Brookhaven Magazine, Volume 2: Discover

Brookhaven Guide to Discover Issue

Brookhaven Arts + Oglethorpe Museum

Brookhaven’s Favorite Parks

Patio Dining Spots We Love

A Dog’s Guide to Brookhaven

Black-Owned in Brookhaven

A journey through Brookhaven’s neighborhoods is a laid-back respite from the nearby hustle of the big city. There’s a personal vibe to every experience throughout Blackburn, Murphey Candler, Dresden, Town Brookhaven, and Buford Highway.

From chef-driven, locally owned restaurants to beautiful parks and green spaces with public art installations, it’s a haven for exploration.

Start your adventure at exploreBrookhaven.com.

Welcome to

B MAGAZINE

Welcome to the Discover issue of B Magazine, your guide to the locals’ Brookhaven. Full of popular hangs and unexpected gems, you’ll find your way through parks, art exhibits, and international cafes…plus places that welcome your furry friend, too. From sculpture to soul food, it’s an adventure that welcomes at every turn, in every neighborhood. And while this guide will get you started, it’s just the tip of the iceberg. Ask around as you explore–every local has an inside tip on great places to discover. Welcome to Brookhaven. You’ve arrived in your new favorite place to be and belong!

Renée Areng | Executive Director, Explore Brookhaven Georgia

In This Issue

Wings of the City

INTERNATIONAL SCULPTURE EXHIBIT IN BROOKHAVEN

4 -

BROOKHAVEN ARTS + OGLETHORPE MUSEUM

8 - 9

BROOKHAVEN BIKE ALLIANCE AND PEDAL THE PARKS

10 - 11

BIG PEACH RIDE + RUN

12

OUTSIDE IN THE MIDDLE OF IT ALL

Brookhaven’s Favorite Parks

13 - 15

Spotlights

AL FRESCO FAVORITES

Patio Dining Spots We Love

16 - 19

BLACK-OWNED IN BROOKHAVEN

Urban Wok

Roc South Modish

Clutch Resturant

Southern Fire Kitchen 20 - 21

SEE SPOT STAY

A Dog's Guide to Brookhaven 22 - 23

INTERNATIONAL SOUL

Buford Highway’s Northeast Plaza 24

Kategna

Wings of the City

INTERNATIONAL SCULPTURE EXHIBIT IN BROOKHAVEN

In May 2022, Brookhaven welcomed “Wings of the City,” a city-wide, traveling sculpture exhibition from acclaimed Mexican artist Jorge Marín. “Wings” unfolded just a few months after the Brookhaven Arts and Culture Commission designated the Buford Highway Cultural Corridor. Before touching down locally, it traveled throughout the west and southwest. “It’s fitting and exciting that our first public art installation celebrates the diversity of Brookhaven’s citizens…this is only the beginning,” says Brookhaven ACC Chair Lauren Kiefer.

If you didn’t know better, you might think this series of nine sculptures was a permanent installation–the bronze sculptures nestled into Brookhaven’s parks and greenspaces are not only stunning but life-sized. Displayed around the city, they combine human and mythological forms, creating fantastic beings that inspire conversation and wonder, bringing even more attention to public spaces.

Though Marín is most famous for his bronze work, his career has encompassed multiple disciplines. What ultimately drew him to bronze, he says, is its ability to hold finely detailed, anatomical precision regardless of scale, something you’ll notice immediately in the figures of the Wings series. Throughout “Wings of the City,” you’ll find winged creatures as well as human figures poised in gymnastic positions, defying gravity as they materialize the dream of taking flight. In different ways, each one showcases strength, flexibility, and the human desire to “rise above” or transcend.

Ranging from six and a half to 13 feet tall, the sculptures are hard to miss. At the cornerstone of the exhibit, Wings of Mexico, outside the Mexican Consulate on Chantilly Drive, spectators can step into the artwork, becoming part of the intricate wings rising as a universal symbol of freedom and hope–and, of course, a not-to-be-missed photo op.

