Name: The Irritable Bao
Address: 127 E. Magnolia Ave, Auburn, AL, 36830

The Irritable Bao might be a funny name, but their food is seriously yummy. A tiny storefront in the heart of downtown Auburn, The Irritable Bao is known for long lines that snake all the way to Toomer's Corner and incredibly delicious authentic Chinese bao. The casual dining hot spot has a menu that changes daily. You can find it on Instagram or Faceook, and the lines form promptly. But don't let that turn you away from experiencing the best bai in the South because, "The longer the line is, the faster your service is," says owner, Whitley Dykes. With a new menu each day, it's hard to say what the most popular menu items are. You'll just have to try it for yourself.

The Irritable Bao

Things to Do in Auburn-Opelika

Explore the beauty and excitement of the Auburn-Opelika area, where there is something for everyone. Visit the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art to appreciate world-class art exhibits. Experience the natural beauty of Chewacla State Park with its hiking trails and waterfalls. Take a stroll through historic downtown Opelika and enjoy its unique boutiques and vibrant dining scene. For sports enthusiasts, catch an Auburn Tigers game at Auburn University, known for its spirited football, basketball, and baseball games. Don't miss the Opelika Pickleball Facility, with 24 individually fenced, covered, and lighted courts, perfect for year-round play.

Local Highlights
Auburn University: Known for its beautiful campus and sporting events, Auburn University is a hub of activity and culture.

Downtown Opelika: Enjoy the charm of a historic downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Chewacla State Park: A natural retreat offering hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and camping.
Opelika Pickleball Facility: One of the best pickleball facilities in the Southeast, providing year-round play on 24 lighted courts.

Dining and Accommodations
With a wide range of dining options from casual eateries to fine dining, the Auburn-Opelika area caters to all tastes. Notable mentions include The Hound for its hearty Southern fare and Café 123 for a fine dining experience in a historic setting. Accommodations range from the luxurious Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort & Spa at Grand National to charming bed-and-breakfasts.

Plan your visit to Auburn-Opelika today and discover why it is a prime destination for sports, culture, and Southern hospitality! For more information, visit Auburn-Opelika Tourism.

Auburn-Opelika Tourism

Little Italy Pizzeria is a local favorite in Auburn, offering authentic New York-style pizza in a laid-back, casual setting. Known for its large, foldable slices and classic Italian flavors, Little Italy brings a slice of the Big Apple to the heart of Auburn. The pizzeria stands out for its hand-tossed dough, fresh ingredients, and quick service, making it a go-to spot for students, families, and pizza lovers alike. The menu features a variety of pizzas, calzones, strombolis, and fresh salads, with popular items including the classic Margherita pizza and the hearty meat lovers' pie. Little Italy offers dine-in and carryout options, providing convenience for every type of diner. Whether you're grabbing a slice to-go or enjoying a full pizza with friends, Little Italy Pizzeria is the perfect spot to satisfy your pizza cravings. Stop by for a delicious meal or visit their website for more information on their menu!

Little Italy Pizzeria

With a full bar serving ice cold beer, signature cocktails, and weekly drink specials, Moe’s Original Barbeque is a top pick for game days, live music, and nights out in Auburn. The indoor outdoor setup creates a fun, social vibe perfect for catching up with friends, grabbing wings, or enjoying local music. Just minutes from Auburn University, Moe’s is also known for its slow-smoked Southern barbecue, featuring pulled pork, smoked chicken, and ribs paired with classic sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread. Whether you’re starting your night or winding it down, Moe’s brings bold flavor and a crowd-pleasing atmosphere.

