July/August 2022 by Suwanee Magazine

JULY / AUGUST 2022

Best Burger Contest

For our 2022 Food Issue, eight local restaurants submitted their best burger to be crowned the Best Burger in Gwinnett.

10 Business Spotlight: Holbrook Sugar Hill

Gwinnett’s newest assisted living community encourages its residents to embrace this next chapter in life with an active lifestyle and enriched activities.

22 Simply Sweet Cakes

Honey Chappell of Simply Sweet Cakes bakes delicious works of art out of her home kitchen in Suwanee.

26 New Heights

Downtown Buford’s Bare Bones Steakhouse unveils a new rooftop space where guests can come for the food and drinks but stay for the view.

46 Cool Treats for a Hot Summer

From colorful scoops of ice cream to healthy and refreshing smoothies, there’s no shortage of frozen goodies in our community that will help get you through the hot months.

50 Hidden Gems

From a new coffee roaster in downtown Buford to a bake shop with more than 50 years of experience, we’ve highlighted four of our favorite underthe-radar spots around town.

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Savor the Flavor of Gwinnett Restaurant Guide Whether you’re in the mood for ramen, pizza, Chinese take-out or some great Italian pasta, there are plenty of restaurants around town that will serve up just what you’re looking for.

56 StillFire Brewing: Where Relationships Take Fire Suwanee's StillFire Brewing is brewing community relationships in their hometown and beyond.

60 Summertime Six Pack

With the help of our friends at Suwanee’s TopShelf Beverage, we’ve selected six local beers and canned cocktails that will help keep your cooler stocked all summer long.

IN EVERY ISSUE: 6 Editor’s Letter

64 City Buzz

9 Currently Loving

72 Sugar Hill City Buzz

15 Investment Strategies

74 People & Places

54 Family Matters

80 Event Calendar 5

letter

This summer, Bare Bones Steakhouse is debuting a newly renovated rooftop space with a bar, limited menu and panoramic

a note from our managing editor

Food for Thought funny how different types of food transport us to different times of the year? A roasted turkey, sweet potato casserole and dressing all bring us right back to Thanksgiving afternoon, when we’re nearing the end of fall and the beginning of the Christmas season. Bags of miniature candies and chocolates transport us to Halloween. Deviled eggs and pastel cupcakes whisk us away to Easter. And firing up the grill in the backyard most certainly evokes the feeling of summer. So many memories center around food and around gathering together at the dinner table to enjoy a meal with family and friends. That’s why we’re excited to dedicate the majority of this issue to the awesome restaurants that make our community one of the most delicious melting pots in the state. For this year’s Food Issue, we revisited a summertime favorite with our Best Burger Contest! We sent out a call to the restaurants in our community, asking them to put their best burger forward. Eight local restaurants responded and gathered at Suwanee Magazine HQ in June to present the burger of their choice to our judges, three local foodies who know good food. Our staff also took part in the competition, tasting each burger and voting on their favorite for the People’s Choice award. Finally, we invited our readers to vote on their favorite of the eight burgers online, and after nearly 300 votes were cast, a Reader’s Pick winner was chosen. Although we did declare an overall winner, it must be noted that all of the burgers were amazing and we’re lucky to have each of these restaurants in our community. Find out who won and read SN’T IT

more about each burger on p. 28. We also got a sneak peek at Bare Bones Steakhouse’s new rooftop bar. Turn to p. 26 to read more about the vertical expansion and how downtown Buford’s beloved steakhouse is getting even better — something we didn’t know was possible until we visited the new space! Next, hop over to p. 50 to read about some of our favorite hidden gems, like a bubble tea spot in Suwanee Town Center that makes amazing custard-filled pastries made to order that you’ll be craving for days. Given the heatwave we’ve already experienced this summer, we had to dedicate space to treats that will help you cool off during the hot months. On p. 46, we’ve highlighted a number of kid-friendly cold treats that will help you beat the heat, like smoothies, ice creams and Italian ice. Then on p. 60, TopShelf Beverage suggests some locally made adult-friendly beverages that will get us through the summer — hopefully to be enjoyed while next to some body of water, like the lake, a pool, or even the ocean. And while food may be the main focus of this issue, we also wanted to shine a spotlight on other local businesses, like Holbrook Sugar Hill, p. 10, which is officially opening its doors in July. The modern senior living community takes a fresh approach to assisted living, and encourages their residents to live life at its boldest and most passionate. This summer, be sure to fire up the grill and gather with family and friends to celebrate another season over delicious food. Or, even better, visit any of the amazing restaurants in our community. Not sure where to go? No worries, turn to p. 38 and check out our restaurant listings to help you find one.

ALICIA CARTER, MANAGING EDITOR Alicia@suwanee magazine.com

COVER: Texas Burger by The Diner at Sugar Hill photgraphed by Karl Lamb on June 3rd.

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Creative Director RANDALL VEUGELER Art Director LAURA HOLCOMBE Writers JAYA LORD • NATALIE GARRETT JESSICA DACEY Production Manager APRIL MILLER Web Editors CLARKE GLIDEWELL • KYLE WILSON Graphic Designers MADISON NORTH BRENDAN DUFEK • KAYLEE SKELTON Photographers KARL LAMB • JULIE PERDUE GARY DOWD

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Suwanee Magazine is published bi-monthly by Veugeler Design Group. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or Suwanee Magazine. The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or ommissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. ©2022 Veugeler Design Group. The editors welcome unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. Please email submissions to Alicia Carter at Alicia@suwaneemagazine.com.

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Kid-Friendly Creations Snapshots of the food, shops, events and more we’re loving around town. BEST BOWL OF CARBS

AUTHENTIC MEXICAN DELIGHTS

recent trip to downtown Lawrenceville, I took the kiddos to Mimi’s Ice Cafe, which had recently lured me in with its colorful Instagram feed of tastylooking ice cream cones. I knew my daughter would get a kick out of their multi-colored ice cream and whimsical creations. Spoiler alert: She was in heaven! We opted for a double-scoop ice cream cone and enjoyed it outside during a beautiful weekend day, when the downtown area was bustling and the sun was shining. A perfect day for an ice cream. Located at 178 E. Crogan St. in Lawrenceville. Follow them on Instagram at @mimisicecafeatl.

DURING A

- Alicia Carter, Managing Editor

FIRST, IF you guys

haven't been to Beto’s Tacos you're missing out! Beto’s Tacos is an authentic Mexican restaurant with locations in Suwanee and Lawrenceville, and a new location coming soon to Johns Creek. They have a wide variety of selections including tacos, nachos, tortas, salads, soups, and my favorite, Beto's potatoes! This dish comes with crispy steak fries topped with Mexican sausage, queso fresco, and melted queso. This bowl of savory yumminess is a filling meal for one or a great appetizer to share. Beto’s Tacos is located at 3463 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suite 110, in Suwanee. For more information call 678-288-9622 or order online at BetosTacos.com.

BEST COLORFUL CONES

- Jaya Lord, Contributing Writer

Edible Works of Art BEST SWEET TREATS

ACCORDING TO its website, The Chocolaterie has been making beautifully decorated, decadent chocolate since the summer of 2006. Located in the oldest remaining building on Main Street in downtown Duluth, “The Chocolate Lady” mural on the side of the building welcomes guests as they peruse the selection of charming handmade and handpainted chocolate truffles — some of which are almost too pretty to eat! If you want to impress a friend or loved one, surprise them with a gift box filled with artistically decorated chocolates. The Chocolaterie also serves handmade fudge, traditional chocolate goodies, and gourmet ice cream. Located at 3099 Main St. in Duluth. For more information call 678-585-3338 or visit TheChocolaterie.com.

- Alicia Carter, Managing Editor

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B USI N E SS SPOT LI GH T:

RE-ENGINEERING SENIOR LIVING Gwinnett’s newest assisted living community encourages its residents to embrace this next chapter of life with an active lifestyle and enriched activities. By Alicia Carter / Photos by Karl Lamb

walking distance to Sugar Hill’s vibrant downtown, Gwinnett’s newest senior living community is reinventing assisted living and memory care services. Holbrook Sugar Hill shies away from old-school ideas surrounding senior living, and instead emphasizes socialization, wellness and activities in a sophisticated environment that inspires its residents to fully embrace their next chapter of life. With six locations across the Southeast and more on the way, Holbrook’s modern approach is catching on, with more and more people seeking out this refreshing take on senior living. “We've completely re-engineered what senior living is,” says Chairman Al Holbrook. “We don't use ‘senior,’ we don't use ‘retirement.’ We call our assisted living ‘enriched living.’ We call our memory care ‘inspired living,’ and our independent living option is called ‘active passionate.’” By eliminating the stigma behind aging and the needs that come along with it, Holbrook fully encourages independence OCATED WITHIN

Holbrook Sugar Hill offers plenty of space for residents to enjoy, including a large outdoor courtyard and multiple common spaces inside.

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

while also offering the support and amenities for its residents to be successful. When entering Holbrook Sugar Hill, guests will find a modern, elegant and comfortable community with resort-style offerings and plenty of room to mingle. In fact, socializing is encouraged through a number of common spaces, regular activities and events, and even matchmaking services. Overall, Holbrook isn’t offering end-of-life care, but the opportunity to begin a brand-new life.

Enriched Living

In addition to the beautiful pet-friendly apartments, which include studio, onebedroom and two-bedroom suites, residents will also enjoy Holbrook’s stunning grounds with a sunny courtyard, walking paths and landscaped gardens. Residents can also take advantage of the community’s library, exercise facility, TV and game rooms, as well as an onsite beauty salon and barber services. For its enriched living community, residents will work with Holbrook’s professional team of nurses to create an individualized care plan.

General Manager Starla Gleaton and Chairman Al Holbrook

We don't use ‘senior,’ we don't use ‘retirement.’ We call our assisted living ‘enriched living.’ We call our memory care ‘inspired living,’ and our independent living option is called ‘active passionate.’ - Al Holbrook, Chairman

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Chef Tom McEachern oversees the menu at all of Holbrook’s locations.

Holbrook Sugar Hill boats beautiful common areas, a hydrotherapy pool and large, comfortable dining room.

This can include holistic wellness and fitness programs, daily activities and life enrichment programs, as well as weekly devotional and spiritual gatherings. Residents will also be able to enjoy three delicious, therapeutic meals a day along with healthy snacks provided in its onsite bistros.

Inspired Living

Holbrook Sugar Hill also offers memory care services, which they refer to as “inspired living.” The Inspirations Neighborhood is a secure, independent section of the community that meets the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s and other memory impairment conditions, overseen by Holbrook’s team of specially trained caregivers. Inspired living residents can receive nondrug therapy programs, which help access long-term memories that are more resistant to dementia and can help root residents in a sense of time and place. Incorporating activities, sounds, scents, and innovative surroundings, the inspired living residents will enjoy programs that help stimulate the senses for memory recall to keep them feeling connected.

Food With a Purpose Holbrook hired Tom McEachern — a former contestant on the Food Network’s “Chopped” cooking show — to oversee the menu of all of its locations. With more than 25 years of experience as an executive chef in award-winning restaurants, McEachern has a true passion for food. In fact, the James Beard Foundation named McEachern as a Rising Star of American Cuisine and featured him as a guest chef twice. Hiring a chef with a resume like McEachern’s is a clear sign that Holbrook takes the food it serves seriously. “Food is your medicine, medicine is your food — we live by that,” Holbrook says. “We attempt in every way to know where the food we serve is coming from and where we can have local farms deliver. We are developing a menu that tells you what the food does to the body. Let's say you have a B12 deficiency, which is pretty common in older women and results in depression, etc. So we serve shrimp, which has a high vitamin B12 content. So on the side of the menu with each entree and side item, it will tell you what the mineral and vitamin content should be.”

Residents can choose between spacious studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites.

High-Tech Healing

Holbrook places an emphasis on overall wellness for its residents, who will enjoy filtered water and air, as well as UV lighting. “Our buildings are some of the safest in the world with the UV lighting and negative ion emission in the HVAC system to kill viruses,” Holbrook says. “Our full building water filtration systems limit foreign particles that stress our immune system.” Holbrook also offers hydrotherapy to its residents, which is a unique offering among senior living communities. This revolutionary therapy uses HydroWorx aquatic therapy pools

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to help residents improve balance and stability. The benefits of hydrotherapy include conditioning for older adults, which helps improve sleep quality, flexibility and joint pain. It can also be utilized for neurological and spinal cord rehabilitation to help regain lost motor skills. Finally, hydrotherapy can encourage weight loss by reducing pressure on the joints and improving balance, making it easier for people to exercise. Holbrook’s unique approach to senior living ensures that families will feel confident that their loved ones are getting the most out of this next season of life. By incorporating wellness, a multitude of activities, and an environment that encourages socialization, Holbrook is writing the next chapter in care for our senior community. ■ Holbrook Sugar Hill is located at 5135 W. Broad St. in Sugar Hill. For more information, call 404-445-7777 or visit HolbrookLife.com.

