Our server, Libby, was knowledgeable and friendly. Our order came out in a timely manner, like a well-oiled machine. It was obvious the team here knows what they are doing!
We started off with the Chili Cheese Fries... Y'ALL. These are the thickest hand-cut fries I've ever had and rightfully so in order to hold up to the award-winning chili and housemade cheese sauce!! The chili had the most perfect balance of flavors with just enough spice and the whole appetizer was definitely leveled up by the never-from-a-can-or-pouch cheese sauce. Once we tasted this, we knew were in for a treat with what was coming next!
For our main course, Libby recommend the meal I chose... their Pineapple Express Biscuit Bottom. PHENOMENAL! Fresh-baked biscuit, melted cheese, hand-breaded and fried chicken breast, housemade strawberry-pineapple pico de gallo, 2 eggs your way and fresh sliced avocado. The chicken was juicy, the pico was fresh, the biscuits were strong enough to hold up to a hearty meal but not dense and chewy... the perfect balance of flavors and textures. My boyfriend had the Filet & Eggs, which came with toast or a biscuit and your choice of grits or home fries... he chose home fries. His steak was cooked AND seasoned to perfection. The homefries were fried in a fryer and then tossed with sautéed red and green peppers and onions. That's steak was BOMB! The portions were just right for a brunch where you've waited half the morning to eat and want to make it through til dinner without another full blown meal.
I should also note that they offer an EXTRAVAGENT selection of Mimosa Cocktails (and even a Mimosa flight!) As well as an extensive selection of Bourbons/Ryes. We did not indulge today, but we can't be sure we won't next time!
After our meal, I asked Libby to send the boss out, because I wanted to "gas him up" a bit... I'm all about giving credit where it's due and firmly believe hard work deserves a pat on the back. Once I met Nick, it ALL made sense. I found out he was having a tough morning with some customers who don't understand what it's like to wait for made-to-order food in a busy establishment; there's a difference between The Waffle House & Toasted... a big one. You can tell Nick is passionate about what he does and the kind of boss who takes care of his staff... I know from personal experience in the industry how completely invaluable that is. If I ever consider getting back in the kitchen, I'll be begging Nick for a shot to cook alongside him and his team. After graciously tipping my waitress for her attentive service (as everyone who dines out should!), I went to hand Nick a tip to treat himself to an adult beverage after his shift. He immediately turned around and passed it on to two of his servers in recognition for their hard work. Now THAT is a great owner and the kind of guy I love to support. I ended my experience by sharing a hug with Nick and left with a full belly and excitement in my heart to share the gem that we had just found!
TL;DR: Toasted in Calabash has phenomenal fresh food, fabulous service and the kind of owner you feel DAMN GOOD about giving your hard-earned money to. We also took a look at the dinner menu and you can bet your biscuit bottom we will be back to check out those offerings ASAP! We've found our new favorite and we can't wait to taste it all!!!
THANK YOU NICK, LIBBY & THE REST OF THE TEAM! read more