26 Best Restaurants in Auburn, AL

This article was written by local contributor Lucy Thompson & edited by the Travel Lens team.

Lucy Thompson

Jul 9, 2023 • 20 min read

Over the years, I've had the pleasure of sampling some of the best dishes the city has to offer.

From classic Southern comfort food to delicious international flavors, you'll find a delightful blend of culinary experiences in this charming town.

In this article, I'm excited to share with you some of my all-time favorite spots for a delicious meal in Auburn.

So, buckle up and get ready to take a mouthwatering journey through the best restaurants in Auburn, Alabama!

The Hound

A visit to The Hound is always a delightful experience.

Hidden away in the heart of the city, it has that speakeasy vibe which I love.

This rustic-chic bar offers an extensive selection of bourbons and craft beers, accompanied by a simple yet delicious New American menu.

Their signature bacon and bourbon combo is something I can never resist.

The food, however, steals the show.

The freshness of the pork rinds can be felt as they're still popping on arrival, and their ribeye is a sight to behold.

I also can't get enough of their chicken-fried steak with mashed potatoes, collard greens, and gravy.

It's simply divine!

Byron's Smokehouse

Whenever I'm in the mood for some delicious BBQ, I always head straight to Byron's Smokehouse.

I've been a regular customer for quite some time now, and I just can't get over their smoked turkey.

Seriously, the bark on that bird is unlike anything I've ever tasted before.

And don't even get me started on their cornbread – it's an absolute must-try!

It's like having a home-cooked meal every time I visit.

The place can get pretty packed, but they're always quick to get you in and out.

Their Brunswick stew is tasty, although not very chunky, and the coleslaw reminds me of KFC – small, finely chopped pieces.

The chopped BBQ is interesting, as it seems to have gone through a grinder.

But the sauces, oh the sauces...they're just fantastic!

Sushi Bistro Auburn

One of my favorite places to grab sushi in town is definitely Sushi Bistro Auburn.

Their Japanese cuisine, especially sushi, is always top-notch.

The best part is that it's usually not crowded, so I can be seated immediately and enjoy a peaceful meal.

The restaurant's atmosphere Sushi Bistro Auburn is perfect for both a romantic date night and a family dinner.

The menu offers a wide range of options, including a good selection of Bento boxes and sushi rolls.

I personally love their bentonite boxes and bowls.

Although the prices are slightly on the higher side, it's absolutely worth it, considering the quality of the food and the overall dining experience.

Tiger VR Cafe

The other day, I decided to check out the Tiger VR Cafe that I had been hearing so much about from my friends and neighbors.

I was pleasantly surprised by the self-serve ordering system, which made the whole process smooth and efficient.

I ordered rice noodles with chicken and a side of fried rice, and I must admit - the food was indeed quite spicy!

I also tried their strawberry milk, which was delicious and came in these cute cups with special tops.

One of the highlights of my visit was the adorable delivery robot that brought the food to our table.

It's always nice to see businesses embracing technology responsibly like that.

The portion sizes at Tiger VR Cafe were quite generous, and the rice noodles with vegetables and tofu that I tried were nothing short of amazing.

Sheila C's Burger Barn

I can confidently say that Sheila C's Burger Barn is a must-visit if you're in the area.

The first time I stopped by, I instantly fell in love with the old-fashioned feel of the place.

It's got this low-key, unfussy atmosphere that makes you feel at home.

Their Facebook page has all their details if you want to check them out.

But let's talk about the food.

If you're craving a juicy, hearty cheeseburger, Sheila C's is the place to go.

The toppings are piled high with fresh tomatoes and finely chopped onions, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

And don't forget to try the fries and sweet tea – both are a solid 10/10.

Uncle Charley'z

There's nothing quite like a good plate of chicken wings, and Uncle Charley'z always satisfies my cravings.

One of my favorite things about this place is how fresh and hot their food is - I've had wings that were so hot they could melt a to-go container!

Their sweet heat wings are a must-try, giving you just the right amount of spiciness without being too overwhelming.

Now, I've heard some people complain about the size of the wings, but I personally think it's worth it for its unique flavor and quality.

Plus, the customer service at Uncle Charley'z is always top-notch, making you feel welcome and eager to come back for more.

So if you're in the A/O area and craving some wings, don't hesitate to give Uncle Charley'z a shot.

Thai & Lao Cuisine

One of my favorite places to eat in town is Thai & Lao Cuisine.

I'm always excited to dine there because their food never disappoints and introduces me to a variety of new and unique dishes.

I remember stumbling upon this restaurant while exploring the area and was thrilled to find such authentic Lao and Thai cuisine close to home.

Yet, the service is always fast and never feels rushed.

The food is absolutely amazing, with a deeper and richer flavor than most Thai restaurants I've been to.

