URGENT UPDATE: Lookout Kitchen restaurants in Oklahoma state parks are set to reopen after reaching a crucial agreement with the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation (OTRD). The Lake Murray State Park location will resume operations on July 15 at 8:00 AM, offering full breakfast service. Additional locations, including Beavers Bend and Quartz Mountain, are slated to reopen on July 19 at 11:00 AM.
This development comes after OTRD suspended restaurant operations at all six Lookout Kitchen locations due to unresolved financial disputes. The department cited “repeated failures” to fulfill monthly payment obligations, totaling over $254,000 in past due payments and an additional $500,000 for a letter of credit. Lookout Kitchen, which took over operations after Swadley’s Foggy Bottom Kitchen was removed amid legal issues, expressed disappointment over the situation but is now eager to move forward.
Rep. Tammy Townley, chair of the House committee on tourism, emphasized the importance of supporting Lookout Kitchen’s success. “Everything is being done to ensure they thrive,” she stated, reflecting a sense of optimism for the restaurant group’s future.
The conditional agreement includes a payment plan to settle a $274,585.88 balance, with a significant payment of $65,000 already made on July 14. OTRD Executive Director Sterling Zearley noted that this plan provides a pathway for compliance while maintaining valuable amenities for park guests.
In a statement, Lookout Kitchen expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reopen. They reassured the public of their commitment to the communities they serve and their excitement to resume operations. “We made sure all of our team members were taken care of during this downtime,” the spokesperson said, emphasizing their dedication to providing jobs for Oklahomans.
This agreement marks a significant turnaround for Lookout Kitchen, which faced serious financial scrutiny in recent months. With operations resuming, park visitors can look forward to enjoying meals at these popular locations, ensuring that the local economy benefits from increased foot traffic.
As this story develops, visitors are encouraged to support their local restaurants and enjoy the offerings at Oklahoma’s state parks. Keep an eye on updates as Lookout Kitchen reestablishes its presence across the state.
