Local Flavors

Where to shop, eat, and play in and around Gwinnett

BY LIA PICARD

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here’s no shortage of places to explore in Gwinnett County. Charming towns are packed with exciting, independently owned eateries and shops, plus activities for the whole family. We’re sure you’ll want to stay awhile and visit again.

BUFORD

The darling Southern town is a dining and shopping hub with historic flair. SHOP: Chic bohemian garb can be found at Further Down the Rabbit Hole. The woman-owned shop also carries funky accessories and home decor. EAT: Since 1999, Aqua Terra Bistro has been making bellies happy with modern American cuisine. Don’t miss the signature dish that’s been on the menu since it opened: seared scallops with orecchiette pasta and mushroom truffle sauce. PLAY: Treetop Quest is a hidden gem near Mall of Georgia offering eight zip lining courses for thrill seekers. Adventurers as young as four can participate.

DULUTH

Duluth has experienced growth in recent years, bringing exciting dining and retail to downtown’s historic Parsons Alley. SHOP: Owned by a mother and daughter, Personify Shop has something for everyone. The boutique overflows with women’s clothing in a variety of styles. EAT: Modern steakhouse fare meets zesty Asian flavors at Noona. Start with an order of roasted gulf oysters before moving on to a wet-aged fillet with a side of kimchi fried rice. PLAY: Create your own masterpieces at Eye Candy Art Studio. The artist’s playground offers a variety of painting classes, including pottery, canvas, and wine glasses.

LAWRENCEVILLE

Lawrenceville, the seat of Gwinnett, is a gem with a stunning theater and a plethora of eateries and shops. SHOP: NV Bath and Body curates locally sourced products, like bath bombs and scrubs, that make bath time luxurious. EAT: Succulent barbecue awaits at Foggy Bottom BBQ. Load up on brisket and all the fixings, but save room for banana pudding. PLAY: If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to make chunky knit blankets or create a piece of wooden art, then AR Workshop is for you. Grab a pal and a bottle of wine and take one of the classes.

1910 Public House VSOP Olive Oil Tasting Room

LILBURN

Small but mighty, Lilburn offers historic charm and boasts the largest Hindu temple in North America. SHOP: In downtown Lilburn, Antiques in Old Town is packed with a variety of vintage goods for the discerning shopper. EAT: 1910 Public House makes you feel right at home with its laid-back vibe and warm decor. Order a brew off the extensive beer menu, and indulge in decadent dishes like the Southern pimento cheese and salt-and-pepper calamari. PLAY: Hope Springs Distillery is Gwinnett County’s only distillery, producing absinthe and vodka. Sip your way through their offerings on Friday or Saturday.

NORCROSS

Norcross is Gwinnett County’s second-oldest city with a charming downtown set against a railroad depot. SHOP: Taste of Britain is a family-run business that lovingly stocks English teas, treats, and knickknacks. EAT: Treat your palate to a Cuban feast without even getting on a plane. Standouts at Mojito’s include plantains stuffed with ground beef and the masitas de puerco (fried pork) topped with sliced onions and homemade mojo sauce. PLAY: Home chefs can step up their game at VSOP Olive Oil Tasting Room. Taste your way through a variety of olive oils and infused vinegars.

PEACHTREE CORNERS

Peachtree Corners, Gwinnett’s newest city, is packed with high-end dining destinations and outdoor activities. SHOP: Fashion boutique Lizard Thicket is a one-stop shop for all of your fashion needs, with clothing and accessories at surprisingly affordable prices. EAT: At Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, you can enjoy fresh seafood or a handcut steak, or stop in for bar bites and happy hour on the patio. PLAY: Rev your engines at Nitro Zone where the young and young at heart whip around in go karts. There’s also a kids ninja zone and a bowling alley.

SNELLVILLE

Located between Atlanta and Athens, Snellville shines with small-town charm and modern amenities. SHOP: A treasure trove of antique decor and furniture awaits at Vintage Village, known for its friendly customer service and amazing selection. You’re bound to find something that tickles your fancy. EAT: Burger 21, named for how many burger varieties they have, has a creative approach. Try the chili cheese crunch with potato chips and bacon jam and don’t leave without a milkshake. PLAY: Create your own painting at Masterpiece Mixers and treasure your art for a lifetime. Classes for children and adults are available.

SUWANEE

Located in north Gwinnett, Suwanee offers plenty of fun, thanks to award-winning green spaces and new businesses. SHOP: Dress Up offers new styles each week to keep fashionable ladies on trend and feeling great in hip, sophisticated clothing. EAT: Expect to wait at new Suwanee hotspot Tequila Mama Taqueria, where every meal is a fiesta of flavors. The focus is on two things: tequila and tacos. PLAY: You’ll want to leave the kids at home when you visit Sip Happens, a wine wonderland with an upscale ambiance and several guided wine tastings a month.