The best restaurants in Auburn

“Counter-serve bakery/cafe chain serving sandwiches, salads & more, known for its bread & free WiFi.”

“Whether you need a no-fuss weeknight upgrade or something worthy of the holiday table, The Honey Baked Ham Company delivers ready-to-serve smoked hams, turkeys, and roasts with classic sides and desserts that taste homemade. Reliable, craveable, and perfect for Auburn weekends when the oven deserves a timeout.”

From the Opelika newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Easygoing counter-service chain known for its sandwiches, stuffed baked potatoes & sweet tea.”

“Counter-serve chain serving up a menu of specialty or custom pizzas for takeout or delivery.”

“Order-at-the-counter chain known for Southwestern staples like burritos & a salsa bar.”

“Homestyle Mexican cuisine & cocktails served in an unpretentious cantina with booth seating,”

“Between easy online ordering and delivery across Auburn and Opelika, Tekila Mexican Bar And Grill Auburn makes weeknights a lot tastier. Mexican favorites for takeout or delivery, plus they’ll even bring the margaritas if you’re 21+... your couch just became the booth you actually like.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Viva La Vida nails the comfort-Mex trifecta... melty cheese dip, crispy quesabirria you dunk in consomé, and slow-cooked barbacoa with real depth. Order the Viva La Vida Dip if you’re sharing, or just call it an appetizer and keep it moving.”

“Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.”

“Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.”

“Uncle Charley'z Bar & Grill is the local go-to for crispy, saucy wings, voted best in Auburn/Opelika in 2019, with comfort staples like chicken & waffles, fish filets, and burgers along for the ride, plus straightforward online ordering for carryout or delivery when dinner needs to happen now.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Amsterdam Cafe at Moores Mill brings a fast-casual setup, a new menu, and genuinely good drinks to your side of town, so you can grab lunch or an easy night out right in your neck of the woods. Fun atmosphere, local feel, and online ordering when couch mode wins.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Relaxed pizzeria chain serving NY-style hand-tossed pies, plus pasta & sandwiches.”

“Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.”

“If you call Opelika home, Saugahatchee Country Club delivers an 18-hole course, active racquet scene, a big outdoor pool, and an exceptional dining operation, all wrapped in that 1946-born, home-away-from-home tradition that locals love. Go for the food, stay for the pickleball chatter.”

From the Opelika newsletter, September 21, 2026

“LiveOaks nails that elevated American sweet spot, with plates like panko-crusted avocado, shrimp and grits, a Cajun stuffed pork chop, and a braised short rib that means business. Pair it with a draft beer and call it a midweek win for anyone craving something nicer without the fuss.”

“Branch of a laid-back chain known for Southern food & all-day breakfast selections.”

“Local chain known for ribs, chicken & BBQ sandwiches, plus sweets such as cakes & cookies.”

“Chain outlet specializing in many different types of chicken salads, plus sandwiches, soups & sides.”

“Boisterous Australian-themed chain serving steaks, seafood & other hearty steakhouse fare.”

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

“Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.”

“Convenience store-based pizza chain doling out create-your-own pies along with wings.”

“New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.”

“Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.”

“Wildchild Taco turns out SoCal-style street tacos on hand-pressed organic blue corn tortillas, with fillings like brisket birria, al pastor, and achiote-lime chicken, plus nachos locos, queso sucio, and churros for dessert... a clutch move for quick lunches or post-game cravings.”

“Auburn’s dependable staple, The Bean Coffee Shop has poured collaborative fair trade espresso and served coffee, brunch and desserts since 2015. Grab a Pecan Pie or Wild Lavender latte and a made to order crepe, savory Greek or sweet Strawberry Shortcake, when breakfast and lunch need to happen at the same time.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 12, 2026

