For those of you who remember when Opelika Road was home to a handful of Auburn landmarks like Harry’s Bar and The Plaza Motel, you just might want to check out the changed landscape and stop by Midtown Auburn. One new bar and restaurant in the development is open for business and ready to serve you—Auburn Plaza Bar and Lounge.
The Idea Behind the Bar
Auburn Plaza Bar and Lounge is owned by business partners Christian Watson, Brian Malone, and Andy Anderson. The three liked the idea of creating a venue that has charm, character and a hint of class but captures the dive bar ambiance. Originally it was just going to be a bar, but when Malone and Anderson partnered with Watson, it expanded to include a restaurant with a unique, local menu.
The Menu
The menu was developed with not just taste in mind, but also as way to incorporate products that have an Alabama connection—making for a creative assortment of delicious dishes only available at Auburn Plaza Bar and Lounge.
The signature item is The Original Warburger, a 3 oz. chuck beef patty topped with sweet onions, Wickles Dirty Dill pickles, French’s mustard, and the house bbq sauce. And yes, of course, you can add American cheese! Other signature items include Soul Rolls, Wickles Pickles Boiled Peanuts, and the Conecuh Sausage Dog with all the fixings.
A Trip Down Memory Lane
Opelika Road once claimed Harry’s Bar, Bottcher’s Bar & Grill, and The Plaza Motel as its own. Locals, college students, and visitors alike can share countless colorful stories about Harry’s, a true dive bar established in 1978. By the late ’80s, Harry’s was going strong with the pull of pool tables and an old juke box—and a reputation for being a good late-night spot leading up to last call. Harry’s was definitely a favorite among many locals and will forever be the place “where the elite meet.”
Bottcher’s Bar & Grill opened in 1991 and was known for the good food served early in the evening and the loud music played well into the night. It had the feeling of a local “Cheers” type bar and enjoyed popularity among college students until its closing in the early 2000s.
Last but not least was possibly more familiar by sight than by an actual stay, but the old Plaza Motel was certainly memorable in its former location across from Niffer’s on Opelika Road. And recognizable sign is now shining bright on the wall inside the Auburn Plaza Bar and Lounge.
Hours of Operation
The new Auburn Plaza Bar and Lounge is open seven days a week, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Check their Facebook page for weekday drink specials!
Summary
Opelika Road is being revitalized with the opening of both retail and restaurant spaces opening in Midtown Auburn. If you don’t want to waste another minute just wishing you were here, contact Ryan Roberts now by completing this form. For more exciting happenings in town, check out our other blogs.