WHERE YOU TAKE THEM MATTERS

Children's at Hamilton Creek Urgent Care Center Opening July 26 Whether your child is learning to walk or learning to drive, their growing body needs special care. Children’s has unparalleled expertise because we only treat kids and teens. From the simple to the complex, injuries and illnesses that affect kids and teens should be treated by a pediatric specialist, not an adult provider. No matter their age, take your child to the specialists at Children’s. For hours and more information, visit choa.org/urgentcare ©2022 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.

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INVESTMENT S T R AT E G I E S BY: Bill and Cindi Porter, AILERON INVESTMENT ADVISORS

Q&A Q: IS IT WISE TO GET OUT OF THE STOCK MARKET GIVEN THE RECENT VOLATILITY?

Answer: Probably not. Warren Buffet once famously said, “It is wise for investors to be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful.” *1 Buffet is putting his money (Berkshire Hathaway’s) where his mouth is. In the past couple of months while the market has been lowering its price for shares – he is buying – tens of billions in stocks. Given that the market has always recovered from setbacks and gone on to reach record highs, and while many people are fearful, he is being (as he puts it) greedy.*2 History has been very informative on this topic. If you had tried to get in, and out, and back in the stock market based upon your comfort zone, your investment results would have been very different. Consider this. If you had invested $10,000 on January 1, 2002, in the S&P 500 index and let it stay invested the entire time your account would have grown to $61,324 on December 31, 2021. If instead you had jumped in and out of the market and missed the 10 best days over that 20 years, your account would have only grown to $28,095. If you missed the best 20 days, you would have gained only $16,706. If you missed the top 50 days you would have lost nearly half of your investment ($5,132.) *3 Investing in the stock market is a long-term investment spread out over many years. You need to be invested when the big jumps occur unexpectedly. Finally, where you invest in the stock market also matters. There are 11 sectors in the S&P 500. Ten are down for the year so far, but energy is up 58.66%. *4 It is a good time to visit with your advisor to ensure you are on track with your goals. ■ 1."Chairman's Letter, 1986,https://www.berkshirehathaway.com/letters/1986.html 2.https://www.thestreet.com/investing/buffett-buying-stocks-on-the-dip 3.https://www.franklintempleton.com/tools-and-resources/market-volatility-resources 4.https://eresearch.fidelity.com/eresearch/markets_sectors/sectors/si_performance. jhtml?tab=siperformance

Securities and advisory services are offered through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC (MAS), a registered investment adviser & Member FINRA/SIPC. MAS and Aileron Investment Advisors are not affiliated companies. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Neither the firm nor its agents or representatives may give tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult with a qualified professional for guidance before making any purchasing decisions.

Send your investment questions to: submissions@ SuwaneeMagazine.com

For this year’s Food Issue, we wanted to highlight the incredible food scene here in our community and shine a light on the diversity of restaurants that call Gwinnett home. Throughout these pages, you’ll find a guide to some of the best local restaurants that will help you find a new favorite spot for pizza, Thai, barbecue or brunch — whatever you’re in the mood for. If the craving for a burger strikes, then our Best Burger competition will hit the spot. We also call attention to a few of our favorite hidden gems, spotlight cold treats that will get you through another hot Georgia summer, and share the story of a local baker who makes works of art with cake. Enjoy!

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Bare Bones Steakhouse unveils a new vertical expansion with its new rooftop space, featuring a bar and limited menu with items like the popular BB Shrimp.

A HONEY OF A CAKE MAKER HONEY CHAPPELL OF SIMPLY SWEET CAKES BAKES DELICIOUS WORKS OF ART OUT OF HER HOME KITCHEN IN SUWANEE. By Jaya Lord / Photos Courtesy Honey Chappell

S I sit in what I call my “comfy corner” and flip through the TV to find background noise to write to, I realize that I almost always choose Netflix's "Nailed It!" If you haven't watched this show, it's a baking competition for home bakers who are... not very good. In each episode, the bakers are challenged to recreate edible masterpieces. Most of them end up looking and tasting poorly, but it makes for fantastic entertainment. Simply Sweet Cakes’ Honey Chappell, however, is the opposite of these forlorn bakers. In her home kitchen in Suwanee, Honey whips up cakes that look like actual works of art — and taste even better. If Honey were to star in a baking show, it would look more like “Cake Masters” than “Nailed It!"

First Of Its Kind Business In Suwanee

Honey turned a hobby she dabbled with into a profitable, successful business in 2015. Simply Sweet Cakes is a licensed home-based cottage food business that was the first of its kind in the City of Suwanee. "I was the guinea pig,” Honey says. “It was crazy in some moments because there wasn't a lot of knowledge with this type of licensing, but the City and I walked through each step together and we got it done.”

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Simply Sweet Cakes provides a variety of sweet treats ranging from wedding cakes, custom cakes and mini-cakes to sugar cookies, cake pops and cupcakes. When it comes to the flavors, Honey can craft one of her creations using familiar favorites like chocolate, vanilla, marble, and strawberry, as well as premium flavors like red velvet, blue velvet, white chocolate, Italian cream,

Simply Sweet Cakes’ Honey Chappell bakes works of art from her home kitchen in Suwanee.

I'll have this vision in my brain or somebody says, ‘I want the cake to look like this,’ and I'll look at a picture of a shoe or a mountain they want and it’s just exhilarating that I have to build and recreate it.” - Honey Chappell, Owner Simply Sweet Cakes

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and plenty more. We haven’t even talked about filling options! But let’s save that for another time. The most important thing to note is that Honey can create custom recipes for any flavor your heart desires. Although baking is very important to her, Honey says she is most passionate about the 'art' side. "I've always been artistic and dabbled in crafts,” she says. “Baking was always something I knew I had to learn in order to create art. It sounds silly, but the art side of it is my favorite thing in the whole world.” Honey studied architectural engineering in college but realized that the practice wasn’t as free-flowing as she hoped and decided not to pursue the career. "I'll have this vision in my brain or somebody says, 'I want the cake to look like this,' and I'll look at a picture of a shoe or a mountain they want and it's just exhilarating that I have to build and recreate it," she says.

TRADTIONAL WEDDING CAKES AND MORE

A quick glance at the Simply Sweet Cakes’ website or Instagram and it's clear that Honey is versatile and enjoys a challenge. From elegant, more traditional wedding cakes to cakes shaped like tool boxes, high fashion leather goods, and teddy bears, Honey is able to adjust her artistic style based on her client’s needs. "I absolutely love weddings but the custom cake side of my business is where I have the most fun," she says. "They're not always easy and are usually the ones that keep me up at night, but my favorite thing is to make cakes that look like other things. Recently, I made a beautiful golden dragon. I make purses and shoes, and I've made a Land Rover. I've made elevated cakes and created things that defy gravity." Honey says she has her mother to thank for getting her into baking and her husband for helping to develop her business. She currently runs on a strict schedule to produce 10-15 cakes per week on average, but depending on the season it can be closer to 20-30 cakes per week. She sources all of her ingredients locally and serves the Greater Atlanta area, but often travels for destination weddings.

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Honey creates a variety of sweet treats ranging from wedding cakes, custom cakes and mini-cakes to sugar cookies, cake pops and cupcakes — all with a finesse of a master baker and visual artist.

relationship building

During the pandemic, most businesses struggled to get by but Simply Sweet Cakes flourished. Honey diversified her offerings and provided the community with cookie and cake DIY kits, individually packaged mini cakes, and micro-wedding cakes. “What I love about what I do is the personal relationships I create with my clients,” she says. “There are clients who I have done wedding cakes for and now I’m doing cakes for their children. That’s another thing I love about this job, seeing the reactions. Some people smile, some laugh, some even cry!” Community and relationship building is very important to Honey, who often donates her services to people she meets or those in need. When asked about her future goals for her business, she says she would love to grow her business and output to a point where she is able to donate even more of her services. To us, it doesn’t get any sweeter. ■ Learn more about Honey Chappell and Simply Sweet Cakes by visiting SuwaneeCakes.com.

NEW HEIGHTS

Downtown Buford’s Bare Bones Steakhouse unveils a new rooftop space where guests can come for the food and drinks but stay for the view. By Jessica Dacey / Photos by Jaya Lord and Jessica Dacey BARE BONES Steakhouse is offering diners a new elevated experience — literally. Patrons visiting the popular steakhouse now have the option to indulge in pre-dinner cocktails or enjoy the evening on its newly renovated rooftop overlooking historic downtown Buford. The new rooftop addition comes with a menu as unique as its panoramic views, but as expected, it’s equally as delicious as the full menu downstairs. The rooftop menu consists of the restaurant’s famous appetizers, newly added sandwiches and more, all combined with a fresh, alternative atmosphere. “What I love is that our guests have another option now,”

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says General Manager Andy Travelstead. “Whether they want a big meal in our dining room or something a little more laid-back on our rooftop, our guests can come and be a part of our team and family.” Bare Bones’ rooftop will be an extension of the already well-established and thriving dining experience we all know and love, with space to hold up to 118 guests. Owner Buddy Maughon’s wife and right-hand woman, Gaye Maughon, wanted the rooftop to feel like it has always been there and not a brandnew addition. By tapping into Bare Bones’ existing rustic and refined design, the team found a way to seamlessly continue the use of reclaimed wood and metal staircases.

In fact, guests will be seated at one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted tables by the talented Greg Thigpen, which were made from 100-year-old wood repurposed from Bare Bones’ previous location. The team even added a replica of the preexisting downstairs bar — squarehead screws and all — transporting diners back to the early 1900s. “We still want it to be Bare Bones,” Travelstead says. Diners are still able to unwind after a long day with their favorite Bare Bones cocktails and small plates to share (or not to share), while also having the option to enjoy a more filling choice such as an entreé-size salad, sandwich or beer-braised hot dog — yes, hot dog. Guests 21 and older are invited to grab the elevator or head up the stairs and take a seat under rows of dimly lit string lights to experience the familiarity of Bare Bones and historic Buford, just higher up. No reservations are required to enjoy the panoramic views, onion ring towers or BB Tinis. - Bare Bones General Manager Andy Travelstead There is no doubt that this project has been a collaborative and team effort from the Bare Bones family. Every detail down to the shape of the screws has been thought about, talked about, and executed to create an exceptional new experience that Buford has been searching for. So finish that juicy ribeye downstairs, head up the elevator and keep the night going by grabbing a seat on the rooftop overlooking the town. ■

What I love is that our guests have another option now. Whether they want a big meal in our dining room or something a little more laid-back on our rooftop, our guests can come and be a part of our team and family.”

Bare Bones Steakhouse’s new rooftop space will feature a limited menu with familiar favorites like the battered fried onion rings, steakhouse burger, and the Strawberry De Lite salad.

Bare Bones Steakhouse is located at 115 E. Main St., Buford. Call 470-266-1890 for reservations or visit the rooftop - no reservations required. BareBonesSteakhouse.com.

DIESEL TAP HOUSE

Ole Drunken Burger

LOCAL REPUBLIC

Celine Dijon

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best MARLOW'S TAVERN

Black and Blue Burger

THE DINER AT SUGAR HILL

Texas Burger

Burger TANNERY ROW ALE HOUSE

All In Burger

OVER THE TOP BURGER BAR

The Hangover

THE DAWG HOUSE

Big Bark Burger with Cheese

UNCLE JACK'S MEAT HOUSE

Ooey Gooey Mooey Burger 29

MEET THE JUDGES:

Skye Estroff

C O N T

E S T

SPONSORED BY

BARE BONES STEAKHOUSE or our 2022 food issue, we decided to once again go in search of the best burger in Gwinnett! We're talking a well-seasoned, juicy patty on a fluffy bun with all the fixins! In pursuit of burger bliss, we reached out to restaurants in our distribution area with a great burger on their menu to participate in this year’s contest. In the end, eight local contenders accepted the challenge and delivered their best burger to our office to put before our judges, three local foodies whose taste buds would be put to the test to declare a winner! We also tasked the Suwanee Magazine staff with sampling each burger to vote on a “People’s Choice” winner. And we couldn’t leave out our readers! We posted each burger online and asked the community to vote on their favorite.

By Alicia Carter / Photos by Karl Lamb

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Skye is known as "Atlanta Food Expert" on TV and radio. She began her career in food by receiving her bachelor’s degree in Dietetics from the University of Georgia. After college, she took root in Atlanta and began working for local food and media companies, Atlanta Eats then Taste of Atlanta, before founding Skye Estroff LLC, a food-focused social media company, and Foodie Roadtrip LLC, a food production company and regional TV show. Her lifelong goal is to connect people through food, and she is sharing that perspective with Foodie Road Trip.

