Last Updated: September 24, 2024
Set near the southern end of the Appalachian Mountains, Auburn, Alabama, is known as one of the best places to visit and live. This charming college town is home to Auburn University and its beloved football team, The Auburn Tigers. Whether visiting a loved one, spending time in this charming town to catch a game, or simply exploring the area, you’ll find plenty of great Auburn restaurants to try during your retirement years.
Our Retirement Travelers travel guide covers the top Auburn restaurants in this college town, ranging from family-owned eateries to sushi bars. We’ve had the opportunity to try some of these Auburn restaurants. Others are on our will-try list. Here are our top picks for the best restaurants in Auburn, Alabama.
Best Auburn Restaurants Map
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Little Italy Pizzeria
When visiting Little Italy Pizzeria, you’ll find large pizza slices, affordable prices, and a casual atmosphere. This restaurant specializes in Italian food like pizza, calzones, and subs. It’s located near Auburn University, so expect to see college students if you stop by for a quick bite. You can even enjoy a late-night snack here, as this pizzeria is open until 2-3 a.m. most days. Pair the pizza slices with a cold beer for the best experience. This is one of our favorite places to eat in Auburn.
Baumhower’s Victory Grille – Auburn
If you’re visiting Auburn for its sports, you’ll want to head to Buamhower’s Victory Grille (Auburn location) for a meal or two. This restaurant serves American cuisine in a laid-back environment. There are TVs throughout the restaurant, so you can catch sports games live as you chow down on comfort food. Menu items include burgers, wings, and fried appetizers. They also have quite a few chicken dishes like chicken + waffles (found under the “fowl play” section).
Address:
2353 Bent Creek Rd, Auburn, AL
Lucy’s
With a motto like “Good vibes only,” you won’t want to skip this restaurant. They describe themselves as a “modern American neighborhood eatery” specializing in locally sourced food. Lucy’s is open for dinner during the week and brunch and dinner on the weekends. Expect fun, creative dishes like the juicy Lucy burger and lemon lavender donuts. They also have unique cocktails, wine, beer, and mocktails available for your visit.
Address:
2300 Moores Mill Rd, Auburn, AL
Sword + Skillet
Sword + Skillet is not your average food truck. This food truck offers upscale meals, which change weekly. They have a permanent location at Midtown in Auburn and are open weekly Wednesdays through Fridays. On the menu, you’ll see dishes like blackened mahi sandwiches, filet mignon sliders, and sushi bowls. If you visit on a Friday night before a game, you’ll catch live music and a wine bar, providing a fun experience as you explore Sword + Skillet’s menu.
Address:
1188 Opelika Rd, Auburn, AL
Storys (Family Owned Restaurant Auburn, AL)
Mrs. Storys Dairy Bar is a local favorite that is not to be missed. This restaurant (owned and operated by the third generation of Story family members) has been open since 1952. They serve tasty items like their famous chili dogs, milkshakes, sundaes, and more out of a 50s-style walk-up. Mrs. Storys is notorious for being busy, so arrive as early as possible to cut the wait time.
Hey Day Market
A stop at Hey Day Market is a must while in Auburn, AL. This food hall features nine different eateries, a taproom, a roastery, and a bar. It’s an excellent spot for larger groups craving different food items. Don’t miss out on Khoodles while in the market, as this vendor sells tasty Malaysian street noodles and rice bowls. Menu items at Khoodles are based on recipes passed through multiple generations. You’ll also find other vendors like a gelateria and pizzeria at Hey Day Market.
Address:
211 S College St, Auburn, AL
Mandarin House
Mandarin House is a unique restaurant that serves Thai and Chinese options. It also has a sushi bar. If you can’t decide between various Asian dishes, then this is a great spot. Between the fresh seafood and tasty items like Peking duck, you’ll have nearly all your Asian food cravings satisfied. This restaurant has been around for many years and remains a local staple. It is one of the best places to eat in Auburn.
Pho Lee
For those who want Vietnamese food, like rice noodles, you’ll want to head to Pho Lee. Here, you’ll find authentic food, including large bowls of steaming hot pho. Expect quick service, affordable prices, and large portions at this Auburn, AL restaurant. Pho Lee has been open for about ten years now and is considered one of the best Vietnamese eateries in the area. Bring your appetite and expect to leave quite full for a visit to Pho Lee.
Acre
This is another one of the must-try Auburn restaurants. It features elevated Southern cuisine made with locally and ethically sourced ingredients. Chef Bancroft uses items from local butchers, farms, and onsite gardens/orchards to craft delicious food. With a focus on seasonal ingredients, expect the menu to change daily at Acre. This Auburn restaurant is typically considered a spot for celebrating special occasions, like birthdays and anniversaries. Menu items include raw oysters, charcuterie boards, pan-roasted diver scallops, and delicious desserts. Their banana bread pudding and peanut butter pie are must-try sweet treats here.
El Ranchero Mexican Restaurant
If you have any cravings for Mexican food, you’ll want to visit El Ranchero Mexican Restaurant. This Auburn , AL restaurant has one of the highest ratings online. This restaurant was opened in December 2020 by restauranteur Jose Barragan. It features a more elegant ambiance than casual Mexican restaurants, along with delicious, authentic dishes like sopas, fajitas, and enchiladas. The menu also includes more creative options, like fried burritos. Expect large portions and excellent customer service at this joint at one of best places to eat in Auburn.
Best Time to Visit Auburn, Alabama
We have linked a great website to this button showing the weather for this location by the month. Click below to be taken to Weather-and-Climate.com.
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