EDITOR’S NOTE: Unfortunately, Henpeck Market is now closed. But since it was such a popular place, we’re keeping this article here — so you’ll know what it was like.. and why it was such a popular Franklin establishment.
Here’s the original article…
At the corner of Highway 431 (Lewisburg Pike) and Henpeck Lane sits a sweet Victorian house with a wrap-around porch and a row of gas pumps out in front of it.
Henpeck Market is one of those establishments I’ve driven by for years but never stopped to see what was inside. I assumed that, since it was a gas station, there would be a small convenience store inside and nothing more.
Finally, a couple weeks ago while looking for property for some clients, I decided to pull into the parking lot. It was noon, and there was literally nowhere to park… the place was packed! So I found an empty space near the road and headed to the front door.
As soon as I walked in, I was surprised to see that it was much more than just a little market!
Don and Jackie Gregory own the place and, yes, there’s a gas station outside and the typical convenience store type merchandise inside — but did you know there is also a café and restaurant? Oh, and a little gift shop and organic produce section, too?!
There’s more… soon they’ll even have a post office inside!
First Impressions
There was a long line of people waiting to order lunch, and even though I hadn’t planned on eating there, I was drawn in by the crowd and the aroma.
As I stood there looking into the case of deliciously prepared goodies, I found myself wanting to try everything!
The Menu
There were busy bees behind the counter working diligently to cook, prepare and serve orders. I saw everything from meatloaf to tamales, fried chicken to Philly cheesesteak sandwiches.
I saw what looked to be some awesome buttermilk biscuits, country ham, soups, vegetables and other country fixin’s which are regularly available. Definitely plenty of reasons to come back again and again!
When I asked for a menu, the response I got went something like this, “Honey, we don’t keep a menu because we change our minds every day as to what we’re gonna make!” It was great…
When it was my turn, I ordered the tarragon chicken salad. The price was $4.50 for a large serving of salad, and it was some of the best I’ve ever put in my mouth (just don’t tell anyone I ate the whole cup in one sitting).
It’s The Little Things
I walked around the market a bit before heading out to the car and noticed several interesting things which will draw me back there often.
Wherever there is room, a table and chairs or sofa has been placed so guests can sit and eat or gather for conversation over a cup of coffee.- There’s a cute gourmet café counter where you can purchase a latte or cappuccino made with coffee from Bongo Java.
- The atmosphere is warm and homey, just like going to a friend’s or family member’s house — it is the Gregory’s house, after all.
- Right inside the front door is an area where you can purchase little gift items such as stationery, wall plaques and décor.
- Henpeck Market has their own line of souvenirs such as t-shirts, bumper stickers and wall plaques with their logo “Simply Living Life”. I’ve seen these bumper stickers on cars around town, but didn’t realize where they originated.
- Towards the back of the store you’ll find the typical convenience store type merchandise and then in the far right back corner of the store is a section of organic produce!
- I must admit, though, my favorite section of the market is the bakery counter. Oh my word, what a selection! With everything from cookies to cakes, pies to blondies, there is literally a treat for every taste bud. They say their oatmeal cookies are the best around.
- Since the market is open from 5:30 am until 8:00 pm (Mon-Sat), they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant is closed on Sundays… I guess everyone needs a break.
- I noticed a brochure while standing in line where they now offer picnic meals delivered to the nearby Arrington Vineyards.
- This fall, the market is planning a pumpkin patch and live music to entertain the guests and welcome the fall season.
There’s Even Live Music
Henpeck Market also hosts Bluegrass Jam Session, where musicians come to pick and strum up their favorite Bluegrass tunes for the crowd, while the market serves up great country cooking.
If you think this place is popular during the daytime, just wait until the live music evenings — where it’s always standing room only!
Apparently, I’m not the only one raving about Henpeck Market. The establishment has been featured in Southern Living Magazine, among other publications closer to home. It’s a must see, a must eat, and a must repeat… in a very unexpected location!
Henpeck Market
1268 Lewisburg Pike
Franklin, Tennessee 37064
What’s Next For Henpeck Market?…
Henpeck Market closed in 2017.
In its place at the corner of Lewisburg Pike and Henpeck Lane will be a preschool called Ivybrook Academy — the preschool is set to open in 2019.
By day, I’m a full time residential real estate consultant in Franklin, Tennessee. When I’m not working, I enjoy exploring Franklin with my son, doing yardwork and home improvement projects.
