Eye on Cherokee, Atlanta, GA (2025)

06/30/2025

The battle has just begun.

Falafel Fever: Cherokee County Torn Between Two New Eateries in Flavorful Showdown
Cherokee County, GA — For a place that had never seen a single falafel shop in its history, Cherokee County is now home to two, and residents are quickly finding themselves in the middle of a delicious dilemma.
On one side of town, the new Arzeh Grill offers a cozy, homey atmosphere and a deeply personal touch. Run by a local husband-and-wife duo — she works the front, while he, a Lebanese chef, crafts the menu from scratch — Arzeh Grill is small, welcoming, and fiercely proud of its made-to-order falafel, hand-rolled grape leaves, and warm hospitality.
Just a few miles away on HWY 92 stands Pita, a sleek, fast-casual franchise with a massive national following. With a polished design, digital kiosks, and a marketing campaign that seemingly launched overnight, Pita has quickly become the go-to spot for busy professionals, teens, and anyone looking for a fast falafel fix. Its build-your-own bowl format and customizable extras have wide appeal.
But in a county that just recently got its first taste of Middle Eastern street food, opinions are already divided — and growing more intense by the day.
“Arzeh’s tastes like it came from a family kitchen, not a factory,” said one Woodstock resident. “It’s not just food, it’s an experience.”
“I respect the mom-and-pop place, but Pita is efficient,” countered another customer waiting in line at the franchise. “I’m in and out in five minutes, and I can get exactly what I want.”
The debate is everywhere — on neighborhood pages, local food blogs, and even overheard in grocery store aisles. A now-viral Instagram story captured a heated debate between two co-workers over hummus texture.
Cherokee County has become a battleground of falafel fandom.
“I never even knew what falafel was,” laughed one longtime resident, “Now I’ve got a favorite spot and a backup order.”
Local business experts say the competition is a good thing — a sign of a growing culinary scene in a previously underserved market.
“People are talking about food in a way they didn’t before,” said one local economic development official. “It’s putting Cherokee on the map for something new.”
For now, both Arzeh Grill and Pita are thriving — one through word-of-mouth loyalty, the other by brand power and scalability. The only certainty? Cherokee County has fallen hard for falafel.
Whether you’re team home-cooked charm or modern convenience, one thing is clear: the real winner here is Cherokee’s appetite.

https://eyeoncherokee.com/serious-about-food

06/30/2025

Expect heavier traffic on July4th.

WOODSTOCK, GA — June 30, 2025

Lone Hobo Plans 4th of July Protest Parade for Frightened Animals in Cherokee County

Behind the bustling Walmart off Highway 92 in Cherokee County, a soft-spoken man known simply as “Piper” has been living quietly with his pack of rescued strays — dogs, cats, and even a squirrel he calls “Lieutenant Whiskers.” But this Fourth of July, he’s stepping out of the shadows to speak for those who can’t.

Piper, who locals often see strolling with his flute and a trail of loyal animals, says he’s heartbroken by how the community overlooks the toll fireworks take on animals — both wild and domestic. “I don’t hate celebration,” he told us, “but I hate the fear it causes. Every pop and bang turns these sweet souls into shaking ghosts.”

In a one-man mission for change, Piper is organizing what he calls a “March of the Muzzled” — a peaceful, early morning protest set to begin at dawn on July 4th, walking down Main Street in Woodstock. All animals — dogs, cats, horses, birds, goats, or “whatever critters need a voice” — are invited to attend with their humans.

Piper says he chose dawn not just for the symbolism — a new day, a better way — but also because it’s a time when animals feel safest. “They deserve one moment of peace before the skies explode,” he says. “Let’s give them that.”

The county has not yet issued a statement on the protest. Denizens have confirmed that as long as the march remains peaceful and doesn’t obstruct traffic, Piper and his “parade of paws” will be allowed to proceed.

Still, reactions in the community are mixed. Some residents online have voiced support, saying Piper’s cause sheds light on a real problem. Others have called it “ridiculous,” defending fireworks as a tradition too important to give up.

Piper, undeterred, simply asks people to think twice. “Freedom means nothing if we ignore the suffering it causes others — especially the voiceless.”

The March of the Muzzled begins July 4th at 5:45 AM near the Woodstock gazebo and will proceed quietly down Main Street. Piper encourages anyone who wishes to walk — two legs or four — to bring a sign, a leash, and a little compassion.

⸻

Contact Info:
For more information or to support Piper’s animal safety efforts, email [email protected] or simply follow the music at dawn.

https://eyeoncherokee.com/offbeat-news

05/16/2025

Marietta Greek Festival

When: May 16-18
Where: Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church, Marietta
What: A Greek cultural festival featuring traditional food, music, and dancing

05/16/2025

Breakaway Music Festival

When: May 16-17
Where: Center Park Credit Union Stadium, Atlanta
What: A large music festival featuring artists such as Chris Lake, Illenium, Zedd, Blanke, Cyclops, Disco Lines, Dr. Fresch, and more.

