Welcome to Buford Highway, home to one of Georgia’s most incredibly diverse and authentic international culinary scenes. From Asia to Latin America, we’re about to take our taste buds on a world tour—no passports needed, just an appetite for adventure!
Growing up with a professional chef as a parent, good food has always been at the center of connection in our family. And by “good food,” I don’t mean the fancy white tablecloth kind—I’m talking about the real deal. The kind of food that’s made with love, fresh ingredients and a deep-rooted passion for culture. So, grab your forks, chopsticks or heck, just use your hands—because we’re about to chow down on some of the best hidden gems along Buford Highway!
Flavor Rich
First stop—Flavor Rich, a Black-owned gem nestled in Suwanee serving up Southern comfort food with a gourmet edge. Now, if there’s one thing I love, it’s carbs—and let me tell you, Flavor Rich understood the assignment.
The moment I walked in, my ears were ringing with iconic R&B jams, the kind that makes you feel like you’re already grooving before you even order. And then came the food. Y’all… the food. I was blessed and slightly overwhelmed with a spread featuring their famous Chicken and Waffles, Wagyu Bacon Cheeseburger, Crab and Spinach Dip and the Crawfish and Crab Mac & Cheese—because why choose one when you can have it all?
Every bite was a perfect balance of flavor and indulgence. I was in heaven, no literally. If the Lord had called me home at that moment, I would’ve been at peace. Flavor Rich does not play when it comes to serving up soulful, flavorful goodness.
Tum Pok Pok
Next, we’re hopping on a culinary plane to Thailand with Tum Pok Pok in Chamblee, a restaurant that takes Thai street food very seriously in the best way possible. The moment you step inside, the colorful decor and warm atmosphere make you feel like you’ve just landed in a bustling night market in Bangkok.
Now, let’s talk about the food. I kicked things off with some crispy Veggie Spring Rolls because of balance, right? Then I dove into a heaping plate of Pad Thai—because let’s be honest, it’s a crime to go to a Thai spot and not order it. And, of course, I had to make it extra spicy. A little fire never hurt anybody!
To wrap things up, I went for the Coconut Cake—light, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweet. The subtle coconut flavor was perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla, and the moist texture made every bite melt in my mouth. It was the kind of dessert that doesn’t overpower but leaves you completely satisfied. If you love bold, authentic Thai flavors, this spot is a must.
El Rey Del Taco
Last stop on this food tour is El Rey Del Taco, aka the holy grail of late-night taco cravings. If there’s one thing I believe in, it’s that Tacos and Margaritas can fix almost anything. And trust me, this spot delivers.
The vibe is casual, cozy and the kind of place where you instantly feel at home. Naturally, I kicked things off with a Margarita, jumbo-sized, because why not? Then came a never-ending flow of Chips, Queso and Salsa—because let’s be real, what is a Mexican meal without them?
For the main event, I went all-in on their street tacos, because why settle for one when you can have three? I got Asada, Carnitas and Pollo—each one packed with flavor, wrapped in soft Corn Tortillas, and topped with fresh Onions, Cilantro and a squeeze of Lime. Absolute perfection. This is one of those spots you keep coming back to, because once you’ve had their tacos, you’re basically hooked for life.
Well, after inducing myself into a complete food coma, which I’d be happy to do again, that concludes our Burford Highway Food Tour. And that, my fellow food lovers, is just a tiny taste of what Buford Highway has to offer. Trust me when I say, we’ve barely scratched the surface.
This strip is packed with hundreds of small, family-owned businesses serving up some of the most authentic, mouthwatering food you’ll ever eat. If you’re in the metro Atlanta area and not making the trip down Buford Highway, you’re seriously missing out. So, grab your foodie crew, come hungry and get ready to eat your way through one of Georgia’s most iconic food scenes. Your taste buds will thank you!