Some of my go-to dishes are green curry, fried rice, and drunken noodles.

The Depot

I recently decided to treat myself to a night out at The Depot in Auburn, and I have to say, it was an incredible experience.

From the moment I walked in, I could feel the relaxed ambiance of the renovated train depot, which made me feel right at home.

The crab dip and risotto balls were a delightful way to start the meal, and my entrée was nothing short of amazing.

To top it all off, I was able to enjoy a glass of wine from their extensive list, which only elevated the whole dining experience.

One of the things that made my night even more special was the unique setting of the restaurant.

While enjoying my meal, a train passed right outside the depot, adding a touch of nostalgia and charm to the evening.

Niffer's Place Auburn

One of my favorite spots to hang out with friends and enjoy a delicious meal is Niffer's Place Auburn.

This lively restaurant has become a staple in our community, known for its tasty corn nuggets, juicy burgers, and famous "fishbowl" drinks.

Whenever I visit, I know I'm in for a night of laughter, good eats, and maybe even a game night if we're lucky!

My friends and I shared a plate of their delectable fried pickles with homemade ranch, which has become our go-to appetizer.

For the main course, I usually order the Orange and Blue burger with a side of Cajun fries, and I am never disappointed.

The burgers are always cooked to perfection, and the Cajun fries add just the right amount of spice.

One of the highlights of Niffer's Place is their outdoor patio, which offers a relaxing atmosphere for enjoying a cold beer and good conversation.

While they do serve canned beers, they always come with a chilled glass, and their selection is nothing short of impressive.

I've tried a couple of different beers on their menu, and they never fail to hit the spot.

Pho Lee

Let me tell you about my recent visit to Pho Lee - I had been hearing great things about this place from friends, and I couldn't wait to try it out!

I started my meal with the Shrimp Spring Rolls, which were absolutely delicious.

I wasn't a huge fan of the sauce that came with it, but I usually prefer fish oil with my spring rolls anyway.

Next, I had the Beef Rice Dish, and let me tell you - the beef was incredibly tender and had this unique sweet teriyaki-like flavor that I've never tasted before.

The serving was so generous that I ended up having enough for two meals!

I noticed that most people around me were ordering Pho, so I'm definitely coming back to try that next time.

On another occasion, I decided to try their tofu dishes - the tofu spring rolls and tofu lemongrass, both of which were amazing.

I also had the chance to try their crab soup appetizer and beef banh mi during my first visit.

Acre

I've been visiting Acre for years, and it never disappoints!

The chic, rustic atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends or a special occasion with family.

One of my all-time favorites to start with is the fried green tomatoes and pimento cheese – trust me, it's mouthwatering.

And for the main course, you can't go wrong with the fried chicken & Johnny cakes or the redfish – the best I've ever tasted.

It literally melts in your mouth!

While waiting for a table, I usually grab a cocktail at the bar.

They have a great selection, and the bartenders can mix up some delicious creations.

Once, my friends and I decided to share the dessert with an "all of the above" option.

I'm so glad we did because it was heavenly.

Oh, and don't forget to try the chicken fried bacon appetizer!

Umami Auburn

As someone who loves exploring new restaurants in the area, I recently decided to visit Umami Auburn for the first time.

The overall experience was nothing short of amazing.

He recommended a few sushi rolls, and I decided to try the Auburn Firework roll.

The ramen I ordered was delicious and served in a generous portion.

To my surprise, the sushi came out just two minutes after my ramen, beautifully presented and on fire.

The atmosphere inside Umami Auburn was cozy, with TVs on the wall adding a modern touch.

Their extensive menu made it difficult to choose what to order, but it also left me excited to come back and try more dishes in the future.

Tenda Chick

I've been a fan of Tenda Chick for quite some time now, and it never fails to impress me.

Their fried chicken is the best I've ever eaten, and I especially love their Garden Salad with added fried chicken strips.

The prices are super affordable for the quality and generous portions they serve.

One thing that adds to the charm of this place is the 70's music they play.

It's nostalgic and really sets the atmosphere.

The inside might not be the most modern, but it's clean, cozy, and doesn't detract from the overall experience.

I've heard stories of them going above and beyond for their customers, like shipping their special sauce across the country for someone who hadn't had it in over 20 years.

It's that kind of service that really makes this place stand out.

Little Italy Pizzeria

I can't help but love Little Italy Pizzeria.

This easygoing counter-serve pizza joint has been a go-to spot for me whenever I'm craving a slice or looking to grab a quick meal with friends.

Their menu boasts whole pies, slices, subs, calzones, and even pitchers of beer, catering to everyone's taste buds.

The pizza here is amazing!

