A tasting flight of four small glasses of beer, showcasing a variety of colors and types, set on a wooden paddle.

Meet the Culinary Masterminds Behind Franklin's Favorite Flavors

Chef Danielle Benson brings world-class culinary expertise home to Franklin, creating unforgettable dining experiences that blend global inspiration with hometown heart. She has built a talented Chef and Management team who shares that same passion.

Smiling woman holding a menu in a modern restaurant setting.
Four cans of Wizard Teeth beer stacked on a table with a rustic background.

Holly Bell:

General Manager

Steph Lee:

Assistant Manager

Steph has quickly become the team "mom." She oversees daily service operations and plays a key role in creating a welcoming and high energy atmosphere our guests have come to love. Her commitment to guest experience turns each visit into a memorable one!

Holly is our longest THK employee. She is the driving force behind all operations, team culture, and guest experience. She coordinates and maintains all aspects of daily operations and team support. With a hands-on leadership style and passion for hospitality, her dedication to excellence helps bring our vision to life every day!

Slice of cheesecake topped with caramel, crumble, and whipped cream.
Refreshing cocktail with cucumber and lime garnish in a glass.

Moira Sloss:

Bar Manager/ Service Lead

Kaden Smathers:

Standards and Sanitation Chef

Moira is our longest Smoke Cantina team member. She is the familiar face dedicated to making every guest feel like a VIP. She is known for her strong attention to detail, teamwork, and setting the expectation for guest experience to the entire team!

Kaden is dedicated to keeping the kitchen operation at the highest level of cleanliness, organization, and consistency. He plays a vital role in ensuring excellence in preparing each dish safely, efficiently and to Smoke Cantina quality standards!

Refreshing cocktail with cucumber and lime garnish in a glass.
A burger with bacon and blue cheese served with a side of beans.

Aleatta Markert:

Service and Catering Chef

Kendra Cameron:

Inventory and Logistics Chef

Aleatta is the steady hand behind smooth kitchen execution and successful catered events. She coordinates the flow of service with timelines and logistics while also organizing catering execution and event preparation; allowing her passion for hospitality to shine!

Kendra is the organized mind behind the scenes helping keep the kitchen stocked, structured, and running efficiently. She plays a critical role in the success of the restaurant with her attention to detail, consistency, and commitment to operational excellence leading to a great guest experience!

Lucas Peterson: Chef

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Lucas Peterson:

Prep and Production  Chef

Braden Riekel: Chef

Chef standing in front of The Homegrown Kitchen restaurant entrance.

Braden Rekiel:

Kitchen Systems Chef

Braden is focused on creating structure, organization, and efficiency throughout the kitchen. He maintains cooler systems and workstation efficiency to streamline daily operations. He plays an important role in supporting a fast paced kitchen to operate on teamwork and quality.

Lucas builds the foundation for daily preparation and consistency. Responsible for overseeing production and  kitchen readiness; he ensures the kitchen is always prepared to deliver food that Smoke Cantina has become known for. Consistency and quality in every plate.