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.

Auburn/Opelika Best Bites Part 2

It is time for part 2 of our journey through Auburn/Opelika's Best Bites. I hope you have had time to check out some of the amazing restaurants that were featured in our last installment. If you have a favorite, let us know so we can let the rest of the community know. Below we will experience four more favorites that we know will give your taste buds more to rave about!

 

Amsterdam Cafe

 

Don't miss this local favorite for lunch or dinner. Located in the heart of downtown Auburn and featuring distinctive casual dining in an eclectic atmosphere, Amsterdam Cafe has been a local favorite since it opened its doors in the early 1990's. Dress up or dress down to experience their fresh farm to table principle that is so important to our community. They feature a variety of fresh beef, poultry and seafood selections as well as hand made pizzas, burgers, sandwiches and salads. Their Crab Cake & Avocado Sandwich was voted as one of Alabama's top 100 dishes. Have an special event coming up? Amsterdam also features a private dining area that is perfect for that surprise birthday party, rehearsal dinner or office party. Reservations are accepted.

 

Personal Favorite:

Appetizer: Shrimp and Grits, grilled gulf shrimp, Oakview Farm grits and tasso cream sauce.

Entree: Crab Cake & Avocado Sandwich, lump crab cake, avocado, creole remoulade, mano pico de gallo on a toasted croissant.

Dessert: They are all amazing, therefore I can not pick a favorite.

Drink of Choice: Champagne Lady, Absolut Vodka, peach schnapps and champagne.

 

Located at 410 South Gay Street in Auburn.

 

Hours:

Sunday-Thursday: 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

 

Mrs. Story's  Dairy Bar

 

An Auburn-Opelika tradition for over 63 years, the secret recipe for Mrs. Story's famous homemade chili dogs reminds us that, thankfully, some things never change. This historic establishment is still in its original location on Pepperell Parkway. It is still family owned and is where you will find the freshest "fast" food in the area. Chili dogs are not all they are famous for, they also have some of the best milkshakes in town! Don't miss this 50s style walk-up on your next restaurant adventure.

Personal Favorite:
Entree: Short Chili-Dog, a homemade recipe since 1952.
Dessert: Butterfinger Shake, speaks for itself.
Drink of choice: Sweet Tea, a southern favorite.

Located at 1900 Pepperell Parkway in Opelika.

Hours:
Monday-Wednesday: 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Thursday-Saturday: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Acre

 

 

Whether you are a student, returning alumni or a first time visitor to The Plains, Chef David Bancroft and his staff invite you to experience their stylish modern food with roots deep in Southern soil. They are located just blocks from Toomer's Corner and work hard to bring classic favorites to the table with fresh, innovative flavors and artistic performance. The food is responsibly grown and harvested and expertly prepared by their staff. Their menu is ever changing and features seasonal favorites as well as items that are a must year round. They also offer a private dining area that is perfect for your next event!

 

Personal Favorite:

Appetizer: Strawberry & Candied Walnut Salad, smoked bacon, bleu cheese, baby spinach and sherry-honey vinaigrette.

Entree: Johnny Caradine's Gulf Red Snapper, sweet potato pirloo, acre Andouille, crunchy chickpeas, savoy spinach and burnt ends consomme.

Dessert: Peanut Butter Pie, chocolate truffle, torched banana meringue, and "tag-a-long" girl scout cookie

Drink of Choice: Mark Collins, Makers Mark Bourbon, fresh squeezed lemon, housemade Satsume orange bitters, simple syrup and candied orange peel.

 

Located at 210 East Glenn Avenue in Auburn.

 

Hours:

LUNCH HOURS:Everyday from 11a.m.- 3p.m.

 

DINNER HOURS:

Monday-Thursday: 5-9 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 5-10 p.m.

Closed Sunday Evening

 

Warehouse Bistro

 

Take your taste buds on an adventure out of the ordinary at Warehouse Bistro in Opelika. You are sure to feel like a king or queen as owner-chef Joe Hippley prepares each dish using the freshest ingredients, as his staff tends to your every need with quality service. The diverse menu features nightly Chef Specials, an award winning wine list and so much more. Their wine list features more than 300 selections. Menu items also include selections such as New Zealand rack of lamb, fresh jumbo lump crab cakes, coq au win, and a variety of pasta dishes. Don't miss out on this unique dining experience located in the industrial warehouse district.

