Auburn’s Shrimp Basket closes as chain pivots to coastal roots

AUBURN, Ala. (WTVM) - The Shrimp Basket location in Auburn has closed its doors after serving the area for more than 13 years.Located at 1651 S. College St. in the Tiger Crossing shopping center—a site that originally housed a Hooters restaurant—the casual seafood eatery had been a staple for diners, offering oysters, po-boys, gumbo and shrimp specials under its signature tagline, “We’re Grillin’, Steamin’, Fryin’.”A sign posted on the front entrance door reads: “Thank you for the memories, Auburn! While this location of Shrimp Basket is permanently closed, we hope you visit us on your next trip to the beach!”Artistry RestaurantsThe closure is part of a broader corporate decision by parent company Artistry Restaurants, which shuttered six Shrimp Basket locations effective Sunday, Nov. 1. Alongside the Auburn spot, five other locations were closed, including Alabama sites in Bay Minette, Cullman, Gardendale and Tuscaloosa, as well as the Warrington location in Pensacola, Florida.Artis