Chef Adyre Mason has impacted the local food scene by making vegan food part of the culinary conversation. She’s originally from Sheffield, Alabama and a graduate of UAH. After losing her mother, Sarah, she left her job as a Systems Engineer on Redstone Arsenal and invested in herself to start The Veggie. The Veggie is the only vegan restaurant to ever win culinary awards from both the Huntsville and Madison Chambers of Commerce. She has won Alabama Upstarts, the regional pitch competition at Chattanooga Start Up Week, and has competed at the World Food Championships. In 2022 she made national history by appearing on the first ever vegan episode of Beat Bobby Flay on Food Network. In 2024 she won Restauranteur of the Year from the Alabama Restaurant & Hospitality Association.

How do you like to spend your time outside of work?

I enjoy reading mystery and sci-fi novels, trying new food techniques and recipes, and spending time with my Dutch bunny, Princess Leia!

How do you like to give back to the community, and why is it important to you?

In honor of my mother who loved serving others through food, The Veggie has always offered as much free food/dining opportunities as possible to the community. Every Wednesday kids eat free at my restaurant and every Thursday we give discounts to seniors to encourage them to eat healthy. My staff also knows that I have a strict policy about feeding any homeless folks we see near our shopping center. Typically I like to personally invite them to the restaurant to sit, get out of the elements, and enjoy a free meal. I feel it’s the least I can do when I see someone in need.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I love to color and have recently begun exploring more techniques surrounding shading, lighting, and shadows that makes coloring even more fun and challenging!

Who has been the biggest influence on your career, and what valuable lesson did they teach you?

My late mother, Sarah. Her love of green influences The Veggie’s branding, and her love of simple food made well is a big part of what inspired the type of menu we provide.

One of the best things my mom taught me was that if you do your best you never have to compete with anyone. If you are giving every bit of your talent, passion, and intention toward something then you will naturally rise without having to step on others.

Where is your favorite place to relax in Huntsville?

Hand & Stone Spa at Clift Farms.

What is your favorite workday jam?

It depends on the day but I love classic 90s music, there’s no better music era in my opinion!

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