James Beard semifinalist opens new Bow & Arrow location in Auburn
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Bow & Arrow chef and owner David Bancroft is launching a new location in Auburn.
The new restaurant, which has been nicknamed “Bow U,” held its soft opening last weekend before officially opening to the public Tuesday, Sept. 8. The new spot is located off University Drive near the Auburn Mall.
Here’s what you need to know before visiting:
- New location: 2298 E University Dr, Auburn, AL 36830
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11AM-9PM | Sunday, 11AM-3PM
- Facebook | Instagram | Website
“From slow-smoked meats and housemade jerky to margaritas, grab-and-go favorites, and plenty of Texas inspiration, this new space has been a long time in the making — and we’re so excited to finally share it with Auburn.”
Bow & Arrow on Facebook
Keep reading to learn more about the new location + its Bluebonnet Market.
New Bow & Arrow location highlighted by Garden & Gun
The new location has already grabbed national attention including a feature in Garden & Gun.
Bancroft was named a James Beard semifinalist for “Best Chef – South” three times from 2016-18 while at his first Auburn restaurant, Acre. Shortly after, he opened the first Bow & Arrow location on Samford Avenue in Auburn back in 2017.
Now, a second location of the restaurant has opened less than three miles away.
Same soul, same smoke — just a little bigger. More margaritas, less wait.
Bow & Arrow on social media
The new location will have an identical menu but there is more space including covered patios.





The new Bow & Arrow location on University Drive in Auburn. (Visit Auburn-Opelika | Craig Godwin)
Bluebonnet Market is coming soon
In addition to the new restaurant, Bancroft is opening a new market which will be located right next to the new location on University Drive.
According to the Garden & Gun feature, Bancroft said his wife made the decision to open a softer space in connection to the new restaurant. That’s where Bluebonnet Market comes into play.
The market will be used as a grab-and-go section to get a taste of the restaurant without having to wait on a table. It will also be used as a pre- or post-dinner spot for customers to grab drinks or appetizers like boiled peanuts or chips and salsa.
While there is no official date publicly available for the market’s opening, it’s expected to come soon.



