I think my taste buds have died and gone to heaven. I visited one of Huntsville’s newest restaurants, Toast It Iz, a Cajun brunch and Southern soul food restaurant with a flavorful menu. I met some friends for a much needed talk about life, kids, purpose, and all that good stuff. I love this group of women. They help keep me grounded and wise.

Since I hadn’t seen them in a while, I stopped to get a little “happy” (or gift) for each friend from Wrapsody, a new gift shop in Clift’s Farm. They have the cutest frames, silk scarf necklaces, and Capri Blue candles. It is just a great store for a great gift. I was looking forward to meeting with my friends because we had heard about this restaurant. There are two locations in Chicago, and the owner, Brittney Givens, decided to bring this great brunch and dinner spot to Huntsville.

When I heard there was gumbo and catfish, I knew I had to have it, and I had absolutely no regrets. They have an interesting menu with plenty of good plates to choose from.

NOLA style gumbo made with chicken, turkey sausage and shrimp is served over housemade stoneground grits. Topped with a crispy catfish fillet and a seving of rice, this dish hit the spot. Having lived in Louisiana for almost 20 years, I do not play about my gumbo. However, this dish was well seasoned, and I ate every bite.

The Jerk seasoned oxtails with stonehouse grits were heavenly…the meat fell right off the bone.

A couple of the guests ordered the jerk chicken panini.

I finished with a peach cobbler a la mode, which is a sweet peach cobbler with a vanilla granola crumble crunch topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with caramel. Absolutely divine!

I ate all of my food and took none home for later. This was a great space for catching up with friends and grabbing a great bite to eat. If you are in the area, please stop by and check out Toast It Iz! Your tastebuds will thank you! View their full menu here.