Personal Favorite:
Appetizer: Hot Artichoke and Fresh Parmesan Cheese Dip, Baked golden brown and served with French bread crostino.
Entree: Fresh Gulf Black Grouper, seasoned and served grilled or sauteed. Crowned with jumbo lump crab meat, accompanied by Hollandaise sauce. Served with potato and vegetable du jour.
Dessert: Banana Creme Brulee', a twist on a classic.
Drink of Choice: Creamsicle Martini, Grey Goose Orange Vodka, Cointreau, orange juice and light cream.

Located at 105-C Rocket Avenue in Opelika.

Hours:
Tuesday-Thursday: 6-9 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 6-10 p.m.

We hope you have the opportunity to try some of these fantastic selections from some of our Auburn-Opelika Best Bites guide. For more details and a list of all of our fabulous restaurants in the area, be sure to visit www.aotourism.com. Stay tuned for Part 3!

This week in Auburn-Opelika:

July 21: Opelika Mainstreet Farmers Market from 3-6 p.m.
July 21: Summer Swing Concert Series at the Municipal Park in Opelika at 7 p.m.
July 23: The Market at Ag Heritage Park from 3-6 p.m.
July 24: Andrew Combs with B.B. Palmer & Kudzu in Concert.
July 25: Science on Saturdays at the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center
July 25: Summer Outdoor Movie Series featuring Frozen at 7:30 p.m.
July 27: Live From New York screening at Carmike Cinemas-Tiger 13

For a list of all events happening in the Auburn-Opelika area, please visit www.aotourism.com!

 



 

 



Auburn/Opelika Best Bites Part 1

Summertime is a perfect time for exploring your surroundings. Whether you have been here for four days or 40 years, there is always something new to discover. If you are like me, food is always on the top of my priority list and our area has some of the best food that you will find (we might be biased). We have so many, that it was hard to put them all in one post. Get ready for your mouth to water as we break down some of Auburn and Opelika's Best Bites in Part 1 of this exploration of cuisine.

The Hound

The Hound, a family owned restaurant, brings the outdoors to life in downtown Auburn and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Owners Matthew Poirier and Jana (Caruthers) Poirier successfully and tastefully combined the feel of a hunting lodge with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. From the entry doors, to the barnwood, bar, tables and chandeliers, all were Alabama reclaimed, milled, designed and hand crafted by the Caruthers-Poirier clan. Moving on from their awesome decor, their menu is second to none and is sure to excite your taste buds. Menu items include meatloaf, craft beer braised chicken, 1/2 lb. bacon BLT, wild-game sausage, their Big Fat 16 oz Steak, thick cut bone-in Berkshire chop, home-spun vanilla bean ice cream, and bread pudding with a bourbon caramel sauce, and that is just the beginning. Don't miss this Auburn classic next time you are visiting or just need a night out. For more information, please visit www.thehound-auburn.com. Reservations are accepted for parties of 10 or more.

Personal Favorite:

Appetizer: Mama Sue's Pepper Jelly, homemade jalapeno pepper jelly with house cream cheese and crackers.
Entree: Veggie Lasagna, wine stewed mushrooms, onion, spinach, feta, mozzarella, and house made basil tomato sauce.
Dessert: Bread Pudding, with caramel, bourbon sauce... speaks for itself.
Drink of choice: With 28 beers on tap, good luck choosing just one.

Located at 124 Tichenor Avenue in Auburn, AL.

Hours:
Tuesday-Thursday: 11:30 a.m.- 12 a.m.
Friday: 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m
Saturday: 11 a.m.- 2 a.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Ma Fia's Ristorante & Pizzeria

 

 

"Eat well, laugh often, love much." Ma Fia's Ristorante & Pizzaria wants you to take this Italian saying to heart. Ma Fia's prepares handmade Italian dishes prepared in a relaxing, Italian setting. Their specialties include a variety of fresh fish, seafood, meats and pizzas cooked in their one of a kind pizza oven. Their dough is made from scratch daily and rests for 48 hours to ensure a one of a kind taste. With San Marzano tomatoes imported from Italy, their sauce will make you want to say, "Buon appetito!"Their menu also features unique Italian specialties such as Seafood Limoncello, Linguini a la Vodka, Wild Mushroom Ravioli, and classics such as Meat Lasagna, Fettucini Alfredo and Shrimp Scampi. Offering just the right mix of flavor and hospitality, I am sure you will feel as though you are dining on the streets Venice. For more information, please visit www.mafiasitalian.com.

