Not many universities offer a moment like Tiger Talk does for Auburn.
Tiger Talk allows an open forum for anyone to meet Gene Chizik, head football coach, to ask him questions in person or on the phone.
Tiger Talk radio show airs every Thursday at 7 p.m. before home football games at the Italian restaurant, Ariccia.
The fine-dining environment includes a buffet-style dinner along with the choice of eating at Piccolo, a more casual environment.
"We take questions from the audience, phone calls and Facebook questions," said Rod Bramblett, host of Tiger Talk. "Fans can ask (Coach Chizik) whatever they want to know and we do our best to answer them."
The packed out restaurant had fans on their feet cheering for Auburn's football team and Chizik.
"I enjoyed how personable and approachable Coach Chizik was, allowing people to meet him on and off the air," said Sarah Ellis, a senior in history.
The Hotel at Auburn University is appreciative of being able to host the Tiger Talk show.
"When we took over the hotel six years ago we knew how important football was," said Hans Van der Reijden, managing director of The Hotel at Auburn University. "We have a bigger place, plenty of parking and close to campus. It is perfect for Tiger Talk."
Reijden said they have had a positive response the past three weeks.
People are excited to be involved and Chizik is such a nice coach to walk around and talk to fans in the room.
It is a family-style event, including Chizik's family.
"He (Chizik) is great, I am very lucky to be able to do what I do," Bramblett said. "Being an Auburn alum, I still have some fan in me, but you have to keep it professional. I am there to keep the show moving, all they care is what the coach has to say."
Fans enjoyed how personable Chizik is to his community, allowing phone calls from all over the country as well as the microphone setup in the restaurant for people to ask their questions.
Bramblett said Tiger Talk is a great chance for Chizik to interact with Auburn.
"It was nice seeing everyone was supporting him as our new coach," Ellis said. "I enjoyed the football environment as well as the food."
Van der Reijden said Ariccia offers a buffet for $17.95 which includes a seat, appetizers, salad, pasta, entrees and dessert.
If the tables are full, Piccolo offers a less expensive menu with TV's set up so you are able to view the talk show, with a bar connecting the rooms.
"Some people think it is just a football show, but it actually runs from mid-August through March with any sports going on," Bramblett said. "Coach Chizik is our main focus during football season though."
Because tables at Ariccia fill up so quickly, the hotel staff suggests making reservations online at www.opentable.com or call 334-844-5140.
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