Spend an afternoon strolling or biking the Peachtree Creek Greenway, wander through Oglethorpe University’s campus and Blackburn Park as well as Northeast Plaza, and stop by the Mexican Consulate and Latin American Association to see the full exhibition. Along with Wings of Mexico, the collection includes Bernardo Oriental, Persélidas Monumental, Archivaldo Monumental, Split Monumental, El Abrazo Monumental, Hombre Universal, El Tiempo Monumental, and Equilibrista 90, each worth its own visit. You’ll be enjoying some of Brookhaven’s most beautiful parks and green spaces at the same time. If art and nature top your list of favorite ways to spend a day, “Wings of the City” is your ticket to both.

“It’s fitting and exciting that our first public art installation celebrates the diversity of Brookhaven’s citizens.”

Brookhaven Arts + OGLETHORPE MUSEUM

From the murals lining Buford Highway to the newly-christened Brookhaven Arts and Culture Commission, the arts are alive and well in Brookhaven. And nowhere is this more apparent than the Oglethorpe University Museum of Arts! Nestled on the third floor of Oglethorpe University’s Lowry Hall, OUMA showcases world-renowned art in elegant environs, bringing fine art and arts education to Brookhaven.

Established during the tenure of Lloyd Nick, the founding director, OUMA’s tasteful space and mission are based on his innovative vision. The museum, which opened its doors in the spring of 1993, blossomed under Lloyd’s direction, transforming into the cultural centerpiece it is today.

Each year, OUMA presents three major exhibitions and several smaller ones, bringing expertly-curated collections to Brookhaven. And with three primary exhibition spaces, including The Shelley and Donald Rubin Gallery, the Skylight Gallery, and the Center Gallery, OUMA has the perfect spaces for its regular lecture and concert series, complementing the exhibitions on view.

As the only small liberal arts museum that routinely exhibits nationally and globally recognized shows, OUMA is dedicated not only to bringing international arts and culture to Brookhaven, but also to developing young museum professionals. With a robust research center and a plethora of engagement opportunities to choose from, university students can get involved by serving as gallery assistants, taking on a work-study position, or embarking on an independent study.

But no matter how they get involved, students are encouraged to collaborate with faculty and staff for an immersive learning experience. This hands-on attitude is part of a well-rounded liberal arts education, making OUMA a rare asset for both students and the community alike. And with thousands of visitors each year, OUMA has become a true cultural mecca for Brookahven’s growing arts community.

Oglethorpe University

Brookhaven Bike Alliance AND PEDAL

THE PARKS

Brookhaven’s natural beauty and riding trails make it a cyclist’s paradise. And in order to keep it that way, groups like the Brookhaven Bike Alliance are advocating for a bike-friendly Brookhaven.

Formed in 2017, the Brookhaven Bike Alliance’s goal is to make bike riding safe and accessible for everyone in Brookhaven. Their three primary goals are:

• Advocate for city-wide complete streets policy

• Educate to improve bike safety and accessibility

• Build Community through group activities

Brookhaven Bike Alliance

As a volunteer-based organization with a core leadership team of eight people, BBA is passion-driven. To stir up community spirit, they host year-round events across Brookhaven. One of the most popular is their weekly rides, taking place from March through October. Meet the crew every Monday at 6:00 PM at Savi Provisions on Dresden Drive to join in on the fun!

And during the month of May (also known as national bike month), BBA conducts a super-fun, month-long event called Pedal the Parks that encourages Brookhaven visitors and residents to hit the road and visit the city’s parks.

Participants encourage their family and friends to strap on a helmet, hop on a bike, and pedal to any park in the City of Brookhaven. Once there, they can simply snap a selfie and share it publicly on social media with #pedaltheparksbrookhaven to enter BBA’s weekly photo contest.

Cyclists who bike the extra mile to more parks gain additional entries into the Grand Prize raffle. And with a range of activities from family-friendly rides to intermediate outings, it’s a choose-your-own-adventure contest with something for everyone.

The prizes include everything from local gift cards to picnic baskets and biking accessories. So pick a route and get to pedaling!

