Name: Southern Humanities Review Spring Sessions featuring Jade Chang and Christopher Kempf
Start: 2027-03-30
End: 2027-03-30

Auburn's finest and freshest seafood! The Depot is a gulf-coastal brasserie with a globally inspired menu where sea meets land. Constructed in 1847, this fabled train depot rests in the heart of downtown Auburn. With a prominent role in the history of the city, the time-worn tracks of The Depot have seen the face of war and abandonment. Now over 150 years later, The Hound Owners Matt & Jenna Poirier have resurrected the building to house the area's first fresh seafood restaurant where, along with co-owner and Executive Chef Scott Simpson, they bring globally-inspired cuisine to the heart of Alabama in this historically relevant setting. "Where the hook meets the line," The Depot plates up the finest and freshest seafood in the area, elevating the culinary scene in the community with cuisine that, cooked simply and spectacularly, also serves to honor our Southern heritage. The bar staff is passionate about the drinks they make. The Depot welcomes you into their restaurant filled with history and has you leaving wondering when you can come back. Serving dinner. Reservations recommended. Insider Tip: Try their famous Tapas Tuesday or Thursday Oysters & Bubbles from 5-7 pm! Insider Tip: Try their famous Wednesday Sushi & Spirits or Thursday Oyster Night!

The Depot

One Forty Grill is the newest culinary experience from the family behind Hamilton’s, a staple in the Auburn community for over 20 years. Known for its timeless appetizers like the signature shrimp cocktail and delectable entrées such as pan-seared salmon and U-10 diver scallops, One Forty Grill brings big flavors to a cozy and inviting space. Dedicated to using the freshest ingredients and time-honored recipes, One Forty Grill creates dishes that are both flavorful and comforting. Whether you're visiting for a casual lunch, romantic dinner, or a festive gathering, the restaurant provides a welcoming atmosphere with options for all tastes and dietary preferences. Guests can visit daily from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. A curated selection of cocktails, craft beers, and wines complements the menu, making it a great place to unwind. Parking is available on-site, and reservations are recommended for weekends. Whether you're stopping in for a quick bite or a full dining experience, One Forty Grill delivers quality food and welcoming service.

One Forty Grill

Roni’s Mac Bar puts a creative spin on comfort food with customizable mac and cheese bowls and gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. Guests can choose from a variety of cheese blends and toppings, including barbecue pork, brisket, jalapeños, pineapple, and more. The colorful, casual setting includes games and lounge seating, making it a fun stop for lunch, dinner, or a late-night bite in downtown Auburn.

Roni's Mac Bar Auburn

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

Walt's on the Roof sits atop The Laurel Hotel in Auburn, offering rooftop views and a comfortable setting for drinks, music, and conversation. The menu features handcrafted cocktails, a curated wine list, and a mix of spirits that pair well with the easygoing atmosphere. With open-air seating and a relaxed crowd, it's a great place to ease into the evening, meet up with friends, or enjoy live music in a casual rooftop setting. Walt's offers a simple and stylish way to take in the Auburn skyline.

Walt's On the Roof

Walt’s on the Roof pairs elevated views with a menu that balances creative cocktails and thoughtful bites. Located atop The Laurel Hotel in Auburn, the rooftop bar features a full drink list including signature cocktails, wine, and premium spirits designed to complement its casual yet stylish setting. The food menu offers a selection of shareable plates and seasonal dishes, making it easy to enjoy drinks and snacks without leaving your seat. Whether you're stopping in for a pre-dinner cocktail or spending the evening sampling drinks and small plates, Walt’s offers a relaxed rooftop experience with quality at the forefront.

Mochiatsu is a unique dessert shop in Auburn, specializing in mochi donuts and bubble tea. Known for its vibrant flavors and creative dessert combinations, Mochiatsu brings a fun and modern twist to traditional sweets, making it a standout among dessert spots in the area. The shop’s signature item, mochi donuts, offers a chewy texture with a variety of delicious glazes, while their bubble tea menu boasts a wide range of flavors, from classic milk teas to refreshing fruit teas. Visitors can enjoy a rotating selection of mochi donut flavors, with popular options like matcha, ube, and strawberry. The shop is conveniently located with ample parking nearby, making it easy for both quick visits and leisurely stops. Mochiatsu often features limited-time specials and seasonal flavors, perfect for those who enjoy trying new and exciting treats. Their cozy and minimalist ambiance makes it a great place to hang out with friends or grab a dessert to-go. Whether you're a bubble tea lover or in search of the perfect mochi donut, Mochiatsu offers a sweet experience you won't want to miss. Stop by to try their latest creations, or visit their website for more details on flavors and seasonal offerings.

Mochiatsu

A cornerstone of Auburn since 1953, J&M Bookstore is the go-to spot for Auburn University apparel, gifts, and memorabilia. Conveniently located across from Toomer’s Corner, this locally owned shop is known for its wide selection of Auburn gear, textbooks, and school supplies. Whether browsing for game day essentials or a classic orange and blue souvenir, J&M is a must-visit for students, alumni, and fans alike.

J&M Bookstore

The Atelier, located in Auburn, is a vintage store specializing in carefully curated streetwear and unique clothing pieces. The shop focuses on offering high-quality vintage clothing that embodies classic and modern styles, making it a go-to destination for fashion enthusiasts looking for rare and stylish streetwear. With a mix of eras and trends, The Atelier provides an exceptional shopping experience for those who appreciate vintage fashion. Open Monday through Sunday, The Atelier offers a constantly updated selection of vintage streetwear, including clothing, accessories, and more. The store’s ever-changing inventory ensures that there’s always something new and exciting to discover, whether you’re looking for a standout piece to complete your wardrobe or a hidden gem from a past era. For fashion-forward shoppers seeking unique vintage streetwear, The Atelier is the perfect spot. Stop by the store to explore their latest collections or visit their website for more information on available items and upcoming events.

The Atelier Auburn

Located in downtown Auburn, Charming Oaks is a boutique clothing store that blends Southern charm with modern fashion, offering a carefully curated selection for both college-aged women and moms or older women seeking versatile and stylish pieces. Whether you’re in search of on-trend items or timeless wardrobe staples, Charming Oaks has something for every woman. The store offers a wide variety of apparel, including casual wear, polished outfits, and chic pieces for any occasion. Conveniently located in downtown Auburn, the boutique provides a comfortable shopping experience for all its visitors. Whether you’re a college student looking for fresh styles or a mom seeking practical, fashionable outfits, Charming Oaks has you covered. Stop by to explore the latest collections, or visit the website for information on new arrivals, seasonal promotions, and more.

Charming Oaks

Scout

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

Join Pebble Hill for the Third Thursday Literary Series! Free and open to the public. Refreshments and book sales will be available at 6 p.m.; the program will begin at 6:30 p.m.  
  
Jade Chang’s debut novel, *The Wangs vs. the World*, won the VCU Cabell First Novelist Award and has been published in a dozen countries. Her journalism and essays have recently appeared in *The Best American Food Writing*, and in the *New York Times* and *Los Angeles Times* magazines. She also writes for film and TV. She lives in Los Angeles. *What a Time to Be Alive* is out in Fall 2026 from Ecco.

Southern Humanities Review Spring Sessions featuring Jade Chang and Christopher Kempf

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