Victoria Hawkins Victoria Hawkins is the Senior Director of Marketing and Destination Development at Explore Gwinnett, the official tourism and film office for Gwinnett County. Basically, this organization gets to market Gwinnett as a destination and tell visitors about the fun things to see and do in Gwinnett County. Explore Gwinnett also hosts Gwinnett Burger Week every March.

Buddy Maughon Buddy Maughon is a Master Meat Cutter and owner of downtown Buford's Bare Bones Steakhouse. From ribeyes, filets, and strips to massive tomahawks and porterhouses, Buddy’s passion and precision are ingrained with each cut of his knife. “It was a 40-year dream of mine to open a steakhouse,” he says. “I wake up every morning and still can’t believe it."

JUDGING CRITERIA: Each burger was judged in three categories:

 APPEARANCE: Bun, Toppings, Overall Presentation  TASTE: Cook Level, Quality of Meat, Seasoning, Toppings, Texture  OVERALL IMPRESSION: Creativity of Ingredients, Probability of Ordering Again

Black and Blue Burger Marlow’s Tavern

1950 Satellite Blvd., Duluth MarlowsTavern.com

Marlow's nicely seasoned tavern burger topped with gorgonzola, applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato and onion on a sesame brioche roll.

“The dressing was a unique touchpoint.”

— Skye Estroff

all in burger

Tannery Row Ale House 554 W. Main St., Buford

TanneryRowAleHouse.com Half-pound burger topped with pulled pork, fried egg, Gouda cheese and pecan-smoked bacon with lettuce, tomato and onion.

“The combination of egg, pulled pork, and bacon is delicious.”

— People’s Choice Judge Madison North

the hangover

Over The Top Burger 2685 Buford Hwy., Suite 800, Buford OvertheTopBurger.com

Two patties on a sugar waffle, topped with candied maple bacon, American cheese, a fried egg, hash brown, maple syrup and dusted with powdered sugar.

“So. Freakin’. Good! Unexpected combo, but it’s so good!” — People’s Choice Judge Kaylee Skelton

Celine Dijon Local Republic

139 N. Perry St., Lawrenceville LocalRepublic.com

The Celine Dijon burger features fried mozzarella, bacon jam, arugula and Dijonnaise.

“The first time I’ve had fried cheese on a burger, but I definitely don’t want it to be my last! Very creative!”

— Skye Estroff

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JULY / AUGUST 22

Ole Drunken Burger Diesel Tap house

2669 Buford Hwy., Suite 200, Buford DieselTapHouse.com

A half-pound of custom blend burger, American cheese, hash browns, bacon, lettuce and tomato on Texas toast. This bad boy is also known as the "ODB."

“The perfect breakfast burger!” — People’s Choice Judge Kaylee Skelton

: S R E N IN W E H T

big bark burger with cheese The Dawg House

2380 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Buford TheDawgHouse.com

Hand-formed premium Angus beef patty with double the garden. Leaf lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, ketchup and mustard on a fresh baked bun.

PEOPLE'S CHOICE WINNER!

2nd

Ooey Gooey Mooey Burger

Place!

Uncle Jack's Meat House

6590 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Suite 201, Duluth UuncleJacksMeatHouse.com

Custom William Jack Degel Blend of Prime beef with onion jam, maple bacon, lettuce, tomato, blue cheese fondue, blue cheese crumble and “special sauce” on a brioche bun.

“Excellent! Classic burger!” — Victoria Hawkins

Suwanee Magazine

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JULY / AUGUST 22

“Tastes like a gourmet classic burger.” — People’s Choice Judge Madison North

AND THE WINNER IS... Texas Burger

The Diner at Sugar Hill 4500 Nelson Brogdon Blvd., Sugar Hill

1st

Place!

TheDineratSugarHill.com

Since 2009, The Diner at Sugar Hill has delivered a satisfying home-style dining experience with a side of Southern hospitality to its loyal customer base. And now, their Texas Burger has been voted the Best Burger by our team of judges! Featuring a hand-crafted ground Angus beef patty seasoned and grilled over an open flame, the Texas burger is basted with barbecue sauce and topped with a farm-fresh over-medium egg, hand-battered onion rings, hickory-smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato and red onion on a sesame seed bun. Our judges couldn’t get enough of the classic burger taste!

Plus! The Texas Burger was the Reader’s Choice Winner!

We asked our readers to vote on their favorite of the eight burgers in an online poll. After nearly 300 votes cast, one burger stood out. The judges and readers of Suwanee Magazine agree, The Texas Burger at The Diner at Sugar

Hill's is the best in Gwinnett!

Suwanee Magazine

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JULY / AUGUST 22

“Awesome classic burger!” — Victoria Hawkins

“Great burger!” — Buddy Maughon

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: BARE BONES STEAKHOUSE

Special thank you to our sponsor Bare Bones Steakhouse, a local favorite in downtown Buford who the owners affectionately refer to as a “common man steakhouse.” Their USDA prime steaks continue to steal the show meal after meal. Be sure to visit them at 115 E. Main St. in Buford. Learn more about their new rooftop space on p. 26. 37

AFRICAN

SAVOR THE FLAVORS OF GWINNETT R E S TAU R A N T G U I D E

Gwinnett County is home to a diverse population, which is well represented by all of the amazing restaurants that showcase a variety of delicious cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for ramen, pizza, Chinese take-out or Italian pasta, our restaurant guide features a selection of local spots that will serve up just what you’re looking for.

Serbea Living African Restaurant 2930 Old Norcross Road Duluth, GA 30096 678-373-1931 SerbeaLiving.com -----------------------------------------------------------------The Island Grill 3665 Club Drive Duluth, GA 30096 678-585-1369 TheIslandGrillDuluth.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Honest Star Restaurant Bar & Grill 1848 Old Norcross Road Lawrenceville, GA 30044 470-550-1099

Ethiopiques Cafe & Restaurant 11130 State Bridge Road Johns Creek, GA 30022 770-696-4346 EthiopiquesCafe.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Sanbra Restaurant 3370 Sugarloaf Pkwy. Lawrenceville, GA 30044 770-686-3600 SanbraRestaurant.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Southern Suya 3099 Breckinridge Blvd. Duluth, GA 30096 770-299-1020 SouthernSuya.com

AMERICAN

STAFF PICK:

Bottles & Bones

Located in Suwanee Town Center, Bottles & Bones is an elegant and modern chophouse that boasts old-school service and an upscale, lively lounge. The restaurant satisfies both the steak connoisseur and the casual diner looking for fresh seafood, chicken, lamb and pork, and offers an experience that is perfect for a weeknight bite, craft cocktail in the lounge or weekend celebration. Bottles & Bones is currently running a prime rib dinner special on Sunday and Monday evenings. Stop by for weekly specials and happy hours, or reach out about your next private event. 400 Buford Hwy., Suite 1104, Suwanee 678-804-9447, BottlesandBonesGA.com Aqua Terra Bistro 55 E. Main St. Buford, GA 30518 770-271-3000 AquaTerraBistro.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Rico’s World Kitchen 306 W. Main St. Buford, GA 30518 678-765-7518 RicosWorldKitchen.com

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JULY / AUGUST 22

Local on North 3085 Main St. Duluth, GA 30096 770-417-8877 LONDuluth.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Falling Rabbit 3580 W. Lawrenceville St. Duluth, GA 30096 770-623-1452 FallingRabbit.com

Frankie’s The Steakhouse Duluth’s Frankie’s The Steakhouse embodies the luxe atmosphere of a classic steakhouse, but replaces the stereotypical stuffiness with a lively and welcoming neighborhood feel. 6500 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Floor 3, Duluth, 678-395-6447 FrankiestheSteakhouse.com Marlow’s Tavern 1950 Satellite Blvd. Duluth, GA 30097 770-662-2033 MarlowsTavern.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Seaside Oyster Bar 3890 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suwanee, GA 30024 678-456-3141 SeasideOysterBar.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Noona Meat & Seafood 3550 W. Lawrenceville St. Duluth, GA 30096 678-404-5001 NoonaDuluth.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Taco Mac 3443 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suwanee, GA 30024 678-730-0941 TacoMac.com -----------------------------------------------------------------The Diner at Sugar Hill 4500 Nelson Brogdon Blvd. Sugar Hill, GA 30518 770-831-0180 TheDineratSugarHill.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Uncle Jack's Meat House 6590 Sugarloaf Pkwy. Duluth, GA 30097 770-497-2400 UuncleJacksMeatHouse.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Local Republic 139 N. Perry St. Lawrenceville, GA 30518 470-344-3827 LocalRepublic.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Universal Joint 181 W. Pike St. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770-299-1898 UJLawrenceville.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Tannery Row Ale House 554 W. Main St. Buford, GA 30518 678-765-8979 TanneryRowAleHouse.com

McCray’s Tavern 100 N. Perry St. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770-407-6754 McCraystavern.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Seasons 52 3265 Buford Drive Buford, GA 30519 770-831-8752 Seasons52.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Craft Burger by Shane 315 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee, GA 30024 470-655-8424 CraftBurgerbyShane.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Central City Tavern 5019 West Broad Street Sugar Hill, GA 30518 470 326 5155 CentralCityTavern.com Bare Bones Steakhouse Downtown Buford’s beloved steakhouse serves up delicious ribeyes, filets, strips, massive tomahawks and porterhouses in a beautiful setting. Be sure to try the onion rings! 115 E. Main St., Buford, 470-266-1890 BareBonesSteakhouse.com

BARBECUE

City Barbeque 4210 Johns Creek Pkwy. Suwanee, GA 30024 770-284-3115 CityBBQ.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Sonny’s BBQ 1905 Buford Mill Drive Buford, GA 30519 770-831-5002 SonnysBBQ.com -----------------------------------------------------------------The Black Pig 5825 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Buford, GA 30518 678-482-0520 Facebook.com/ theblackpigbbqgrill -----------------------------------------------------------------Socks’ Love Barbecue 1050 Buford Hwy. Cumming, GA 30041 470-302-8383 SocksLoveBrands.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Foggy Bottom BBQ 202 W. Crogan St. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 678-878-3251 FoggyBottomBBQ.com

BREAKFAST/ BRUNCH

Main Street Deli 60 E. Main St. Buford, GA 30518 678-288-9991 MainStreetDeliBuford.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Maple Street Biscuit Company 3550 W. Lawrenceville St. Bldg 200, Suite 210 Duluth, GA 678-404-5625 MapleStreetBiscuits.com -----------------------------------------------------------------The Brunch Apothecary 2595 Fence Road Dacula, GA 30019 678-731-7338 TheBrunchApothecary.com -----------------------------------------------------------------J. Christopher’s 3294 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Duluth, GA 30096 770-622-4775 JChristophers.com -----------------------------------------------------------------First Watch 3687 Buford Drive Buford, GA 30519 770-217-3256 FirstWatch.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Reveille Cafe 5885 Cumming Hwy. Sugar Hill, GA 30518 470-589-1512 ReveilleCafe.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Seven Sisters Kitchen 6955 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 107 Johns Creek, GA 30097 470-448-1905 7SKitchen.com

Brown Bag Deli Since 2011, Suwanee staple Brown Bag Deli & Café has served up delicious breakfast bagels, soups, salads, sandwiches, desserts, coffee, beer, wine and more. Over the years, Brown Bag has grown into the go-to community coffee shop and lunch cafe. 340 Town Center Ave. Suwanee, 678-682-3496 BrownBagDeliandCafe.com

CHINESE Golden Seven Thai and Chinese Cuisine Located in Suwanee Town Center, Golden Seven is known for its excellent Thai and Chinese cuisine along with great customer service. The restaurant offers dinein, carry out and delivery options. 320 Town Center Ave., 678-889-4999 GoldenSeven.com

Peking Chinese 360 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suite 101A Suwanee, GA 30024 770-271-3778 PekingofSuwanee.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Sunshine Chinese 525 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee, GA 30024 770-614-9699 SunshineChineseand Thai.com -----------------------------------------------------------------WEI Authentic Chinese 3320 Buford Drive Buford, GA 30519 470-589-1533 WeiBuford.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Baozi Asian Street Food 248 E. Crogan St. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770-299-1250 BaoziAsianStreetFood.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Great China 5885 Cumming Hwy Sugar Hill, GA 30518 770-614-5566 -----------------------------------------------------------------Pearl Lian 11600 Medlock Bridge Road Duluth, GA 30097 678-205-1326 PearlLian.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Lee's Golden Buddha 4300 Buford Drive Buford, GA 30518 770-945-1224 OrderLeesGolden Buddha.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Main Moon 7766 McGinnis Ferry Road Suwanee, GA 30024 678-205-2161 MainMoonSuwaneeGA.com

COFFEEHOUSE / CAFE

STAFF PICK:

