Exciting New Chapter for Woodstock’s Historic Train Depot: Fire & Stone Italian Pizza Set to Open
After a lengthy closure due to new road alignment initiatives, Woodstock’s beloved historic train depot is poised for a vibrant revival. The brick-and-mortar gem at 251 East Main St., a focal point of the community for over a century, is set to reopen its doors with a brand new dining experience that promises to attract locals and visitors alike. Cheri Morris, the master developer behind the Woodstock Downtown and Woodstock City Center projects, has announced that Fire & Stone Italian Pizza, a family-run establishment renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine, will start serving patrons in late spring or early summer of 2025.
This highly anticipated opening is not just about a new eatery; it’s a symbol of the transformation Woodstock has undergone over the last several years. Morris emphasized how the transition of the train depot—from a functioning hub of transportation to a vibrant dining venue—mirrors the evolution of Woodstock itself. Once a sleepy railroad town, Woodstock is now a bustling small city teeming with boutique shops, diverse dining options, and multiple housing developments. The city’s commitment to preserving its charming character while pursuing modern growth is clearly showcased in this latest project.
“The historic Woodstock Train Depot has been a local landmark for over a century,” said Morris. “The building’s transition from a working depot to a popular dining location symbolizes Woodstock’s rebirth. This iconic structure deserves a restaurant that can harness its energy, and I believe Fire & Stone Italian Pizza is that perfect match.”
A Family Tradition of Culinary Excellence
Fire & Stone Italian Pizza is no stranger to success; the brand has been serving its community for more than 30 years with a menu steeped in family traditions and time-honored recipes. Expect a dining experience that focuses on quality ingredients and artisanal craftsmanship. At the new Woodstock location, diners will witness the creation of their meals in a show kitchen outfitted with imported Italian pizza ovens, where skilled chefs will handcraft and bake each pizza to perfection right before their eyes.
But the experience doesn’t stop there. The restaurant will feature a spacious indoor dining area and an inviting outdoor deck that overlooks Depot Square—a newly designed park that will undoubtedly become a central gathering spot for the community. The outdoor space will allow families and friends to dine al fresco while enjoying the scenic beauty of the area. To complete the meal, guests can indulge in delectable gelato, available for purchase through the window of an adjacent caboose, ensuring a sweet finish to their visit.
Woodstock’s Vision for the Future
This project falls in line with the city’s master development plans, highlighting a broader vision led by Woodstock’s Mayor Michael Caldwell. “The addition of Fire & Stone Italian Pizza in the historic Train Depot is a perfect fit for our city’s continued redevelopment,” Caldwell stated. “Woodstock Downtown and Woodstock City Center represent a generational opportunity to enhance our charming downtown by introducing more retail, office spaces, hotels, and essential parking and infrastructure to one of the most sought-after destinations in Georgia.”
This revitalization is not just about aesthetics; it’s about fostering a sense of community and providing vital infrastructure that promotes tourism and economic development. The goal is to turn Woodstock into an even more attractive locale for visitors, with offerings that appeal to all ages—from cozy family dinners to dates and casual get-togethers with friends.
A Bright Future Ahead
As the summer of 2025 approaches, excitement builds not just around the opening of Fire & Stone Italian Pizza but also around the holistic growth of Woodstock as a community. This venture into the historic train depot marks a significant milestone, not only for the restaurant but for all of Woodstock, showcasing the city’s commitment to preserving its legacy while ushering in a new era of urban life.
Residents can look forward to enjoying delicious Italian fare with friends and family in a space that embodies the spirit of Woodstock’s past and its promising future. As a community, Woodstock has embraced change while retaining the charm and warmth that has long defined it. And soon, thanks to the revitalized train depot and its new restaurant, the heartbeat of Woodstock will only grow stronger.
