Around the World
Take an international culinary tour without leaving Gwinnett
Taste of Morocco - Imperial Fez
Married chef-owners Rafuh and Rita have found a new home in Norcross for their longstanding Buckhead restaurant, known for delivering a true Moroccan experience. Dinner enjoyed while seated on luxurious cushions starts with friendly service, hot towels, multicourse menus, and live entertainment. The chicken apricot tagine and vegetable couscous are delicious
Taste of Cuba - Mojitos: A Cuban American Bistro
Join the conga line at one of Mojitos' tow locations in historic Norcross and Peachtree Corners, where the owners offer live music every weekend. The lively, family-run restaurant serves innovative Cuban American fusion dishes, such as guava barbecue baby back ribs and empanizado (Cuban breaded steak with plantains), as well as more traditional Cuban sandwiches.
Taste of Mediterranean - Adriatic Grill
Lawrenceville's Adriatic Grill offers a playful approach to modern Mediterranean cuisine, with a menu that includes fresh salads, stuffed doner kebab sandwiches, and even a Greek burger. Finish your meal with a decadent, fresh-baked pastry from the loaded homemade dessert case. Another great Mediterranean spot includes the hookah bar at Anatolia Cafe and Hookah Lounge.
Taste of Peru - Sabor Inka
Sabor Inka, a charming Peruvian restaurant in Lawrenceville, offers friendly service and homestyle food, Menu highlights include a variety of fish, shrimp, and mixed ceviche, Peruvian-styled skirt, and sirloin steaks, as well as natural juices. Vegetarians won't be disappointed with causa de palta, or layered mashed potatoes. Another good option for Peruvian specialties is the Costa Verde Restaurant in Norcross.
Taste of Columbia - Trigos Columbian Restaurant
For the true flavors of Columbian home cooking, head to this family-run restaurant and bakery in Lawrenceville. Start with a breakfast of Columbian coffee, homemade pastries, and bandeja - a platter with meat, eggs, plantains, avocado, and corn cakes. Other options for Columbian food in the area are Las Delicias De La Abuela and Let's Go Eat.
Taste of Thailand - Sri Thai Kitchen and Sushi Bar
Sri Thai has developed a strong reputation in metro Atlanta, and now has four locations, including one in Duluth. The restaurant offers exquisitely plated modern Thai and Japanese dishes. All the sauces and dishes are made from scratch daily using family recipes. For a special evening, treat yourself to omakase, a multiple-course, seasonal, prix fixe dinner. Another great neighborhood option is Tani Thai Restaurant in Buford.
Taste of Africa - Ike's Cafe and Grill
Ike's Cafe and Grill in Norcross comes alive on the weekends with crowds enjoying live music and delectable West African cuisine. If you are feeling adventurous, order banga soup (palm nut soup), nkwobi (a spicy cow foot delicacy), or Isi Ewu (a full head of goat). For more West African flavors, check out Honest Star Tropical Restaurant in Lawrenceville.
Taste of Vietnam - Nam Phuong
Nam Phuong on Jimmy Carter Boulevard offers generous portions of steamy pho bowls, noodle soup, and brothy stews served family-style. Bú bó Hué (spicy rice and meat noodle soup) explodes with flavors. This is where locals go for quick, hearty, and authentic Vietnamese food.
Taste of Jamacia - Kool Runnings Jamaican Restaurant
Located in a strip mall in Peachtree Corners, Kool Runnings offers authentic Caribbean flavors and a scrumptious Sunday brunch buffet. It is one of the best places in Gwinnett to try freshly made ackee and saltfish, a staple for Jamaican breakfast. Looking for some more island flavor? Try the jerk chicken or curried goat at Jay's Caribbean Cuisine.
Taste of Bosnia - Euro Gourmet
If you're looking for authentic homemade Bosnian dishes and pastries. Euro Gourmet has a small, family-style restaurant linked to an Eastern grocery store in Lawrenceville. For unique tastes, try the cevapcici (minced meat kababs), sudzukice (spicy beef links), and palacincke (thinly rolled crepes with plum sauce).
*This article, written by Sucheta Rawal, originally appeared in Volume VIII of Explore Gwinnett Magazine*