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Opelika Rotary Charitable Foundation hosts 11th annual Burger Wars

By Amanda Machamer | Assistant News Editor | May 31

On Saturday, May 31, the 11th annual Burger Wars was hosted in downtown Opelika, with 22 grillers competing for cash prizes, trophies and bragging rights. Hosted by the Opelika Rotary Charitable Foundation, the goal was not only to create a competitive culinary environment but also to fundraise for local charities.

Fueling the Plains: On-campus food options for Auburn students

By Clara Herrero | Culture Writer | April 10

Busy students often rely on the convenience of on-campus dining due to their packed schedules, which offer various options and price points. While some prioritize healthier, self-prepared meals, the university provides many accessible and social dining spaces. 

A brew-tiful guide to coffee on campus

By Sam Bainter | Culture Writer | April 9

Fueled by the pressure of final exams, the demand for coffee around Auburn's campus spikes as students brace for late-night study sessions. Discover six coffee places on campus, from well-beloved classics to unfamiliar names, where students can satisfy their need for caffeine.

Auburn chefs blend cultures in "Fusion Flavors" showcase

By Celina Aleman | Culture Writer | February 18

On Feb. 17, the Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management hosted a four-course, wine-paired dinner titled “Fusion Flavors: Thai-Italian Auburn Chef Showcase.” Held at the Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center, the showcase featured Executive Chef Eric Rivera and Auburn University hospitality alumna Natasha Whitt. 

This one's for the girls: Galentine's cookie decorating class

By Camille Ligon | Culture Writer | February 10

The Tony and Libba Rane Culinary Science Center is hosting its first community cookie decorating class on Feb. 13 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Local baker Rebecca Pilgreen of Sugar Bakings will lead the class, teaching participants of all ages how to decorate sugar cookies with royal icing.

The Auburn community hops over to newly established sweetFrog

By Sam Bainter | Culture Writer | February 6

sweetFrog, a new frozen yogurt shop in Auburn, opened its doors on Jan. 1. Built on passion, pride and a sense of community, sweetFrog offers many combinations to appeal to one's sweet tooth. 

Sip and savor: Auburn's local fall flavors

By Sam Vise | Assistant Culture Editor and Abby Culbreth | Culture Writer | October 28

As fall arrives in Auburn, local coffee shops are offering a variety of seasonal treats and drinks to warm up the community. From pumpkin spice lattes to apple cider teas, these cafes cater to a range of fall cravings. Whether one prefers a cozy drink or delectable pastry, Auburn's coffee scene has something to satisfy everyone. 

Battle of the Beverage: A culinary competition

By Clara Herrero | Culture Writer | October 17

On Oct. 16, the Tony and Libba Rane Culinary Science Center hosted Battle of the Beverage. The event featured a wine versus beer competition to determine the best pairing for a gourmet menu. Guests enjoyed a three-course meal prepared by culinary students and had the opportunity to learn about flavor combinations from industry experts.

Behind the brewing of the Auburn + Opelika Coffee Shop Trail

By Lizzie McGlynn | Lifestyle Writer | October 4

The Auburn + Opelika Coffee Shop Trail has become a hot topic in the Auburn community. The coffee trail, which currently includes 16 coffee shops, was started by Elizabeth Hobbs, an Auburn marketing alumna.

Shaking up Galentine’s with cocktail-crafting at The Collegiate

By Ella Walton | Newsletter Editor | February 14

In celebration of Galentine's Day, The Collegiate Hotel in Downtown Auburn hosted a cocktail-making class. The Feb. 13 event, which lasted from 6 to 8 p.m., taught attendees three unique cocktail recipes — as well as how to be the "hostess with the mostest."

COLUMN | Where to find healthy eating alternatives in Auburn

By Hailey Smith | Culture Writer | March 30

Finding healthy meals on the go in Auburn can be a difficult task. However, there are many options on campus that cater to students with allergies, food sensitivities or healthy preferences. 

COLUMN | Is Thanksgiving problematic?

By Maggie Randall | Culture Writer | November 21

The heart behind Thanksgiving is pure, but its practice has grown into something almost unrecognizable. This Thanksgiving season, hold yourself accountable and focus on gratefulness, generosity and community. 

Auburn Food and Wine Festival returns for third year

By Piper Bosart | Assistant Culture Editor | April 28

The third annual Auburn Food and Wine Festival is a perfect date night for those 21 and older to sample Auburn’s favorite restaurants and try different alcoholic beverages. 

Plainsman's Choice 2023 Best On Campus Dining: Hey Day Market

By Sami Grace Donnelly | Editor-in-Chief | April 14

Ever since its grand opening on Aug. 16, 2022, Hey Day Market has been captivating the Auburn Family. There’s no wonder it stole the show for Plainsman’s Choice Award for "Best On-Campus Dining."

Plainsman's Choice 2023 Best of Auburn food

By Plainsman Staff | April 11

About one month ago, students, community members, alumni and other Plainsman readers engaged in the second-ever installation of Plainsman's Choice as a readers' poll. We are announcing the winners this week, with a different category on each day. 

Plainsman's Choice 2023 Best Chicken Fingers: Foosackly's

By Davis Brasfield | News Writer | April 11

In 2023's Plainsman's Choice, Foosackly's was voted as having the Best Chicken Fingers in the Auburn-Opelika area.

Plainsman's Choice 2023 Best Vegetarian Food: Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe

By Catherine Haynes | Opinions Editor | April 11

Taziki’s Mediterranean Café is the winner of the Plainsman’s Choice readers' poll for “Best Vegetarian Food.” Their customers have made it clear that the restaurant’s clean, healthy Mediterranean food paired with its welcoming feel and sense of community are at the top of the vegetarian food chain in Auburn.

Opelika Grows prepares for the annual community farmers market

By Stewart Massey | Culture Writer | April 10

Opelika Grows is a community garden that seeks to support the Auburn and Opelika area, providing fairly-priced fresh produce and job opportunities for local farmers.