As longtime fans of cast iron cooking, especially when it comes to grilling, a visit to the Lodge Cast Iron Factory Store in South Pittsburg, Tennessee, had been on our bucket list for a while. On a recent road trip, we finally made it happen—and it was everything we hoped for and more.
Our main goal was simple: pick up some new cast iron pieces specifically for grilling. But the experience of visiting the Lodge store itself turned out to be a highlight of the trip.
The store is beautifully arranged, with row after row of skillets, Dutch ovens, griddles, bakeware, and even fun specialty items we didn’t know we needed (cast iron cornbread pan in the shape of fish, anyone?). We were especially impressed with the section of factory seconds—these gently flawed pieces come at a major discount and are still perfectly functional. Let’s just say a few unexpected treasures made their way into our cart.
While we didn’t have time to explore the adjacent Lodge Museum of Cast Iron, it looked incredibly inviting with its modern design and reputation for interactive exhibits. It’s now on our list for next time—along with a stop at the on-site café, which smelled amazing as we walked past. The café offers Southern-style meals and is the perfect way to round out your visit if you’ve worked up an appetite browsing cookware.
The staff at the store were friendly and helpful, offering care tips and answering questions without making us feel rushed. They clearly take pride in both the Lodge brand and the community it’s built around.
Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast, a home cook, or just appreciate timeless craftsmanship, the Lodge Factory Store is worth the visit. We left with cast iron in hand and smiles on our faces—mission accomplished!
