Smalls Sliders held the grand opening of their Auburn location on Saturday, Jan. 18. Despite the gloomy weather, the event attracted a crowd of Auburn locals and students alike. Guests could get in line for free swag bags filled with branded gear, such as their famous Smalls-branded slides.
“I’m here for the good burgers and good times — and free t-shirts,” said Reid Anderson, junior in professional flight.
The new fast-food restaurant is located at 1251 Opelika Rd. and is open from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. each day of the week.
Guests gathered on Smalls’ patio to enjoy their free merchandise and burgers. Smalls does not have indoor seating, but does offer seating under a covered patio and a drive-thru.
The restaurant first opened on Dec. 27, 2024, but delayed the grand opening until students returned to campus to attract a larger crowd, according to owner Mark Weeks.
“We’ve had three weeks of absolute, beautiful chaos. We’ve been so thankful for the Auburn and Opelika community coming out and supporting us. We’re ready to serve the 36,000 Auburn students and continue to serve the community,” Weeks said.
Since opening last month, the drive-thru line at Smalls Sliders can often be seen winding down Opelika Road.
“Our number one mission is to serve America’s best cheeseburger sliders to each and every community that we go into. I was able to bring the first Smalls Sliders to Alabama. This is going to be the first of 12 locations for us,” Weeks said.
Weeks noted that Smalls will be spreading to other parts of the state, including Birmingham and Montgomery.
“I love serving people, I love serving the team that works for us. Most importantly, serving a larger community. Great food and an awesome atmosphere,” Weeks said.
Smalls Sliders keeps their menu simple: cheeseburger sliders, fries and milkshakes. The sliders consist of fresh beef patties, cheese, pickles and “smauce.”
The menu at Smalls Sliders on Jan. 18, 2024.
The grand opening festivities also included honoring Churmell Mitchell for his contributions to the Auburn community. Mitchell serves on the Alabama Parent Advisory Council for District 3 with the Child Trust Fund and leads his nonprofit, A Father’s Voice Matters, which advocates for early childhood education and provides vital resources to fathers in need.
“I was chosen by Smalls Sliders as a Smalls Town Hero, and so I’ve been able to do a lot of things in the community like helping families in need. My brand helps kids who don’t have fathers. We mentor fathers as well and support moms,” Mitchell said.
A Smalls Town Hero is someone chosen by Smalls Sliders who does small things to make a big difference in the community. Mitchell has worked to support single parents and make a difference in childrens’ lives.
While many guests were from the Auburn-Opelika community, some traveled far and wide to indulge in the restaurant's signature sliders.
“We drove in from Dawsonville, Georgia which is about two and a half hours [away]. We’re going to get some food here, we’re excited to try it,” said Drew Reagan, a grand opening attendee.
With the Auburn location thriving and plans for expansion across the state, Smalls Sliders is expected to become a beloved staple in the Alabama culinary scene. As Weeks emphasized, the focus remains on serving the best cheeseburger sliders with a side of community spirit, making Smalls more than just a fast-food restaurant.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
Sam Vise, senior in journalism, is the Assistant Culture Editor for The Auburn Plainsman. She has previously served as a culture writer and community reporter.
