Category Archives: Restaurants

Blue Plate Cafe

This month’s blog post comes from McLeroy. Ashley is a born and bred Southern gal who treks through a good bit of central and north Alabama finding the best (and not so best) places to eat. Ashley will try just about anything and loves exploring the home grown local restaurants wherever she finds them. She tracks her dining adventures as on Yelp and was christened an Elite Yelper this year. The Heart of Huntsville is very excited to have Ashley as a Contributor!

The ‘Good’ Blue Plate Cafe

Looking for some satisfying Southern cuisine?  Sure, you can always stop by Cracker Barrel, amazingly a nationwide chain that actually knows something about making us feel at home, but where are all the locally owned stars?? Look no further than The Blue Plate Café my friend.

As soon as you pull in from busy Governor’s Drive you’ll notice that the tiny parking lot can barely contain the eager visitors coming and going and that the diner-style restaurant overflows with anxious customers waiting to be seated. Do not be afraid…it’s well worth the wait.

You’ll instantly be greeted by a smiling hostess and the chatter from a crowd of beaming, food-filled faces. The lunch hour boasts an array of folks–groups of co-workers and families filling the closely placed tables and singles and duos lining the bar. The waiters and waitresses are energetic, fast paced, and friendly. They are quick to explain the menu while still giving you time to ask questions.

They have a daily rotating menu of 3 meat choices, Southern staples such as Meatloaf, Chicken & Dumplings, Catfish, and Pot Roast. There are at least 10 vegetable choices that rotate. Choose a meat and 3 or a 4 vegetable plate and your meal will be served with your choice of a roll or cornbread. A full breakfast menu and limited menu of sandwiches, soups, salads, and desserts are also available. The prices are unquestionably justified by the portions. Your food will be plentiful and delivered soon after ordering.

If you’re looking for a sure taste of the South be certain to try the black eyed peas, hash brown casserole, and cornbread. The large cornbread muffin is moist and fluffy with a delicate buttery flavor. Way to go BPC for reminding a Southerner of home!

From one food lover to another I wish you the best in finding what makes your taste buds dance. –Ashley McLeroy


Taqueria El Cazador

When you think of Mexican food in Huntsville, different things come to mind. Rosie’s, Casa Blanca, Guadalajara and Bandito Burrito are just a few of the local places that come to mind easily.  However, when you throw the word authentic into the equation, it can get a little tricky, unless you know where to look!

Taqueria El Cazador, often simply called Cazador’s, has 3 locations. You can find a closed in taco truck on the corner of Drake and Triana, another truck on Governors near the Post Office and the restaurant on South Parkway. I have visited all three locations and the closed in Taco Truck on Triana is my favorite.

There are burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, tostadas, mulatas and more, but the stars of the show are the authentic Mexican tacos. Soft corn tortillas are filled with your choice of meat, cilantro and onions with lime and pickled veggies on the side. These are not the typical “Americanized” tacos, no sir! Four tacos will set you back only $5 and you can mix and match the types of meat. Pork, beef, chicken are among the choices (spicy meat options are available!) If you are feeling adventurous order at least one lengua taco (beef tongue).  It’s pleasantly yummy!

Don’t speak the language? Not to worry, step right up and place your order. The guy at window has you covered!

Want to know what others are saying? Here ya go: Yelp

Stop by this weekend and grab a bite, but before you go make sure to check out all the latest stuff to do in Huntsville!


Big Ed’s Pizza, Huntsville AL

Big Ed’s Pizza is a long standing Huntsville favorite. It’s a dive of a place located at 903 Memorial Parkway Northwest which is almost on the corner of University Drive and the Parkway. Inside, you’ll find lots of autographed photos of celebrities, cool decor and an old jukebox that will play you favorite song while you enjoy your meal.

You’ll also find staff who appreciate your business and are genuinely friendly. Several beers are on tap (including locals!). They’ll get started on your order if you want to call ahead (dine in or pick up). The pizza does take a few minutes to get to your table, but it’s so worth the wait!

You can check out their website to see all they have to offer and the hours that they are open. Visit Yelp to see what folks are saying!


Angel’s Island Coffee Huntsville, AL

Angels is located at 7538 S. Memorial Parkway, Huntsville, AL 35802 (next to Donato’s Pizza). Don’t let the small orange storefront fool you! Inside, Angel offers plenty of tables, high tops and comfy sofas for just yourself or even a group of friends. It’s also a great place to read, study or surf the web (free wifi!).

The menu offers plenty of hot and cold coffees, hot chocolates, sodas, juices, teas and more. Feeling creative? The unique flavor selection allows you to create your own signature drink. Cheesecake Mocha? Almond Joy Hot Chocolate? there is an assortment of pastries, as well as a sandwich and wrap selection.

If you want to play a board game, they have some available and it’s pretty common to find some local art on the walls to enjoy and even purchase.

For menu, events, specials, photo’s and more visit their Facebook Page! Visit Yelp to see what folks are saying!


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