Big Peach RIDE + RUN

Ready to bike and play your way through neighborhood parks and outdoor attractions? Big Peach Ride + Run is your one-stop shop for top-of-the-line outdoor equipment. A locally owned and operated outdoor retailer, Big Peach has been serving the needs of Brookhaven's ever-growing community of cyclists, runners, and walkers since 2004. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out on your fitness journey, Big Peach Ride + Run has everything you need.

The folks at Big Peach know that making our wonderful city a better place to live, work, and ride is not only a privilege but also a responsibility. That’s why they go above and beyond to deliver five-star customer service and hands-on product knowledge to all of their guests, creating an environment that is welcoming and, above all, fun! And with a full selection of kids' bikes and apparel, the whole family can get in on the action.

They carry everything a veteran or rookie cyclist could possibly need, from footwear to apparel to accessories and the bikes themselves. By sourcing each and every product from leading manufacturers, they keep their first-rate products well-stocked and ready to ride. And because all of the Big Peach staff members are also avid riders, they’re poised to offer invaluable advice on the ins and outs of the cycling lifestyle.

Broken bike? Big Peach can handle that, too! From tune-ups to big jobs, there’s nothing Big Peach’s team of professionally trained technicians can’t fix. When you bring your bicycle in for maintenance or repair, a technician will assess your bike's needs and provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate on repair costs. Whether your ride is in need of a minor adjustment or a major repair, we promise that your bike is in expert hands.

And if you’re more of a runner than a biker, Big Peach has you covered! With a wide selection of top-of-the-line running shoes and athletic apparel, Big Peach will have you decked out and ready to hit the trails in no time. And in case you get hungry along the way, they also carry a thoughtful selection of tasty, healthy treats to keep your stamina up.

Big Peach Ride + Run

OUTSIDE IN THE MIDDLE OF IT ALL

Brookhaven's Favorite Parks

Talk to Brookhaven locals, and you’ll find everyone has a favorite park. Whether they take to the tennis courts at Blackburn, enjoy some off-leash time with the pups at Skyland or Brookhaven, run trails at Murphey Candler, or visit playgrounds with the kids, it’s easy to find a place that fits your pace. And with 14 parks and greenspaces to choose from, there’s one near you, wherever you happen to be.

Arguably the best-known among the parks is Murphey Candler Park–the largest in the area, beloved by joggers, kayakers, bird watchers, and sports leagues. Stretching 135 acres across its namesake neighborhood, the sparkling lake at its heart is home to Canada Geese, ducks, beavers, and fish. Surrounding trails offer great hiking, jogging, and walking. The primary 2-mile loop passes through wooded areas, bridges, and wetlands. Nearby picnic pavilions serve up opportunities to gather and play or even enjoy a picnic with treats from the farmers market or takeout from some of your favorite local spots. The

park’s football fields, swimming pool, tennis courts, and baseball and softball complexes see lots of action from numerous leagues and teams who come to compete, yet the lake and forested trails maintain their serene feel. It’s the sense of getting away from it all while still being conveniently close to everything that seals the deal on Murphey Candler’s popularity, and residents as well as visitors find themselves quickly becoming regulars.

Connected to Murphey Candler by the 2.3-mile Nancy Creek Trail, Blackburn Park offers 50 acres of continuing greenspace and trails as well as lighted tennis courts and a pro shop. Make sure to reserve a court or sign up for classes with one of their experienced professionals prior to your visit. Blackburn currently hosts a “Wings

of the City” sculpture as well as the Young Girl’s Statue for Peace, created by artists Kim Seo-kyung and Kim Eun-sung. If you’re traveling with kids and burning off some playground energy is on the agenda, wide fields with jungle gyms and a covered picnic area await, along with a pavilion you can rent for events. In the winter, the park is home to Light Up Brookhaven, a must see holiday light display bringing cheer to the season. And as winter gives way to spring, Blackburn is the site of Brookhaven’s most celebrated annual event–Cherry Blossom Festival–with live music, food, arts, activities, and a car show.

