The Untold Story Of Apple Lane Farms Decatur AL: 5 Reasons This Southern Deli Is More Than Just A Ham Store
Forget what you think you know about "farm-to-table" in North Alabama. As of December 19, 2025, Apple Lane Farms in Decatur, Alabama, is not a traditional seasonal attraction with hayrides or a pumpkin patch, but rather a beloved local institution and premier deli that has put a new twist on classic Southern comfort food, particularly its signature spiral-sliced hams. This establishment, located on Beltline Rd SW, has carved out a niche as the go-to spot for holiday centerpieces, everyday gourmet sandwiches, and a catering menu that defines the flavor of Morgan County.
The business’s success is built on a foundation of entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to high-quality, hickory-cured meats, which began with a simple moment of frustration that sparked a decades-long culinary journey. The story of Apple Lane Farms is one of turning a classic Southern staple into a modern, thriving deli and catering service, making it a must-visit destination in the Decatur area.
The Founders and Business Profile of Apple Lane Farms
Apple Lane Farms is the brainchild of two dedicated entrepreneurs, Donnie Lane and Zane Mattox, who transformed a simple idea into a successful regional business with locations in both Decatur and Madison, Alabama.
- Founders: Donnie Lane and Zane Mattox
- Type of Business: Specialty Deli, Restaurant, and Catering Service
- Decatur Location Address: 725 Beltline Rd SW Suite C, Decatur, AL 35601
- Decatur Phone: (256) 351-7803
- Decatur Hours of Operation: Monday–Friday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM; Sunday Closed (Note: Hours may vary for holidays and special orders)
- Specialty Products: Spiral-Sliced Hams, Boneless Turkey Breast, Gourmet Sandwiches, and Homemade Sides
- Inspiration: The business was inspired by Donnie Lane's experience waiting in a long line for a holiday ham at a competitor's store in Huntsville in December 1995.
The Secret History Behind the Signature Spiral-Sliced Ham
The entire concept of Apple Lane Farms stems from a singular, transformative moment in 1995. Donnie Lane, frustrated by the long, slow-moving line at a Honey Baked Ham Store™ while picking up his Christmas ham, realized there was a gap in the market for a high-quality, convenient Southern ham.
A New Twist on a Southern Tradition
Instead of simply complaining, Lane sought out the expertise to create a superior product. He reportedly paid a man to teach him the intricate process involved in making and marketing the perfect spiral-sliced ham. This led to the development of Apple Lane Farms' signature product: a classic, hickory-cured Southern ham with a "new twist."
The result is a centerpiece product that is fully cooked, easy to serve, and known for its distinct flavor profile, making it a staple for holiday dinners and family gatherings across North Alabama. The focus on quality and convenience allows customers to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with family.
Must-Try Menu Items Beyond the Ham
While the spiral-sliced ham and boneless turkey breast are the stars for holiday orders, the daily menu at the Decatur deli offers an array of fresh, high-quality options that have earned Apple Lane Farms a reputation as one of the best lunch spots in Morgan County.
The Famous Chicken Salad
One of the most talked-about items is their specialty Chicken Salad. It is far from ordinary, featuring a unique blend of ingredients that elevate the classic deli staple. The recipe includes craisins, crisp apples, and pecans, served on a bed of iceberg lettuce with chopped tomatoes or as a sandwich on wheat berry bread. This combination provides a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures.
Gourmet Paninis and Overstuffed Sandwiches
The deli menu is filled with creative and satisfying choices, all featuring their premium meats. Favorites include the Ham and Pineapple Panini, which combines their signature ham with pineapple and cheddar cheese on a homemade Kaiser roll, and the Turkey and Cranberry Panini. For non-meat eaters, the Veggie Sandwich offers a fresh alternative with lettuce, tomato, onion, cheddar, provolone cheese, bell pepper, cucumber, mayo, and dill weed on wheat berry bread.
Apple Lane Farms: Your Holiday and Catering Headquarters
Apple Lane Farms excels in providing effortless solutions for large events, corporate lunches, and holiday feasts. Their catering services are a major part of the business, offering everything from box lunches to full party trays.
The Essential Southern Sides
To complement their hams and turkeys, Apple Lane Farms offers a selection of homemade Southern sides that are perfect for any large meal. These sides are available in quart and pan sizes, making them a go-to for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. Key offerings include:
- Potato Salad
- Sweet Potato Dumplings
- Green Bean Casserole
- Sweet Corn Casserole
- Cornbread Dressing
- Banana Pudding (Large Pan)
These classic sides, particularly the rich Sweet Potato Dumplings and creamy Banana Pudding, ensure that customers can serve a complete, high-quality Southern meal without the hassle of extensive cooking. The option to order a complete dinner package—including a 7-8 lb. Ham or Turkey, a dozen rolls, two sides, and a large pan of Banana Pudding—makes Apple Lane Farms a true lifesaver during the busy holiday season.
Why Apple Lane Farms Remains a Decatur AL Landmark
For over twenty years, Apple Lane Farms has successfully moved beyond its initial inspiration to become an established name in the North Alabama culinary scene. The business has been featured in local promotions like the Alabama Restaurant Week, solidifying its status alongside other Decatur favorites.
The dedication of Donnie Lane and Zane Mattox to quality, convenience, and a unique product has created a loyal customer base. Whether you are ordering a full spiral-sliced ham for a major holiday, picking up a quick and delicious Chicken Salad Sandwich for lunch, or utilizing their extensive catering services, Apple Lane Farms continues to deliver a consistent, high-quality Southern dining experience right on Beltline Road SW.
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