Coffee, Community, and Vinyl: Turntable Coffee Counter Brings Rhythm to Jackson, Tennessee

In the heart of Downtown Jackson, Tennessee—just steps from the historic Madison County Courthouse—sits Turntable Coffee Counter, a place that seamlessly blends the aroma of freshly brewed espresso with the timeless grooves of vinyl records. Step inside, and you’re enveloped by warm light pouring through a sweeping bay window, illuminating a carefully curated display of cassettes, record bins, and freshly made pastries.

At the helm of Turntable Coffee Counter is Anthony Kirk, a seasoned barista who cut his teeth at Starbucks before opening his own venture. My first encounter with Anthony happened at The Local, another beloved spot here in Jackson, Tennessee, not long after I’d moved to this welcoming slice of Madison County. His immediate kindness—and a perfectly pulled espresso—signaled the start of my love affair with this community.

What distinguishes Turntable is Anthony’s deep appreciation for music and local culture. The walls are adorned with art featuring Carl Perkins, Valerie June, and Gil Scott-Heron—all icons with a significant place in Tennessee’s rich musical tapestry. This homage extends to the rows of vinyl and cassette tapes meticulously selected and sold by Greenhawk Records, where you might spot a Guns N’ Roses cassette beside other beloved classics. It’s a visual reminder that Turntable is as much a shrine to music as it is a coffee shop.

Of course, the coffee and food offerings hold center stage. Whether you’re sipping a velvety latte crowned with artful foam or indulging in a matcha creation vibrant with color, you’ll taste Anthony’s passion for quality in every cup. The pastries are made fresh in-house daily, capturing the café’s spirit of craftsmanship that resonates through every detail—from the rustic beams overhead to the handcrafted wooden coffee bar below.

Grab a seat in one of the plush leather chairs, and let the hum of conversation wash over you. Natural light dances across polished concrete floors, giving the space a lively yet relaxed feel that mirrors Jackson’s own blend of historic Southern charm and modern innovation. There’s an unhurried quality here, an invitation to savor each sip, each track on the turntable, and each friendly hello.

As a local photographer in Jackson, Tennessee, I’ve had the privilege of documenting numerous businesses across Madison County. Turntable Coffee Counter stands out for its harmonious marriage of music, coffee, and camaraderie. It’s a stage for connection—a place where visitors become regulars and everyday chats with Anthony transform a casual coffee stop into a moment worth remembering.

So if you find yourself in downtown Jackson, do yourself a favor: wander into Turntable Coffee Counter. Peek at the cassettes, admire the Carl Perkins or Valerie June portraits, and let the swirl of espresso steam remind you that community thrives on good conversation and great coffee.

For those curious about exploring more of Jackson, Tennessee and the vibrant businesses that call Madison County home, I invite you to peruse my photography portfolio at www.mirzababic.com. Sometimes all it takes is one welcoming spot—like Turntable—to realize just how special this corner of Tennessee truly is.