While Brookhaven’s many smaller parks may not measure up to the acreage of Murphey Candler or Blackburn, they’re an essential part of the fabric of the community, giving it a flavor of unexpected discovery and providing neighborhood gathering places. At Briarwood, you’ll find a gem of a community garden, tennis courts, trails for the adults to get in some steps, and a new pool perfect for a cool dip on summer days. Ashford Park, known among Brookhavenites as “the isle of misfit toys,” is home to an ever-growing population of donated toys as well as traditional playground equipment, a community building, and a picnic shelter popular for kids’ parties. At Brookhaven and Skyland parks, you’re likely to find just as many dogs as people, if not more, and the vibe is always energetic and friendly.

Peachtree Creek Greenway, a recreation path and park along the north fork of Peachtree Creek, is officially open for runners, walkers, cyclists, and anyone looking for a great way to get out of the car and explore. An immediate favorite with locals, the wide, paved trail is one of the best places to get in a workout or just enjoy trees, art, and natural beauty. Ultimately, the Greenway will stretch all the way from Doraville to the Atlanta Beltline.

Whether you’re in town for a weekend or a longer stay, head out into the green to breathe in some fresh air and activity, stroll with coffee, row the lake…or just enjoy the fresh air. Your peace of mind will thank you.

PATIO DINING SPOTS WE LOVE Al Fresco Favorites

No matter the season, patio dining in Brookhaven is always popular and in-demand. From foodie favorites to local hideaways, they’re also where you’ll find some of the best dishes in town. At Haven Restaurant and Bar, heaters and wind barriers ensure the patio stays busy year-round, and the ambiance is always just right. Patrons come back time and again for the delicious wine selection and signature cocktails like the Pear Collins and Haven Hog, not to mention the killer entrees, like mussels in chipotle, tomato, and bacon broth.

Kaleidoscope, a tried and true neighborhood favorite, especially when it comes to patio seating, serves up eclectic eats the chef refers to as “global comfort food.” All meat is antibiotic and hormone free, and much of the produce is sourced from local farms.

Tin Roof Cantina boasts one of the largest patios in the city, where guests enjoy live music and an outdoor gaming courtyard with washers, cornhole, ping pong, and darts, plus a photo booth and internet jukebox. Open late seven days a week, you can grab some Tex-Mex and a drink while you watch open mic comedy or throw down some karaoke.

For pizza al fresco, Avellino’s Pizzeria has you covered with an all-weather patio. It’s the perfect setting to savor one of their wood-fired pizzas, like the Polpetta–mozzarella, ricotta, meatball, cremini mushroom, and fresh basil–ziti al forno, or a slice of Limoncello cake.

Sushi tastes that much fresher in the fresh air, and The One Sushi+ makes rolls worth writing about. For a detour from the traditional, try the Selfie Roll–fresh salmon, cucumber, greens with ponzu, cherry tomatoes, and garlic aioli, or the OMG–fried jalapeno, spicy and fresh salmon, avocado, tuna, and tobiko. Their Bento boxes, including Yellowtail Sashimi, Mixed Nigiri, and Bang Bang Shrimp, among others, are excellent choices for lunch, and for cocktails try the Beehive, with lunazul reposado, ginger, lime, yuzu, and buzz flower.

When you’re craving Indian, nothing else will do. Moon Cuisine’s homey curries, tandoori dishes, and other classics are served in this local favorite spot, complete with a patio. Everything from the Bhindi Masala to the Chicken Chettinad, cooked in black pepper, curry leaves, and coconut, comes out hot and fresh.

Pancho's Mexican Restaurant on Buford Highway is a true local hang and hole in the wall, home of the Monster Margarita as well as kid-friendly specials and a patio with string lights to enjoy tequilas, salsa, chips, and fajitas into the evening.

PURE Taqueria counts not one but two “patios,” a traditional layout downstairs with high-top tables, plus a rooftop bar. Specializing in fresh and classic takes on margaritas with a wide range of tequilas and mezcals, PURE pairs delicious drinks with creative Mexican fare, including house-made tortillas.

