Today we’d like to introduce you to Sharon Habanec.
Hi Sharon, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Southern Market is actually a really special project for us, because it ties directly back to Willow Valley Communities, a premier 55+ community, and our roots here in Lancaster. As the developer and operator, Willow Valley helped bring Southern Market to life. It really started as part of our broader commitment to investing in Lancaster — not just within our community, but in ways that support the city as a whole. We saw an opportunity to create something that would bring people together and give local entrepreneurs a place to grow.
What I love about Southern Market today is how much it has evolved. Southern Market, an 1888 Lancaster landmark, has been thoughtfully transformed into a lively gathering place centered around food, culture, and connection. It’s this incredibly vibrant food hall right in the heart of downtown, with a curated mix of independent vendors — each one bringing their own personality, background, and style of cooking.
From a visitor’s perspective, the food is such a big part of the experience. You can walk in and find everything from handmade dumplings, fresh handmade sushi, bratwurst, and tacos to a classic Reuben and creative desserts. Some days you might go for something bold and global, like Korean-inspired or Latin flavors, and other days it’s just about enjoying something comforting and familiar — but done really, really well. What makes it even more fun is that you don’t have to choose just one thing. People will often grab sushi from one vendor, tacos from another, maybe share a few small plates, and then finish with something sweet. It turns a simple meal into more of an experience. And just as important as the food are the vendors themselves. Many of them are entrepreneurs in the early stages of their journey, and they’re incredibly passionate about what they’re creating. You can see that in the care they put into every dish—from the ingredients they choose to how they present the food. There’s a real sense that every concept has a story behind it, which makes it feel much more personal.
It’s also just a fun, social place to be. There’s an energy in the space—you see people gathering with friends, trying new flavors, and really taking their time. It feels welcoming and authentic, and that’s a big part of why it’s become such a destination for both locals and visitors. But beyond the food, Southern Market also functions as a business incubator. It gives these small businesses a platform to refine their concepts, build a following, and take that next step—and seeing that growth is incredibly rewarding. For us at Willow Valley Communities, it’s all about supporting creativity, connection, and community. Southern Market really brings all of that together—great food, passionate people, and a space where something new is always happening. It’s been exciting to watch it grow into such a vibrant part of Lancaster.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like many in the hospitality industry, Southern Market has navigated its share of challenges—including the lasting impacts of the pandemic, staffing shortages, and the ever-changing costs of food and operations.
Because our vendors are small, independent operators, those challenges can be even more pronounced. Each business owner is juggling not only their culinary vision but also the realities of running and sustaining a business in a competitive environment.
Another ongoing challenge is keeping the experience fresh and dynamic for guests while maintaining consistency and quality across a diverse group of vendors. It requires constant communication, support, and a shared commitment to excellence.
That said, these challenges have also strengthened the community within Southern Market. There’s a real sense of collaboration—vendors supporting one another, sharing ideas, and celebrating each other’s successes.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Southern Market is more than a food hall—it’s a vibrant gathering place where community, culture, and creativity come together. Located in the historic Southern Market building in downtown Lancaster, we’ve reimagined a beloved 1888 iconic landmark as a modern culinary destination food hall that celebrates the diversity and energy of the world.
At our core, Southern Market is home to a curated collection of independent chef stations, each bringing their own story, heritage, and culinary expertise to the table. From globally inspired cuisine to comfort food classics with a twist, our offerings reflect the rich cultural fabric of Lancaster and beyond. Guests can enjoy everything from handcrafted sandwiches and authentic street tacos to artisan desserts and craft beverages—all under one roof.
What truly sets Southern Market apart is our commitment to being a community-first destination. In addition to our culinary experiences, we host a wide variety of events—live music, trivia nights, art workshops, and family-friendly programming—that create opportunities for people to gather, connect, and share meaningful experiences. We’re not just a place to eat; we’re a place to belong.
Brand-wise, we’re most proud of the energy and authenticity that fills our space every day. There’s a genuine sense of discovery here—whether you’re trying a new cuisine, meeting friends, or stumbling upon live music you didn’t expect. That spirit of spontaneity and inclusivity is something you can feel the moment you walk through our doors.
What we want readers to know is simple: Southern Market is a place to explore. Whether you’re visiting Lancaster for the first time or you’ve lived here your whole life, there is always something new to experience—new flavors to try, new events to enjoy, and new connections to make. We invite everyone to come as they are, bring their curiosity, and be part of what makes Southern Market so special.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
This may sound a little unconventional, but one of the clearest signs of success at Southern Market is when a vendor is ready to leave us.
When a chef or business owner grows to the point where they can open their own brick-and-mortar restaurant, it means they’ve built something truly special here. They’ve developed their concept, earned a loyal customer base, and gained the confidence to take that next step.
Of course, we miss them—but it’s exactly what Southern Market is designed to do. Their success opens the door for a new, up-and-coming vendor to step in and begin their own journey.
It creates a continuous cycle of innovation, opportunity, and growth—and that’s something we’re incredibly proud of.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.southernmarketlancaster.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southernmarketlancaster
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SouthernMarketLancaster
