Franklin’s identity is rooted in its history, and at the heart of it is the people. Ask anyone in downtown Franklin who you should meet while you’re in town, and they’ll tell you about merchants and restaurateurs who have helped establish Franklin as the national destination it has become. This list is a great place to start.
Joel and Carol Tomlin have Tennessee roots that reach back more than two centuries,. For the past 25 years, they’ve operated Landmark Booksellers from one of the oldest buildings in Franklin, the ca. 1808 Old Factory Store. Here, you’ll find about 35,000 new, old and rare books for sale—and even a few dangerous ones, they like to say. Also in the Tomlin’s collection are thousands of signed editions, as well as maps, prints, postcards and other ephemera that lovers of old stuff will find fascinating.
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The DeMeyers, Greg and Marianne, operate Tin Cottage on Main Street, a business that started on North Margin Street in 1999. It became known as “the happy place” not only for their curated selection of gifts, mementos, local crafts but also the cheery staff—and you’re likely to see one or both of the DeMeyers behind the counter. From T-shirts to home decor, barware, funny greeting cards and Franklin merch, this is a must-visit on Main Street.
The Registry, founded by Kathy Berry and Jane Duncan back in 2003, is another Main Street staple. Instead of fun finds, it’s known for finery—think china patterns, beautiful linens and silver place settings. It’s a proper bridal registry, to be certain, but also a great place to shop for the kind of keepsake home goods you’ll use for dinner parties and holidays, then hand down to your children as heirlooms.
A more recent addition but equally beloved is White’s Mercantile, brought to Franklin by local celeb Holly Williams a decade ago. Here, it’s high-end cookware, wonderful books, a small selection of menswear and gifts for guys, along with fashion and fun for gals. You never know what you might come across at White’s, as the selection is curated by the month, but you know it’s going to be cool.
Out at The Factory at Franklin, one key destination is Times Past and Present. Bonnie Sanchez has been there since 1999, offering merchandise focused on Franklin and Tennessee, for visitors and locals alike. You don’t stay in business this long without keeping it fresh, but there’s a vibe here that is quintessential old Franklin. Now in a new location just inside the doors from the new Carousel of Dreams at The Factory, there’s more reason than ever to visit.
If it’s local eats you’re after, we’ve got you covered. Paul and Kellye King are the proprietors of Half Way Market and Diner, which started near Southall in 2007 and moved to West Main Street a few years ago. Whether you’re looking for early breakfast biscuits, traditional meat-and-three or the best burger in Franklin, make a trip to Half Way. This is where the locals have lunch.
On Murfreesboro Road, the Franklin Chop House is another rock-solid staple. Mark Robbins launched this all-American eatery way back in 1995, and it’s been a hit ever since. Everything from pastas and steaks to soups and salads are on offer with this menu, and every bit of it is worth trying.
Back in downtown Franklin, look for Red Pony Restaurant. Part of a collection of restaurants owned and operated by Chef Jason McConnell (Cork & Cow and 55 South), the Pony is his original flagship fine dining spot. Opened in 2006 to much acclaim, it has attracted national recognition for its innovative dishes, great wines and cocktails, as well as the convivial atmosphere. You won’t be disappointed by a dinner at Red Pony, or time spent at the bar.
Over on the northeast side of downtown, across from the History and Culture Center, check out The Coffee House at Second & Bridge. Founded by Canadian expats Pat and Gail Hayes five years ago, it’s become a staple for great coffee, crepes, and pastry, enjoyed within five themed rooms or in their expansive courtyard. Just down from the Harpeth Hotel, this can be a hidden gem for visitors.
Finally, a true taste of Middle Tennessee terroir can be found at Betty Reed’s produce stand on Fourth Avenue North, near the newly opened Bicentennial Park. While we don’t know exactly when it opened, it’s been around for this author’s 48 years at least. In season, you’ll find fresh produce from Williamson County and parts beyond, as well as jams, jellies and pickled goods. There are plants and flowers as well, and the requisite pumpkins and fir trees during the holidays. This is an old-school farmstand, now run by Ms. Reed’s grandsons, and it’s worth a stop if you crave a bit of old Franklin.
These are the kinds of people and places that make Franklin unique, and we couldn’t be more proud to have them.