If your appetite calls for both a patio and gourmet cuisine, you’ll find both at Petite Violette, with French Provençal cuisine under the trees and an atmosphere of warmth and charm throughout. Their wine list is worth a trip all its own, and the melt-in-your-mouth Boeuf Bourguignon is a time-honored staple.

Did someone say two patios? Along with their celebrated burgers (try the Dixie Style with pimento cheese, fried green tomato, Carolina cole slaw, and chipotle ranch), Grindhouse Killer Burgers serves up snacks like Dirty South Fries and boozy shakes like the Monkey Wrench- chocolate peanut butter malt with banana liqueur and vanilla vodka. The downstairs patio is open to all ages, and the upstairs open-air bar is 21+.

For even more patio favorites, check out “See Spot Stay: A Dog’s Guide to Brookhaven” in this issue and visit ExploreBrookhaven.com

Black-Owned IN BROOKHAVEN

Brookhaven is home to a vibrant array of Black-owned small businesses, from boutique athletic stores to world-class eateries. Whether you’re in town for a quick visit or a local looking to branch out, you’ll discover a wealth of establishments to support around town. From southern-style, mom-and-pop favorites to international standouts, these renowned restaurants can satisfy any palate!

Whether it’s a favorite franchise like Urban Wok or an innovative newcomer like Modish, Brookhaven is a hub for Black-owned restaurants dishing up a variety of delicious eats. These restaurants offer delicious meals all across Brookhaven, from Buford Highway to the Town Brookhaven shopping center.

Urban Wok

Urban Wok is a fresh-casual favorite designed for Brookhaven’s vibrant urban lifestyle, making clean eating convenient and accessible. Their menu is lifestyle friendly, making it the perfect option for vegan, glutenfree, and paleo diets. And because you can mix and match their wide variety of protein and topping options, you can create a dish you love without ever getting bored. And don’t forget the signature sauces!

Roc South

Roc South is a family-friendly establishment serving up elevated southern classics alongside international options. With mouth-watering combos like lobster & grits and five-star mac & cheese, Roc South kicks these classics up a notch with modern touches. And if you’re in the mood for a weekend treat, their Sunday Brunch can’t be beat! From chicken & waffles to apple cobbler french toast, Roc South offers up locally-inspired dishes with cosmopolitan flair.

With so many options, you’ll never go hungry in Brookhaven!

Clutch Restaurant

Bathed in stylish, ambient light, Clutch Restaurant has a metropolitan glamor that shines through in its atmosphere and casual cuisine. Serving up classics like wings, sliders, and burgers alongside globally-inspired dishes like Caribbean salmon, Clutch has something delicious for everyone. And with a Taco Tuesday deal that can’t be beaten, Clutch is the place to be!

Southern Fire Kitchen

Southern Fire Kitchen cooks up classic southern dishes made with love at what some patrons have called the city’s best soul food restaurant. Fan favorites include the famous fried salmon and fresh-out-the-oven honey butter cornbread, along with lemonade and cocktails that are oh-so craveable.

Modish

Located on scenic Buford Highway, Modish serves up delish food in upscale digs. Though they’re new to the restaurant scene, they’re becoming well-known for their southern classics and Jamaican-inspired fare like jerk chicken and braised oxtail. Plantbased eaters can get in on the fun with Modish’s innovative vegan options like cauliflower sticky wings and dairyfree oreo cheesecake. Modish also hosts local musicians for live in-house performances, making dining in an even livelier experience. Count us in!

See Spot Stay

A DOG’S GUIDE TO BROOKHAVEN

In Brookhaven, you feel the hospitality everywhere you go, from parks to bars, restaurants to hotels… whether you’re on two legs or four. There’s no need to leave the pup at home when planning your next trip or enjoying a weekend staycation–many of the city’s most popular destinations welcome both canines and their people. Sniff out new favorites and find your go-to places to romp, roam, and relax.