“When you need a reliable standby that still feels special, Acre delivers with thoughtful lunch, dinner, and brunch menus, a legit dessert lineup, and cocktails plus wine by the glass. Consider it your move for date night or a lingering weekend catch up... they even have a kids menu.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Proud Willie's Wings and Stuff is the kind of unpretentious spot you keep in your back pocket when you need classic, saucy wings fast, with subs and burgers as backup. Quick service, big flavor, and zero fuss... make it your go-to this week when craving hits after a long day, study grind, or game night.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Locally owned since 1993, Venditori's Italian Restaurant keeps Auburn happily sauced with homemade sauces and Italian classics, hot garlic rolls, and a signature house salad locals swear by. Order online, snag a reservation, or tap their catering for family-size feasts...”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Botanic is the kind of spot you wander into for elevated Southern plates at The Grille, then stay for a market browse, a greenhouse daydream, and a bar drink while live music kicks up. Plus, The Market has gifts from local artists, and the Garden Shoppe stocks favorite gardening tools.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Amsterdam Cafe has been an Auburn go-to since 1991, serving lunch, dinner, and brunch with the kind of "legendary cuisine" that keeps you coming back. With new fast-casual spots in North Auburn and Moores Mill plus catering for your gatherings, consider this your excuse to treat yourself this week.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Relaxed counter-service eatery spotlighting Mexican cuisine, including fajitas, tacos, burritos and margaritas.”

“Casual fixture serving traditional Mexican eats such as steak fajitas plus cocktails.”

“When you want a proper night on the town without overthinking it, One Forty Grill brings timeless appetizers, delectable entrées, and a carefully curated lineup of wine and cocktails.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Local staple known for corn nuggets, burgers, "fishbowl" drinks & game nights in lively digs.”

“Craving the good kind of chaos on a hot skillet? Acapulco's Méxican Grill keeps Auburn fed with made-to-order classics like sizzling fajitas, street-style carne asada tacos, and the chef's pick Acapulco's Plate, plus fresh margaritas, with online ordering for pickup or delivery when life gets loud.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Basic, counter-serve pizzeria chain popular for its flavored crusts, such as sesame & garlic herb.”

“Part bar, part restaurant, and fully Auburn, Tiger On The Green serves up easygoing eats and cold drinks in a clubhouse setting, plus LawnGolf when you want to play between bites. Soccer fans, they screen Premier League matches, and they’re set up for casual parties too.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Casual dining hall for tacos, burgers, poke bowls, and more, plus a bar, a gelato shop and ice cream.”

“Laid-back chain known for slow-cooked BBQ & cheese biscuits, plus burgers, salads & classic sides.”

“Hawaiian-style counter-serve eatery chain serving build-your-own rice bowls and burritos, plus boba tea and wraps.”

“Easygoing chain serving Alabama-style pulled pork & other meats smoked in-house.”

“When your week calls for proper brisket and a side of queso-fueled happiness, Bow & Arrow nails it with South Texas smokehouse vibes, housemade tortillas, tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, plus classic BBQ plates with borracho beans. Pair it with a margarita and pretend chores can wait until tomorrow.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Fast-food chain specializing in frozen custard & signature burgers made with Midwest beef & dairy.”

“Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.”

“When you want a legit cut cooked right this week, Big Mike's Steakhouse - Auburn brings the sizzle, weekly chef features, and was voted Alabama's Best Steak by the Alabama Cattlemen's Association. Gather your people, lean into the comfort-food mood, and let the steak do the talking.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Cozy eatery with a full bar & patio tables offering modern American fare & live music.”

“Craving a real taste of central Italy without leaving town? Ariccia Cucina Italiana turns out seasonal plates with Italian meats and cheeses, a signature Porchetta, house-made focaccia, and wood-fired pizzas... then head to Piccolo 241 for live jazz, specialty cocktails, and small bites to keep the night rolling.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Crave a low-key night this week with great food and better beer? Auburn Draft House serves up juicy burgers, crowd-pleasing pizzas, and a rotating tap list of local and seasonal craft brews, with trivia, bingo or karaoke and a crew who will steer you to the perfect pint-and-plate combo.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Agave Loco Mexican Grill is that low-key spot you keep in your back pocket for busy nights, with classic tacos and saucy enchiladas that hit the comfort-food switch. Order a cocktail, settle in, and let the conversation do the heavy lifting.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 4, 2026

“With an extensive lineup of Japanese dishes and a full bar, Takoyaki Restaurant hits that sweet spot for Auburn locals who want easygoing vibes with real flavor. Think shareable plates, comforting bowls, and cocktails that play nice with umami, perfect for low-key weeknights or catch-ups that accidentally run long.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Staks Pancake Kitchen is dialing up Auburn mornings with specialty pancake staks, creative omelets, and a ridiculous Staks Breakfast Burger built on french toast. All-day menu, locally sourced touches, and a coffee and cocktails lineup mean you can call it breakfast or lunch this week and still be right.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Taqueria Durango keeps it simple and delicious with tasty tacos, a legit salsa bar, and the kind of handmade guac and queso you start thinking about mid-meeting. Swing by this week when you need an easy dinner that still feels like a treat, then thank yourself later. Check it out.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Enduring sports-themed chain with a menu of pub grub, steaks, seafood & other entrees, plus TVs.”

