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Downtown street scene in Auburn and Opelika
Local Guide

Where Auburn & Opelika Eat,
Shop & Explore

One of the best parts of living in Auburn and Opelika is the local food and shopping scene. These are the places I recommend to clients — and the ones my family and I love personally.

Business of the Week
Mama Goldberg's Deli — a beloved Auburn deli
Featured

Mama Goldberg's Deli

804 E Glenn Ave, Auburn, AL 36830

A beloved Auburn institution since 1976, Mama Goldberg's is famous for its steamed deli sandwiches, loaded nachos, and a no-frills, community-first atmosphere. Walk in and you'll see why locals have been coming back for decades — this is where Auburn gathers.

Why Rozi Recommends It

"I've been eating here since we moved to Auburn in 2005. It's the kind of place that makes a new town feel like home — the food is honest, the people are warm, and every Game Day starts with a stop at Mama Goldberg's. If you're relocating here, this is one of the first places I'll tell you to try."

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This business is featured weekly. Check back for a new local recommendation from Rozi.


Dining

Where to eat in Auburn & Opelika.

From dinner at 1856 to casual bites at The Depot, our area punches well above its weight when it comes to local restaurants. Here are my favorites — the places I send friends, family, and clients.

Date Night

1856 – Culinary Residence

Downtown Auburn

Upscale Southern-inspired cuisine in a restored historic building on College Street. A go-to for anniversaries and special occasions.

Date Night

Lucy's

Auburn

Modern comfort food with a Southern twist. Known for creative dishes, craft cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps regulars coming back weekly.

Night Out

The Depot

Downtown Auburn

A restaurant and bar set inside a converted historic train depot. Great burgers, a full bar, and live music make this a downtown Auburn favorite.

Night Out

Zazu Gastropub

Downtown Opelika

Craft beer, elevated pub fare, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of downtown Opelika with an outdoor patio.

Date Night

Café One Twenty Three

Downtown Opelika

A refined dining experience on South 8th Street in Opelika, offering refined dishes with locally sourced ingredients and an intimate setting.

All Ages

Hey Day Market

Downtown Auburn

A food hall on South College Street bringing together multiple vendors under one roof — perfect for groups where everyone wants something different.

Quick Bite

One Forty Grill

Downtown Auburn

Casual Southern grilling on North College Street — solid burgers, sandwiches, and quick-service plates when you don't want to overthink it.

Quick Bite

Roni's Mac Bar

Downtown Auburn

Gourmet mac and cheese bowls with creative toppings. Comfort food at its finest, right in the heart of downtown Auburn.

Weekend Brunch

Botanic

Opelika

A café and wine bar on Frederick Road in Opelika with a garden-inspired interior. Great for brunch, coffee, or a glass of wine with friends.

All Ages

Hamilton's On Ogletree

Auburn

A neighborhood restaurant with classic American fare and a loyal following among Auburn diners, known for its welcoming atmosphere.

Casual Dining

The Breezeway

Downtown Opelika

A laid-back spot on South 8th Street in Opelika with burgers, sandwiches, and cold drinks. Perfect for a casual weeknight dinner.

Game Day

Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux

Opelika

Louisiana-inspired sports bar with big screens, bold flavors, and a great game-day atmosphere in Opelika's Tiger Town.


Shopping

Local boutiques & specialty shops.

Downtown Auburn and Opelika have developed a great mix of locally owned boutiques. Whether you're shopping for Game Day, updating your wardrobe, or hunting for a unique gift, these shops are worth your time.


Sweet Treats & Coffee

Coffee, pastries & frozen treats.

From the iconic milkshakes at Toomer's Drugs to small-batch coffee roasters and French-inspired bakeries, Auburn and Opelika have a thriving café and dessert scene. These are the spots that keep my coffee cup full and my weekends sweet.

Must Visit

Toomer's Drugs

Downtown Auburn

The iconic Auburn landmark at Toomer's Corner. Famous for its hand-dipped milkshakes and the tradition of rolling the corner with toilet paper after a big win.

Work & Coffee

Toomers Coffee Roasters

Opelika

Small-batch roasted coffee in Opelika with a focus on quality and craft. A favorite for serious coffee lovers who want something better than a chain.

Work & Coffee

Well Red

Auburn

A bookstore-café hybrid on Opelika Road — sip a latte while browsing shelves. A well-known spot in Auburn.

Work & Coffee

The Bean Coffee Shop

Auburn

A cozy, local coffee shop on Dean Road with espresso drinks, pastries, and a relaxed vibe. A great alternative to the chains.

Quick Bite

Coffee Mafia

Auburn

A locally owned coffee bar in Auburn with creative drinks, good vibes, and a growing following among students and locals alike.

Sweet Tooth

Cakeitecture Bakery

Downtown Opelika

Custom cakes, pastries, and desserts in downtown Opelika. From birthday cakes to afternoon treats, everything is made from scratch.

Weekend Brunch

Boulangerie

Auburn

A French-inspired bakery in Auburn bringing authentic pastries, breads, and baked goods to the community. Crêpes, croissants, and more.

All Ages

Bruster's Real Ice Cream

Auburn

Freshly made ice cream with a huge menu of flavors and toppings. A spot welcoming to all ages perfect for an evening treat.

Sweet Tooth

Cookie Fix

Auburn

Warm, oversized cookies with creative flavor combos. The kind of place where one cookie turns into a dozen.

Quick Bite

Frios Gourmet Pops

Auburn

Handcrafted frozen pops in creative flavors. Light, refreshing, and perfect for a hot Alabama afternoon.


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Want to know more about life
in Auburn & Opelika?

I've called this community home since 2005. Whether you're relocating, buying your first home, or just curious about the area, I'd love to help.

rozi@mindspring.com · Auburn-Opelikahomes.com

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