A couple weeks ago, I showed you a different side of life here in Lebanon. Opening the door to my home and stepping away from the newsroom for a moment.
That video gave a look at the day-to-day outside of the stories. The animals, including Dewey and the rest of the crew, backyard chickens like Annie Oakley, and even a group of trained homing pigeons that can be released miles away and still find their way back.
It also touched on how this all connects to a much longer path, from an early interest in radio and journalism to covering stories across Middle Tennessee, and how that work has evolved over time.
But this week, the focus shifts just a few miles down the road to a very different part of Lebanon. The square.
Exploring Polly Sparrow Bakery (Watch Video)
One of the more notable additions to the square is Polly Sparrow Bakery, led by pastry chef Kelly Chandler, who works alongside baking partner Beth McPeak, who you’ll meet in the video. Growing up in a large Italian family, Kelly learned early on how much food shapes memory and connection. After years working as an executive pastry chef in Tampa, she’s brought that same mix of artistry and intention to Lebanon.
It’s a smaller operation, open only a few days a week, and when everything sells out, the doors close. That approach has quickly made it a destination. People aren’t just stopping by, they’re planning their mornings around it. In a growing town, it’s the kind of place that stands out for staying focused on quality over scale.
I spent some time walking through Lebanon’s historic square, stopping into a few places and taking a closer look at how the area is changing. There’s a noticeable mix of old and new here, with longtime storefronts sitting alongside newer businesses that are quickly finding their place. It may only take a few minutes to walk across, but it offers a clear snapshot of where Lebanon is headed.
📍Places Around Lebanon
Walk the square for a few minutes, and you start to get a feel for the places that keep it moving. Some have been here for years, others are newer additions, but together they shape what this part of Lebanon has become.
AMO Pianos — A place that feels rooted in another time. Rows of restored pianos, each with its own history and character, fill the space. It’s not just about the instruments, but the craftsmanship behind them and the stories they carry. Walking in, you get the sense that music isn’t just being played here, it’s being preserved. (Watch the video)
Fun Stop — A place that taps into something familiar. Toys, comics, music—all under one roof—but more than that, it’s about the experience. Walking in feels a bit like being a kid again, with people who share the same interests and enthusiasm. (Watch the video)
The Town Square Social — A place built around gathering. The Town Square Social brings together food, drinks, and conversation in a way that feels easy and familiar. From the patio to the dining room, it’s designed for people to settle in, connect, and stay awhile. Over time, it’s grown alongside the community, becoming a steady presence right in the heart of the square.
Other local restaurants and shops — A mix of longtime restaurants and newer shops shaping the square. Some have been here for decades, while others are just getting started. Together, they create a balance that still feels distinctly local, even as the area continues to grow.
📰 Other Stories Around Tennessee
Firefighters in Maury County spent more than four hours battling a house fire in Culleoka, where a 4,000 square foot home suffered a partial collapse. At one point, the homeowner’s dog ran back inside, prompting firefighters to make a rescue and safely return the animal. (View images)
Emergency crews in Lawrence County are beginning cleanup after a tornado touched down near Bonnertown, causing significant damage to homes along W.W. Smith Road and bringing down trees and power lines. Officials say no injuries have been reported so far. (View images)
Food for Thought — Nashville Farmers Market A culinary fundraiser returns March 20, bringing together dishes from James Beard–associated chefs, live entertainment, and a silent auction in support of Benton Hall Academy. The event runs from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the Nashville Farmers’ Market, with tickets starting at $100 for general admission and reserved tables available starting at $400. (Visit Website)
Before You Go
Lebanon’s growing, no doubt about it. But the square still feels like the heart of it all. It’s familiar, even as things change, and that’s what makes it worth a visit right now.
If you’re heading out, take a walk through. And if Polly Sparrow is on your list, go early.
— Nick
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