Exploring Life & Business with Tara Stouder of The Mockingbird Restaurant

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tara Stouder.

Tara, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
During lockdowns, I decided to leave my job as a public servant and pursue a passion of mine- being a chocolatier. I had run a chocolate shop with my ex-husband for 9 years and have been trained by a man out of Belgium. While pursuing this dream, I was bartending part time at the Mockingbird. My former boss knew I was looking for retail space for my business and approached me with an offer to buy the restaurant. After much deliberation, my father agreed to partner with me with the intention that in our second year of business I would be able to start producing chocolates on the property. He comes from a long line of restauranteurs, so it’s maybe not as crazy as it sounds! We’ve owned the restaurant for just over a year and although it’s been a wild ride, it’s been great!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Obviously, the pandemic created so many roadblocks for us. Staffing shortages, supply chain issues, bad reviews from angry people, and less revenue are just a few things we’ve had to overcome. Not to mention the condition the business was in when we took over wasn’t great, so we have spent a lot of time and money getting that up to par. We also had to make some major staffing changes which was considerably difficult. I spent a lot of time away from my children the first 6 months working 10–14-hour days.

We’ve been impressed with The Mockingbird Restaurant, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Mockingbird is a full-service restaurant located in an 1850’s farmhouse with ties to the civil war and battle of Spring Hill. We specialize in elevated southern cuisine that focuses on the resiliency of our region. Southern cooking is known for its resiliency. Even when we’ve had weeks, where we were unable to get certain foods, we put our heads together and created a delicious substitute for our guests. We like to call it elevated rustic- going to Granny’s house for Sunday dinner with a modern twist. We have a full bar with an impressive bourbon list and craft cocktails made with fresh juices. We are also known for our murder mystery dinners, high teas, outdoor concerts, and wedding receptions. We are working towards becoming a destination that draws people to our community. In 2022 we will be planting a large garden and wildflower field for an even more authentic southern farmhouse experience. I’m most proud of my team and how hard they’ve worked over the past year. I truly could not ask for a better work family! The Mockingbird is come as you are- dressed up or dressed down, be prepared for an amazing experience!

What makes you happy?
My 5 children. They are without a doubt my greatest accomplishment in this world. It is hard to find that work life balance as a single mom, but love covers everything.

Pricing:

• Average per dinner $30
• Murder Mystery $60
• High Tea $35

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.themockingbirdtn.com
• Instagram: @mockingbirdrestaurant
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themockingbirdrestaurant