Many things have changed since the coronavirus pandemic set 2020 into a standstill for many businesses. As the nation continues to make changes while attempting to maintain establishments, Martin’s Chicken & Waffles reopened several weeks ago. As one of the highlighted businesses during the local mayoral coronavirus updates, Mozell and his wife, Aretha, owners of Martin’s Chicken & Waffles, made an appeal to the public to adhere to the proper guidelines in order for families to continue their businesses.
Martin’s Chicken & Waffles is a minority-owned family business, located inside one of the long-time shopping malls, Rivergate Mall. As the mall has made a ‘comeback’ in service (prior to the pandemic), Martin’s Chicken & Waffles is one of the bright spots in the food court.
Mozell and Aretha Martin took a leap of faith when Mozell wanted his wife to do that which was always in her heart—cooking.
In the fall of 2017, they displayed their food skills by buying a food truck. “It is something my wife has always wanted to do, her dream, her vision,” Mozell said. The food truck opened under the name of Martin’s Chicken & Waffles. They originally considered the name Martin’s Chicken & Fish “because I make a good fish,” said Aretha. The food truck began on a lot in Goodlettsville, Tennessee. The residents in the area were very supportive of their presence and continue to visit the current location in the mall.
Martin’s Chicken & Waffles continues to serve their specialty, chicken tenders placed on top of a waffle and the public’s other favorite, the cheesy bowl. There are several other tasty menu items. On the menu are items such as the Nashville Hot Deep-Fried Burger! They still want to cater to the desire for clients who love ‘Nashville Hot.’ Aretha proudly said: “The Nashville Hot Deep Fried Burger is an explosion in your mouth!” She says that the deep fried burger is not to be dressed with lettuce, mayo, mustard and all of the fixings because you can lose the flavor of the burger. Alongside the burgers are other dishes, such as Aretha’s delicious fish sandwich.
While they had plans of serving from the food truck during the summer, along with catering jobs, the pandemic caused cancelling all the summer festivals. But the Martins continue to build their business. Clients can expect other great things from Aretha and ‘Mo.’
The business is building a brand of family support, teaching and giving the young members of their family a lesson through this opportunity to work. They’re children, Amaria, Shawn, Jerel and Montez are employed at Martin’s Chicken & Waffles along with other cousins, family members and friends. They are being taught work ethics, along with all facets of earning, saving and the use of money.
“I believe that the young people and others deserve to be given a chance,” Mo said.
He is proud to note that Martin’s Chicken & Waffles, “have good food with great customer service.” He is always concerned with the satisfaction of each customer.
The public is invited to visit Martin’s Chicken & Waffles, located at 1000 Rivergate Drive, inside Rivergate Mall in Goodlettsville, Tenn.
