I found this book a little hard to get into, because of the harsh transitions between chapters. Every chapter changes time period, location and character, often cutting off stories in the middle to go somewhere else. Over time I got more used to it, but it was definitely a slower read because of the lack of flow. I was really invested in the love story between Ruth and Idgie, I could've taken a book just about that. They seem to be accepted as partners, though never referred to as such, and the word "lesbian" never graces the page. Just call them what they are! I guess it was published in 1987. 
The atmosphere in Ninny's stories is just great, tangible and alive. Those were the best parts for me, I could've done with less present day I think. I wasn't very invested in Evelyn's story.