Introducing Irondale Cafe, a renowned eatery nestled in Irondale, Alabama. With a rich history dating back to 1928, this beloved restaurant has earned a reputation for its delectable Southern cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Irondale Cafe is best known for its mouthwatering fried green tomatoes, hearty meat and three dishes, and a wide range of classic Southern comfort foods. The cafe's charming ambiance, reminiscent of a bygone era, invites patrons to indulge in their favorite comfort dishes while enjoying a sense of nostalgia. Whether it's savoring the crispy catfish, indulging in delectable macaroni and cheese, or relishing the freshly baked cornbread, Irondale Cafe aims to please every discerning palate. With its commitment to providing exceptional food and hospitality, this iconic establishment has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Step into Irondale Cafe for a memorable dining experience that celebrates the flavors and traditions of the South.
![](https://static.where-e.com/United_States/Alabama/Jefferson_County/Irondale-Cafe_f5ab198da9ab44adfd496c285f07a5b2.jpg)
Reviews
We decided to eat here because of the movie Fried Green Tomatoes. When we got there and saw the line of people, I must admit that we were doubtful. As the line started moving quicker we got to see the menu. It was all over from that point on. The food was absolutely delicious and we enjoyed every bite. The price was very reasonable and we will definitely be eating here again. This place and their food is worth it!!
We absolutely loved our visit to this iconic cafe. The food was delicious and the service great! Stopping here for lunch was on the agenda for our recent Sister Trip and it did not disappoint. I would definitely go back!
Love this place. Down home Southern cafeteria style . Food was excellent and service was as well. If you like Fried Green Tomatoes ( the food and/or the movie) this is the place that inspired it all. Get there early. Only open 11-2:30pm and the line is already started! Moves fast and is well worth the short wait.
I'm just delighted that I read Fannie flagg's book Fried Green Tomatoes.
I was planning a trip 5 years ago but I got into a bad car accident
I'm an amateur writer I was hoping maybe to tell her how much I appreciate her for her rendition of the south so eloquently told.
The best thing in life are best friends.
K. Scott ..
You better come hungry! So much food! I got the pork chop and it was huge. I could only eat half. The okra was awesome. I don't even love cornbread, but it was the best thing ever! I tried the fried green tomatoes, just because of the movie. They were better with the special sauce. If you have room...try the pie or get it to go!
I always enjoy coming to eat here. I ordered the pork chops, they were not bad but I should've ordered the fried chicken. The sides were all very good. Loved the sweet iced tea. The coconut cream dessert was very good. The atmosphere is unique and the service is very nice.
I loved this place. Food is great. My favorite were the chicken livers and the Cole slaw. You should not miss it if you are in the area.
Irondale, AL is a small town that looks frozen in time. Picturesque storefronts, sleepy residential areas, and a neighborly charm that makes this a pocket of quasi-utopia despite being only 22 minutes from downtown Birmingham. There are two significant features of Irondale, and the first is the Irondale Cafe.
It has obviously been expanded from its popularity in the “Fried Green Tomatoes” film as The Whistle Stop. The original restaurant is still intact with an adjacent building retrofitted as an annex. The chalkboard menu can change depending on what’s available (or sold out). The hours are limited (as of my visit) and people stream in, but the line is kept moving both with serving food and cashing out.
Food is served cafeteria style. You pick a meat (or two) and whatever else you want individually to build your meal. Everything I ate was deeee-licious including…you know…their fried green tomatoes. Their catfish and chicken livers were fabulous. Drinks are constantly refilled by a quick and warmly kind server.
The other feature is that if you’re a train lover like me, a gigantic Norfolk Southern rail yard and busy mainline funnels through this town, with a parade of trains viewable from a wooden sheltered platform. I got both a Southern food feast and a railroad feast in one trip.
Well worth a visit.