Since opening in 2014 on Historic Marietta Square, The Marietta Local has become Georgia’s hidden gem breakfast spot for authentic Southern comfort food. 🍳
Owners Jim and Sophia Tidwell spent years searching for the perfect location before discovering a building from 1906 that they lovingly restored to its original character.
This family-owned Marietta breakfast destination serves made-from-scratch dishes, including their famous award-winning fried chicken that has won the “Big Chicken Award” at Taste of Marietta five years running.
How The Marietta Local won Marietta’s hearts
Jim Tidwell, who has been in the Atlanta area for 30 years, recognized the need for a unique, family-oriented restaurant where locals could gather for modern-day home-cooking—and The Marietta Local was born.
The restaurant’s success stems from its mission to “make meals memorable, one plate at a time” using fresh, locally-sourced products and chef-driven menu items made from scratch. 🌟
What truly won hearts is their award-winning fried chicken that earned the “Big Chicken Award” for Marietta’s best fried chicken three consecutive years (and ultimately five years in a row), drawing accolades from all over the country.
Customers consistently rave about the expertly prepared fried chicken with special seasoning and amazing maple syrup, calling the chicken and French toast combo “a local favorite” that’s worth visiting every three months.
The restaurant actively supports the community by sponsoring several Marietta City Elementary Schools and staying involved with multiple community activities on and around Marietta Square.
This combination of locally-sourced ingredients, award-winning dishes, old-fashioned customer service, and genuine community investment transformed The Marietta Local into a beloved Georgia breakfast institution where tourists and locals alike flock for unforgettable Southern cooking.
Food Highlights
- Local Benedict: A popular benedict creation featuring the restaurant’s signature touches on the classic dish for a Southern-inspired twist.
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Fried Chicken and French Toast: The 2014 and 2015 Taste of Marietta Award-winning signature dish featuring expertly prepared fried chicken with special seasoning served alongside French toast with 100% pure maple syrup. 🍗
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Nashville Hot Chicken: A customer-proclaimed favorite that delivers authentic heat better than most Nashville spots, showcasing bold spice and crispy perfection.
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Local Breakfast Skillet: A hearty skillet creation featuring breakfast potatoes topped with gravy, cheese, peppers, onions, an egg, and your choice of protein.
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Three Egg Omelettes: Big, hearty omelettes with customizable options including bacon, ham, sausage, peppers, onions, cheese, mushrooms, and tomatoes served with potato hash and toast. 🥚
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Homemade Biscuits and Gravy: Made-from-scratch comfort featuring fluffy homemade biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy.
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Breakfast Burrito: A customer favorite described as outstanding, packed with eggs and savory fillings for a hearty handheld option.
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Apple French Toast: A popular sweet option featuring warm Granny Smith apples and 100% pure maple syrup. 🍎
Atmosphere
The restaurant’s beautifully restored 1906 building creates an authentic historic atmosphere that amazes every guest who walks through the door.
The Marietta Local’s renovated space returned the building to its original, period-correct character with an open kitchen that showcases the cooking process. 🏛️
The interior reflects its past as a hardware and feed store, with outdoor seating available on Historic Marietta Square for those who want to soak in the downtown ambiance.
The vibe perfectly captures Jim Tidwell’s vision: a laid-back, family-friendly gathering spot where friendly greetings welcome you immediately and the pleasant atmosphere encourages conversation over memorable Southern comfort food.
Bottom Line
Visit for five-time award-winning fried chicken that’s the best in Marietta, the famous chicken and French toast combination served all day, made-from-scratch menu items using fresh locally-sourced ingredients, and a beautifully restored historic building on Marietta Square. ✨
Address:
148 Roswell St SE, Marietta, GA 30060
📞 (770) 766-8403
🕔 Open Mon-Sat 9 AM–2 PM (closed Sun)