Finding the best seafood in Auburn, AL is like following the scent of fresh bread down a busy street. You don’t always know where you’ll end up, but the journey is filled with surprises. I still remember my first bite of Gulf shrimp at a lively Auburn spot and the way it paired with the unmistakable buzz of a college town on a Friday night. Since then, I’ve wandered from charming, historic depots to sleek, modern sushi bars, sampling catfish that flakes at the touch and hushpuppies with just the right crunch.
If you’re ready to taste beyond the usual, this list lays out where the locals go and the delicious reasons they keep coming back. Whether it’s an old favorite with generations of stories or a new face spicing up South College Street, each spot brings something unique to the table. Curiosity and appetite are the only tickets you’ll need as we dive into Auburn’s most inviting seafood stops. The right plate could be just around the corner—and it might surprise you.
1. The Depot
Step inside The Depot and you’ll feel a sense of history mixed with the excitement of fresh discovery. Housed in a restored 19th-century train station, this spot pairs old-world charm with a bold, modern touch. The open space flows with the warm bustle of conversation and the promise of top-tier seafood.
The Depot is famous for its Gulf-coastal style, where southern tradition meets a chef’s sense of adventure. I still remember the satisfying snap of their wood-fired fish, flaky and rich, with just the right hint of smoke. The kitchen’s signature touch—cooking over a custom wood-fired “Asador”—seals in flavor that brings out the best in each local catch.
Order the oysters, smoked yellowfin, or redfish on the half shell. These plates tell the story of Alabama’s waters, and each bite shines with crisp seasoning and honest care. The Depot is more than a meal; it’s an Auburn experience you’ll want to repeat.
2. Shrimp Basket
Shrimp Basket channels the spirit of a coastal seafood shack—minus the sand in your shoes. The casual, festive vibe invites both locals and newcomers to dig in with gusto. I first found myself here on a rainy afternoon, and somehow, the sound of sizzling baskets drowned out even the storm outside.
This spot shines for its variety and crowd-pleasing value. Whether you’re craving grilled, steamed, or fried seafood, there’s a plate built for you. Their legendary shrimp platters capture Auburn’s laid-back charm, cooked up with just the right amount of Southern crunch.
Try the grilled whitefish or the shrimp basket with the house Bama sauce—each captures that local flavor that keeps diners coming back. The Shrimp Basket proves comfort food doesn’t need a dress code.
3. Captain D’s
Captain D’s blends fast-casual ease with a comforting taste of the sea. When I’m craving something straightforward after a long day, this is a go-to for classic seafood done right. Step inside and you’ll notice the relaxed atmosphere—no frills, but plenty of smiles at the counter.
What sets Captain D’s apart is consistency and value. The menu offers everything from flaky white fish to golden-fried shrimp, quickly prepared and easy on the wallet. You’ll spot families, students, and locals in the know grabbing their favorites for lunch or dinner.
The battered fish and grilled tilapia are favorites. Served with a choice of sides like rice or coleslaw, these dishes hit the sweet spot for those who want a filling meal without fuss. Captain D’s delivers flavor that feels familiar, and somehow that’s exactly what you want sometimes.
4. East Sea
East Sea brings a welcome twist to Auburn’s seafood scene with its blend of Japanese and Korean flavors. The relaxed dining room feels like a local secret—somewhere I slipped in on a friend’s recommendation and ended up discovering a new go-to for fresh fish.
What stands out here is the variety, from sushi rolls to sizzling seafood dishes. The chefs have a careful hand with presentation, and there’s a sense of pride in every plate served. Even on a busy night, service is prompt and thoughtful.
The tuna roll and spicy salmon bowl deserve special mention. Both showcase how well East Sea balances rich flavors and crisp textures. If you want to expand your seafood horizon, this is a spot worth a repeat visit.
5. Yummi Crab
Yummi Crab brings a bit of coastal fun to Auburn with its hands-on, roll-up-your-sleeves approach to seafood. My first visit was unforgettable—a table piled high with steaming bags, the aroma of garlic butter filling the air, and laughter all around. It’s the kind of spot where you measure time in crab legs, not minutes.
The standout feature here is the customizable seafood boils. Choose your protein—crab, shrimp, or clams—then pick a seasoning for an experience tailored to your taste. Each bite bursts with spice and freshness.