Café Amico

Café Amico has been in the heart of Suwanee Town Center for more than three years and offers an enjoyable coffee experience filled with originality, handcrafted drinks, and high-quality roasted coffee paired with freshly made brunch items, delicious baked goods, and a variety of exquisite desserts. Each item on Café Amico’s menu is prepared with high-quality ingredients and dedication. In order to prioritize convenience for their customers, Café Amico offers online ordering through Door Dash and Uber Eats, and also accepts call-ahead orders for pick-up and special event orders (no minimum). Second location at Sugarloaf Mills Mall in Lawrenceville, next to Medieval Times. Two locations: 320 Town Center Ave., Suwanee, 678-765-8499 / 5900 Sugarloaf Parkway, Suite 525, Lawrenceville 770-268-7096, Instagram.com/cafeamicousa Phoenix Roasters 2650 Main St. N.W. Duluth, GA 30097 770-884-1496 PhoenixRoasters.coffee -----------------------------------------------------------------Divine Coffee 7725 McGinnis Ferry Road Johns Creek, GA 30024 770-417-8759 Facebook.com/divinecoffeeco -----------------------------------------------------------------Pearl’s Tea 3131 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suwanee, GA 30024 678-765-2566 PearlsTea.com -----------------------------------------------------------------The Baking Grounds Bakery Cafe 4360 S. Lee St. Buford, GA 30518 678-765-6690 TheBakingGrounds.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Cafe Crepes Square 80 Horizon Drive Suwanee, GA 30024 678-541-5080 Facebook.com/crepessquare -----------------------------------------------------------------Arte 3 1291 Old Peachtree Road Suwanee, GA 30024 770-623-5200

Suwanee Magazine

Antoinette’s Cafe 1630 Buford Hwy. Buford, GA 30518 678-765-6446 AntoinettesCafe.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Cips Coffee Roasters 2780 W. Village Drive Suwanee, GA 30024 770-288-5533 CipsCoffeeRoasters.com

Rushing Trading Company Sugar Hill's Rushing Trading Company is owned and operated by a motherdaughter trio who are passionate about spreading happiness through their brunch-style menu. When dining in, you can expect items like gourmet selections of avocado toast, biscuits and gravy, delectable sandwiches, salads and, of course, bottomless mimosas!

5029 W. Broad St. N.E. Sugar Hill, 678-288-9808 RushingTradingCo.com

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JULY / AUGUST 22

CUBAN Havana South Cuban 4060 Buford Drive Buford, GA 30518 678-546-2252 HavanaSouth CubanRestaurant.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Armanod’s Caribe 3170 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Duluth, GA 30097 770-232-9848 ArmandosCaribe Restaurant.com -----------------------------------------------------------------D’Floridian Cuban Cuisine & Bar 125 W. Crogan St. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770-299-1273 DFloridian.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Papi’s Cuban & Caribbean Grill 911 Duluth Hwy. Lawrenceville, GA 30043 770-237-8889 PapisGrill.com

DESSERT Simply Done Donuts 3550 W. Lawrenceville St. Duluth, GA 30096 678-772-0523 SimplyDoneDonuts.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Sarah Donuts 45 Satellite Blvd. Suwanee, GA 30024 770-271-1129 SarahDonuts.com -----------------------------------------------------------------J & J Donuts 415 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee, GA 30024 678-926-3763 JandJDonuts.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Crumbl Cookies 875 LawrencevilleSuwanee Road Lawrenceville, GA 30043 470-326-0369 CrumblCookies.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Smallcakes 2925 Buford Drive Buford, GA 30519 770-224-8033 SmallCakesGwinnett.com -----------------------------------------------------------------In My Fillings 2855 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suwanee, GA 30024 470-589-1067 InMyFillings.com

Mochinut Suwanee

Mochinut opens its doors in July 2022, which is its second location in Georgia. The popular chain franchise of mochi donuts is already a big hit on the West Coast. Follow them on social for future updates and flavors!

315 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. #106, Suwanee, 678-835-5533 @MochinutSuwanee Yogi Mogli 320 Town Center Ave. Suwanee, GA 30024 678-546-6558 YogliMogli.com/suwanee-ga -----------------------------------------------------------------Rita's Italian Ice 340 Town Center Ave. Suwanee, GA 30024 678-765-2889 RitasIce.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Planet Smoothie 320 Town Center Ave. Suwanee, GA 30024 770-945-8785 PlanetSmoothie.com Jeremiah’s Italian Ice Jeremiah’s serves up amazing Italian ice, soft serve ice cream, and gelati, which layers the soft serve with the Italian ice for an extra special treat. Featuring more than 40 flavors, including mango, passion fruit, strawberry-lemon, pumpkin pie and more! 991 Peachtree

Industrial Blvd., 470-758-4444 JeremiahsIce.com/locations/ suwanee-ga.

EUROPEAN La Belle Vie 1500 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee, GA 30024 678-765-6609 BelleVieSuwanee.com -----------------------------------------------------------------Sperata 9 E. Main St. Buford, GA 30519 678-765-7911 SperataRestaurant.com

Georgia French Bakery & Cafe 3512 Satellite Blvd. Duluth, GA 30096 770-622-2682 GeorgiaFrenchBakery.com --------------------------------------------------------------Wunderbar Bierhaus 1166 Church St. Sugar Hill, GA 30518 470-589-1775 WunderBarbierhaus.com --------------------------------------------------------------Kurt’s Euro Bistro 3305 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Duluth, GA 30096 770-623-4128 KurtsRestaurant.com

INDIAN 786 Kabob and Curry 1905 Mall of Georgia Blvd. Buford, GA 30519 678-546-0085 786kc.net --------------------------------------------------------------Bukharaa 3651 Peachtree Pkwy. Suwanee, GA 30024 770-817-1371 Bukharaa.com

Food Garrage 2369 Lawrenceville Hwy. Lawrenceville, GA 30044 770-274-3867 FoodGarrageMenu.com --------------------------------------------------------------Kerala Kitchen 1215 Scenic Hwy. Lawrenceville, GA 30045 678-365-7445 Facebook.com/ keralakitchenATL --------------------------------------------------------------Masti Indian Street Eats 9700 Medlock Bridge Road Duluth, GA 30097 678-395-4739 MastiAtlanta.com --------------------------------------------------------------The Curry Pot 3255 LawrencevilleSuwanee Road Suwanee, GA 30024 470-266-1520 OrderCurryPot.com --------------------------------------------------------------Madras Chettinaad 4305 State Bridge Road Johns Creek, GA 30022 678-393-3131 Madras Chettinaad.com

ITALIAN

STAFF PICK:

Ippolito's

Ippolito's moved from Lawrenceville to Suwanee Town Center in 2007, making it the first restaurant to open in Suwanee's bustling downtown district. The restaurant has grown into a local favorite because of its welcoming atmosphere and excellent service. Ippolito's menu is filled with Italian favorites, including pizzas, calzones, strombolis, specialty chicken, veal and seafood dishes, all in healthy portions. Pro tip: Don't miss out on their addictively delicious garlic rolls! In addition to their flavorful Italian dishes, Ippolito's also offers a large selection of wine and hand-crafted cocktails, all of which can be enjoyed al fresco on their dog-friendly patio. Private dining and catering is also available! 350 Town Center Ave. Suwanee 678-985-4377, Ippolitossuwanee@gmail.com

ITALIAN (cont.) Dominick’s Italian 22 Buford Village Way Buford, GA 30518 770-614-0019 Dominicksof Buford.com --------------------------------------------------------------Parma Tavern 3350 Buford Drive Buford, GA 30519 678-541-0908 ParmaRusticTavern.com --------------------------------------------------------------Trattoria One 41 9810 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-497-0021 Trattoria141.com --------------------------------------------------------------Roma Italiano Ristorante 3455 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Duluth, GA 30096 770-495-7417 RomaItaliano.com

Italy’s Pizza & Pasta Co. 2590 Hamilton Mill Road Buford, GA 30519 770-932-7121 ItalysPizzaPasta.com --------------------------------------------------------------Sugo 10305 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek, GA 30097, 770-817-8000 SugoRestaurant.com Luciano’s Ristorante Italy A favorite of the Duluth business crowd, Luciano’s Ristorante Italy serves classic Italian favorites featuring Northern Italian flavors in a sophisticated yet comfortable setting.

6555 Sugarloaf Pkwy. Duluth, 770-255-1727 LucianosItaly.com

JAPANESE

STAFF PICK:

Tomiyama Sushi Hibachi Thai

Tomiyama opened in December 2021 as Suwanee’s first and only hibachi restaurant, as well as the only restaurant to serve sushi, hibachi and fine Thai cuisine under one roof. Tomiyama offers great quality food in a bright and modern atmosphere and its menu boasts Angus choice beef, New York strips, filet mignon and fresh seafood created by a five-star chef from Bangkok. The best-seller on the hibachi menu is the Trio, featuring steak, shrimp and chicken, as well as the combo filet mignon and shrimp. The crunchy tuna roll, yummy tummy roll, tuna tartar and volcano roll are all crowd favorites on the sushi menu. If you’re in the mood for Thai food, be sure to check out the crispy duck with basil sauce, massaman curry duck, and the beef, pork, chicken and lobster pad Thai. 315 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suite 100, Suwanee, 678-765-0880, TomiyamaSuwanee.com

Suwanee Magazine

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JULY / AUGUST 22

Jinya Ramen Bar 2925 Buford Drive Buford, GA 30519 770-573-4988 JinyaRamenBar.com --------------------------------------------------------------Fukulala 1039 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee, GA 30024 678-765-6568 Fukulala.com --------------------------------------------------------------Haru Ichiban 3646 Satellite Blvd. Duluth, GA 30096 770-622-4060 HaruIchibanJapanese Restaurant.com --------------------------------------------------------------Ramen Bar by Hajime 4180 Old Milton Pkwy. Johns Creek, GA 30005 770-802-5859 RamenBarByhaJime.com --------------------------------------------------------------Umaido 2790 LawrencevilleSuwanee Road Suwanee, GA 30024 678-318-8568 Umaido.net --------------------------------------------------------------Wicked Sushi & Grill 3200 Woodward Crossing Blvd. Buford, GA 30519 678-765-7499 Wicked-Sushi-Grill.com --------------------------------------------------------------Sushi Nami 4369 Suwanee Dam Road Suwanee, GA 30024 470-323-4093 SushiNami.com --------------------------------------------------------------Yuki Izakaya 2205 Pleasant Hill Road Duluth, GA 30096 770-336-2232 YukiIzakayaATL.com --------------------------------------------------------------MoRi House 4325 Suwanee Dam Road Suwanee, GA 30024 770-831-0810 Mori-House.com

KOREAN Anjoo 525 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee, GA 30024 678-288-9595 Anjoobarbq.com

Jang Su Jang 3645 Satellite Blvd. Duluth, GA 30096 678-475-9170 JangSuJangAtlanta.com --------------------------------------------------------------PaoPao Ramen Factory Bar 3920 Buford Drive Buford, GA 30519 678-765-6355 PaoPaoRamen.com --------------------------------------------------------------ARI Steakhouse 9700 Medlock Bridge Road Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-802-8800 AriSteakHouse.com --------------------------------------------------------------Danji 3350 Buford Drive Buford, GA 30519 470-266-1963 Facebook.com/DanJi Buford --------------------------------------------------------------Dan Moo Ji 3230 Steve Reynolds Blvd. Duluth, GA 30096 770-814-2310 DanMooJiAtlanta.com --------------------------------------------------------------Kitchen Momoi 686 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee, GA 30024 678-926-3737 KitchenMomoi.com

MEDITERRANEAN Rose & Olives 11600 Medlock Bridge Road, Duluth, GA 30097 470-299-3902 RoseandOlives Restaurant.com --------------------------------------------------------------Pita Mediterranean Street Food 3186 LawrencevilleSuwanee Road Suwanee, GA 30024 470-589-7755 PitaStreetFood.com --------------------------------------------------------------Mo’s Gyro and Kabob 4296 Old Suwanee Road Buford, GA 30518 678-765-7352 MosGyroandKabob.com --------------------------------------------------------------Adriatic Grill 396 W. Pike St. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770-299-1115 TheAdriaticGrill.com

Opa! Gyros & Kabob 2730 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Duluth, GA 30097 678-584-8774 OpaFamilyRestaurant.com --------------------------------------------------------------Pita Corner 911 Duluth Hwy. Lawrenceville, GA 30043 678-878-2077 PitaCorners.com

Athens Kouzzina 5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy. Lawrenceville, GA 30043 678-847-0150 AthensKouzzina.com

MEXICAN

STAFF PICK:

Beto’s Tacos

Beto's Tacos opened in Suwanee in 2019 and quickly became a local favorite known for their authentic Mexican street-style tacos — there are 20 different tacos on the menu! In addition to their tacos, Beto's also serves up an awesome selection of tortas, nachos, traditional Mexican dishes, burritos, soups, ceviche and more. No Beto's order is complete without a side of chips and their delicious queso or one of their salsas. Finish off your meal with a cold beer, margarita or refreshing agua fresca. Beto's is so loved, they added a second location in Lawrenceville in 2021 with a third location to open later this year in Johns Creek. 3463 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suite 110, Suwanee, 678288-9622, BetosTacos.com

Cheeky Taqueria 1039 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee, GA 30024 770-831-8887 EatatCheeky.com/ suwanee-cheeky --------------------------------------------------------------Don Bonachon Mexican Bar & Grill 4369 Suwanee Dam Road Suwanee, GA 30024 770-368-6833 DonBonachon.com

El Molcajete Cantina & Grill 360 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee, GA 30024 470-589-7876 ElMolcajeteMex.com --------------------------------------------------------------Hacienda Bar & Grill 1500 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee, GA 30024 678-541-5735 HaciendaBarr.com

MEXICAN (cont.) Monterrey Mexican Restaurant 1000 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee, GA 30024 770-831-1600 MonterreyMex Suwanee.com --------------------------------------------------------------Tequila Mama Taqueria 340 Town Center Ave. Suwanee, GA 30024 678-456-3131 Facebook.com/ tequilamamataqueria --------------------------------------------------------------Rodeo Mexican Restaurant & Grill 3265 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suwanee, GA 30024 470-589-1866 RodeoSuwanee.com --------------------------------------------------------------La Mixteca Tamale House 1185 Old Peachtree Road Suwanee, GA 30024 678-878-3483 Facebook.com/ lamixtecatamalehouse --------------------------------------------------------------Taqueria Los Hermanos 3245 Peachtree Pkwy. Suwanee, GA 30024 678-600-8322 TaqueriaLosHermanos.com --------------------------------------------------------------Alebrije Mexican Cuisine 1611 Satellite Blvd. Duluth, GA 30097 770-676-6093 AlebrijeMexicancuisine.com --------------------------------------------------------------Sangrias Mexican Grill & Tequila Bar 1032 Old Peachtree Road Lawrenceville, GA 30043 470-294-1177 SangriasGrill.com --------------------------------------------------------------Bravo Mexican Grill 2033 Buford Hwy. Buford, GA 30518 770-614-3764 BravoMexicanGrill. square.site --------------------------------------------------------------El Taco Jalisco 4545 S. Lee St. Buford, GA 30518 678-482-4685 --------------------------------------------------------------Lolas Mexican Cantina 2475 S Waterworks Road Buford, GA 30518 470-589-1678 LolasMexicanCantina.com

Suwanee Magazine

Frontera Mexican Kitchen

Frontera Mexican Kitchen has served traditional Mexican favorites to hungry diners across the metro area since 1987 and has made a name for itself with its brand of fast-casual dining combined with exceptional service.

2137 LawrencevilleSuwanee Road, Suwanee 770-963-3872 MyFrontera.com Tacos & Tequilas Mexican Grill 3480 Financial Center Way Buford, GA 30519 770-614-9916 TandTAtlanta.com --------------------------------------------------------------Tin Lizzy's Cantina 3333 Buford Drive Buford, GA 30519 678-805-2380 TinlizzysCantina.com --------------------------------------------------------------Cantina Loca 5010 W. Broad St. Sugar Hill GA 30518 678-926-3800 Cantina-Loca.com --------------------------------------------------------------Strange Taco 225 W. Crogan St. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 678-869-5220 StrangeTacoBar.com

MIDDLE EASTERN Flame Kabob House 418 Gwinnett Drive Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770-676-6609 FlameKabobHouseGA.com --------------------------------------------------------------Ariana Kabob House 2870 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Duluth, GA 30097 470-292-3774 ArianaKabobHouse.com --------------------------------------------------------------Nara Cuisine and Lounge 9700 Medlock Bridge Road Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-674-2353 NaraCuisineand Lounge.com

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Persian Basket Kitchen and Bar 2100 Ray Moss Connector Johns Creek, GA 30022 770-674-2779 PersianBasketATL.com --------------------------------------------------------------Noosh Kitchen 11880 Douglas Road Johns Creek, GA 30005 770-609-8133 NooshKitchen.com

PIZZA Aliño 3333 Buford Drive Buford, GA 30519 678-765-7426 AlinoPizzeria.com --------------------------------------------------------------Two Cities Pizza Company 3433 LawrencevilleSuwanee Road Suwanee, GA 30024 678-889-2625 TwoCitiesPizza.com --------------------------------------------------------------Riverside Pizza 991 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Suwanee, GA 30024 770-271-9992 RiversidePizza.net --------------------------------------------------------------Mellow Mushroom 320 Town Center Ave., Suwanee, GA 30024 678-714-2233 MellowMushroom.com --------------------------------------------------------------Johnny’s Pizza 1145 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Suwanee, GA 30024 770-932-1998 JohnnysPizza.com --------------------------------------------------------------Cooley’s Pizza 1120 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Suwanee, GA 30024 770-904-6463 CooleysPizza.com --------------------------------------------------------------Grandma’s N.Y. Pizza 2855 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suwanee, GA 30024 678-765-8886 GrandmasNYPizza.com --------------------------------------------------------------Your Pie 3370 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suwanee, GA 30024 470-266-1112 YourPie.com --------------------------------------------------------------O4W Pizza 3117 Main St., Duluth, GA 30096 678-587-5420 O4WPizza.com

Cosmo’s 144 E. Crogan St. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770-338-9274 PizzaonCrogan.com

THAI Tani Thai 15 E. Main St., Buford, GA 30519 770-932-1688 TaniThai.com --------------------------------------------------------------SriThai 4500 Satellite Blvd. Duluth, GA 30096 770-837-2723 SriThaiKitchen.com --------------------------------------------------------------Saigon Cafe 3380 Buford Drive Buford, GA 30519 678-889-4988 SaigonCafeUSA.com --------------------------------------------------------------Fresh Bowl 1812 N. Brown Road Lawrenceville, GA 30043 678-322-8222 FreshBowlThai.com --------------------------------------------------------------Talay Thai Cuisine 1197 Old Peachtree Road Suwanee, GA 30024 678-957-9811 TalayAsian.com --------------------------------------------------------------Bai Tong Thai Restaurant 6955 McGinnis Ferry Road Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-687-2236 BaiTongJohnsCreek.com

VIETNAMESE Lobster Banh Mi 3095 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Duluth, GA 30096 770-910-7175 LobsterBanhMi.com --------------------------------------------------------------Gao Fresh Noodle 11250 Medlock Bridge Road Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-837-0216 GaoFreshNoodle.com --------------------------------------------------------------Pho-Tastic 10995 State Bridge Road Johns Creek, GA 30022 770-837-3667 --------------------------------------------------------------Pho Dai Loi 3 1500 Pleasant Hill Road Duluth, GA 30096 770-381-1415 Facebook.com/phodailoi3

SUMMERS IN Georgia can be brutal, which is why we’re

always on the hunt for cold treats to bring down the heat.

Daddy O’Brien’s Daddy O’Brien’s is the adult version of an ice cream shop. You see, Daddy O’Brien’s has mastered the art of boozy treats and serves up the ultimate combination: ice cream mixed with alcohol. The gourmet ice cream shop and pub specializes in alcohol-infused ice cream creations, including Bailey's Irish Pistachio, Bourbon Butter Pecan, White Russian, Cherry Amaretto, and Drunken Oreo, made with Oreos and whipped cream vodka. Don’t worry, they have kid-friendly flavors, too, like chocolate brownie bite, orange creamsicle and strawberries 'n cream. 5910 Suwanee Dam Road, Sugar Hill, 678-765-9633 DaddyOsIceCream.com

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for a hot summer! From colorful scoops of ice cream to healthy and refreshing smoothies, there’s no shortage of frozen goodies in our community that will please everyone in the family. Plus, sprinkles make everything better, right?

Planet Smoothie Let’s be honest, nothing really hits the spot on a hot summer day quite like a refreshing smoothie — plus, they’re good for you! Made with fresh fruits and greens, Suwanee’s Planet Smoothie has a smoothie to satisfy every palate. Those looking for a health-conscious treat can try the Pineapple Tropi-Kale Twist, made with leafy greens, passion fruit, pineapple and almond milk. The kids will love the Captain Kid Jr., which is a simple but satisfying treat made with strawberries and orange sherbet. All of the smoothies are great, but this summer we’re loving the new boba-inspired creations. The Berry Poppin' smoothie has strawberries, bananas, orange sherbet and mango boba, while the Bubble Trouble is packed with strawberries, mango, lemon juice, orange juice and mango boba. These smoothies are made even more refreshing with the addition of the mango boba, and are sure to keep you cool, calm and collected throughout the hot months. 320 Town Center Ave., Suwanee 770-945-8785, PlanetSmoothie.com

Yogli Mogli Located in Suwanee Town Center, Yogli Mogli is a self-serve yogurt bar where you can “celebrate with a swirl.” When the hankering for yogurt strikes, head to Yogli and choose from their 16 different flavors, including chocoholic, country vanilla, Georgia peach, pistachio, strawberry very berry and more. And while all the flavors are delicious, the real reason to visit Yogli Mogli is for the toppings. Kids (and adults) will have a blast loading up their cups of yogurt with their choice of more than 40 toppings. If you can think it up, they probably have it. From sprinkles, fresh fruit, marshmallows and gummy worms to cereal treats, candy and nuts, there’s no limit to the creative combinations of flavors. 320 Town Center Ave Suwanee 678-546-6558 YogliMogli.com/ suwanee-ga

Scoops Ice Cream Located in Sugar Hill, Scoops is much more than your average ice cream shop. In addition to the 32 flavors of handcrafted ice cream, Scoops is also a kid’s paradise with walls covered in an assortment of candies, chocolates and other goodies. Ice cream flavors include Cookie Monster, yellow cake batter, sea turtle, brownie batter, Superman, Key Lime pie, banana pudding, as well as all the classics you know and love. Kids can’t resist a double-scoop in a sprinkle cone, but you can also opt for a cup and cover it with an assortment of fun toppings! Sugar rush guaranteed. 5029 W. Broad St. N.E., Suite T-134, Sugar Hill, 678-514-1818, ScoopsIceCream.com/sugar-hill

Jeremiah’s Italian Ice The newest sweet shop on the block, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice whips up authentic Italian ice, creamy soft serve ice cream, and gelati in a fun and vibrant atmosphere. The menu features more than 40 flavors, including familiar favorites like banana, blueberry, strawberry lemon, mango and cherry, along with more adventurous flavors like gingerbread, horchata, sour green apple, piña colada and spicy hot chocolate. Kiddos will love the straightforward Italian ice, but don’t miss out on the gelati, which is a swirl of Italian Ice and soft serve ice cream combined into one tasty treat. 991 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Suite 122, 470-758-4444 JeremiahsIce.com/locations/ suwanee-ga.

Rita’s oF Suwanee Located in Suwanee Town Center, Rita’s serves up a rotating selection of delicious Italian Ice in more than 90 flavors. From its humble beginnings in 1984 as a small Italian Ice business started by a firefighter in Philadelphia, Rita’s has grown into one of the largest Italian ice chains with locations in more than 30 states across the country. The Italian ice is made fresh daily with real fruit and comes in flavors such as blue raspberry, cherry limeade, cotton candy, green apple and more. Rita’s also serves creamy frozen custard, gelati (a layered treat made with Italian ice and custard), Misto shakes, which blend Italian ice and custard together, traditional milkshakes, and other frozen goodies. 340 Town Center Ave., Suwanee 678-765-2889, RitasIce.com

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There’s just something

Suwanee’s TADA Coffee and Dessert serves adorable coffee and treat combos, like this iced einspanner and matcha latte macaron.

gratifying about discovering a new favorite spot that’s slightly under the radar. It’s like discovering a hidden gem that you can’t wait to share with all of your friends. Recently, we’ve been taking impromptu trips to new places around town, where we’ve discovered new favorites like matcha ice cream and pastries called Boong Ah Bang. Some of these gems are tucked away down back streets while others are hidden in plain sight, but they all have one thing in common: They are quickly gaining notoriety for the delicious food and drinks they create.

From a new coffee roaster in downtown Buford to a bake shop with more than 50 years of experience, we’ve highlighted four of our favorite under-the-radar spots around town...

