Introduction
Craving a late-night bite after an exhilarating Auburn game? Need the perfect brunch spot for a Sunday gathering with friends and family? Or perhaps you’re simply a local looking to expand your culinary horizons? Auburn, Alabama, a vibrant city steeped in Southern charm and home to the prestigious Auburn University, boasts a thriving food scene that has something to tantalize every taste bud and cater to every occasion. From classic Southern comfort food to international delights and innovative culinary creations, Auburn’s restaurants, cafes, and eateries offer a diverse and exciting gastronomic experience.
This article serves as your comprehensive guide to navigating the best food places in Auburn. We’ll explore a curated selection of establishments, categorized by cuisine, price point, and overall atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking a budget-friendly student meal, a romantic fine-dining experience, or a lively spot to watch the game with friends, this guide will ensure you discover the perfect culinary gem to satisfy your cravings. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey through the heart of Auburn’s vibrant food scene!
Rise and Shine: Breakfast and Brunch Bliss
Auburn mornings deserve a delightful start, and luckily, the city offers a plethora of options for breakfast and brunch enthusiasts. From cozy diners serving up classic Southern fare to upscale establishments offering innovative brunch menus, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to fuel your day.
Toomer’s Drugs
Let’s start with Toomer’s Drugs, an Auburn institution. While primarily known for its famous lemonade, Toomer’s also offers a satisfying breakfast menu featuring classics like pancakes, omelets, and breakfast sandwiches. The atmosphere is pure Auburn nostalgia, with a cozy and welcoming vibe that makes it the perfect spot to start your day, especially if you’re a student or alum looking for that familiar orange and blue experience. The price point is incredibly reasonable, making it a favorite among students and families alike.
Byron’s Smokehouse
Next, we have Byron’s Smokehouse. While renowned for their barbecue at lunch and dinner, Byron’s serves up an excellent breakfast in a casual family-friendly atmosphere. They have great biscuits and gravy, eggs, bacon and sausage and all the fixings for a great southern breakfast.
The Hound
For a more sophisticated brunch experience, consider The Hound. This Auburn restaurant is known for its upscale atmosphere and innovative Southern-inspired dishes. Their brunch menu features creative takes on classic brunch items, such as shrimp and grits and chicken and waffles, all crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The ambiance is elegant yet comfortable, making it an ideal spot for a special occasion brunch or a leisurely weekend meal. The price point is slightly higher than Toomer’s, but the quality and experience are well worth the investment.
Mama Mocha’s Coffee Roastery
Finally, don’t overlook Mama Mocha’s Coffee Roastery. While technically a coffee shop, Mama Mocha’s is a local favorite for its delicious coffee, pastries, and light breakfast items. This is the perfect spot for a quick and convenient breakfast on the go, or for those who simply want to enjoy a quality cup of coffee and a pastry in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Lunchtime Legends: Fueling the Afternoon
As lunchtime rolls around, Auburn offers a diverse array of options to satisfy your midday hunger. Whether you’re craving a quick and convenient bite, a flavorful international experience, or a healthy and refreshing salad, you’ll find it all in Auburn.
Guthrie’s
Let’s start with a true Auburn staple: Guthrie’s. Known for its signature chicken fingers and craveable Guthrie’s sauce, it’s a quick and satisfying lunch option, especially for students on a budget. The atmosphere is casual and lively, perfect for a quick break between classes or a casual get-together with friends. The price point is incredibly affordable, making it a go-to spot for a tasty and economical lunch.
Tacorita
For those seeking a flavorful and authentic Mexican experience, look no further than Tacorita. This restaurant offers a wide variety of tacos, burritos, and other Mexican specialties, all made with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. The atmosphere is vibrant and festive, with colorful decor and upbeat music. The price point is moderate, offering a great value for the quality and quantity of food.
Harvest Table
If you’re in the mood for a healthy and refreshing lunch option, consider Harvest Table. This restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and offers a variety of salads, sandwiches, and bowls, all customizable to your preferences. The atmosphere is bright and airy, with a focus on sustainability and healthy eating. The price point is slightly higher, but the quality and freshness of the ingredients make it a worthwhile investment.
