Locals We Love – David Esposito of Auburn Draft House
Downtown Auburn is shaped by the people who take a chance on it. David Esposito, owner of Auburn Draft House, understands what it takes to build a lasting local business.
A Navy veteran and former electrician, Esposito is not an Auburn-native. After spending time in Birmingham and Alabaster, and having family nearby in Phenix City and Columbus, he was drawn to the small town. Esposito knew he did not want to spend his career confined to a cubicle and eventually found his way to the restaurant industry.
Esposito opened his first restaurant, Pizza Schmizza, an Oregon-based franchise, on South College Street in 2011. Although the restaurant eventually closed, the experience led him to purchase Half-Time Bar and Grill and later open Auburn Draft House in 2015.
Today, Auburn Draft House offers a relaxed American-style pub atmosphere with burgers, pizza, fresh proteins, lighter options, and a wide array of local and craft beers on tap. Despite what the name might suggest, Draft House is a family-friendly restaurant where parents, children, students, visitors, and longtime Auburn residents can enjoy a meal, Monday night trivia, or Wednesday night bingo!
Since opening Draft House 11 years ago, Esposito has watched Auburn continue to grow while still working to maintain its small-town character. However, he has also seen how the arrival of larger corporations can make it difficult for small, locally owned businesses to compete. Esposito believes keeping downtown affordable and accessible is essential to maintaining the balanced community families, students, and visitors love so much.
Operating Draft House has been a full family effort. Esposito, his wife Karen, and their daughters have made many sacrifices throughout the journey. For 10 consecutive football seasons, Esposito personally grilled during every game. Despite the long hours and challenges of restaurant ownership, Esposito remains grateful for the people who have supported Draft House over the years.
“It’s an honor to serve the Auburn Community,” Esposito shared. Auburn Draft House is more than a restaurant. It’s a reflection of years of persistence, family sacrifice, and gratitude for continued community support.
- Written by Ann Parker Natale for ADMA