With a popular DIY dog wash, in-store training classes, and a staff of devoted dog lovers, City Dog Market is a must for anyone looking to explore dog-friendly Brookhaven. In addition to familiar brands of pet food and treats, the market has its own line of puppy snacks and racks of locally-made baked goods that will make your own mouth water. Fire hydrant cookies, colorful birthday cakes (with sprinkles, of course), “cigars,” and even party hats are among the creative offerings, which well-behaved furry friends are welcome to check out with you. Many staff members have been with City Dog Market for over a decade and are as knowledgeable as they are accommodating, happy to make recommendations and share their own top picks for dog-friendly spots in town. Thanks to its enthusiastic and ever-growing clientele, the market celebrates its 15th anniversary in April 2023 and has now offers online shopping, curbside pickup, and same-day delivery.

Just down the street, you’ll find one of the biggest off-leash dog parks in the area at Brookhaven Park, where dogs and their people enjoy a spread-out place to play, sit, and fetch (or just dog watch). You may even catch an impromptu “singing” performance. If your pooch prefers a quieter vibe, Skyland Park’s separate, fenced areas for small and large dogs are just as frolic-friendly.

When it’s time for a great meal, you’ll find many of Brookhaven’s favorite patios are also dog friendly–the places you’re most likely to find a perfect burger or cocktail also accommodate your companion. At Lucky’s Burger & Brew, all the burgers are named for dogs, and yours is welcome anytime. Humans love the Georgia Dawg Pounder and Trivia Night; pets swear by the pet-friendly patties grilled fresh in the kitchen. Equally delicious burgers await at Grindhouse Killer Burgers, with a front patio where you and your furry best friend can relax and enjoy. If you’ve spent any time in the area, you’re likely already a fan of PURE taqueria’s specialty margaritas, tequilas, mezcals, and house-made tortillas, but their pet-friendly patio makes it the pick of the litter for spending quality time with Fido, too. And you’ll rarely pass Kaleidoscope Bistro’s beloved neighborhood patio without seeing a dog enjoying the view.

When it’s time to hit the hay, Brookhaven has several pet-friendly hotels that host pets in style. Hyatt Regency Atlanta Perimeter at Villa Christina is always a favorite, with its sophisticated feel and resortstyle comfort. Spacious rooms where both of you can hit snooze after your big day out, a rooftop pool, restaurant-bar, coffee shop, and green spaces to get out and stretch your legs all add to the appeal. You’ll wake up refreshed, pampered and ready to do it all again.

International Soul

BUFORD HIGHWAY’S NORTHEAST PLAZA

Northeast Plaza is a cultural crossroads. Walk one way and you’ll see a favorite Mexican restaurant, La Carreta, which continues to grow steadily in size and popularity; walk another and you’ll find yourself on course for some of the best soul food around, hidden behind the tinted windows of Southern Fire Kitchen, where regulars line up for the honey cornbread and short ribs. A few doors down from the immense international supermarket you’ll discover Pan Paleta and its sought-after frozen confections. Currently, Northeast Plaza also hosts one of the sculptures in the “Wings of the City” exhibit.

There’s a lot to discover, and as you wander you’ll inevitably notice NCG Cinema, if it hasn’t already caught your eye. Even if you didn’t come for a movie, chances are you’ll wind up standing in front of the theater, staring at the wall to get a closer look at the faces of “Mi Gente”–my people. Created by artist Yehimi Cambrón, the giant mural is composed of continuous-line portraits of Latinx community leaders whose names may not be familiar but whose work has shaped regional history. Within the lines of each face are other faces, vignettes depicting the themes and everyday people behind the scenes. From contemporary activism by Dreamers to older and ongoing efforts in education, labor, gender, and political advocacy, “Mi Gente” encompasses both a wide range of activism and a focus on individuality and diversity. The five large portraits are dynamic, fluid, and colorful–much like Northeast Plaza itself. And in true modern style, it even has its own playlist on Spotify, “Brilla Mi Gente,” curated by social justice organization La Choloteca.

Make a loop around Northeast Plaza and discover faces and places you might not have heard about yet but definitely won’t forget, and enjoy new flavors everywhere you turn.

