Healthy Food Renaissance in Upper Cumberland: Discovering Organic Markets and Bakeries

The Upper Cumberland region is undergoing a fascinating transformation: a healthy food renaissance that’s as unique as it is exciting.

When we decided to move here, we already knew Tennessee had a rich farming landscape, so we expected to have access to plenty of locally produced food. Our family prioritizes eating grass-finished beef, avoiding seed oils, and keeping carbs in check to maintain what we consider a healthy diet. Having local farmers nearby has always made sourcing fresh, high-quality ingredients easier, so we looked forward to finding new favorite farms.

What we didn’t expect, however, was to discover grocery stores that prioritize healthy, additive-free foods. While exploring the area and meeting people during our school tours, we kept hearing recommendations for stores with excellent options for healthy eating.

The first place we visited was the Farmers’ Storehouse, Organic Food Co-Op, Flour Mill & Bakery. This place was incredible. In a town of fewer than 5,000 people, we found products we couldn’t even find back in Richmond, VA. The Farmers’ Storehouse offers only healthy products, holding high standards for every supplier. From an impressive array of wheat variants and baked goods to fresh produce, everything here is pure and free of additives—just real food everywhere you look. They even make organic pizza, a rarity in most places! The owners are passionate about what they do, and we already know this will be a regular stop for our family.

Initially, we thought this store was a rare gem, a one-of-a-kind find in the area. But to our surprise, the very next day we stumbled upon an organic bakery called Meg’s Bread, attached to a cozy cafe called West Side Grocery in Cookeville. Their selection of organic baked goods was exceptional, with shelves filled with healthy products we struggle to find in Richmond.

In just two days of casual exploring, we found two incredible stores offering remarkably clean, healthy food options. It’s clear there’s a growing community of health-conscious people in the Upper Cumberland, people who recognize the food supply’s increasing adulteration and are committed to quality. We’re genuinely encouraged by the range and availability of healthy food here, and it’s exciting to see this vibrant food culture developing in the region.