The Most Instagram-Worthy Brunch Spots in Auburn

Saturdays in Auburn are for football. Sundays are for brunch.

Auburn has no shortage of outstanding brunch locations. But figuring out which restaurant has the best food, lighting, and backdrop? It can get tricky. Have no fear — we went to the most Insta-worthy spots and scoped them out for you. 

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The Hound

#1 Restaurant in Auburn, $$ - $$$

For the best food in Auburn, look no further than The Hound. With the distinct dusty blue wall, heavy wood front doors, and the hunting lodge-esque décor inside, it’s also the perfect place for pictures.

Source: The Hound

My pick for an envious Insta story post? The Steak & Eggs. This eggceptional dish gives you both breakfast and lunch in one: a quarter pound of Denver cut steak, three eggs cooked any way, and delicious breakfast potatoes. Tastes good and makes everyone jealous. Who am I kidding, though, I’ve tried almost everything on The Hound’s brunch menu. You can’t go wrong.

The Depot

#2 Restaurant in Auburn, $

First built in 1847, The Depot has been restored, revamped, and repurposed. Located right on the tracks and down the street from downtown Auburn, it’s a prime brunch spot.

Source: The Depot

Most importantly, the Grand Marnier French Toast is to die for, and it’s ~ aesthetically pleasing ~ for your story. Everyone will be swiping up asking where you are. Plus, who doesn’t love a classic French toast? The Depot’s creation boasts fluffy toast topped with strawberries, hibiscus syrup (yes, seriously), and white chocolate whipped cream. Treat yo self, am I right?

For the ideal Instagram post, there’s a beautiful blue brick wall out front. If you’ve got a darker vibe going on, try the leather-upholstered booth inside.

Acre

#3 Restaurant in Auburn, $$ - $$$

Acre is a triple threat — sophisticated, homey, and award-winning. In 2017, it was named the best Farm-to-Table restaurant in Alabama by Travel+Leisure, and Chef David Bancroft is widely known for being a former Iron Chef Showdown winner. With a menu that changes almost daily and an array of unique choices, you could brunch here every weekend. I know I would if I could. And I’d order the Chicken and Waffles every. Single. Time. It’s a staple, but with a twist —  Vermont maple syrup, cinnamon-ancho chili butter, and toasted pecans. No filter needed.

Your best bet for the perfect pictures is in the pretty sitting area just inside the doors, complete with cream-colored couches, or outside on the patio. Get some greenery in your grid!

Hamilton’s

#5 Restaurant in Auburn, $$ - $$$

Hamilton’s is just a quick stroll from Samford Lawn, making it an ideal brunch location to take visitors on your tour of town. On the corner of Magnolia Avenue and Gay Street, Hamilton’s is small and modest but has a vibrant atmosphere and delicious brunch menu. My meal of choice is the Fried Chicken Biscuit. Sensing a theme? (I love fried chicken.) Chicken and a biscuit – yes please. It’s decked out with palmetto pimento cheese with jalapenos, chipotle barbeque, and bacon. This brunch biscuit will look so good on your story, you’ll want to order another one. Just don’t forget to snap a picture out front under the signature awning with the stone entryway behind you. If you don’t post a picture, were you even there?

Lucy’s

#27 Restaurant in Auburn, $$ - $$$

As you probably know, Lucy’s has been all the rage lately. The white walls, beautiful indoor décor, and fun fluorescent sign all make up the perfect backdrop for aesthetically pleasing photos.

I went a little lighter at Lucy’s this time around and opted for the Avocado Tartine. With perfectly toasted sourdough, smashed avocado, black cherry tomatoes, fresno chili, pickled onions, and a poached egg to top it off, it’s equally trendy and tasty.

Get there early (it gets busy quickly!) and grab your girls to get a picture under the “Good Vibes Only” sign. Strike a pose and laugh for some cute candids.

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Hungry yet? These mouth-watering brunch spots are foolproof if you’re in the mood for good food and good pictures. Next time you’re making weekend plans, keep them in mind!

Have a favorite brunch spot we left off the list? Let us know in the comments below or on social media, @auburncampusrec.

Be well, Auburn.

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Photography: Kyleigh M.