Evening Elegance: Dinner Destinations
As the sun sets and the evening unfolds, Auburn transforms into a culinary haven for dinner enthusiasts. From romantic fine-dining establishments to casual Italian bistros and lively seafood restaurants, the city offers a diverse range of options to create a memorable evening meal.
Acre
For an unforgettable fine-dining experience, look no further than Acre. This restaurant is known for its upscale atmosphere, exceptional service, and innovative menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. Their dishes are beautifully presented and bursting with flavor, showcasing the culinary talents of the chef. The atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The price point is higher, reflecting the quality of the ingredients and the overall dining experience.
Venditori’s Italian Restaurant
If you’re craving authentic Italian cuisine, Venditori’s Italian Restaurant is a must-visit. This restaurant offers a wide variety of classic Italian dishes, such as pasta, pizza, and seafood, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, reminiscent of a cozy Italian bistro. The price point is moderate, offering a great value for the quality and quantity of food.
The Depot
For seafood lovers, The Depot is a top choice. This restaurant offers a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes, from classic fish and chips to innovative seafood creations. The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, with a focus on fresh seafood and a fun dining experience. The price point is moderate to high, depending on the dishes you choose.
Beyond the Usual: Specialty and Unique Eateries
Auburn’s culinary scene extends beyond the traditional restaurants, offering a variety of specialty and unique eateries that are sure to delight your taste buds.
Little Thailand
For those seeking authentic Thai cuisine, Little Thailand is a hidden gem. This food truck offers a variety of classic Thai dishes, such as Pad Thai, curries, and soups, all made with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. The atmosphere is casual and fun, perfect for a quick and delicious meal on the go. The price point is incredibly affordable, making it a popular choice among students and locals alike.
Ross House Coffee Company
If you have a sweet tooth, Ross House Coffee Company is a must-visit. While known for their coffee, Ross House also has some delicious ice cream flavors, and even some house made ice cream. The atmosphere is casual and fun, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. The price point is moderate.
Raise a Glass and a Fork: Best Bars and Pubs with Food
Auburn’s bars and pubs are not just for drinks; they also offer a great selection of food to complement your favorite beverages.
The Thirsty Turtle
For sports enthusiasts, The Thirsty Turtle is a perfect spot to watch the game while enjoying some delicious food and drinks. This sports bar offers a wide variety of appetizers, burgers, and sandwiches, all made with fresh ingredients and generous portions. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, with plenty of TVs to catch all the action. The price point is moderate, offering a great value for the quality and quantity of food.
Avondale Bar and Tap Room
If you’re looking for a more relaxed and cozy atmosphere, Avondale Bar and Tap Room is a great choice. This craft beer pub offers a wide selection of craft beers from around the world, as well as a delicious menu of pub fare, such as burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a long day. The price point is moderate.
Late-Night Bites: Satisfying Those Midnight Cravings
Sometimes, the best food experiences happen late at night. Fortunately, Auburn has some great options for those late-night cravings.
Insomnia Cookies
Insomnia Cookies is a popular choice for satisfying those late-night sweet cravings. Open late, they offer a variety of warm, freshly baked cookies in a range of flavors. It’s the perfect spot to satisfy your sweet tooth after a night out.
Waffle House
Waffle House is a classic late-night option, open all night and serving up breakfast staples like waffles, eggs, and hashbrowns. It’s a reliable and affordable choice for satisfying those late-night hunger pangs.
Final Thoughts: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Auburn, Alabama, is more than just a college town; it’s a vibrant culinary destination with a diverse range of options to satisfy every palate and budget. From classic Southern comfort food to international delights and innovative culinary creations, Auburn’s food scene offers a truly unforgettable experience.
So, whether you’re a student seeking budget-friendly eats, a local looking to explore new flavors, or a visitor passing through, Auburn’s food scene is waiting to be discovered. Explore the recommendations in this guide, venture off the beaten path, and discover your own hidden culinary gems. Share your favorite spots in the comments below, and let’s continue to celebrate the vibrant and ever-evolving food scene of Auburn, Alabama. War Eagle and bon appétit!
