It has often been said, “you are what you eat.”

Veggie Logo And The Veggie, Huntsville’s latest dining spot, will help its customers live up to that credo.

Now in its brick-and-mortar location in Lowe Mill’s Railroad Room No. 5, The Veggie is hosting its grand opening today at 11 a.m. It offers a variety of ready-to-eat treats, along with catering and prepared meal delivery options.

What’s noteworthy about the menu items is that they are all 100% vegan. And it’s not just alfalfa sprouts and granola.

A natural born foodie, with a love of cooking and entertaining, Chef Adyre Mason came to the kitchen as a reluctant vegan when chronic health issues forced her to re-evaluate the connection between food and her physical well-being.

“I took over a year to make a sensible transition while also seeing a medical professional to ensure I was continuing to give my body what it needed, as I let certain foods go,” said Mason. “After going fully vegan, I saw my cholesterol go down, my adult acne went away, I stopped taking allergy medication, and I’ve only been sick twice in the last six years.”

After witnessing the benefits firsthand, Mason became convinced that the vegan lifestyle was for her. Her next move was to step into the exciting world of business ownership, with food as the focus.

Mason learned valuable business skills in her previous career as an engineer, which have translated nicely into her entrepreneurial venture: leadership, managing resources, and working with a variety of personalities.

A major part of Mason’s work is the joy of other’s revelation.

“Because I’ve experienced so many benefits from a vegan diet, I find other’s discovery into plant-based eating, along with the benefits they begin to feel is the most rewarding part of the job,” she said.

Mason said she hopes to leave behind a legacy of helping and empowering others, be it through food and healthier eating, entrepreneurship, or even as a Woman-Owned Business.

Recently, Mason was selected as a finalist for The Catalyst’s 6th Annual Entrepreneur of the Year Awards. An honor. she said, to be recognized by her peers for the prestigious award.

“I love seeing the entrepreneurial energy alive and well in the city,” said Mason.