03/16/2025

Glen Burns may have exaggerated a little.

03/05/2025

On March 1st, 2025, Marietta the Gathering—a free public event hosted by the city—brought fans together in historic Marietta Square. The event united various fandoms, from anime enthusiasts and tabletop gamers to live-action role-players (LARPers). Well-organized and lively, it featured activities like LARP foam fighting, Dungeons & Dragons sessions, and miniature painting.

Attendees embraced the spirit of the event, with many showing off elaborate costumes. The furry community made a strong showing, with colorful, costumed critters gathering in the square.

The event highlighted Atlanta’s thriving nerd culture while showcasing Marietta as one of its most exciting, up-and-coming suburbs. With food, fun, games, and costumes, it was the perfect way to spend a sunny spring day in Georgia.

By Salvatore Insinga

02/23/2024

Nothing Bundt Cakes in Woodstock is a delicious dessert option, we sampled there Reese’s Bundt cake in our office and the staff loved it, it was moist and delicious. We highly recommend you try this Woodstock delicious dessertery out today.

https://www.nothingbundtcakes.com

285 Ridgewalk Pkwy Suite 104, Woodstock, GA 30188

01/17/2024

Obituary:

Thomas Marvin Akins
January 16, 1952 ~ January 14, 2024
71 Years Old

Thomas “Tommy” Marvin Akins, a soft-spoken man of unwavering faith, peacefully passed into the arms of Jesus on January 14, 2024 at the age of 71. His parents, Herbert and MaryAnn Seago Akins, Tom and Polly Kastis, sister, Debbie Akins Baumgardner and brother, David Akins, preceded him in death. Tommy’s life was a testament to the steadfast power of family, faith, and love.

Growing up in Griffin, Ga in the 70’s, Tommy’s faith was a guiding force in his life. His deep belief in Christ offered solace during life's many challenges. After surviving Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, Tommy found joy in teaching painting classes. First, privately in a home environment and then for seniors in Hobby Lobby. His warmth and genuine spirit created lasting connections and unforgettable memories. Tommy was also an avid runner and had enjoyed running marathons in his younger years.

In his professional life, Tommy dedicated himself first as a surveyor with Kenneth Presley and Associates and later with Edwards Pie Company, where he started on the floor of the plant and worked his way up to Vice President of Operations. Along the way, he was able to use his creative talents in marketing as well as working with teams to create new product lines.

Tommy’s life included a marriage to Diane Clark Smith of Germantown, TN. Although their paths diverged, the bond they created endured through their son, Thomas Jared Akins, Atlanta, Ga.; daughter, Ivey Akins Watkins and grandson, Caleb Christian Watkins of Woodstock, Ga. Tommy took tremendous pride in his role as “Grandaddy”- finding joy in the time spent together and the laughter they shared. His sister, Alice Akins (Max) Shoupe, a cherished presence in his life, also survives him. Their bond was a source of support and love throughout the years. He is also survived by his sister, Kayla Kastis Crumley of Cordele, Ga. and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation for Tommy Akins will be Thursday, January 18, 2023 from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm at Conner-Westbury Funeral Home. A funeral service officiated by Dr. Keith Wesley will follow in the chapel. Interment will be in Oak Hill Cemetery.

Photo:
Journalist Salvatore Insinga poses next to the famous Tommy Akins A.K.A the running man.

01/12/2024

Welcome to Cherokee County GA and our never ending quest for the best Mexican food in a county that seems to have a Mexican restaurant on every corner. Why because our local population can’t get enough of it. But there is definitely a pecking order on which restaurant holds the title of best Mexican food in town.

We were honored to review and sample the cuisine at El Taco Loco, a small mom and pop shop located in the gas station in front of the Bells Ferry Walmart, who has taken up stakes directly across the street from the famous El Don taco truck. Our take, El Taco Loco has the edge on taste. The owners are there every day cooking and operating this small restaurant and their adherence to quality and operations shows. If you are in the area stop in and try the food it’s Mexican street food with an authentic Caliente feel. Delicous!

https://eyeoncherokee.com

01/08/2024

Fun in Cherokee:
Toy, comic book & art convention.

January 27th
11am-4pm @
American Legion post 304
4220 South Main Street in Acworth Georgia.

Eye on Cherokee

06/30/2025

06/30/2025

05/16/2025

05/16/2025

03/16/2025

03/05/2025

02/23/2024

01/17/2024

01/12/2024

01/08/2024

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Category