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TADA Coffee and Dessert

Located off Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, TADA Coffee and Dessert is an adorable spot to catch up with friends while indulging in delicious drinks and treats. Known for their French macarons, TADA sells an assortment of flavors like strawberry cheesecake, Oreo, chocolate and blueberry yogurt, but the standout is definitely the crème brûlée. In addition to their standard coffee drinks, TADA also serves teas, smoothies, and a number of “ades,” like the blueberry lemonade, raspberry cubeade and citron ade. Their most popular drink is the Honeycomb Toffee Latte, a sweet latte with honey-infused toffee sprinkled on top. This July, TADA will celebrate two years in business — which is two years of making Suwanee even sweeter. 3463 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road Suwanee, 470-589-1285, Instagram.com/ tadacoffeedessert

2 Plus 2 is a great bubble tea spot in Suwanee Town Center, but don’t miss out on the Baby Boong Ah Bang, delicious fish-shaped pastries with yummy fillings.

2 Plus 2

In addition to coffee drinks and macarons, TADA serves fresh fruits, ice cream and other tasty pastries.

Located in Suwanee Town Center next to Seaside Oyster Bar, 2 Plus 2 is known for its bubble tea drinks, but the real star of the show is the Baby Boong Ah Bang. These delicious fish-shaped pastries are made fresh to order and come with your choice of yummy fillings, such as Nutella, chocolate, blueberry and red bean. For us, however, the custard filling truly was the best — we couldn’t get enough! Any of the bubble teas make for a great companion to the Boong Ah Bang. Choose from milk teas like oolong, honey, brown sugar and matcha, or opt for a refreshing fruit tea. The mango green tea hit the spot on a hot summer day, and was made even more enjoyable with the addition of peach popping boba! Next time you’re there, be sure to order a matcha ice cream served in a large Boong Ah Bang. You won’t regret it. 3890 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suwanee, 470-350-1060 Instagram.com/2plus2bubbletea

Tchin Tchin Coffee Roasters

Tchin Tchin Coffee Roasters has been serving single-origin, organic, and fair trade coffee to happy patrons since opening in downtown Buford in October 2021. Nestled down a side street near the new parking deck, the coffee shop is bright and inviting, with plenty of space to relax with your coffee or tea while catching up on work emails or chatting away with friends. Tchin Tchin operates with the philosophy that coffee is meant to be enjoyed with others, and has worked hard to create a space that serves the community. The coffee menu is filled with familiar favorites, but they also offer specialty drinks like the Carpe Diem, Greek Freddo, Honey Rose Latte, Butterfly Pea Flower Latte and more. The baristas are always creating new concoctions, so be sure to check out their rotating seasonal menu. 179 E. Moreno St., Buford 770-545-5297 TchinTchinCoffee.com

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Baking Grounds

Baking Grounds is an old-fashioned specialty cake boutique located in Buford that has been crafting cakes for more than 50 years. The family business bakes custom cakes for all types of occasions, like weddings, birthdays and graduations, and sells a variety of baked goodies like cookies, cupcakes, chocolate-dipped treats and petit fours. Breakfast and lunch are served in the cafe, where diners can be seen enjoying breakfast sandwiches, biscuits and gravy, sandwiches, salads and more. Stop by during the holidays for their seasonal items, like Mother’s Day cookies, Easter goodies and Christmasthemed treats. 360 S. Lee St., Buford, 678-765-6690 TheBakingGrounds.com

FAMILY MAT TERS Jennifer Wilmoth, LMFT, Thrive Forward Therapy

Navigating Your Child’s Tough Questions a lot of tough questions that can make parents, grandparents, teachers, and coaches squirm. Questions such as: “When will we die?” “How did the baby get in her belly?” and “Why is he sleeping on the street?” Kid questions can sometimes be difficult to answer but tough questions can spark great conversations that help build trust and a sense of safety for kids. KIDS ASK

HERE ARE SOME TIPS:

Clarify What are they really

asking? Don’t be afraid to ask follow-up questions to understand what their specific question is and what they already know about the topic before answering the question. For example, with the question “Why is he sleeping on the street?” they might be simply asking “Where is his bed?” which could be answered for a young kid with something like “He might not have a bed to sleep in.” This could spark some follow-up questions depending on the age of your child. However, if you launch into an explanation of all the reasons people could be homeless you could miss the specific question being asked and overwhelm your child with too much information at one time.

Give Facts Provide answers that are factual, developmentally appropriate, and brief. Parents often ask me how much to share with their kids when answering

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questions. Kids and teens often need short answers, so if your answer is more than a paragraph long you are likely talking more than you need to. Questions are a great time to provide buildingblock facts and terms to later help your kids understand a larger concept or idea. For example, to answer the question of “How did the baby get in her belly?” you could start with asking what they already know or how they think this happens. Then use the opportunity to correct any misinformation such as storks being involved while introducing some new information about how babies start as embryos and grow in a mommy’s womb. It is helpful for kids to have correct terms and information from the beginning to help build their trust that adults will answer their questions with true information. This also helps lay the foundation for more follow-up questions as they get older and you can keep expanding based on their developmental age with information about fertilization and relationships.

in their life for reassurance. This often means adults are in the position of talking with kids about incidents and topics they are still trying to understand and process themselves. So take a moment to pause and ask yourself if you are in a good mental place to answer their question. Also, think through the ways your family, team, or classroom are staying safe and share this with them as you answer the questions. Kids and teens can certainly come up with some tough questions as they experience and explore the world around them. As adults, we don’t always know the answers to these questions. Many people are starting to reach out to school counselors, therapists, and other mental health providers to help navigate and process tough questions with their kids and find healthy ways to cope with distressing circumstances. ■

Offer Reassurance

Unfortunately, kids and teens hear of violence, natural disasters, and sickness in our world often. This can spark questions about: what is suicide, a pandemic, war, etc. The question behind most of these types of questions is “Am I safe?” When something is scary and hard to understand kids and teens naturally look to the adults

JULY / AUGUST 22

JENNIFER WILMOTH, LMFT Jennifer Wilmoth is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and founder of Thrive Forward Therapy in the Suwanee area with over a decade of experience. She received her Masters of Family Therapy from Mercer University School of Medicine. She works with families and individuals dealing with a variety of concerns. She specializes in working with couples who want to improve their relationship, teens experiencing difficulties at home or school, children experiencing behavioral or relational concerns, anxiety, and depression. Learn more at ThriveForwardTherapy.com.

WHAT’S BREWING 

WHERE RELATIONSHIPS TAKE FIRE

SUWANEE'S STILLFIRE IS BREWING COMMUNITY RELATIONSHIPS IN THEIR HOMETOWN AND BEYOND By Lizzy James / Photos by Gary Dowd

N JUST under three years in business, Suwanee’s StillFire Brewing has not only created a name for itself for brewing innovative, award-winning beers in the Georgia craft beer industry, but has also evolved into an extension of the local community. On any given day, you might just find four generations of family gathered on the patio, with great-grandchildren playing on the playground while the adults enjoy conversation over a beer. The brewery has become a place for families, friends, neighbors, and colleagues to gather to celebrate graduations, retirements, weddings, and even little league championships.

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JULY / AUGUST 22

We asked General Manager Aaron Bisges his thoughts on what StillFire has become for so many in the community. “It was always our mission to provide something grander than great beer. Yes, our brewers have crafted nationally recognized beer. But ultimately, StillFire is about community. About place. About relationships. When we created our mission statement over four years ago, every partner agreed that at our core, the values we cared most about were quality, loyalty, and community. We wanted to create an experiential destination, a ‘third place,’ a treasured local institution.”

FOOD & DRINK

CRAFTING RELATIONSHIPS

Since opening in 2019, the brewery has held true to these core values. StillFire has not only been a place for families and friends to gather, but also a place for people of all walks of life to meet and build new relationships. For StillFire Founders Club member Matt Savitt, or as the staff has lovingly named him, “Mayor Matt,” the brewery has become like a second home. It’s not often that you make a pit stop for a pint of your favorite StillFire beer and Matt is not in the taproom. In fact, he did not miss a single day of visiting the taproom in the first 400 days of the brewery’s existence. One can only imagine the number of friendly faces Matt has been able to meet and build relationships with over the past three years. “During my time spent at StillFire I've met some amazing people,” Savitt says, “The culture and community in the taproom enable everyone to do that. The staff is fantastic, and the beer is incredible. Add that to the location and you have a winning recipe for success.” Along with Savitt, fellow Founders Club member Mike Ringham has also found a home in the StillFire community. “My wife and I have both come to realize that being a 'StillFire Founder' has - Aaron Bisges, General Manager given us an entirely StillFire Brewing new group of friends from very different walks of life, professions, and backgrounds,” he says. “Seeing someone else with a Founders' glass immediately provides a conversation starter and many new awesome friendships have begun at that point. The basic benefits

...StillFire is about community. About place. About relationships. When we created our mission statement over four years ago, every partner agreed that at our core, the values we cared most about were quality, loyalty, and community. We wanted to create an experiential destination, a ‘third place,’ a treasured local institution.”

Dr. Matt Katz and Chris Bridges

How I Found Community at StillFire Brewing BY CHRIS BRIDGES

THERE ARE proper definitions of community, ideas of community, expectations of community and there is also authentic community. Authentic Community is a place where all prejudice and status is set aside. Where a CPA and a CEO bump elbows with dentists, professors, construction workers, graphic designers, servers and laborers. It’s where pedal bike riders hang out with motor bike riders. The right hangs out with the left. The youth hangs out with the elders. And the silent hang with the loud; the introvert with the extrovert. A place completely removed from pretentiousness. A place that fosters an atmosphere of inclusion and acceptance. A places that brings people together. The ONE spot in our community of Suwanee, away from faith and belief systems, that gets authentic community right, is StillFire Brewing (SF). When I walked into the doors of SF years ago, before the start of COVID, I was uncertain of their future. Honestly, the first time I walked in there, I felt isolated and alone. There were groups of people hanging out together and I sat at a distant table alone. I never gave SF a real shot and then COVID hit, and SF, I thought, would surely die. But through the storm of COVID and one man named Mayor Matt (and others), SF survived! Soon after SF reopened, with all staff still wearing masks, I happened back up to visit again, with not much hope other than a cold delicious beer, on my way home after a long ride on my Harley. Much to my surprise, Matt "Mayor Matt" Savitt, the man that had

visited SF their first 400 days of being open (including during COVID to get TO GO beer) invited me into his circle, his “table”. He instantly became MY community by reaching out to me, a lone Harley rider, at the end of a hot day. We enjoyed a beer together and he introduced me to his community, which instantly embraced me to be a part of their larger community. And then it grew and it grew and it grew and it grew. I was a pretty solo man in Suwanee until April 2021, now I am a man of incredible community. A community that greets each other with hugs, kisses, laughs, and honest sincerity. In March 2021, I had about three close friends, which none lived nearby. Today, I have 10-12 close friends that meet for a beer and exchange heartfelt love almost daily. I have a larger group of 20 that meet for dinner weekly. I have an even larger group of 50 that I greet and hug and exchange pleasantries with whenever we see each other. And I have a group of 100 plus that are like-minded and sincere that still hug, shake hands, and exchange love for each other. Yeah, we all love good beer but most of all, we care about each other. We constantly invite others to be a part of our community and our circle continuously grows! I can honestly say, our love for great beer brought us together and StillFire is our home to meet, celebrate, and love one another. But without StillFire, I honestly doubt we would be what we are today! Definition of community to me: StillFire Brewing.

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MEET A STILLFIRE BREWER:

CHRIS FARROW How long have you been in the brewing industry? A year and a half.

Tell us about your past experience. Before I became a part of the StillFire team I worked at Three Taverns Brewery in Decatur, Georgia as a Brewer and Packaging Technician.

What is your favorite style of beer to brew?

Depends on the time of year, but my favorites are wild ales. Just love the uncontrollable "Jesus take the wheel" aspect behind brewing wild beers. It's also like Christmas when you forget about a brew that's been stashed away in the cellar to get funky and you try it for the first time.

Why are you excited to be a part of the StillFire team? Always excited to join a team that strives for excellence and open to new ideas to push the envelope. The brewery has so much knowledge and experience to learn from for being fairly new to the industry. Those ingredients just spell out bright future and besides, look at all the medals.

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from the Founders Club have been great, but the hidden gem is getting to know the other people who joined with us.”

