A North Alabama restaurant known for its fresh seafood and personalized service is expanding its footprint by bringing a new dining experience to one of the state’s most-visited outdoor destinations.
Lash’s Seafood is now operating the waterfront restaurant at Joe Wheeler State Park, a move state officials say is already improving the experience for visitors.
“We want to offer a first-class experience at all of our State Parks, and the addition of Lash’s Seafood at Joe Wheeler State Park has definitely enhanced our guests’ experience,” State Parks Director Matthew Capps said. “Whether it’s the expanded menu options or the incredible service, Lash’s provides a ‘wow’ factor. That’s why it’s a win-win for everyone.”
The Rogersville-based restaurant, owned by Brenda and Tim Dison, first opened in 2020 and has since built a regional following. The opportunity to expand into the state park system came in late 2025, when Lash’s became the official restaurant operator at Joe Wheeler.
Since then, visitors have responded positively to both the menu and the service.
From Thursday through Sunday, the restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner overlooking the Tennessee River, with menu options that include fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, burgers and sandwiches.
Owner and chef Brenda Dison said the focus remains on creating a welcoming environment for guests.
“We want people to come to the park,” Brenda said. “We want to be a place where people can enjoy a wonderful meal, relax and experience everything the park has to offer.”
That approach extends to customer service. Dison recalled accommodating a diner who requested a dish not listed on the menu.
“Absolutely,” replied Dison, and the dish arrived on the table minutes later.
Park visitors can pair the dining experience with a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, golfing and fishing, as well as lodging at the park’s resort and cabins.
“We have a resort right here in our backyard that everyone should come see,” Dison said.
With demand growing, the Disons are already considering future upgrades to the restaurant space, including additional seating and possible enhancements to the waterfront area.
Plans under consideration include a tiki-style hut for boaters and the addition of live local music.
“We want to be a place where people come to relax, eat great food and have a good time,” Dison said.
Lash’s Seafood also provides catering services for events at the park’s convention center, which can accommodate up to 500 guests depending on seating configuration.
Joe Wheeler State Park spans more than 2,500 acres along the Tennessee River and features a resort lodge, golf course, marina and extensive outdoor recreation opportunities.
The park is one of 21 sites managed by the Alabama State Parks Division, which oversees more than 50,000 acres of public land and relies largely on visitor fees and partnerships to support operations.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
