my girlfriend booked us a reservation here recently for a date. i absolutely love the place! its very cozy, the service is incredible, and our waitress, angel, was so attentive and charismatic. she, along with the rest of the staff, really made the experience. expect to be waited on hand and foot, valet service, have the chair pulled out for you, a handwritten note at your table, and a custom message on the dessert! for the two of us, after all of the added charges + tip, the bill came to about $400. this wasnt an issue as it is fine dining and this was the experience we were hoping for, but be prepared when booking! this is definitely the place to go in auburn if youre looking to impress. as a side note, the food is, of course, very different from a typical restaurant. be open-minded!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Nylah Easterling
Had a wonderful experience and amazing service from Angel. One of the best tiki drinks we’ve had.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Sebastian
The 8 course menu is great value. Nearly every dish was solid and the service is excellent. It is cool that the chefs rotate.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Wiregrass Noms
As food reporters, we have covered well over 200 restaurants over the last five years. This was one of the best, and more of a tasting experience than just a meal. The dishes were beautiful to look at, and the carefully crafted flavors had you eagerly anticipating the next course. The service was above and beyond, and the staff made you feel like the chefs were cooking just for you. If you are looking for a next-level foodie adventure, put 1856 on your list now!
Jin Noh
Excellent courses of food. Spectacular service. Great atmosphere. I enjoyed it a lot.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Christi
If it was possible, I would give more than 5 stars for service. Food was excellent. Great experience all around!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Robert Gulledge
First time visiting 1856, and the restaurant's aesthetic was fantastic. We loved the layout and the ability to see the kitchen. The staff was fantastic, our service was great. The staff was very cheerful and attentive and provided some great background on the setting, the overall collaboration between 1856 and the other providers like the horticulture and coffee spots. The food on the other, was sub-par at best. The menu was not quite what I expected in terms of the progression of meals. There was also a small mix up with my wife's ask and my allergies and substitutions. The short rib was delicious, but the rest of the meal was not what was expected with the presentation and cost. I am hoping this may have been due to a change in menu as of this past Tuesday, but was not impressed leaving.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 2
Service: 5
Brian Dunne
Best dining experience in Auburn, AL
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Christina Kluttz
Tried out the new menu yesterday for lunch and it was fantastic. Was super convenient to be able to valet at the Laurel, as well! If you’re looking for a delicious meal, top notch service and good vibes all around… give it a try!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Skipper Walters
Wonderful service, very nice presentation, small restaurant, nice wine selection and the value is commensurate with the food and level of service.
This was an absolutely amazing experience!! This is not just dinner…it’s plate after plate of delicious creations,OMG. Hands down the best dining experience I’ve ever had in my life.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Amy Welch
We just experienced the best food, atmosphere, and service we've ever had. Myself, 15 year old son, and husband went in after a long day of Auburn orientation wearing shorts and tee-shirts. We were treated as if we were wearing formal wear. The meal was an event, not dinner.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
christopher warren
1856 – A Southern Stage Worthy of the World’s Finest Tables
Dining at 1856 is akin to discovering a perfectly pitched note in a symphony of culinary legends. As seasoned patrons of the world’s most exalted establishments—from the pristine precision of Le Bernardin to the architectural elegance of Per Se, the emotive balance of Jean-Georges, and the exquisite minimalism of Masa—our standards are drawn from the apex of global gastronomy.
Yet within the heart of Auburn, 1856 delivered an experience as moving and masterful as any we’ve encountered. Led by Reese, whose quiet confidence and command—refined by her Fort Benning background—infused the evening with poised excellence, we encountered not only technical brilliance but a depth of service that was both intentional and human.
From the first pour of butterfly pea tea, presented with poetic flourish and expert insight, we were drawn into a progression of courses that paid reverent homage to the greats. The plates echoed the style and soul of Michelin’s finest—without mimicry, but with inspired interpretation. Each dish spoke with a culinary fluency that suggested years of mentorship under master chefs, though here, it is student hands—guided by vision and discipline—that execute with such clarity and heart.
