the Legacy of Midtown Market’s Famous Chicken Salad

Midtown Market, an independent family-owned grocery in Danville, VA gained national attention on Cooking with Paula Deen as one of the ten best chicken salads in the country in 2015 and is still profiting off of their public recognition today. The market makes approximately 2,000 pounds of fresh chicken salad a week. Their market is also filled with fresh produce, pimento cheese, sausage, chili, meatloaf, and ham salad. Their consistency of quality in meats and respect for their customers through the decades have created a nationwide reputation for the grocery store.

The recipe for their famous chicken salad came from the maternal aunt of the store’s present owner, Jan Grant Harris, daughter of B.C. Grant Jr., who purchased the store in 1952. The Midtown Market team of 12 employees chops and mixes all ingredients by hand. Travelers from across the region come to the market to try the famous recipe, coming from as far as Washington, D.C.

The Market’s close relationships with its customers and friendly atmosphere date back to even the most strained political times in America’s history. During the Jim Crow era, when segregation was the norm, Midtown Market—then known as Church Grocery—stood firm against these discriminatory laws. Located between black and white neighborhoods, the store refused to segregate, choosing instead to serve all customers equally. This decision not only cemented the loyalty of their diverse clientele but also established the market as a safe and welcoming place for everyone.

Foodies across the country will enjoy a history lesson and a tub of nationally treasured chicken salad when the visit Midtown Market. While Danville is a small city, this southern spot near the border of North Carolina has a few noteworthy foodie destinations, including its farmer’s market and one of our favorite coffee & wine bars! For more information on Midtown Market and other things for visitors to see and do while they’re in the area, go to Visit SoSi.