Moe's Original BBQ

Moe’s Original Barbeque is a local favorite in Auburn serving up authentic, slow-smoked Southern BBQ with a side of good times. Just minutes from Auburn University, Moe’s is known for its pulled pork, smoked chicken, and fall-off-the-bone ribs—all paired with classic, made-from-scratch sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread. But beyond the food, Moe’s has earned its place as a laid-back social hub where locals and visitors gather for more than just a meal. With a full bar offering ice-cold beer, signature cocktails, and a casual vibe, Moe’s is a go-to spot not only for lunch and dinner, but for game days, live music, and late-night hangs. The indoor-outdoor setup makes it easy to kick back with friends, enjoy a plate of wings, or catch local talent on stage. Whether you’re starting your night or closing it out, Moe’s brings the flavor and the fun

Taco Mama is a vibrant, casual Mexican restaurant in Auburn, AL, offering a fun dining experience with a modern twist on traditional Mexican cuisine. Known for its fresh, made-to-order tacos, the restaurant serves a variety of bold, creative dishes that range from classic options like grilled chicken and carne asada to unique creations such as the BBQ pork taco and the fried avocado taco. The menu also features delicious sides, including queso, guacamole, and chips, as well as refreshing margaritas and craft cocktails. Taco Mama is open Monday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., making it a great spot for lunch, dinner, or a late-night bite. The restaurant offers both dine-in and takeout options for your convenience, with ample seating available in a relaxed, colorful space. Taco Mama is located in a convenient spot in the heart of downtown Auburn with easy parking. Popular menu items include the signature tacos, Mexican street corn, and the refreshing margarita pitchers, perfect for sharing. The restaurant also features seasonal specials and rotating taco options, giving guests the chance to try something new on every visit. Whether you’re craving tacos, nachos, or a refreshing drink, Taco Mama is the place to be for a fun, flavorful meal in Auburn.

Taco Mama

Big Blue Bagel is a beloved bagel shop in Auburn, AL, known for serving freshly baked bagels in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. This local favorite is committed to quality and variety, offering a wide selection of bagels, signature spreads, and delicious toppings that cater to both classic bagel lovers and adventurous foodies. Featured on “100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die,” Big Blue Bagel’s Tiger Melt and Famous Bagel Chips are must-try menu items. Whether you're grabbing a quick breakfast in Auburn, enjoying a casual lunch, or fueling up with a delicious snack, Big Blue Bagel is the go-to spot for bagels and breakfast sandwiches. The menu boasts an impressive selection of hand-rolled bagels, from plain bagels to unique flavors, alongside a variety of house-made spreads, including cream cheese, hummus, and specialty options.

Big Blue Bagel Deli

Therapy Boutique, located in downtown Auburn, is a chic clothing store offering a curated selection of trendy apparel, accessories, and gifts. Known for its fashion-forward pieces and stylish offerings, Therapy Boutique provides a shopping experience that combines the latest trends with timeless wardrobe staples. Whether you're looking for a fresh outfit or a unique accessory, this boutique is a must-visit for fashion-conscious shoppers in the Auburn area. Open Monday through Sunday, Therapy Boutique offers a wide range of women’s clothing, from casual wear to statement pieces. With regularly updated inventory, shoppers can always find something new and exciting. The boutique’s central location makes it a convenient stop for both locals and visitors. If you're looking to upgrade your wardrobe with trendy styles or find the perfect accessory, stop by Therapy Boutique in downtown Auburn.

Therapy

Located in the heart of downtown Auburn, AL, Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers is a family-owned bookstore offering a curated selection of new releases, literary classics, and unique gifts. With its cozy ambiance and diverse range of books across genres, this beloved bookstore has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. In addition to its extensive collection of books from a variety of genres, Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers offers locally made gifts, stationery, and book-themed accessories, making it a perfect destination for readers and gift-seekers. The store frequently updates its inventory with new arrivals and seasonal offerings, ensuring that there's always something fresh to discover. For those looking for their next great read or a quiet place to unwind, Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers provides a welcoming environment to explore the latest literary treasures. Visit today to browse their current selections, or check the website for information on upcoming events, featured authors, and special promotions.

Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers

Staks Pancake Kitchen is a breakfast and brunch destination in Auburn, AL, known for its made-from-scratch pancakes and elevated take on morning classics. This modern yet cozy eatery offers a welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy a mix of traditional Southern flavors and creative, chef-inspired dishes. While pancakes are the star of the menu—ranging from classic buttermilk to indulgent options like cinnamon roll and peanut butter banana—Staks also serves a variety of omelets, benedicts, breakfast skillets, and fresh-baked pastries. Staks Pancake Kitchen is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., making it the perfect spot for early risers and brunch lovers alike. The restaurant offers dine-in, takeout, and online ordering for convenience. Parking is easily accessible, and the venue is family-friendly with a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. Popular menu items include the signature Staks Pancakes, the Southern Biscuit Benedict, and the loaded breakfast skillets. Guests can also enjoy seasonal specials and rotating pancake flavors that highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're craving a classic breakfast or something new and exciting, Staks Pancake Kitchen serves up a warm and satisfying meal every time.

