Moon Lake Kitchen

By Nathan Cavitt and Rebecca Henderson

After a long career as a geologist and environmental consultant, Robie York is about to make his culinary dream a reality and share his passion for cooking with the town of Mentone. Moon Lake Kitchen plans to open later this month in the remodeled Moon Lake School lunchroom. The owners hope to open the restaurant in time for the Mentone Fall Festival October 19.

“It’s going to be a really warm, inviting space that reflects the character of Mentone,” York says. “We want people to walk in and instantly feel at home.”

Details are still being finalized, but plans are for the restaurant to open four to five days a week for breakfast and lunch, and three days a week (Thursday-Saturday) for dinner. Dishes will include as many locally sourced ingredients as possible, and will showcase York’s Creole style of cooking. Breakfast will feature doughnuts, beignets, and traditional breakfast items. For lunch, the kitchen will craft a mix of simple sandwiches and fare such as gumbo, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. Dinner will echo that New Orleans flair in a rotating menu of seasonal, elevated comfort foods.

York’s plan is for a low-key vibe, with acoustic music to occasionally accompany dinner, and affordable prices.

“We want this to be a place where people can come and enjoy a really delicious, high-quality meal in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere,” he says. “Whether it’s a family gathering, a business lunch, or a date night, we want our guests to feel right at home.”

Moon Lake Kitchen will be a family affair, as the Yorks’ son Carson is moving back to the area from Nashville to help run the restaurant. Carson gained significant restaurant and bakery experience in Nashville-area eateries while attending college and afterward.

“Having Carson join us is a game-changer,” York says. “His culinary expertise and experience in the restaurant industry will be invaluable as we get this new venture off the ground.”

The Yorks bring years of cooking and catering experience to the kitchen. Even as he worked in the environmental field, York and his wife, Amanda, began cooking for small parties in private homes — eventually growing the effort into a thriving side business.

The Yorks live near Mentone, having moved to the area about four-and-a-half years ago and living here full time for the past two years. Amanda teaches full time in DeKalb County. Their daughter Carrie Grace is in graduate school in Nashville. She will assist with social media and marketing of the new venue.

“We’re really excited to have the whole family involved,” York says. “Carrie Grace has a great eye for branding and social media, and that’s going to be crucial in getting the word out about what we’re doing.”

York hopes to find an experienced barista to help run the coffee service. He sees the doughnut and coffee offerings as a key draw that will complement the breakfast and lunch menus.

With the recent extension of Northeast Alabama Community College offering classes at Moon Lake School, along with the new artisan shops and businesses at Moon Lake Village, Mentone continues to layer even more dimension for residents and visitors. Moon Lake Kitchen will provide the area another opportunity to bring people together.

“It’s just something I’ve always wanted to do,” York says. “And with all the pieces coming together, it just seems like the right time.”

Those interested in working at Moon Lake Kitchen can call 678-850-8327 to inquire about open positions.