Our table included a Forbes and Michelin-certified trainer and a luxury marketing consultant, individuals who’ve dined in rare air—where a seat commands $1,000. And yet, nowhere—at any price—have we experienced such comfortable perfection. The coffee service, a final act in this well-scored performance, was as refined and intentional as anything we’ve seen at Masa or Atelier Crenn.
This is Auburn hospitality elevated to a global standard. It recalled that pivotal moment in The Bear when Ritchie steps into his own, not through ego but through empathy, realizing that true excellence lies in making someone’s night—because it might make their day. That ethos lives here.
I gain a teary eye of pride as I write this, because—“I believe in Auburn and love it.” This is one more reason, as an Auburn man, that those words in our creed ring more true than ever.
And so, with great pride in my alma mater, and in brotherhood with my fellow and future alumni, I implore you: take the journey. Experience what Auburn is offering the world through 1856. Support these rising stars—our future leaders of industry—who are quietly mastering the art of luxury service with soul. As Jerry Inzerillo has so often declared from the stage at Forbes award after Forbes award: “They are doing great things—absolutely great things.” Auburn is no longer just part of the conversation. It is shaping it.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Frank Hillyard
1856 was by far the most personalized, and incredible meal we have ever had. (I chose this for my celebration lunch for my graduation) From the personal card, to the natural blue tea, the little dessert and to top it all off, their gift (new this year for graduates who celebrate there) a descendant from the oak trees at Toomer's corner. They used one of the acorns to start this tree and I can grow it at home now. I was totally blown away. 1856, you blew me away! I loved everything! I chose Auburn for my dual Master's degrees, because of the feeling like you are family and this truly made me feel a part of the Auburn Family! Auburn for life! War Eagle!
D. Claire Burns
The food, atmosphere and service were incredible! Every dish was a work of art! Indah and Sarah were excellent in their service and drink recommendations. I cannot recommend 1856 enough. If you are celebrating a special occasion in Auburn or just want a an incredible experience check them out! Everyone who works there has a bright future in the culinary arts and hospitality world!
my girlfriend booked us a reservation here recently for a date. i absolutely love the place! its very cozy, the service is incredible, and our waitress, angel, was so attentive and charismatic. she, along with the rest of the staff, really made the experience. expect to be waited on hand and foot, valet service, have the chair pulled out for you, a handwritten note at your table, and a custom message on the dessert! for the two of us, after all of the added charges + tip, the bill came to about $400. this wasnt an issue as it is fine dining and this was the experience we were hoping for, but be prepared when booking! this is definitely the place to go in auburn if youre looking to impress.
as a side note, the food is, of course, very different from a typical restaurant. be open-minded!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Had a wonderful experience and amazing service from Angel. One of the best tiki drinks we’ve had.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The 8 course menu is great value. Nearly every dish was solid and the service is excellent. It is cool that the chefs rotate.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
As food reporters, we have covered well over 200 restaurants over the last five years. This was one of the best, and more of a tasting experience than just a meal. The dishes were beautiful to look at, and the carefully crafted flavors had you eagerly anticipating the next course. The service was above and beyond, and the staff made you feel like the chefs were cooking just for you. If you are looking for a next-level foodie adventure, put 1856 on your list now!
Excellent courses of food. Spectacular service. Great atmosphere. I enjoyed it a lot.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
If it was possible, I would give more than 5 stars for service. Food was excellent. Great experience all around!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
First time visiting 1856, and the restaurant's aesthetic was fantastic. We loved the layout and the ability to see the kitchen. The staff was fantastic, our service was great. The staff was very cheerful and attentive and provided some great background on the setting, the overall collaboration between 1856 and the other providers like the horticulture and coffee spots. The food on the other, was sub-par at best. The menu was not quite what I expected in terms of the progression of meals. There was also a small mix up with my wife's ask and my allergies and substitutions. The short rib was delicious, but the rest of the meal was not what was expected with the presentation and cost. I am hoping this may have been due to a change in menu as of this past Tuesday, but was not impressed leaving.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 2
Service: 5
Best dining experience in Auburn, AL
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Tried out the new menu yesterday for lunch and it was fantastic. Was super convenient to be able to valet at the Laurel, as well! If you’re looking for a delicious meal, top notch service and good vibes all around… give it a try!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Wonderful service, very nice
presentation, small restaurant, nice wine selection and the value is commensurate with the food and level of service.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
This was an absolutely amazing experience!! This is not just dinner…it’s plate after plate of delicious creations,OMG.
