Nearly three decades after Alabama welcomed the original Zoë’s Kitchen, the Cassimus family is bringing it back home.

Zoë’s & Marky’s Kitchen, a fresh-made, family-run restaurant built off of the same recipes we all first fell in love with, officially opens on October 14, 2025.

What: Zoë’s & Marky’s Kitchen
Where: 1665 McFarland Blvd N, Tuscaloosa, AL 35406
Hours: 10AM-8PM
Website

A New Concept

Known for its Mediterranean-inspired meals and homegrown hospitality, Zoë’s Kitchen quickly became a staple throughout the South before expanding nationally and eventually being acquired by Cava in 2018.

Now, entrepreneur and former Alabama football player John Cassimus is bringing back the signature flavors created by his parents, Zoë and Marcus Cassimus.

“We’re not just serving addictive, fresh food—we’re serving heritage. Food has always been our family’s love language, and we can’t wait to share that passion with every guest who walks through our doors.”
John Cassimus, Founder of Zoë’s and Marky’s Kitchen

The name Zoë’s and Marky’s Kitchen pays tribute to his parents while keeping the familiar charm of the original brand. The restaurant promises hand-crafted recipes that are chopped and marinated from scratch: a return to the strategy that defined the first Zoë’s Kitchen.

Despite fears that the “fresh casual” market is oversaturated with trend-chasing concepts, Zoë’s and Marky’s Kitchen aims to stand out by sticking to their roots and refusing to compromise on what makes it special.

“The best recipes aren’t just ingredients—they’re traditions perfected over generations and shared with love. That’s what makes our food addictive in the best way possible.”
John Cassimus, Founder of Zoë’s and Marky’s Kitchen

The Tuscaloosa location opens in the space formerly occupied by Local Roots. Additionally, fans of the restaurant can also visit the Crestline location or the Cahaba Heights location. The Cassimus family hopes to bring back more than just their famous flavors—they’re bringing back a feeling of home to Alabama.

Are you planning on trying the new Zoë’s and Marky’s Kitchen? Let us know by tagging The Bama Buzz on Instagram, X, Facebook + LinkedIn.