“Counter-serve chain serving up a menu of specialty or custom pizzas for takeout or delivery.”

“If you want Chinese comfort without the fuss, The Irritable Bao turns out bang bang shrimp, a bright ginger salad, and other Asian fusion staples in relaxed digs that hit the spot for quick lunches or no-cook nights, all flavor, zero pretense.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Skip the kitchen and hit Amsterdam Cafe for a fast-casual setup, an updated menu of American comfort hits, and drinks that play nice with game night. It’s easy, tasty, and right in North Auburn, which means you can be back on the couch before kickoff.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 17, 2026

“The Hound nails that rustic-chic comfort with inventive-yet-approachable American plates and a bourbon list that reads like a mini library, plus plenty of craft beers. When you want a relaxed night that still feels a little special, this is the Auburn standby to bookmark.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Sneak in a midweek reset at Fuji Sushi Bar, where delicate sushi, premium sashimi, and signature rolls meet a warm, modern vibe. The fish is the star, the chefs know their craft, and the menu has plenty of timeless Japanese favorites when you want comfort with your chopsticks.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 24, 2026

“In the mood for sizzle therapy this week, Auburn? Mikata lines up hand-crafted sushi and hibachi cooked right at your table by lively teppanyaki chefs, so you get flavors and fireworks. Planning a gathering soon?”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Diners choose their dough, sauce, cheese & toppings at this pizzeria chain with gelato & microbrews.”

“Branch of a fast-food chain known for its drive-thru BBQ, burgers & more than 40 milkshake flavors.”

“Since 1975, Country's Barbecue has done it the hard way, smoking pork over hickory and oak, simmering brunswick stew for two days, and even squeezing lemons for that pie and lemonade. Go for the ribs or Black Angus hamburger steak, stay for the fresh-cut fries and easygoing vibe.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Relaxed pizzeria chain serving NY-style hand-tossed pies, plus pasta & sandwiches.”

“Chain serving burgers, wings, fried rice and cheesesteaks in a casual space.”

“Teaching restaurant offering a prix fixe menu of creative dishes and a selection of wines.”

“Umika keeps it simple with carefully selected, fresh ingredients prepared the healthier way, so your sushi tastes clean and satisfying. For busy Auburn folks, online pickup is smooth and quick, making it an easy weeknight go-to when you want quality without the fuss.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 31, 2026

“The Plains Taproom and Grill is Auburn’s only self-pour, pay-by-the-ounce spot with 40 taps, so you can taste around until you commit. Pair it with their famous smash burgers or authentic Philly cheese steaks, let the kids burn energy on games, and stick around for trivia or the big game.”

From the Auburn newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Upscale seafood eatery with a sizable wine list in a renovated train depot with a relaxed ambiance.”

“Funky, art-filled chain pizzeria featuring craft beer, calzones & creative stone-baked pizzas.”

“Since 1989, Byron's Smokehouse has kept Auburn fed with hearty breakfasts, quick lunches, and smokehouse favorites that taste like somebody’s granddad still watches the pit, so when you want comfort that’s simple, unfussy, and properly smoky, go this week for good food done the Byron’s way.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Casual chain featuring egg dishes & other breakfast items, plus brunch sandwiches.”

“Craving a midweek pick-me-up, Tacorita is a locally owned Auburn original serving gourmet tacos and hand-crafted margaritas, proudly carrying the downtown legacy since 2010 with Mexican-inspired flavors in a fun, welcoming setting.”

From the Auburn newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Easygoing counter-serve pizza joint serving whole pies & slices, subs, calzones & pitchers of beer.”

“Easygoing chain serving Alabama-style pulled pork & other meats smoked in-house.”

“Laid-back eatery with quirky decor offering pizza, pasta & subs, plus wings & other appetizers.”