A Passion for Food Started Early
Hughes’ love for cooking began in childhood, when he spent afternoons at his grandmother’s house watching Food Network and learning from his grandparents, who were all wonderful cooks. As he got older, he began experimenting with recipes, grilling steaks for his family and helping prepare weekend breakfasts.
While attending Auburn University, Hughes discovered his passion for the kitchen, ultimately leading him to take a break from school to pursue his interest in the culinary industry. When the kitchen needed extra help one day, he volunteered, discovering a passion for fast-paced work.
“I've always believed that a great meal can change the course of someone's day,” Hughes said. “Someone might walk into a restaurant carrying the weight of everything going on in their life, but for that hour or two, you have an opportunity to give them something comforting, memorable, and genuinely enjoyable.”
With more than a decade in the hospitality industry, Hughes has worked his way through several kitchen roles. Before joining The Depot, he spent four years at Amsterdam Cafe in Auburn, progressing from fry cook to sous chef and eventually chef de cuisine.
Familiar Southern Ingredients With Twist
Hughes draws inspiration from different culinary traditions, combining unfamiliar flavors with recognizable Southern ingredients to encourage guests to try something new.
One summer salmon dish he developed featured marinated green tomatoes, whipped feta, charred cucumbers, pecan vinaigrette, Egyptian-inspired pecan dukkah and pickled honeydew. The dish brought together global influences and regional ingredients in an unexpected way.
He also enjoys finding new uses for overlooked ingredients. For the annual Feast of the Seven Fishes, a collaborative seven-course dinner with The Hound inspired by the Italian Christmas Eve seafood tradition, Hughes prepared grilled catfish collars with sultana gremolata, scallion scapece slaw and agrodolce. By pairing a familiar Southern fish with Italian-inspired flavors, he transformed an often-overlooked cut into a distinctive dish.
Hughes’ curiosity keeps him exploring new ingredients, techniques and culinary traditions, always looking for ways to expand his skills and bring fresh ideas to The Depot’s menu.
Fresh Seafood and a Historic Setting
Seafood remains central to The Depot’s menu. Hughes takes pride in working with local and regional purveyors and fishermen to source high-quality ingredients, with some seafood arriving just hours after coming off the boat.
The restaurant’s setting is equally distinctive. Its historic architecture, fresh oysters, whole roasted fish and evolving menu have helped establish it as a memorable part of Auburn’s dining scene.
“There was always a certain sense of excitement when people talked about dining there,” Hughes said, recalling what he heard about The Depot before joining the team.
He hopes to build on that reputation through thoughtful cooking, quality ingredients and hospitality that gives guests a reason to return.
More Than Just Dinner
The Depot also offers experiences beyond its traditional dinner service. Hughes and his team host Lowcountry seafood boils on select away-game Saturdays, featuring Gulf seafood, oysters, appetizers and sauces in a relaxed, tailgate-style atmosphere.
The restaurant also offers opportunities for special gatherings, from intimate dinners at its Chef’s Table and private dining spaces to larger celebrations. These experiences reflect Hughes’ interest in creating different ways for people to connect over food, whether through a casual seafood boil or a multi-course dining experience.
As Auburn and Opelika’s culinary scenes continue to grow, Hughes hopes The Depot will remain part of that momentum while preserving what makes the restaurant special.
Whether you’re visiting Auburn for a weekend getaway, celebrating a special occasion or looking for a new local favorite, The Depot offers fresh seafood, creative cuisine and a dining experience rooted in the character of its historic setting.
Ready to explore more? Browse the Auburn-Opelika dining guide for more local restaurants, or check out the Best Bites guide for signature dishes worth seeking out. You can also visit The Depot’s website to explore the menu and plan your visit.