CRAFTING IMPACT

Aside from personal relationships, StillFire’s success has also allowed the brewery to expand its charitable relationships within the community. In June of 2021, the team launched the Find Your Fire Foundation in an effort to give back to the local community. “We had been so inspired by the support we had received since opening and we realized that we had the opportunity to do more than just brew beer,” Bisges says. The brewery partnered with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to launch the foundation by hosting an event filled with live music, giveaways, and plenty of delicious beer in the taproom. Throughout the day, the brewery raised money through raffles, accepted individual donations, and also donated $1 of every full pour sold that day to

JULY / AUGUST 22

WHAT'S BREWING

FIND YOUR FIRE FOUNDATION FUNDRAISER 2022

On August 20th, the StillFire team will once again be hosting their Find Your Fire Foundation Fundraiser in an effort to raise funds for Bert’s Big Adventure, an organization that provides a magical, all-expenses-paid, five-day journey to Walt Disney World for children with chronic and terminal illnesses and their families. The event will feature appearances by Bert's Big Adventure team members, a low country boil and delicious food trucks, live music all day long, pop-a-shot basketball, as well as raffles to win awesome prizes. $1 from every pour that day will be donated to Bert’s Big Adventure and StillFire Brewing will also be doubling any direct donations and matching all apparel, gift card, and packaged beer sales for the day. StillFire Brewing has made good on its goal of becoming a “third place” for people in our community to gather and enjoy the events taking place under its roof. StillFire may serve beer, but what it truly sells is relationships, old and new. StillFire hopes to continue kindling those fires for years to come in both this community and the next. ■

Matt “Mayor Matt” Savitt

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The foundation also matched all of the donations made that day and was able to raise more than $9,000 for the fight against childhood cancer. This event lit a fire in the hearts of the StillFire team, and they knew that their charitable efforts were not going to stop there. Since then, the team has donated over $27K for organizations such as Our Friend Christopher, Cooper’s Crew, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, North Gwinnett CoOp, The Meal Bridge, Phoenix Community of Atlanta, and HomeFirst Gwinnett among many others.

st 20!

u Join Us saturday, aug

ing w e r B e ir F l il t S ndly y frie for a famil ing t day benefIt

Established In 2002, Bert’s Big Adventure is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides a magical, all-expenses-paid, five-day journey to Walt Disney World® for children with chronic and terminal illnesses and their families. To learn more, volunteer or donate, go to BertsBigAdventure.org

Summertime Six-Pack

SPONSORED BY TOPSHELF BEVERAGE

WITH THE HELP OF OUR FRIENDS AT SUWANEE’S TOPSHELF BEVERAGE, WE’VE SELECTED SIX LOCAL BEERS AND CANNED COCKTAILS THAT WILL HELP KEEP YOUR COOLER STOCKED ALL SUMMER LONG. By Alicia Carter

SUMMERTIME AND the living’s easy — especially with a nice adult beverage in hand and a clear view of some body of water, whether it’s the pool, lake or ocean. As Georgia’s craft beer scene has exploded over the years, there are now so many amazing local options for beers, ciders, seltzers and canned cocktails that choosing between them can be a bit daunting. With the help of our friends at Suwanee’s TopShelf Beverage, we’ve handselected six locally made beers and canned cocktails that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Call it your go-to summertime six-pack, if you will. All of the drinks featured can be purchased at TopShelf Beverage, so stop by and stock up!

Atlanta Hard Cider Co. Marietta, Georgia

Tiki Haze Craft Cider Atlanta Hard Cider Co. & Distillery is a destination cidery located in Marietta with more than 12 ciders on tap. The distillery’s premium canned ciders boast all-natural ingredients, no artificial flavors, colors or sweeteners, and are gluten free. Part of their seasonal offerings, Tiki Haze (5.9% ABV) is a tropical blend that captures the essence of summer through a refreshing trifecta of flavors. The combination of pineapple and mango juices along with freshly pressed apple juice will transport you to a tropical island, no matter where you are. It’s like a luau in a can.

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JULY / AUGUST 22

Wild Leap Craft Spirits LaGrange, Georgia

Creamsicle Mojito Premium Vodka Cocktail

Cocktails made such a splash at the brewery’s taproom that they decided to can them up and bring them to the masses! These ready-to-drink vodka cocktails pack a punch at 10% ABV and contain 3 ounces of Wild Leap vodka in each can. Flavors include Strawberry Mango and Grapefruit Peach, but we envision ourselves sitting by the pool with a tasty Creamsicle Mojito, made with Wild Leap vodka, orange mint, lime and other natural flavors. Consider it a grownup creamsicle with an edge.

WHAT'S BREWING StillFire Brewing Suwanee, Georgia

Pontoon Brewing

Sandy Springs, Georgia

Crushing Waves Berliner Weisse

Heck, just the name “Pontoon” automatically evokes memories of lazy afternoons spent at the lake, cooler filled to the brim, and friends jumping off the upper deck into the cool water below — you know the feeling. Lucky for us, Pontoon Brewing has captured that feeling in its bevy of beverages. As they say on their website, “it can’t go far and can’t go fast so might as well drink.” Our top pick is the Crushing Waves Berliner Weisse. At 6.3% ABV, this German-style tart ale is brewed with 700 pounds of fresh pineapple and tart cherry puree, then kettlesoured with lactobacillus. In the end, this tart beer embodies a perfect dessert-inspired sour, making it a great summer brew that's bursting with flavor.

Koastal Krush Mimosa Sour

Suwanee’s hometown brewery is no stranger to churning out award-winning brews. In fact, they’ve accumulated 19 awards since opening in 2019. We had to pick StillFire’s Koastal Crush Mimosa Sour as one of our go-to drinks this summer. The tart beer has a pleasing orange character with three other exotic fruits blended together to produce a delicious tropical explosion in your glass. The experience is simultaneously fruity without being overly sweet, all while remaining incredibly drinkable. If ever there was beer that’ll create a fan out of someone who avoids “sour beer,” this is the one.

Scofflaw Brewing Atlanta, Georgia

Dirty Beaches Tropical Wheat

Since opening in 2016, Scofflaw has made a name for itself in the craft beer scene with their big, juicy, hoppy, hazy IPAs that deliver a citrus or tropical punch. Along the way they’ve garnered a number of accolades and have been featured in top-tier publications, but at their heart the Scofflaw team is laser focused on crafting amazing beers. The Dirty Beaches Tropical Wheat is our “pull out the big guns” beer when we want to impress at a summertime gathering. Originally brewed as a collaboration with Victory Brands, this tropical wheat brings waves of island-hopping fruit aromas carried on a soft creamy body. If you can’t make it to the beach, this will take you there in spirit.

Dry County Spirits Kennesaw, Georgia

Mango Peach Lemonade

Dry County is the pioneer of same-site brewery/ distilleries in Georgia, becoming the first brewery to also hold a distilling permit in the state’s history and paving the way for others to follow — which is why their ready-to-drink cocktails are so dang popular. Our favorite flavor is the Mango Peach Lemonade. At 9% ABV, the refreshing cocktail contains real fruit, 100% lemon juice, and Dry County brand vodka, hitting the sweet spot as our go-to drink when we’re headed to the lake… or the pool… or the backyard.

350 PEACHTREE INDUSTRIAL BLVD. IN SUWANEE. For more information visit SuwaneeTopShelf.com.

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City THE LATEST FROM IN AND AROUND SUWANEE

SALON GRECO STARTS NEW CHAPTER WITH A NEW LOCATION SALON GRECO'S story continues at a new address! Suwanee’s beloved salon and spa has found a new home across the street from where its 26-year-old story began. Salon Greco recently announced it is downsizing, redecorating, and will soon be moving to the other side of the street at 4325 Suwanee Dam Road next to Mori House. The move will allow the salon to continue to provide the award-winning service that we’ve come to know and love for more than two decades. Follow Salon Greco on Facebook or Instagram for the date of their “Downsizing Party.” For more information, visit Facebook. com/SalonGreco or Instagram.com/ SalonGreco.

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JULY / AUGUST 22

Greater Atlanta Christian School Opens a New Coworking Space A MODERN co-working space has opened on behalf of Greater Atlanta

Christian School (GAC). Located at 1500 Indian Trail Road in Norcross, this new coworking space gives GAC parents and the general public a remote working environment near the school. Members will have access to collaborative meeting spaces, break rooms with lounge seating, complimentary coffee, and private focus spaces to take video calls. Membership packages are available as well as day passes on a first come, first serve basis. Memberships range from $120-$295 per month while the day pass costs $50 per day. The Ignite Center is accessible 24/7 and conveniently located off I-85 across from Greater Atlanta Christian. For more information on membership packages and the Ignite Center visit GreaterAtlantaChristian.org/ignite-center.

S&S ACE Hardware Giveaway Totals Nearly $1,000 in Prizes CONGRATULATIONS ARE in order for Mitzi

Dykes, winner of S&S ACE Hardware’s recent summertime giveaway in partnership with Suwanee Magazine. On June 21, Mitzi and her husband visited S&S ACE Hardware in Buford to pick up their prizes, which included a 22-inch Weber Grill, Breeo Smokeless Fire Pit, and a raised bed planter with a tool and trowel set, organic soil and vegetable plants. “I could not be more excited with winning the contest,” Mitzi said. “Everything is so nice, and the folks at ACE were just wonderful.” Visit S&S ACE Hardware at their two locations: 4160 Buford Drive in Buford and 3740 Village Way in Braselton. For more information, visit SSAceHardware.com.

GREATER ATLANTA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL’S BOYS SOCCER TEAM BRINGS HOME A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP! and wind didn’t stop the Greater Atlanta Christian (GAC) Spartans from winning their first GHSA 3A title since 2015 this past June. Varsity Boys Soccer Head Coach Thom Jacquet led the Spartans as they went head-to-head against the Oconee County Warriors at McEachern High School. Coach Jacquet has led his program to six state titles; however, he credits much of the team’s success to the Spartan alumni. Up in the stands were several former GAC players showing support for the team as they fought their way to a 3-1 victory over the Warriors. Down by a goal in the beginning of the match, the Spartans responded with a successful penalty kick by Matthew Taylor, tying the score before the end of the half. Not long into the second half, Taylor connected with a near-perfect pass that soared over the defensive line of the Warriors from teammate and fellow senior Damola Salami, putting the Spartans ahead. Oconee pressed the Spartans as the time clock ticked away, ultimately leading to Taylor’s third goal of the evening and putting the Spartans safely in the lead. The players’ effort and teamwork resulted in a victory, marking the sixth state title for GAC Boys Soccer. HEAVY RAIN

New Mochi Donut Shop Opens in Suwanee  MOCHINUT IS a popular franchise of mochi donuts. Originating from Hawaii, Mochinut is gaining popularity due to its unique shape and wonderful texture: light and crispy with a soft, chewy flavor inside. Mochi donuts are a combination of American donuts and Japanese mochi. They are made with rice flour, which makes them unique in taste. The rice flour also makes mochi donuts stretchy and chewy. As the last step in enriching the flavors of the mochi donuts, Mochinut adds special flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, matcha, and Earl Grey, and then tops them with delectable toppings to best fit your taste. Mochinut currently has more than 75 stores in America and is growing. Mochinut has become the latest trend in the donut industry, and Mochinut is confident in their success due to their quality of food, customer service, and of the company’s culture and

values. Mochinut is opening its second store in Suwanee in July, with many stores planned for later this year: Duluth Mall Corner, Lee+White in Atlanta, Town Brookhaven, and more. The team is looking forward to its grand opening and proud to be part of the Suwanee community. “We hope that our customers feel comfortable when they visit our store and are enjoying each other’s company, while sharing the experience together,” says Chris, owner of the Suwanee Mochinut store. Whether you want to enjoy mochi donuts, grab a drink on the go, or sit down for a bowl of shaved ice, Mochinut Suwanee has all the dessert you need all in one place.

Mochinut Suwanee is located at 315 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suite 106, in Suwanee. For more info, visit their social media pages at @MochinutSuwanee.

2022 EXTRA MILE 5K/1 MILE RUN/ WALK RETURNS TO TOWN CENTER PARK  ON YOUR MARKS, get set, go … and register for Annandale Village’s ninth annual Extra Mile 5K Run/Walk! Scheduled for August 27, this family-friendly event for runners, walkers and wheelchair users raises funds to support the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities or acquired brain injuries. All proceeds go directly to help these individuals live their most independent lives. A USATF-certified course, the race begins at 8 a.m. at Suwanee Town Center, 330 Town Center Ave. There’s a virtual participation option, and strollers and well-behaved dogs are welcome! Registration is now open for $25 through July 31 ($15 for the 1 Mile), with the price going up to $30 on Aug. 1 ($20 for the 1 Mile). Virtual and day-of registration is $35. Anyone can register online at annandale.org/event/the-extra-mile-5K.

A party is planned for the end of the race, complete with a shaved ice truck, live DJ and dancing, family-friendly activities and much more! For more information and to register, visit annandalevillage.org.

Saint Monica's Catholic Church Hosts Arts & Craft Show

Catholic Church will host its Arts and Craft Show on Saturday, August 27, 2022 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m, marking the sixth year for the event. Inside the comfort of Saint Monica’s airconditioned social hall, guests can leisurely shop from about 40 different vendors offering a large variety of handmade crafts. It’s a great opportunity to get a headstart on your holiday shopping! The proceeds from booth rentals go to support the church’s mission in Haiti, which includes a soup kitchen and a medical clinic at the Sacre Coeur Parish in Hinche. For more information about renting a booth, or questions about the show, please email stmonicacraftshow@gmail.com. Saint Monica’s Catholic Church is located at 1700 Buford Highway in Duluth.

