Last Sunday afternoon we were driving from the Knoxville, TN area and heading toward Asheville, NC. We decided to take the road less traveled and got off I-40 east at about Wilsonville, TN. This took us down Route 25 and through more remote areas. This enabled us to see some smaller communities and was much more scenic. We did some quick searching when we had reception and decided to check out the town of Marshall, NC and to get something to eat while there. We set our sights on Zadie's Market which is located in the heart of Marshall. Route 25 takes travelers through historic downtown and along the French Broad River. As we followed main street into town we were both amazed and we felt an instant love for the small town. We found street parking easily and walked across the street to Zadie's. We learned Zadie's Market is located inside what used to be the original jail for the town of Marshall. The owners have done a beautiful job renovating the entire building while respecting historical elements. The walls are decorated with relics from the sheriff's office and jail along with historic pictures of Marshall. We were greeted by Donna Ray who was very warm and welcoming. She asked us if we had been in before and when we told her we had not, she was quick to share with us the history of her community. It was fun to talk to her and also get her recommendations on the menu. My wife chose the Zadie Bird sandwich with beet salad (at Donna Ray's suggestion) and we ordered a basket of fries to share. I chose the Smash Burger with mac n cheese. They do offer beer on tap as well as 4 or 6 packs to go. They also have a selection of wine. We continued to wander the building while our food was being prepared. They have an outdoor patio, partially covered which overlooks the French Broad River. The perimeter of the patio area is lined with old radiator heaters. We also learned that upstairs there is a hotel which is also owned by the same folks. We checked out the brochures and website as well and thought it would be a great way to spend the weekend. Our food arrived in a timely manner and looked delicious. We dug into our sandwiches and fries first. The mac n cheese was piping hot and also delicious. My wife really enjoyed the beet salad and is inspired to recreate it this weekend at home. Not only do we recommend Zadie's, the entire community of Marshall is something out of a book. Historic, quaint, simple, and charming. Highly, highly recommend. read more