Hands down the best dining experience I’ve ever had in my life.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We just experienced the best food, atmosphere, and service we've ever had. Myself, 15 year old son, and husband went in after a long day of Auburn orientation wearing shorts and tee-shirts. We were treated as if we were wearing formal wear. The meal was an event, not dinner.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
1856 – A Southern Stage Worthy of the World’s Finest Tables
Dining at 1856 is akin to discovering a perfectly pitched note in a symphony of culinary legends. As seasoned patrons of the world’s most exalted establishments—from the pristine precision of Le Bernardin to the architectural elegance of Per Se, the emotive balance of Jean-Georges, and the exquisite minimalism of Masa—our standards are drawn from the apex of global gastronomy.
Yet within the heart of Auburn, 1856 delivered an experience as moving and masterful as any we’ve encountered. Led by Reese, whose quiet confidence and command—refined by her Fort Benning background—infused the evening with poised excellence, we encountered not only technical brilliance but a depth of service that was both intentional and human.
From the first pour of butterfly pea tea, presented with poetic flourish and expert insight, we were drawn into a progression of courses that paid reverent homage to the greats. The plates echoed the style and soul of Michelin’s finest—without mimicry, but with inspired interpretation. Each dish spoke with a culinary fluency that suggested years of mentorship under master chefs, though here, it is student hands—guided by vision and discipline—that execute with such clarity and heart.
Our table included a Forbes and Michelin-certified trainer and a luxury marketing consultant, individuals who’ve dined in rare air—where a seat commands $1,000. And yet, nowhere—at any price—have we experienced such comfortable perfection. The coffee service, a final act in this well-scored performance, was as refined and intentional as anything we’ve seen at Masa or Atelier Crenn.
This is Auburn hospitality elevated to a global standard. It recalled that pivotal moment in The Bear when Ritchie steps into his own, not through ego but through empathy, realizing that true excellence lies in making someone’s night—because it might make their day. That ethos lives here.
I gain a teary eye of pride as I write this, because—“I believe in Auburn and love it.” This is one more reason, as an Auburn man, that those words in our creed ring more true than ever.
And so, with great pride in my alma mater, and in brotherhood with my fellow and future alumni, I implore you: take the journey. Experience what Auburn is offering the world through 1856. Support these rising stars—our future leaders of industry—who are quietly mastering the art of luxury service with soul. As Jerry Inzerillo has so often declared from the stage at Forbes award after Forbes award: “They are doing great things—absolutely great things.” Auburn is no longer just part of the conversation. It is shaping it.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
1856 was by far the most personalized, and incredible meal we have ever had. (I chose this for my celebration lunch for my graduation) From the personal card, to the natural blue tea, the little dessert and to top it all off, their gift (new this year for graduates who celebrate there) a descendant from the oak trees at Toomer's corner. They used one of the acorns to start this tree and I can grow it at home now. I was totally blown away. 1856, you blew me away! I loved everything! I chose Auburn for my dual Master's degrees, because of the feeling like you are family and this truly made me feel a part of the Auburn Family! Auburn for life! War Eagle!
The food, atmosphere and service were incredible! Every dish was a work of art! Indah and Sarah were excellent in their service and drink recommendations. I cannot recommend 1856 enough. If you are celebrating a special occasion in Auburn or just want a an incredible experience check them out! Everyone who works there has a bright future in the culinary arts and hospitality world!
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