I find myself drawn to Little Italy Pizzeria, especially during the weekends after an Auburn football game, when the place is buzzing with fellow fans celebrating our team's accomplishments.

Hamilton's On Ogletree

Hamilton's On Ogletree is definitely one of my favorite dining spots.

The moment I walk in, I'm greeted with a modern atmosphere that never fails to impress.

And the service?

Always top-notch and welcoming.

I often dine here with my friends and family, and our meals are consistently mouthwatering each visit.

If you haven't checked out their menu, you can find it on their website.

What I love about Hamilton's is the wide array of meal options they have.

I remember one time I ordered their perfectly cooked steak, while my friends opted for two different, but equally tasty, chicken and pasta dishes.

And let's not forget about their crab cakes - they're absolutely loaded with crab meat!

Top it off with their heavenly creme brulee for dessert, and you've got yourself an unforgettable dining experience.

El Ranchero Mexican Restaurant

One evening, I decided to try out El Ranchero Mexican Restaurant for my daughter's birthday celebration.

The restaurant was quiet and clean, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing family dinner.

We started our meal with their generous portions of salsa, which were absolutely delightful.

My partner ordered their homemade spicy salsa and was thoroughly impressed by its heat.

For our main course, I went with the recommendation of the #22 dish, and it did not disappoint.

The flavors were authentic and bold, making it a memorable meal.

While we were dining, I overheard another table raving about the birria tacos and taco Al pastor.

I made a mental note to order those dishes on my next visit.

El Mariachi Mexican Restaurant

One evening, I decided to try out a new restaurant in my neighborhood, and that's when I stumbled upon El Mariachi Mexican Restaurant.

I was immediately drawn to the warm and inviting atmosphere, and the aroma of delicious Mexican cuisine wafted through the air.

I decided to give it a shot, and I was not disappointed.

I started off my meal with some birria tacos, which were full of flavor, and the beef was so tender.

The Molcajete combo was also a standout dish.

The cheese and meat were still cooked to perfection.

While enjoying my meal, I noticed the genuine attention to detail in the restaurant, from the cleanliness of the bathrooms to the fresh, homemade desserts on display.

I decided to try a piece of their cake, and it was the perfect sweet ending to my meal.

Tekila Mexican Bar And Grill

One of my favorite spots to dine at in Auburn is the Tekila Mexican Bar And Grill.

It's always bustling with energy, especially when students and visitors fill the dining area.

I'm particularly fond of the Vicente Fernandez mural, which adds to the lively ambiance of the place.

I can't help but order their carne dish every time I visit; it's simply amazing.

I've also tried their birria tacos and Texas rice, which are unique and delicious options on their extensive menu.

Of course, a visit to Tekila wouldn't be complete without indulging in their marvelous margaritas – luckily, they offer discounts on Mondays!

Sushiya Japanese Restaurant

I must say that Sushiya Japanese Restaurant has remained one of my favorite spots ever since I first tried it a couple of years ago.

From the moment I first walked into this restaurant, I was impressed by the warm and inviting atmosphere.

You can find more about them on their Facebook page.

On my most recent visit, I was amazed by the exceptional service and the delicious traditional Japanese food.

The presentation of the dishes was absolutely beautiful, and the portions were quite generous.

I loved the freshness of the fish, and the tempura box was especially impressive.

I've also visited Sushiya for lunch, and I was not disappointed with my choice of sushi and bento lunch boxes.

The dishes were delectable, and the service was prompt and efficient.

I have to agree with many others who have dined here that it's a place worth recommending for those seeking great food and service.

There was one time when I thought my table was forgotten, but after a short wait, my order arrived.

I had spicy tuna, Philadelphia roll, shrimp, and chicken teriyaki.

I must say that the sushi rolls were delightful.

Hamilton's On Magnolia

I must admit, I absolutely love going to Hamilton's On Magnolia for a delicious meal.

Though I often visit their other location on Ogletree due to its convenient parking, every now and then, I treat myself to this downtown Auburn gem for lunch.

The coziness of the atmosphere and the lovely patio adorned with seasonal flowers, herbs, and ornamental plants make it a truly special experience.

Their food is consistently exceptional, and I simply cannot resist their mouthwatering crab cakes.

Trust me, they are so delicious that I've never managed to take a photo of them before devouring every last bite!

One of my other favorite dishes is the lobster bisque, which is hands down one of the best I've ever had.

Beyond the fantastic food, Hamilton's On Magnolia also offers excellent service and a well-curated wine list, making it a perfect spot for an intimate dinner or a night out with friends.

Good Karma

The other day, I decided to try out this Indian restaurant called Good Karma that I've been hearing rave reviews about in my city.

They were incredibly helpful in explaining the menu to me and even let me sample some of their sauces to help me decide what to order.

