries in the same market.
