RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN - Multiple generations have visited the restaurant known locally for its fresh seafood, buffalo wings, curly fries, and chicken fingers. Over the years, residents have relished each bite of this family-operated business as it grew and expanded. One of the original owners thought about naming the establishment Rooster’s, but someone else took that name in Nashville for another eatery. The decision was then made in 1985 to call the new restaurant Tooter’s, but that name didn’t last long. Proximity to a Florida venue that opened exactly 2-years prior, spawned a name change when the Clearwater restaurant grew outside of the Sunshine State. The pivotal decision to shorten the name by dropping the "ers" and adding an apostrophe led to the beloved “Toot’s,” which would soon become a household name in the area.
Running a restaurant is not always an easy task. According to the National Restaurant Association, an estimated 30% of establishments fail, and 17% don’t survive their first year in business. However, that was not the case for Toot’s, which has become the oldest full-service restaurant in Rutherford County. Not only did they survive, but they also opened a total of four locations in Murfreesboro and Smyrna.
The restaurant has withstood eight different U.S. presidents in office, six Tennessee governors, a historic pandemic, and a remarkable 288% increase in the local population. In 1985, Rutherford County was home to fewer than 100,000 residents; today, nearly 400,000 people call the county home. As Toot’s embarks on its fourth decade of service in 2025, it demonstrates the restaurant's ability to thrive, even in the face of unprecedented challenges.
Their slogan ties directly into the environment they created, “Good Food and Fun.”
Located at the intersection of Broad Street and Medical Center Parkway, Toot’s original location has served as a welcoming haven for sports teams, families, and friends for an incredible four decades. It continues to craft a sense of community by not only maintaining high spirits but also by investing in the well-being of its loyal patrons.
Most recently, Toot’s was part of a successful fundraising initiative, generating what added up to about $48 per minute over a three window with a goal of assisting vulnerable families. Lisa Marchesoni from the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office shared, "Toot’s corporate office and their customers donated about $8,700 to the annual Rutherford County Sheriff’s Shop with a Sheriff fundraiser at all Murfreesboro Toot’s locations." This contribution allowed 35 local students to partake in a memorable shopping spree alongside School Resource Officers and volunteers. “Christmas is the time of giving and our community showed their support of children in need,” Sgt. Dustin Cox remarked. This event facilitated precious holiday memories for many youths, some who were experiencing the magic of Christmas for the first time in their household.
Sheriff Mike Fitzhugh commended Toot’s dedication, affirming, “They are true community supporters of the children and the Sheriff’s Office.” This unwavering commitment mirrors the philanthropic spirit ingrained in the restaurant since its founding days. Nick Hays, President of Toot's, expressed his gratitude regarding the fundraiser's outcome: “Over the years, this fundraiser has brought Christmas joy to so many households. We cherish the opportunity to be a part of Shop with a Sheriff and are so appreciative of the RCSO for what they do for our community.”
Looking back, it's truly remarkable to realize that this New Year Toot's is celebrating its 40th anniversary. As we reflect on the countless generations of customers it has welcomed through its doors, we see great-grandfathers now sharing meals with their grandchildren at one of the four locations in Murfreesboro and Smyrna. This beautiful cycle illustrates why Toot's continues to serve the beloved daily specials we've cherished since childhood.
The dedicated staff at Toot’s works tirelessly to prepare dishes that not only satisfy hunger but also create lasting connections to treasured memories. Each plate served brings to life the essence of family and friends from post-game celebrations to shared laughter around the table. For many, those familiar chicken finger baskets and curly fries evoke nostalgic moments of joy, just as they did for parents after cheering on their kids teams.
Today, it's heartwarming to see teenagers enjoying the same meals that their parents once loved, all while sitting in the very booths or high-tops where fond memories were made. Toot’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s a place where stories are woven together over shared food, and life continues to thrive.
As community members reflect on the past four decades, they extend their gratitude to Toot's for innumerable memories. Looking forward, Toot’s steadfast dedication to excellent food, community spirit, and giving back promises even brighter days ahead.
Thank you Toot’s for the fond memories over the past 40-years, and we look forward to another 40+ years ahead of us.