Mural Artist: Yehimi Cambrón | Title: Mi Gente | Commissioned by: Atlanta History Center

SPOTLIGHT City Farmers Market

Inside the enormous City Farmers Market international supermarket, you’ll find everything from fresh produce to fresh cuts at the barber shop. Against a side wall you’ll generally notice a line of patrons at a window with trays of pastries anad tortillas. Customers queue up every day at Panadería Latina for classic pan dulce like conchas, churros and orejas as well as global favorites like chocolate frosted donuts. Eduardo Soto has been selling traditional sweet breads on Buford Highway since 2012. Grab an assortment of sweet treats to share as you explore Brookhaven, but do it soon - the churros go fast!

KATEGNA ETHIOPIAN: BEYOND CLASSIC Spotlight

Tucked into an unassuming strip of shops on Buford Highway, Kategna Ethiopian is a culinary gem. The owner, Nani Desta, is not only a master of Ethiopian cooking in general but of recipes passed down from her mother, a well-known cook in Ethiopia. Berbere, the classic spice blend that gives so much of the region’s cuisine its distinct flavor profile, gets an added dash of magic, courtesy of Desta’s mother’s secret blend. You’ll taste it in dishes like Kategna’s delectable Doro Wat, Ethiopia’s signature stew of chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, and the traditional berbere, finished with spiced butter and served with boiled egg and house-made cottage cheese.

Desta is also known for her spongy injera bread, which she makes entirely with teff flour rather than the mix of flours favored by many Ethiopian restaurants. Its slightly firmer structure holds up better under heavier dishes and showcases their flavors more fully…whether it’s a bowl of vegan Misir Wat red split lentils sautéed in rich berbere sauce with garlic, onion, and ginger or a sizzling plate of prime short ribs marinated in Kategna’s house-made sauce and sautéed with red onion, tomato, fresh garlic, and jalapeños. Every dish on the menu is crave-worthy, right down to the coffee, and the lunch specials are a must.

Buford’s international melting pot has too many standouts to count, but from the food to the friendliness, you’re missing out if you don’t make a trip to Kategna.

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Sommelier SPOTLIGHT

Every wine has a story. And so does every wine lover. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination to experience wine in a new way, look no further than Brookhaven. A wine lover’s paradise, local sommeliers can attest to the city’s thriving culture du vin.

Whether you prefer vintage wines or fresh blends, Bethany Taylor of Brookhaven Wines and Daniel Campbell at The Ashford both agree Brookhaven is Atlanta’s best-kept secret when it comes to wining and dining.

Though Taylor was set to follow a very different career path, wine drew her in. “I started my career in Marketing/PR, and it wasn't very exciting. I liked learning about wines as a hobby. I enjoyed my marketing/public speaking/communications skillset and pitched myself as a part-time associate at a wine boutique in Kirkwood,” she explains. The rest, as they say, is history. Now an L1 and L2-certified sommelier, Taylor’s passion and comprehensive wine knowledge set her apart. The intense studying, research, and hard work required to get where she is today make her an invaluable resource.

Bethany Taylor captured by Jalon Harris

Brookhaven has been the perfect place to thrive, Taylor says. “You know the show Cheers? It's like that at Brookhaven Wines on a Friday night. We're not a bar. Brookhaven Wines is a welcoming environment. Whether you're a specialty collector or someone looking for an enjoyable bottle of wine for $15, we want to build a relationship with you.”

A big part of Taylor’s job is building the wine community. When she’s not busy recommending wines and turning customers into regulars, she’s organizing group trips to vineyards across the globe. “Trips are unique for a wine shop. We're kind of part-time travel agents for wine tourism,” she laughs. Good news spreads fast: every Brookhaven Wines trip has been sold out.

The crew is planning trips to Santa Barbara, Burgundy, and the Loire Valley, with many more destinations to come. (Protip: to get on the insider’s list, stop by the shop and ask for Bethany or Jeff to put you on the trip list. And if you miss out, ask the staff to help plan a custom trip, with or without Brookhaven Wines staff.)

