CJ’s Grub Shack: Delicious Food and Lakeside Views
Tucked along the banks of Cypress Lake, CJ’s Grub Shack is bringing fresh flavor and a relaxed atmosphere to Bossier Parish’s dining scene. With lakefront views stretching out just beyond your table, it’s the kind of spot where good food meets a great atmosphere.
Upon entering Cypress Black Bayou Park, guests will pay a small fee at the gate, but don’t worry, that fee comes off your meal ticket at CJ’s Grub Shack. Once inside, the laid-back vibe and friendly smiles instantly make you feel right at home. The menu is packed with hearty, flavor-filled favorites that live up to the “grub shack” name. More than just a meal, a visit to CJ’s is an experience where locals and visitors can enjoy delicious bites, small-town charm, and the beauty of Cypress Lake all in one stop.
The Heart Behind the Shack
Born and raised in Benton, Louisiana, owner Christina Thomason decided to follow her dream of cooking after working at Herby K’s for fourteen years. What began as a food truck has now grown into a family-style restaurant, where Thomason hopes every guest feels right at home —a place to kick back on the patio with family and friends and enjoy good food.
“I couldn’t decide what I wanted to call the restaurant, but one day I was talking to my dad. My son, my dad, and I have the same initials, so that’s where CJ came from,” said Thomason.
Although Thomason’s father sadly passed away in January, his memory lives on through CJ’s Grub Shack. She said, “My dad used to bring me to this location as a kid every Sunday. So this place has a lot of memories. I feel like my dad is here with me.”
A Menu Made for Everyone
CJ’s menu is all about homestyle Cajun food and comforting flavors. From fried seafood baskets and juicy burgers to po’boys stacked high, every dish reflects Louisiana’s love for food that brings people together. Pair it with a cold drink, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a lakeside afternoon.
“We have a little bit of everything here. Chicken and dumplings, swamp fries, fried fish, and homemade chicken tenders, to name a few. I like to keep my prices where families can afford to eat, and portions are big enough that you can share or take some home,” Thomason said. “My chicken and dumplings are my grandmother’s recipe. In the winter, we sell about 10 gallons a week.”
To keep the menu exciting and fresh, Thomason enjoys adding creative twists.
“I get bored so easily, bored with eating the same thing. That’s how we came up with Bayou Fries, Swamp Fries, and our specials menu. Some people use white rice for crawfish Étouffée; we use jambalaya rice.”
Among customer favorites are Thomason’s signature dishes: fried catfish and swamp fries. The catfish is cut and battered to order, while the swamp fries come piled high with bold, mouth-watering flavor.
Though CJ’s is the perfect summer eatery, Thomason is already planning for the change of season.
“In the fall, we will have a fall menu, close the patio, add heaters, and stay open.”
Patio Vibes: Music, Games, and Family Fun
At CJ’s Grub Shack, the fun goes well beyond the food. With live music every Saturday, outdoor games, and a spacious patio overlooking Cypress Lake, it’s the perfect spot for families to relax and make memories together.
From good eats to lakefront fun, CJ’s Grub Shack is bringing the vibe to Bossier Parish, and this is one event you won’t want to miss!
Address: 551 Beach Circle, Benton, LA
Phone: (318)-349-1051