SAINT MONICA’S

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Cooper’s Crew Awards Scholarships PARKER O’BRIEN and his family presented the Cooper O’Brien Memorial Scholarship to four North Gwinnett Seniors at the school’s senior honors night this past May. This year’s recipients of the Cooper O’Brien Scholarship were Holland Craft, Kaitlin Wheeler, Rachel Wang and Joseph Perry Luzier. The scholarship was created in honor of Cooper O’Brien, a North Gwinnett Middle School student who lost his battle to Clear Cell Sarcoma in 2014 at the age of 14. Parker, also a graduating senior this year, was only 11 years old when he lost his brother. Parker shared in his speech, “Although Cooper faced adversity every day, he still made an incredible effort to show up to class every day and make the best grades he could possibly make. Even to this day I look up to the positive and inspiring attitude he had even when his life was at its lowest. I strive to be like Cooper.” He went on to say, “These recipients of the scholarship face unimaginable adversity but still reflect the efforts Cooper put forth on a daily basis. They were selected for the scholarship because of their ability and willingness to confront hardship and in the end persevere.” Through the Cooper O'Brien Scholarship fund, the O’Brien family has awarded a total of $88,000 in scholarships to date. The charity has also been instrumental in funding scientific research to find a cure for the disease, as well as in the founding of the Clear Cell Sarcoma Foundation, with the mission of making Clear Cell Sarcoma survivable through education and scientific research.

GWINNETT COUNTY WATER JUDGED “BEST TASTING WATER” IN THE STATE THROUGH A blind taste test and vote, the Georgia Association of Water Professionals named Gwinnett County’s drinking water the Best Tasting Water in Georgia. Winning this award qualifies Gwinnett to compete in the national American Water Works Association competition against utilities across the country. The county gets its drinking water from Lake Lanier. From there, it’s treated at two water production plants, Shoal Creek Filter Plant and Lanier Filter Plant. These two plants use advanced technology to provide more than 70 million gallons of drinking water to Gwinnett’s nearly one million residents. The water is continuously tested for quality and taste. To find out more about Gwinnett’s drinking water, visit GwinnettWaterWords.com.

Two Eco-Events Made Big Impacts in Gwinnett County this Spring ON THE heels of its “Connecting People and Places: A Community Conversation About Litter” livestream event in March that featured a facilitated forum of subject matter experts and local citizens, Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful (GC&B) demonstrated that it’s not just here to “talk the talk.” With a pair of eco-focused events – its Earth Day Recycling Event and Great Gwinnett Wetlands – the Keep America Beautiful affiliate clearly illustrated that it’s here to “walk the walk.” “Even though Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful has been a force for good in the county since 1980, we remain focused on continuous improvement and breaking records,” said Schelly Marlatt, Executive Director. “Not only am I proud of our team and the excellent partnerships we’ve forged with Gwinnett County’s Department of Water Resources and Solid Waste Management, but I’m proud of the way our neighbors get up, stand up and show up for every event we host.” Hosted on April 23 at Coolray Field, GC&B teamed up with Gwinnett Solid Waste to collect hard-to-recycle items that aren’t collected curbside during its annual Earth Day Recycling Event. By the end of the three-hour event, 47

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volunteers had collected items from 1,549 cars. All told, 175,540 pounds of recyclables collected were diverted from local landfills to be given a new life through recycling and reuse. In May, GC&B and its partners at Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources hosted the 8th Annual Great Gwinnett Wetlands at Bethesda Park in Lawrenceville. The event engaged 115 volunteers to remove invasive privet from a half-acre area, conduct habitat assessments on two streams, outfit eight local neighborhoods with storm drain markers and door hangers and educate 821 local homeowners about storm drains. Three teams of “litter pickers” removed a grand total of 4,760 pounds of trash from this vital area wetland. The next major event on the GC&B calendar is the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day at Gwinnett County Fairgrounds on Saturday, July 16 from 8-11 a.m. Hosted in conjunction with Gwinnett Water Resources, the event presents local residents with an opportunity to rid their homes of hard-to-recycle items that run the gamut from aerosol pesticides and auto batteries to propane cylinders and weed killers. For more information, visit GwinnettCB.org.

NGHS FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT BENEFITS BRASELTON NICU PATIENTS  THE TINIEST patients at Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton will now have access to more lifesaving care and equipment when they need it, thanks to the Laurel Classic golf tournament co-chaired by Mike and Caryn McGarity for the Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) Foundation. The event raised more than $275,000 for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in Braselton, which provides specialized care to infants in the region. The Laurel Classic was presented in partnership with Jackson EMC. With more than 40 sponsors, 10 volunteers and 50 teams, it was a fun day that will change lives for years to come. “We are honored that the sponsors, volunteers and players at the golf tournament gave so much for our patients,” said Heather Standard, executive director of Women & Children’s Services at NGMC. “Their support will have a tremendous impact on the way we provide care.” To learn more about the Northeast Georgia Health System Foundation, its events and other ways to give, visit NGHS.com/foundation.

New Counseling Practice Opens in Suwanee  THRIVE FORWARD Therapy is a counseling practice

designed to provide an outstanding therapy experience in a welcoming environment. Thrive Forward offers a simple process to therapy that is tailored specifically to you and your family so you can move forward to the life and relationships you always imagined. They offer individual, relationship, family, teen, and children sessions. “You don’t have to wait until relationships and life are really difficult before starting therapy; you can come to therapy to keep your relationships and mental health going well and thriving,” says Thrive Forward Therapy Founder Jennifer Wilmoth, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. “Most of my clients wish they would have started therapy sooner as they see how good life can be in therapy.” Wilmoth has more than a decade of experience as a therapist and clinical supervisor. She works extensively in the areas of couple relationships, affair recovery, anxiety, depression, leadership, family relationships, self-harm, angry outburst, acting out, young adult launching, grief, empty nesters, and parent-teen conflict. She completed her Master of Family Therapy degree at Mercer University School of Medicine. In addition, she is trained in researchbased couples therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy,

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Gottman Level 1 & 2, and PREPARE-Enrich to help couples and families have great relationships at every stage. Jennifer lives in Suwanee with her husband and two children and is a clinical fellow member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy. The Thrive Forward Therapy team offers complimentary 10-minute phone consultations to briefly talk through your focus areas and goals to see if a Thrive Forward therapist is a good fit for you. 4485 Tench Road, Suite 1311, in Suwanee across the street from Level Creek Elementary School. You can find more information and schedule sessions at ThriveForwardTherapy.com.

Enjoy Summertime in the Experience Sugar Hill in the best ways possible this summer. Whether you’re strolling on the promenade in downtown Sugar Hill or running on the greenway, you’ll soak in the sweetness of this city. Photos courtesy City of Sugar Hill SUGAR HILL is home to some of Gwinnett County’s best small businesses, like a coffee house, bakery, ice cream shop, brewery, and a distillery. All are perfect for a day and night out on the town before heading to The Bowl or Eagle Theatre for a Sugar Hill Live On Stage concert. On "39th Street," you’ll discover Rushing Trading Co., a gourmet coffee shop, serving up sandwiches,

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beautiful charcuterie plates, and amazing coffee. At the back of the E Center is Central City Tavern, an upscale sports bar with a range of delicious food options like wings and burgers. As you continue your stroll down West Broad Street, you’ll stumble upon the Sugar Hill Distillery, a full-service Euro bistro serving homemade whiskey and other fine spirits including gluten-free alcohol.

Downtown Sugar Hill is home to a number of places to grab a bite to eat or a drink, including Rushing Trading Co., Shine Pizza and Indio Brewing.

Upcoming Events: SUGAR HILL LIVE ON STAGE

AT THE BOWL:

MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD

When you purchase an alcoholic beverage from Cantina Loca, Shine Pizza, Central City Tavern, Indio Brewing, or the Sugar Hill Distillery,

Dining Options: Shine Pizza, Rushing Trading Co., Rivermill Bakery, Cantina Loca, Sugar Hill Distillery, Indio Brewing, Scoops Ice Cream, and Central City Tavern. Additional dining options in Downtown Sugar Hill are Home Spun, Uptown Wings, La Perla Del Ulua, and the Sugar Hill Bakery.

ask for a SHINE to-go cup to take your drink anywhere within the SHINE District. You’ll be able to enjoy your food and drink on the Promenade and West Broad Street without having to worry about finishing your drinks before you head to The Bowl for a concert. With dining options for all tastes and a slate of summer events and concerts, Sugar Hill brings together culinary classics and community experiences for a taste of summer that is sure to please. Visit DowntownSugarHill.com for a full event calendar and be sure to purchase tickets for the upcoming Sugar Hill Live On Stage concerts at The Bowl outdoor amphitheater and The Eagle Theatre.

DIAMOND RIO

AUG. 27TH

SEPT. 3RD

ROBERT CRAY BAND

SEPT. 24TH

SUGAR HILL LIVE ON STAGE

AT THE EAGLE THEATRE:

TOMMY DECARLO SINGER OF BOSTON

AUG. 6TH

More Sugar Hill Live On Stage concerts will be announced soon! Visit TheBowlatSugarHill.com and EagleatSugarHill.com and follow them on social media @thebowlatsugarhill / @eagleatsugarhill to be the first to know who’s performing next.

ON THE SCENE

Great Strides 5K Saturday, May 21st TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY JULIE PERDUE

May SBA Meeting

Wednesday, May 11th GEORGIA BANKING COMPANY

PHOTOS BY JULIE PERDUE

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Suwanee Arts Festival

Saturday, May 14th & Sunday, May 15th TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY KARL LAMB

Max’s Moon Run

CITY BUZZ

Friday, May 6th

TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY MELISSA MANDERSON

Race to Cure Sarcoma 5K Saturday, April 23rd TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY KARL LAMB

SBA Golf Tournament

Tuesday, April 26th BEARS BEST

PHOTOS BY JULIE PERDUE

SBA June Meeting

Wednesday, June 8th SUWANEE ACADEMY OF THE ARTS

PHOTOS BY ANGELA VEUGELER

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JULY & AUGUST EVENTS

July

Suwanee Farmers Market ____________ __________________ Saturdays through Sept. 24 8am-Noon ____________ __________________

Sugar Hill Sparks in the_Park ____________ ______ 6:30pm-11:30pm ____________ _______

E.E. Robinson Park

Town Center Park

Prelude to the 4th _______ ____________

Food Truck_______ Friday ____________

Broadway in the Park presents Sister Act JR. &____________ The Sound of Music ___________

____________ _______

7-9pm

Town Center Park

____________ ___________ Town Center Park

8 16

5:30pm-10pm ____________ _______

Lawrenceville Lawn

5:30pm

Movies Under the Stars ____________ __________________ ___ 7pm The Grinch 8:45pm Christmas Vacation ____________ __________________ ___

1 5 27 Town Center Park

Fantastic Fourth Celebration ____________ _______

Back to School BubblePalooza ____________ ____

9:30pm ____________ _______

Stone Mountain_Park ____________ ______

Laser show and fireworks. For more info visit StoneMountainPark.com

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11am-1pm

_______________ Duluth Town Green

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____________ ___________ Learn more at SuwaneePerforms.org.

August

5 6

Food Truck _Friday ____________ ______ 5:30pm ____________ _______

Suwanee Town Center Park

Button Down Dash 5K/10K ____________ _______ 7:45am ____________ _______

Suwanee Town Center Park ____________ _______

Learn more at GwinnettChamber.org

Suwanee Wine Fest Tickets on Sale

August Concert Featuring_Lit ____________ _____________ _ 6pm: Vinny Masino / 6:30pm: Tuk Smith & the Restless Hearts / 8pm: Lit

____________ ______________ _

Town Center Park

____________ _________________ _______ Tickets on sale at noon! ____________ _________________ _______

Save the date! Suwanee Wine Fest is Nov. 5th! For more info and to purchase tickets, visit SuwaneeWineFest.com

27 _______________ _

Annandale Village Extra Mile 5K

8am

_______________ _

Town Center Park

_______________ _ Learn more at Annandale.org

Sugar Hill Live on Stage: Michael Franti & Spearhead ____________ ________________ 7pm ____________ ________________

The Bowl at Sugar Hill

Saint Monica's Catholic Church Arts_&_____________ Craft Show ____________ 9am-3pm ____________ ______________

Saint Monica’s Catholic Church, 1700 Buford Highway,______________ Duluth ____________ Shop indoors with unique vendors selling handmade items. Hourly drawings for giveaways! Admittance is free.

July/August 2022

Articles inside

Simply Sweet Cakes

Cool Treats for a Hot Summer

Business Spotlight: Holbrook Sugar Hill