The birth of an idea for a family style dining experience, with an old-time cafe feel, and lively railroad theme began to take hold. Many generations of the McMichael family have a long-standing history involving both the railroad and small town cafes. The combination of tradition, reputation, and the potential for growth was exciting. In 1995, the concept for WhistleStop Cafe Restaurants was developed by Bill McMichael Jr, the President of WhistleStop Products.

The detailed concept involves a depot style building complete with water tower, a hometown cafe feel with a railroad theme, great food and quality family dining in a fun atmosphere. Traditional down home and delicious WhistleStop Cafe food would be the mainstay of the menu. Regional specialties that would include railroad jargon, such as Flat Car pancakes and Hobo stew, Roundhouse breakfast platter, and ChooChoo Cheese Cake, to name a few, all help to present a fun filled family dining atmosphere. A train will run around the ceiling of the restaurant announcing daily specials and Happy Birthdays to little Tommy or happy anniversary to Aunt Sue and Uncle Harry. The Hostess would boom "All Aboard, Johnson party, your table is ready". Trains, whistles, and lights bring to life the unique concept. The country store inside will offer a quaint shop including railroad related merchandise, WhistleStop mixes, seasonings, sauces, and much more.

The connection to the history and heritage of the WhistleStop Cafe are central to the concept. The name, unique family dining experience, well designed layout, ambience, logo and national name recognition presented through the movie 'Fried Green Tomatoes' present unique opportunities for marketing and advertising. Fannie Flagg loves the concept and has said that she could help wait tables at grand openings!

In an effort to get Mom and Dad retired, the McMichael family sold the Irondale Cafe in 2000. The rights to the name, all registered trademarks, food products and restaurant concept were all retained by GHC for continued use and development. The detailed concept, including professional renderings, layouts, theme, and decor are available to build an exciting business opportunity. We see a big winner coming down the tracks. Call Bill McMichael personally to discuss the WhistleStop Cafe Concept.