Juliette, Georgia & Irondale, Alabama — More than three decades after its release, Fried Green Tomatoes remains a cinematic icon synonymous with the American South. The film is notable not only for its heartwarming story of female friendship and resilience, but also for its real-life filming locations that fans can visit.
Whistle Stop Café – Juliette, Georgia
In the film, the Whistle Stop Café, which Idgie and Ruth run together, becomes the center of their small community. In reality, the café was built in an old general store in the town of Juliette, Georgia. After the film ended, the restaurant was reopened to serve Southern comfort food, especially the famous fried green tomatoes.
Juliette Town – The Main Setting of the Movie
Juliette, a small town in Georgia, was where most of the movie was filmed. Visitors can stroll through familiar locations such as the railroad tracks, the cemetery with gravestones bearing the names of the movie characters, and even the “hickory pit” area with the famous phrase: “The secret was in the sauce.”
Irondale Café – The Inspiration for the Whistle Stop
Author Fannie Flagg was inspired to create the Whistle Stop by the Irondale Café, a real diner in Irondale, Alabama. The restaurant was owned by Flagg’s aunt and was a regular haunt. Today, Irondale Café still serves traditional fare and is a must-visit for fans of the show.
Other Filming Locations
In addition to Juliette and Irondale, the show was filmed in several other locations in Georgia, including:
Newnan: Where the Rose Hills nursing home scene was filmed.
Senoia: A small town famous for many shows, including The Walking Dead, Condé Nast Traveler, Southern Living.
Agnes Scott College in Decatur: Used for several scenes in the show.