If you want a feast, order the signature Yummi Combo. This platter lets you try a bit of everything, all perfectly seasoned and ideal for sharing. Yummi Crab isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration in a bag.
6. Vintage 2298
Vintage 2298 offers a refined yet relaxed escape from the usual Auburn bustle. My first brunch here was a quiet revelation: sunlight pouring through big windows, and a plate of seafood that set a new standard. The butcher shop roots shine through in both quality and presentation.
The seafood selection doesn’t try to overcomplicate things. Each dish highlights the freshness and gives the flavors room to shine. Whether you’re dining for a special occasion or just a low-key lunch, you’ll feel genuinely looked after.
The grilled salmon and seared scallops are local favorites, each served with simple sides that elevate rather than overwhelm. Vintage 2298 is proof that sometimes less is more—with flavor that speaks for itself.
7. Ole Times Country Buffet
Ole Times Country Buffet is Auburn’s answer when you want to try it all. I wandered in on a lazy Sunday, drawn by the lively crowd and the aroma of classic Southern comfort food. Plates piled high, families gather here to settle in for a hearty meal and a bit of nostalgia.
The buffet lineup is loaded with options, but the seafood section quietly steals the show. Expect crispy fried catfish, cornmeal-dusted and tender, along with golden-fried shrimp that never lasts long once it hits the tray. There’s something for every appetite.
Don’t skip the catfish or the fried shrimp. Both dishes are honest, traditional, and prepared with the kind of care that turns simple ingredients into favorites. Ole Times makes it easy to go back for seconds… or thirds.
8. La Palma Seafood
La Palma Seafood pulls together Auburn’s Southern roots and a dash of Mexican flair into one vibrant package. My first meal here was on a sunny afternoon, and the lively music, friendly staff, and bold flavors made it unforgettable. There’s a festive spirit inside that instantly puts you at ease.
This spot stands out with its blend of Latin American and seafood classics. The menu offers everything from fresh fish tacos to sizzling fajita platters. Each dish is layered with spices and textures you won’t find anywhere else in town.
Order the shrimp ceviche or the grilled snapper for a showcase of what La Palma does best: fresh seafood with a zesty, creative twist. Here, you get more than just a meal—it’s a lively taste tour you’ll want to revisit.
9. Blue Seas Seafood
(334) 246-3800Call
Blue Seas Seafood feels like a local favorite you almost want to keep secret. The atmosphere is low-key, but the menu packs serious freshness. My first visit was on a whim, chasing a craving for fried fish, and the taste was well worth the detour.
Blue Seas stands out for its unfussy, flavor-forward approach. The portions are generous, and the kitchen keeps things simple, letting the seafood shine on its own.
Try the fried catfish or the shrimp basket—both are crisp on the outside and tender inside, capturing the no-nonsense comfort you hope for from a great seafood spot. It’s the kind of place where good food does most of the talking.
10. Red Lobster
Red Lobster is a household name for a reason, and the Auburn location lives up to the brand’s reputation for dependable seafood and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe. On a busy weeknight, I grabbed a booth here for a quiet dinner and left impressed by the easy-going rhythm of service and the comfort of familiar flavors.
The appeal lies in that classic menu, where everything from fresh fish to lobster tails is prepared with care. Red Lobster stands out for offering something that pleases everyone in the group, whether you crave something fried, broiled, or grilled.
The shrimp scampi and grilled tilapia are reliable favorites, both rich and flavorful without being heavy. Red Lobster proves that sometimes, predictability is a good thing—especially when it tastes this good.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best seafood restaurants in Auburn, AL?
Some top picks include The Depot, Shrimp Basket, Yummi Crab, and Vintage 2298. Each offers a unique style, from casual baskets to chef-driven plates.
Where can I get fresh oysters in Auburn?
The Depot serves up some of the freshest oysters around, plated with modern Southern flair. You’ll also find options at several local sushi and seafood spots.
Are there any seafood places with gluten-free options?
Yes, The Depot and several other restaurants offer gluten-free choices. Always check with the staff about current menu details to be sure.
Which seafood dishes are popular in Auburn?
Fried catfish, shrimp baskets, grilled salmon, and seafood boils are all local favorites. Sushi and ceviche are also gaining fans.
Can I find seafood with a Southern twist in Auburn?
Absolutely. Spots like Ole Times Country Buffet and Blue Seas Seafood put traditional Southern flavor into their seafood, highlighting classics like fried catfish and hushpuppies.