Around the World

Take an international culinary tour without

leaving Gwinnett

BY SUCHETA RAWAL

Taste of Jamaica Kool Runnings Jamaican Restaurant

Located in a strip mall in Peachtree Corners, Kool Runnings offers authentic Caribbean flavors and a scrumptious Sunday brunch buffet. It is one of the best places in Gwinnett to try freshly made ackee and saltfish, a staple Jamaican breakfast. Looking for some more island flavor? Try the jerk chicken or curried goat at Jay’s Caribbean Cuisine

Taste of Bosnia Euro Gourmet

If you're looking for authentic homemade Bosnian dishes and pastries, Euro Gourmet has a small, family style restaurant linked to a European grocery store in Lawrenceville. For unique tastes, try the cevapcici (minced meat kebabs), sudzukice (spicy beef links), and palacincke (thinly rolled crepes with plum sauce).

Taste of Peru Sabor Inka

Sabor Inka, a charming Peruvian restaurant in Lawrenceville, offers friendly service and homestyle food. Menu highlights include a variety of fish, shrimp, and mixed ceviche, Peruvian-style skirt and sirloin steaks, as well as natural juices. Vegetarians won’t be disappointed with causa de palta, or layered mashed potatoes. Another good option for Peruvian specialties is Costa Verde Restaurant in Norcross.

Taste of Colombia Trigos Colombian Restaurant

For the true flavors of Colombian home cooking, head to this family-run restaurant and bakery in Lawrenceville. Start with a breakfast of Colombian coffee, homemade pastries, and bandeja a platter with meat, eggs, plantains,

Taste of Thailand Sri Thai Kitchen and Sushi Bar

Sri Thai has developed a strong reputation in metro Atlanta, and now has four locations, including one in Duluth. The restaurant offers exquisitely plated modern Thai and Japanese dishes. All the sauces and dishes are made from scratch daily using family recipes. For a special evening, treat yourself to omakase, a multiple-course, seasonal, prix fixe dinner. Another great neighborhood Tani Thai Restaurant in Buford.

Taste of Morocco Imperial Fez

Married chef-owners Rafih and Rita have found a new home in Norcross for their longstanding Buckhead restaurant, known for delivering a true Moroccan experience. Dinner—enjoyed while seated on luxurious cushions— starts with friendly service, hot towels, multicourse menus, and live entertainment. The chicken apricot tagine and vegetable couscous are delicious.

Taste of Cuba Mojitos: A Cuban American Bistro

Join the conga line at one of Mojitos’ two locations in historic downtown Norcross and Peachtree Corners, where the owners offer live music every weekend. The lively, family-run restaurant serves innovative Cuban American fusion dishes, such as guava barbecue baby back ribs and empanizado (Cuban breaded steak with plantains), as well as more traditional Cuban sandwiches.

Taste of Mediterranean Adriatic Grill

Lawrenceville’s Adriatic Grill offers a playful approach to modern Mediterranean cuisine, with a menu that includes fresh salads, stuffed doner kebab sandwiches, and even a Greek burger. Finish your meal with a decadent, fresh-baked pastry from the loaded homemade dessert case. Another great Mediterranean spot includes the hookah bar at Anatolia Cafe and Hookah Lounge

Taste of Turkey Green Olive Kabob House

Green Olive Kabob House serves a large variety of flavorful Turkish, Pakistani, and Mediterranean dishes. The restaurant makes its own inaan—flatbread—as sides and in kebab wraps, and it’s delicious. It is also known for a variety of grilled and fried meats, such as beef seekh kebab and Lahori chargha chicken, which originates from the city of Lahore in Pakistan.

Ike's Cafe & Grill

Ike's Cafe & Grill in Norcross comes alive on the weekends with crowds enjoying live music and delectable West African cuisine. If you are feeling adventurous, order banga soup (palm nut soup), nkwobi (a spicy cow foot delicacy), or Isi Ewu (a full head of goat). For more West African flavors, check out Honest Star Tropical Restaurant in Lawrenceville.

Taste of Vietnam Nam Phuong

Nam Phuong on Jimmy Carter Boulevard offers generous portions of steamy pho bowls, noodle soup, and brothy stews served family style. Bún bò Hué (spicy rice and meat noodle soup) explodes with flavors. This is where locals go for quick, hearty, and authentic Vietnamese food.