Sweet Southern Staples at Old Hickory Social Mercantile

At Old Hickory Social, we’re more than just a vendor mall—we’re a celebration of community, comfort, and all things local. That’s why our Mercantile is stocked with handpicked favorites that reflect the heart of Tennessee. Whether you're shopping for a nostalgic treat, a hostess gift, or a little something just for you, our shelves are filled with treasures that bring a little extra joy to any occasion.

At the top of our must-try list? Tennessee Taffy—a sweet, chewy bite of Southern tradition that has quickly become a fan favorite in the Old Hickory Social Mercantile.

Tennessee Taffy: A Southern Classic

If you’ve ever stepped into our Mercantile and caught the scent of buttery, sugary sweetness in the air, it’s probably the Tennessee Taffy calling your name. Known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, old-fashioned flavor, this taffy isn’t just candy—it’s a taste of history.

Tennessee Taffy traces its roots back to the early 1900s, when it was a staple in Southern general stores and roadside stands. Pulled by hand and made with simple, high-quality ingredients, taffy was both a treat and a tradition, passed down through generations. While modern machines have taken over some of the labor, many Tennessee makers still use time-honored recipes to preserve that authentic flavor and texture.

At Old Hickory Social, we carry a selection of Tennessee Taffy that stays true to its heritage, offering a variety of flavors from classic vanilla and chocolate to seasonal surprises. It’s perfect for gifting, snacking, or simply reminiscing about childhood trips to the candy shop.

More Sweet Southern Favorites

Of course, no Tennessee snack roundup would be complete without two legendary pairings: RC Cola and a MoonPie, and the iconic GooGoo Cluster—all of which you’ll find in our Mercantile.

There’s something timeless about cracking open a cold RC Cola and pairing it with a marshmallow-filled MoonPie. This duo has been a Southern staple for over a century, famously served in lunchboxes, country stores, and front porches from Memphis to the Smokies. Whether you’re reliving a favorite memory or introducing it to a new generation, it’s a bite of sweet nostalgia that never goes out of style.

Then there’s the GooGoo Cluster, proudly made in Nashville since 1912 and widely regarded as America’s first combination candy bar. With layers of caramel, marshmallow nougat, peanuts, and milk chocolate, it’s a deliciously decadent treat that locals and tourists alike adore. Pop one into a gift bag or keep a stash in your kitchen for those moments when only a true Tennessee original will do.

A Mercantile with Heart

At Old Hickory Social, we believe the best gifts come with a story—and that’s exactly what our Mercantile offers. From sweet treats and handmade goods to locally sourced pantry items, everything we carry is selected with care and community in mind. We love showcasing local makers and celebrating the flavors that make our region unique.

So next time you stop by for a class, event, or shopping trip, take a moment to browse our Mercantile shelves. You just might find the perfect party favor, a nostalgic indulgence, or your new favorite snack.

And don’t leave without a box (or two) of Tennessee Taffy. Trust us—there’s a reason it’s our favorite.

Visit Old Hickory Social today and explore our full selection of local favorites. Your taste buds will thank you.