Chattanooga, TN, July 29, 2025
News Summary
Zarzour’s Café, a 107-year-old cherished establishment in Chattanooga, has reopened after a brief closure. Owner Joe ‘Dixie’ Fuller chose to continue the family legacy, bringing back the original staff to serve beloved Southern classics. With a welcoming atmosphere and a strong community connection, patrons can enjoy timeless favorites and share in the café’s rich history as the oldest dining spot in the area.
Zarzour’s Café Reopens After Near Closure, Resumes Serving Beloved Southern Classics in Chattanooga
Chattanooga, TN – Zarzour’s Café, a cherished institution in Chattanooga for 107 years, has reopened its doors after a brief closure that threatened its future. Owner Joe “Dixie” Fuller had considered selling the family-owned café and retiring after the passing of his wife Shannon, but a last-minute change of plans has allowed him to continue the legacy of this iconic restaurant.
The café closed for a week in October 2023 when a prospective buyer withdrew from a deal. That setback spurred Fuller to bring back his original staff and resume operations in the heart of Chattanooga’s Scenic City. The café is known for its down-home atmosphere and is widely recognized as the oldest eating establishment in the area.
With a team that includes experienced staff like Mary, who has served at the café for over 25 years, and newer employees such as Hayley and Chris, the café promises the warmth and familiarity that its loyal patrons cherish. Regular customers enjoy sharing bits of news and gossip, creating a community atmosphere that is essential to the dining experience at Zarzour’s.
As patrons step inside, they are welcomed by walls adorned with photographs, preserving the memory of Shannon, who battled lung cancer before her death in 2022. The location itself holds history, having originally served as the home and business of Fuller’s great-great-grandfather, Abe Zarzour.
The menu features classics that have made the café popular, including chicken pot pie and cheeseburgers served “all the way” with toppings like lettuce, onions, tomatoes, pickles, and mayonnaise. Notably, the establishment still maintains an antique register that only accepts cash and checks, adding to its nostalgic charm.
Zarzour’s Café operates Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., maintaining a simple yet comforting schedule. Following the reopening announcement, Fuller expressed gratitude towards the community for their unwavering support, emphasizing the importance of continuing the café’s signature dishes and homemade specials. Regulars can look forward to family recipes, including the famous chili, pork tenderloin, and chicken dumplings.
Conversations abound among customers, often reflecting current events, such as the passing of notable celebrities. The café is not just a place to eat; for many, it represents a familial bond and a sense of belonging within the community.
Overall, the reopening of Zarzour’s Café not only preserves a long-standing family tradition but also revitalizes a cherished gathering spot for the people of Chattanooga.
FAQ
What is Zarzour’s Café?
Zarzour’s Café is a family-owned restaurant in Chattanooga, TN, serving Southern classics for over 107 years.
Who is the current owner?
Joe “Dixie” Fuller is the owner, who has decided to continue the café’s operations after initially planning to sell.
What happened during the café’s recent closure?
The café closed for a week in October 2023 when a prospective buyer withdrew from a deal, leading Fuller to rehire his original crew.
What are some popular menu items?
Popular menu items include chicken pot pie, cheeseburgers with various toppings, chili, and homemade ice cream.
What are the café’s hours of operation?
Zarzour’s Café is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. and is closed on weekends.
What makes Zarzour’s Café special?
The café is known for its welcoming atmosphere, community feel, and its historical significance as Chattanooga’s oldest eating establishment.
Key Features of Zarzour’s Café
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 107 years ago |
| Owner | Joe “Dixie” Fuller |
| Closure | One week in October 2023 |
| Popular Menu Items | Chicken pot pie, cheeseburgers, chili, homemade ice cream |
| Hours | Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. |
| Community Atmosphere | Welcoming, family-like environment with regular patrons |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Chattanooga Pulse: Zarzour’s Café
- Times Free Press: 106 Years of Zarzour’s Café
- Local 3 News: Zarzour’s Café Reopening
- Fox 17: Zarzour’s Café Owner to Sell
- UTC Echo: Zarzour’s Last Day before New Management
- Wikipedia: Zarzour’s Café
- Google Search: Zarzour’s Café
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Zarzour’s Café
- Google News: Zarzour’s Café
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
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