Daniel Campbell of The Ashford also cultivated his love for wine in Brookhaven. The Ashford, known for its internationallyaccented menu, serves up a fair share of local and global favorites. “It’s better to have a knowledge of the wider world of drinks,” Campbell explains, which is why he incorporates seasonal cocktails and a wine list spanning the globe from France to California.

“I started my career in restaurants in 2011 to have money through college, then moved to Atlanta in 2014 and started working at POUR [the restaurant concept before The Ashford] and got into management there,” he explains. “That's where I kicked off my career and decided I wanted to do this forever. I enjoy talking to people and taking care of our guests.”

The Ashford is one of several spots transforming Brookhaven into a wine-lover’s paradise. “There are a lot of really great restaurants. Dresden Drive specifically offers great neighborhood restaurants with great wine lists in less than a half-mile radius: Haven, Valenza, Arnette's, us at The Ashford, going all the way up to Terra Terroir,” Campbell notes.

If you want to purchase a bottle of wine, he recommends shopping locally. “Brookhaven Wines is fantastic, and I recommend them because they really are steps above a chain,” he adds.

What Campbell loves most about wine is the story it tells. “Wine is a great journey,” he explains. “You can always learn something new about it and about what you like. There are so many different varietals and regions, and compounded with the human palate, which changes throughout your life. Wine is something you can always go back to.”

When it comes to finding your perfect wine, he says, persistence is key. “My advice is to keep trying wines until you find something you like. Second bit of advice is that it's much easier to try new wine when you're eating food.” Fortunately, Brookhaven has great options for restaurants with delicious menus as well as robust wine lists. “Sometimes food makes wine better, sometimes

“Sometimes food makes wine better, sometimes wine makes food better.”

wine makes food better,” says Campbell, so if you want to broaden your palate, get adventurous! “Try making a fun dinner and pairing it with a specific wine you've wanted to try. Save a glass and try the wine another day. Keep trying wine; you're going to find something somewhere.”

Whether you prefer reds or whites, still or sparkling, Brookhaven has a glass to suit your fancy. Pop and pour your sommelier’s favorite recommendations or try a completely new taste adventure. Brookhaven’s local experts are always ready to share the love.

Enjoy FREE tastings on Fridays and Saturdays at Brookhaven Wines and Saturdays at Kathleen's Catch. Sign up for the Brookhaven Wines newsletter for seated events, trips, and collaborations with local restaurants!

Follow The Ashford, PURE Brookhaven, Haven and Arnette's Chop Shop for seated dinner and libation pairing events.

Meet Me in Brookhaven

With friendly neighborhoods, a vibrant arts and culture scene, unique cuisine, and plenty of green space for outdoor adventure, Brookhaven is the perfect place for quality time. Whether it’s a weekend with your closest friends, a corporate retreat, or anything in between, you’ll feel an immediate sense of belonging.

Brookhaven’s hospitality is unrivaled…and pitch-perfect for any occasion. Locally-owned restaurants and distinctive venues, all conveniently located yet off the beaten path, will have you coming up with even more reasons to gather. And whatever you need to make your next event a success, the Explore Brookhaven team has you covered. We’ll make sure you find the venue that matches your vision, from amenities to budget.

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Calendar of Events

MARCH 25-26, 2023

Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival brookhavenga.gov/festival

APRIL 15, 2023

Sip Brookhaven at Oglethorpe

APRIL 18, 2023

Restaurant Takeover in Birmingham, AL

JUNE & JULY 2023

Brookhaven Bucks Baseball Season brookhavenbucks.com

SEPTEMBER 21, 2023

Taste Brookhaven tastebrookhaven.com

DECEMBER 2023

Light Up Brookhaven

SCAN TO FOLLOW ALONG FOR MORE LOCAL EVENTS!

TO SEEING YOU We look forward

No matter where you’re headed or what the season, Brookhaven welcomes you warmly and safely to our neighborhoods, where the stage is always set for your next getaway or adventure.