I finally settled on the curry dish, but I must say that it was such a tough decision to make with so many great options available.

My partner opted for the Rogan Josh, and we also got a side of garlic naan to share.

To quench our thirst, we ordered a full cup of the mango lassi after trying a sample – it was simply too delicious to resist!

The food was nothing short of spectacular.

It had all the keynotes of good home-cooked Indian food, and the portions were generous enough to make us feel stuffed.

Amsterdam Cafe

I have to say, one of my favorite spots for a relaxing lunch in town has got to be Amsterdam Cafe.

The moment you walk in, you're greeted with beautiful Van Gogh-style artwork and a cozy atmosphere.

I always enjoy listening to the live music they have playing, too, it adds a nice touch to the overall experience.

The menu has a fantastic selection of seafood and Southern-style fare.

The last time I visited, I started off with their pimento cheese appetizer, which I can't recommend enough.

For my main course, I tried their crab cake sandwich with avocado, and it was delicious - lots of crab without too much filling.

My friend had the daily special, a smoked turkey grilled cheese with bacon, and it was just as amazing.

One thing you can't miss out on is their bloody Mary!

My cousin, who's from the Pacific Northwest, also had their rum salmon salad and said it was quite good, despite the salmon quality not quite measuring up to what he's used to.

As for me, I can't wait to go back and try their shrimp and grits - I've heard the shrimp is huge and delicious.

Insomnia Steak & Grill

I absolutely love the food at Insomnia Steak & Grill!

The place has a fantastic mix of American and Middle Eastern dishes, served fast and fresh.

It's so good that I've been going there regularly to satisfy my cravings for Greek food.

The gyro, baba khanounj, and cheesecake are some of my personal favorites.

Their tea, by Hill & Brooks, is a nice touch with its subtle spearmint taste.

But what truly sets Insomnia Steak & Grill apart for me is their unique spicy masala served with fries.

It's simply irresistible!

The sampler plate offers a great way to try a variety of dishes, making this an excellent choice for when I have friends over.

Another standout dish at Insomnia Steak & Grill is their gyro platter.

The lamb is cooked to perfection, with a light crispiness and tenderness that I can't get enough of.

The seasoning is spot on, making the platter an absolute must-try.

Don't just take my word for it - check out their Facebook page for more information and reviews.

Venditori's Italian Restaurant

One of my favorite spots in town to satisfy my Italian cravings is Venditori's Italian Restaurant.

The moment you walk in, you are welcomed by the warm and homey atmosphere – it's like stepping into a little piece of Italy.

I vividly remember the first time I tried their Cioppino.

The seafood dish was served over linguini and absolutely loaded with fresh, delicious ingredients.

It's safe to say that it immediately became one of my go-to menu items.

But, the real star of the show for me are their homemade garlic rolls.

I must warn you, though, they're incredibly addictive – swimming in butter and perfect for dipping in pasta sauce.

Venditori's is also a great place for families with little ones, as they offer a kids' menu to accommodate even the pickiest of eaters.

Pannie-George's Kitchen

I recently visited Pannie-George's Kitchen with a few friends, and I must say the experience was quite delightful.

The southern-style mains and classic sides served in an unfussy atmosphere truly made me feel at home.

The food was satisfying and delicious, although not completely out of this world, it still hit the spot.

I ended up ordering fried chicken, collards, sweet potato, and cornbread, which were all delicious.

I have to agree with other reviewers that the cornbread alone is worth the trip!

The sweet potatoes were a tad too sweet for my liking, but they were seasoned well nonetheless.

I thoroughly enjoyed my dining experience at Pannie-George's Kitchen and will definitely be returning when I am in the area.

Also, I made sure to tell my friends and family about this cozy spot for some authentic, southern homestyle cooking.

Ming House

I can't even begin to express my excitement when I found my new favorite place to dine - Ming House!

The food is absolutely fantastic, and the service is simply amazing.

During my last visit to Ming House, I particularly enjoyed the sushi.

My daughter was also happy with her Fried Shrimp Roll and Cream Cheese Roll.

I personally ordered the Mongolian Beef with Shrimp Fried Rice, which was scrumptious!

I also noticed that the place isn't too busy around 1 pm, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a quiet lunch.

However, I have heard from others that they found it a little overpriced for the quality, but I think it's worth every penny considering the pleasant dining experience.

Final Thoughts

I can't help but feel incredibly fortunate to live in a town with such a diverse and delicious array of restaurants.

From the smoky flavors of Byron's Smokehouse to the exotic tastes of Thai & Lao Cuisine, there's always something new and exciting to try in Auburn.

So whether you're new to the area or have been an Auburn resident for years, I encourage you to explore these fantastic dining options and discover your own favorites.

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