Suffolk announces new owner for Bennett’s Creek Farm Market
SUFFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — A beloved local landmark, which closed its doors after nearly 60 years last year, is now under new ownership.
Redwood Smoke Shack, a Texas-style barbeque joint with locations in Norfolk and Virginia Beach, announced Thursday they purchased the former Bennett’s Creek Farm Market, as well as the surrounding land to open up their third location.
Bob Roberts, founder and owner of the business, announced on Thursday on Instagram, while beginning to paint his company’s logo on the iconic cow on the roof.
“I am excited to bring what we have created to Suffolk,” Roberts said. “We have been working on this for about a year.”
The restaurant, which first opened on the property of the former Dog-n-Burger in 2019, is all about wood-smoked brisket and other meats in the Texas barbeque style.
Roberts plans to turn the just more than 5,000 square foot market into a 56-seat restaurant with a covered patio area accommodating another thirty guests.
“The additional space at this location will allow us to have a dedicated pit room for our four, 1,000-gallon offset smokers,” Roberts said.
Construction is expected to start in April with an opening set for the fall of 2024.
The former farm market was known primarily for its homemade chicken, fresh seafood, produce, and ice cream, as well as the beloved cow on its roof named “Betsy.”
A walk inside was like a trip back in time to the farming community’s roots. The market stood alone along Bridge Road. Now, it is nearly overshadowed by the sprawling Bridgeport development across the way.
Many said its departure left a hole in the community.
“We are thrilled to know the original building will be preserved and yet renovated for Mr. Roberts’ vision of its future,” James “Jim” and Martha Shirley, former owners of Bennett’s Creek Farm Market, said in a joint statement. “We have worked closely with Mr. Roberts because of his enthusiasm and commitment to seeing this through. Although sad for the loss of the iconic farm market, it is rewarding to know it will continue as a food service establishment.”
Roberts said he first became interested in the property when he heard of its abrupt closure in February. That is when he was put in contact with owner Jim Shirley.
“Mr. Shirley I think saw that we also wanted to keep the tradition of making things from scratch. He made things from scratch and so do we,” Roberts said.
Roberts said he is excited to own his first location. He leases his spot in both Norfolk and Virginia Beach.
He said he plans to pay homage to the property’s history by displaying the marque sign inside and keeping Betsy.
“She will be repainted orange and black because those are our colors,” Roberts said. “We also don’t use dairy cows.”
Retaining Betsy was important to Jim Shirley.
“I’m glad they are keeping the cow since the market roof has been its rightful home for all these years,” Shirley said. “At least Betsy the cow isn’t going to be ‘put out to pasture.’”
In what might delight longtime customers most of all, Roberts is also hoping to continue producing some longtime Bennett’s Creek Farm Market recipes.
“If I can have a to-go case with the chicken salad I’ve heard so much about, I’d love to do it,” Roberts said.
Check with WAVY.com for more updates.
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