Auburn-Opelika Best Bites Part 3

Today is our last installment of Auburn-Opelika Best Bites. While I am sad to see this series go, I am beyond excited for you to experience more of the tastes of the town. We have already explored wonderful dining options for any mood, but just wait until you read what we have in store for you today. I am 100% positive your mouth will be watering by the end. We are taking a different approach today by walking through every meal option you could have in one day. So loosen up that belt buckle, you are in for a tasty ride!

Breakfast: Barbecue House

Not only is this some of the best barbecue you will find in Auburn, it is also home to some of the most amazing breakfast in town. Their made-to-order, country style breakfast is worth waking up early for, trust me. Some breakfast favorites include made-from-scratch biscuits, French toast, pancakes, hashbrowns, bacon, their famous link sausage and eggs, any style. Breakfast is only served on the weekdays and early kick-off football games, so make plans before you lay your head down to get there!

Personal Favorite: French Toast with a side of cheese grits and bacon. (My mouth is watering, is yours?)

Located at 345 South College Street in Auburn.

Hours:
Monday-Friday: 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Lunch: Niffer's Place & Niffer's at the Tracks

Lunch is a time to kick back, relax and have fun with friends, co-workers or even grab a bite with the significant other during your busy day and Niffer's is ready to provide you with the atmosphere needed! Auburn Alum owner Keely Beasecker loves for people to enjoy her funky restaurant with event better food. They have something for everyone including wings, nachos, huge salads. 1/2 pound burgers, grilled chicken with steamed veggies, pasta, vegetarian dishes, kid's menu, desserts and so much more. As you can see, no matter what you are the mood for, chances are, Niffer's has it! Located in both Auburn and Opelika, you can visit no matter where you are!

Personal Favorite:
Appetizer: Corn Nuggets, sweet and delicious and served with Niffer's own honey mustard.
Entree: Greek Quesedillas, a flour tortilla filled with, grilled chicken, spinach, parmesan cheese, greek dressing, tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
Side: I ALWAYS order Niffer's chips with a side of Mexicali Dip
Drink of Choice: Fish Bowl Watermelon Margarita (It is to die for!)

Located at...
Auburn, 1151 Opelika Road
Opelika, 917 S. Railroad Avenue

Hours:
Sunday-Thursday: 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Midday Treat: Toomer's Drugs

There isn't much to say about this famous Auburn establishment, other than it provides the backdrop to the famous Toomer's Corner! While shopping, it is very important to head on over and try some of their famous lemonade, which was ranked No. 1 in Esquire magazine's "162 Reasons It's Good To Be An American." Toomer's has been an Auburn tradition for over a century. Aside from the amazing freshly squeezed lemonade, you will find delicious fountain specialities and snacks as well as plenty of Auburn souvenirs to round out your shopping trip!

Personal Favorite:
You can't beat a nice cold cup of lemonade and an ice cream sandwich!

Located at 100 N. College Street in Auburn.

Hours:
Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Sunday: 12-5 p.m.

Dinner: Ariccia Trattoria & Bar

Ariccia Trattoria & Bar blends a new world feel with an old world culinary concept. Located in the Hotel at Auburn University, you will be transported into an Italian-inspired world with Southern Hospitality. From homemade pastas and pizzas to hearty meat and seafood based entrees, you will not be disappointed. They are also open for Sunday Brunch with features all your favorites including a build-your-own Bloody Marys and Mimosas bar. The restaurant also features an espresso bar, distinctive wine list and has a private dining room for special events!

Personal Favorite:
Appetizer: Lobster, butter pached lobser, carrot apricot panna cotta, white balsamic vinaigrette, candied pecans.
Entree: Chicken, organic breast, porcini, spinach, roasted garlic, farro risotto, lemon.
Dessert: There dessert menu is ever changing!

Located at 241 S. College Street, inside the Hotel at Auburn University.

Hours:
Open seven days a week from 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

BONUS: Sunday

Lunch: Pannie George's Kitchen

Experiencing this unique Southern style cooking after church is a must when you are in the area. Named after their grandparents, the owners and operators of this causal, cafeteria-style restaurant has quickly become the place to go for traditional Southern cooking. Selections vary daily- other than their legendary fried chicken- and include items such as catfish, meat loaf, macaroni & cheese, purple hull peas, cabbage, banana pudding and sweet potato pie. I don't know about you, but I just got hungry. Don't miss on some down home cooking while you are in town.

Personal Favorite:
EVERYTHING.

Located at 2328 South College Street in Auburn.

Hours:
Monday-Tuesday: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Wednesday-Friday: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Sundays: 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Now that you are in the know on all the dining options Auburn and Opelika have to offer, make sure to tell everyone you know. After all, we don't want these tasty places to be kept secret! For more information on all dining options in the Auburn-Opelika area, please visit www.aotourism.com.

This week in Auburn-Opelika:

August 4: Opelika Mainstreet Farmers Market from 3-6 p.m.
August 4: Summer Swing Concert Series at 7 p.m. at the Muncipal Park
August 6: The Market at Ag Heritage Park from 3-6 p.m.
August 7-10: Alabama State Junior Tennis Open at the Yarbrough Tennis Center
August 7: First Fridays in Downtown Opelika
August 9: Auburn Football Fan Day from 3:30-5:30 p.m.