Staks Pancake Kitchen

The Avondale Bar & Tap Room brings a sophisticated edge to Auburn’s nightlife with its elevated atmosphere and thoughtfully designed space. Tucked upstairs near Toomer’s Corner, it offers a warm, lounge-style setting complete with plush seating, dim lighting, and a curated mix of music that sets the tone for relaxed evenings and elevated conversations. The drink menu highlights seasonal craft cocktails, small-batch spirits, and a strong showing of Alabama-made beers and fine wines. With a rotating cocktail list and an emphasis on quality ingredients, each visit offers something new. Whether you're meeting for a quiet drink or winding down with friends, The Avondale provides a comfortable escape with polished charm and attention to detail.

The Avondale Bar & Tap Room

Cookie Fix Auburn serves up gourmet cookies baked fresh daily in downtown Auburn. From classic chocolate chip to seasonal flavors, each cookie is crisp on the outside and soft in the middle. Guests can also grab frozen dough to bake at home, making it easy to enjoy warm cookies anytime. Perfect for a quick treat, gameday snack, or gift to share.

Cookie Fix

Limitbreaker Lockdown will take place October 2-4 at Lake Wilmore Park Recreational Center in Auburn. This gymnastics meet will feature athletes competing in Levels 1-5, Xcel, and HUGS, with participants, coaches, families, and spectators expected throughout the weekend. Local residents are welcome to come out and watch the competition and support the athletes. Visit the event organizer’s website for meet details, schedules, and spectator information.

Limit Breakers Lockdown Gymnastics Meet

The 2026 Powerball Alabama State Championship, presented by Carvana PPA Tour and Southern Pickleball, will take place October 2-4 at the Opelika Pickleball Complex. The tournament will feature singles, doubles, mixed doubles, and junior divisions for a wide range of age groups and skill levels, with play beginning as early as 8 a.m. each day. Spectators are welcome to come out and watch the competition throughout the weekend, and players can register beginning June 1. Visit the tournament page for registration details, division information, event fees, and the full schedule.

2026 Powerball ALABAMA State Championship presented by Carvana PPA Tour & Southern Pickleball

The Southern Pickleball Association is dedicated to growing the sport of pickleball across the United States by offering affordable, professionally managed amateur events and supporting local pickleball communities. Since our inception in 2021, we have proudly become a cornerstone of community, camaraderie, and competition in the southeast, setting a new standard for what it means to run pickleball tournaments.

With nearly 200 tournaments hosted and over 30,000 players on our courts over the past 4 years, Southern Pickleball continues to bring people together through the joy of the game, fostering connections both on and off the court. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or new to the sport, we strive to create opportunities for everyone to experience the excitement and spirit of pickleball.

Southern Pickleball Association

Welcome to the Alabama Bass Federation Open Challenge, taking place Saturday, October 3, 2026, on Lake Harding in the Valley–Auburn area. This one-day tournament will launch from Po Boys Boat Ramp and bring competitive anglers together for a full day of bass fishing on one of the region’s premier lakes. Participants and spectators will find dining options nearby in Valley, Opelika, and Auburn, with convenient stops for breakfast before launch and meals following weigh-in. View the “Hotels” tab for live and discounted rates, and reach out to Auburn-Opelika Tourism with any destination-related questions. We look forward to welcoming anglers for a well-organized and successful tournament weekend on Lake Harding.

Alabama Bass Federation Open Challenge 

The 2026 ITA DI Men's Southern Regional Championship is a collegiate tennis tournament hosted at Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama, from October 8–12, 2026. Designed for NCAA Division I men's players, the competition is limited to up to 32 players and features Men's Open singles and doubles events. Organized through the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA), the tournament gives eligible college athletes an opportunity to compete in a regional championship format.

The Irritable Bao

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