 

Personal Favorite:

Appetizer: Grilled Scallops, grilled crostini, proscuitto, blueberry gastrique.

Entree: Wild Mushroom Ravioli, prosciutto, gorgonzola, red onion and basil.

Pizza of Choice: Margherita, san marzano tomato sauce, roma tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, fresh basic and olive oil.

Dessert: Cheese Cake Flan, cream cheese pastry with sugar tuile.

Drink of choice: They have a wide variety of both red and white wines, but I prefer a Chardonnay with my Wild Mushroom Ravioli.

 

Located at 811 South Railroad Avenue in Opelika, AL.

 

Hours:

Sunday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Thursday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

 

Hamilton's on Magnolia

 

If you wish to dine and bask in the beautiful Auburn scenery, then Hamilton's on Magnolia is the place for you! Located one block from Toomer's corner, Hamilton's offers an intimate and casual neighborhood atmosphere and is perfect for all kinds of occasions. Whether it is a business meeting, or a party or family event, they are ready to accommodate you. Appetizers, salads and sandwiches are available throughout the day, but the chefs also prepare entrees daily and are as creatively presented as they are prepared. The menu consists of beef, pork, fish and chicken and is sure to satisfy any palate. The patio is a always a great option to relax and re-fuel after a busy day of shopping and exploring downtown Auburn. With live music on Mondays and daily drink specials, Hamilton's has quickly become a hometown favorite, and we can't wait for you to experience why! For more information, please visit www.hamiltonsonmagnolia.com.

Personal Favorite:

Appetizer: Hummus, garbanzo beans, roasted garlic and tahini blended together and served with pita, banana peppers, green olives and pickled red onions.
Entree: Shrimp & Grits, Hamilton's specialty with sauteed with Capps' sausage and bell peppers, tossed in a crystal cream sauce served over cheese grits.
Dessert: Irish Creme Brule, rich custard, Bailey's Irish Creme, vanilla sugar, whipped cream and fresh strawberries.
Drink of Choice: Hocus Pocus, muddles strawberries, Hypnotiq, Malibu Rum and Pineapple Juice

Located at 174 East Magnolia Avenue in Auburn, AL.

Hours:
Monday-Tuesday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Wednesday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Cafe 123

 

Located in an authentic 50s soda fountain, Cafe 123 is a fine dining restaurant serving southern and continental cuisine with a hip, vintage atmosphere. Take it from me, you DO NOT want to miss out on this one of a kind dining experience. The menu features hand-cut ribeyes and filets, sushi-grade tuna, and a selection of Chef's specials and fresh cataches. Some local favorites include Beer-Battered Asparagus with Lemon Aioli, classic tableside Ceasar for two and Chef Eron Bass' Beef Tenderloin Napoleon. Wine dinners and other special events will keep you coming back again and again. For more information, please visit www.cafeonetwentythree.com. Reservations are recommended.

Personal Favorite:

Appetizer: Fried Green Tomatoes, thick sliced green tomatoes fried to golden, accompanied with a horseradish and parmesan sauce.
Entree: Barbeque Bourbon Salmon, farm-raised Chilean salmon, seared with a barbeque bourbon glaze, served over Oakview Farms creamy stone-ground grits and sauteed spinach, finished with creme fraiche and scallions.
Dessert: Their dessert menu is always changing, but everything I have ever had has been fabulous.
Drink of Choice: Cafe 123 has an exceptional wine list. There is something for everyone!

Located at 123 South Eighth Street in Opelika, AL.

Hours:
Tuesday-Saturday: 6-9 p.m.

Those are just a few of our amazing dining options in the Auburn/Opelika area. Stay tuned for Part 2 in a few weeks! For more information, please visit www.aotourism.com!

This week in Auburn/Opelika:

June 22-23: Camp War Eagle at Auburn University
June 22-26: Summer Ecology Camp, Explorers at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center
June 23: Opelika Mainstreet Farmers Market from 3-6 p.m.
June 23: Summer Swing Concert series at the Municipal Park in Opelika
June 25: The Market at Ag Heritage Park from 3-6 p.m.
June 25-26: Camp War Eagle at Auburn University
June 27: A Day in Clay at the Dean Road Ceramics Studio

For additional information on all events in the Auburn/Opelika area, please visit www.aotourism.com!