Zarzour's — Restaurant in Chattanooga

Love this place. I worked there washing dishes two separate summers while home from college. They were my introduction to the restaurant business, and what a great intro it was. A free meal every morning before my shift began ensured I received the freshest of samples of whatever the menu had to offer each day. (Personally, my favorite day is meatloaf day, along with their delicious cornbread of course- add butter and a dab of hot-sauce to each piece). You cannot beat Zarzour's meatloaf with homemade sauce. When I worked there, Shirley (RIP) was still there serving up her delicious homemade pies (chocolate ftw) daily, while Mary worked the kitchen and Shannon wo-manned the grill. Those two are still at their respective spots, and are two of the most memorable personalities I have ever had the pleasure of meeting and working with. Even if you only visit once, I'm sure you will agree. On to the food: If it isn't meatloaf day, the kitchen meals are still fantastic, but I recommend bringing a friend so you can not only sample what the kitchen has to offer, but also have what is the GREATEST BURGER I have ever had. Each one is made to order by Shannon, and without fail, each one of her burgers are downright amazing. There's no secret sauce or special meat marinade, none of that; just a little bit of love and simple, classic ingredients, like most other menu items you'll find there. Each burger is made to order with fresh ground beef (NEVER FROZEN); Shannon grabs a heaping handful of beef and shapes out a large ball of meat, then splats it down onto the grill, letting the grill press do the rest of the shaping. While that cooks, she lightly grills the underside of each bun before adding whatever condiments/additions you request. For me: "Cheeseburger All-the-way No Green add mayo." Even though it's technically not ATW, it's much easier saying it that way. Try it...

We had made plans to eat here based on reviews, but would never have stopped in based on appearances. It's a very humble, dated-looking building, but when you step inside, you can feel the warmth and hospitality. The staff really do treat you like family they have been looking forward to seeing.

My wife and I talked about how the food on the menu is something most people have forgotten how to make, or at least make right. We both ordered country fried steak, but also a cucumber and tomato salad, turnip greens, and peach cobbler with ice cream. Everything was more delicious than I could describe. It is home cooking that takes you back in time.

Somehow I was unaware that they do not accept plastic; it's cash and checks only. Because of an unfortunate incident the day before, we had no checks or cash on us, but the owner volunteered to take us on her golf cart to an ATM. It wasn't because she wanted her money, it was because she was willing to go out of her way to be hospitable. I have given many restaurants five stars, but this experience truly deserves more stars. This was a memorable experience. If I return to Chattanooga, this would be one of my...

I came 4111mi, all the way from the UK for lunch and it is the most memorable meal I've ever had. My cheeks hurt from smiling so much whilst I also had tears in my eyes.

The cheeseburger was incredible served 'all the way'. The cornbread was crisp on the outside and fluffy inside. The sweet tea was indeed sweet but very refreshing. The sides I enjoyed were turnip greens and the black eyes beans. The coleslaw was absolutely the best and I like coleslaw.

There is no pretentiousness, there is no unnecessary flair, just good, honest food that supports people from all walks of life.

The decor tells the 100+ year old history of the place and the people I met there were so welcoming I was overwhelmed, especially compared to the fairly reserved dining experiences on offer here in the UK.

Should you go? Yes. Is it worth an 8222mi round trip? Definitely. If you live closer than I do, try and make it a regular hang-out. It is run by amazing local people who deserve any support you can offer.

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