Like many east Cobb eateries, Zeal Kitchen and Bar is tucked into a strip mall. But, what it might lack in location charm, it makes up for inside, with a handful of delightful surprises. Step inside with us, and discover five reasons why you should check them out.

1. Cool vibe

Don’t let the average-looking exterior fool you — inside, Zeal offers a surprisingly modern and trendy space for kicking back with friends and family for a meal. Brick walls, industrial ceilings and Edison bulb light fixtures give the space a casual, cool vibe.

2. Buffalo chicken panini

The restaurant serves both lunch and dinner — as well as weekend brunch — on its seasonal menu. Recently, one of our favorite dishes was the Buffalo chicken panini (still available as this was written). It’s a hefty sandwich, with tender, breaded chicken and just the right amount of heat; you might plan on saving half for later, but, inevitably, you’ll end up devouring every last crumb. It comes with house-cut fries, but you can substitute zucchini fries (which we recommend), sweet potato fries or a side salad.

3. Scallops with Brussels sprouts

On the dinner menu, try the diver scallops — a crowd-pleasing standby that’s served with crispy Brussels sprouts in a balsamic brown butter sauce. Simple, but flavorful, and well cooked; it hits the spot every time.

4. Zucchini fries

It’s hard to beat traditional french fries, but the zucchini fries at Zeal are a formidable opponent. These light and crunchy creations make a nice accompaniment to some of the heavier burgers and sandwiches on the menu. The best part, however, is the remoulade dipping sauce, for a creamy, zesty kick.

5. Gluten-free options 

If you get frustrated trying to find decent gluten-free options when dining out, you’ll be happy to know that a vast majority of Zeal’s menu is gluten-free (or has an option to be modified to be gluten-free, like substituting a gluten-free bun for burgers). Dietary restrictions won’t dull your meal here.

Zeal Kitchen and Bar. 1255 Johnson Ferry Road, Marietta, 678-401-7142, zealrestaurant.com.

RELATED:

<<More Cobb County dining news

Read more stories like this by liking Atlanta Restaurant Scene on Facebook, following @ATLDiningNews on Twitter and @ajcdining on Instagram.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Fireworks will be set off at dusk at Alpharetta’s Independence Day event at Wills Park. The photo shows a view of a previous year’s fireworks from the nearby Walk of Memories at American Legion Post 201. (Courtesy of Alpharetta Convention & Visitors Bureau/Jack Tuszynski)

Credit: Jack Tuszynski/PhotoJack.net

Featured

The city of Brookhaven's mayor and City Council last week decided to remove the colored panes of glass from the dome of Brookhaven's new City Centre after residents objected to the brightness of the colors, seen here Friday, June 27, 2025. (Reed Williams/AJC)

Credit: Reed Williams/AJC