DINING
Where the Locals Eat
D’FLo’s Mezcalita is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and smoky that I crave. For non-alcoholic beverages, I’m strolling over to Reyna's for a cortado or Pearl’s Tea for a perfectly crafted taro milk latte. Best special occasion restaurant: Frankie's The Steakhouse is a great spot to put on the ritz. I always start with champagne and oysters and end with a giant slice of chocolate cake and a glass of nice port. Best hidden gem: El Indio is located right off the Lawrenceville Square in an older, unassuming shopping center. I opt for the birria plate. It's a big bowl of braised beef stew served with tortillas, rice, and beans. Just trust me. Best patio: This is an ensemble award: Downtown Lawrenceville Square has the best collection of patios in Gwinnett. To name a few: McCrays, Slow Pour, Strange Taco Bar, La Cazuela, Universal Joint, Local Republic, and Boulder Creek all offer uniquely different patio experiences. Best local hangout: Besides Local Republic, Good
Locals share their favorite dining spots in and around Gwinnett BY JENNIFER SENATOR
Word Brewing & Public House
Universal Joint
Damian AhChing Director of Media & Events, Local Restaurant Group A lifelong Gwinnetian, Damian Aching has worked for Local Restaurant Group, which includes Local Republic, Strange Taco Bar, LR Burger, and Laundry Events, for the last eight years. Now living in Grayson with his husband and three dogs, AhChing especially enjoys exploring the local dining scene. All-around favorite restaurant: Local Republic, hands-down, has been one of
my favorite restaurants since the beginning—even before I had the opportunity to work with them. The food is delicious. The drinks are amazing. The ambience is 10 out of 10. However, what keeps this place so close to my heart is the privilege of getting a behind-the-scenes look at a team that makes it a priority to create something special for their guests. Best breakfast/brunch: For breakfast, I’m heading to Peachtree Cafe for a spicy cheeseburger omelet. Best cocktails/beverages: For cocktails, I’m celebrating Whiskey Wednesday with $5 old fashioneds at Local Republic’s upstairs bar. I’m a huge mezcal fan, so D’Floridian is a must.
in Duluth is also a favorite local hang out. Their cocktail program is top-notch, the boiled peanuts are one of my favorite bar snacks, and I’m guaranteed to run into familiar faces on every visit. Best international cuisine: I love a crazy spicy bowl of ramen so much— Umaido is everything. Best takeout: Taste 8 is my go-to for Chinese takeout. My husband and I split a wide range of appetizers like egg rolls, dumplings, and crab rangoon; our favorite is the wonton in garlic sauce. Best lunch spot: Strange Taco Bar. I could eat tacos for every meal, and yes, sometimes I enjoy a margarita in a red solo cup with my lunch. Best dessert: I dream about the homemade oatmeal cream pies at Reyna's.
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