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Buford Highway Guide | Why You’ll Love Visiting or Living in Buford Highway Atlanta: a Foodie 🍲 Paradise
Winding its way from Atlanta to Buford, this connectivity being its namesake, Buford Highway is not just a highway – it's an animated fusion of global cultures, with every storefront and street corner offering a passport to a world of international wonders.
Also deemed the 'Dekalb International Corridor', this culturally rich hot spot is teeming with ethnically diverse restaurants and shops, making it a hidden gem worthy of any traveler's bucket list. Whether you're passing through to experience the food scene or planning to join this lively community as your forever home, living in Buford Highway represents a unique flavor of our melting pot where over 20 countries come together in both cuisine and camaraderie.
Welcome to your ultimate Buford Highway Guide in 2024.
You know of those living in Atlanta, but where is Buford Highway, and what county is Buford Highway in?
Buford Highway begins as an urban sprawl north of Midtown Atlanta, weaving its way through a patchwork of DeKalb County’s most eclectic neighborhoods. As it stretches northeast, it bridges the bustling urban landscapes of Brookhaven GA and Chamblee GA, before finally unfolding into a captivating blend of international cultures in the heart of Buford. This ribbon of road not only connects places but also serves as a colorful conduit of global traditions and flavors in this corner of Georgia.
With so much to offer, many are curious, how long is Buford Highway? The 7-lane highway is about a 30-mile stretch, while the Buford Highway Corridor community itself takes up about 3.1 square miles. Being in multiple counties, Buford Highway zip codes include 30341 and 30366.
For those without their own set of wheels, exploring Buford Highway Atlanta GA is easy thanks to public transportation - specifically MARTA Bus route 39 in addition to routes offered by Ride Gwinnett.
Map of Buford Highway Atlanta
Use this interactive map to give you a better idea of where Burford Highway is and to explore the many offerings in this special piece of metro Atlanta first hand!
Buford Highway History & Overview
Buford Highway’s journey began as a nondescript route connecting Atlanta to northeastern communities, initially bordered by simple strip malls and fast food joints that served the blue-collar neighborhoods and the mid-20th century’s booming automotive industry.
Post World War II, the corridor witnessed a transformative influx of diverse immigrant communities, drawn by the promise of affordable living and economic opportunities. The opening of the Havana Sandwich Shop in 1976 and the subsequent restaurant's success marked a pivotal shift, introducing a taste of international flavor that would pave the way for an eclectic food scene. By the 1980s, Buford Highway had blossomed into a hub of international cuisine and commerce, especially following the boom during the 1996 Olympics, which intensified its multicultural allure.
Today, Buford Highway is home to a dynamic population of over 50,000 residents spread across multiple suburbs and counties, each relishing their slice of this culturally rich and diverse community. Nearly half of the residents are Hispanic, with the remainder comprising various nationalities including Vietnamese, Chinese, Korean, and African communities. This expansive distribution, however, makes precise demographic captures particularly challenging.
The area boasts the largest concentration of ethnic and immigrant-owned businesses in the southeastern United States, with over a thousand enterprises contributing to its reputation as a bustling multicultural marketplace.
The average household income hovers between $70,000 and $80,000, and educational attainment and median ages vary widely, reflecting the area's varied and youthful spirit. Notably, Buford Highway is celebrated for its dynamic ethnic communities, with numerous festivals and markets that showcase its global heritage.
What’s It Like Living on Buford Highway?
Living on Buford Highway feels like stepping into a daily international festival. This lively corridor invites residents to explore the world through its bustling streets, where a leisurely walk can mean discovering new cuisines or uncovering hidden gems in diverse markets. One day you're dancing in Latin America, the next, you're exploring Asian food stalls reminiscent of a bustling night market in Bangkok or savoring the spices of a traditional Chinese restaurant or Vietnamese restaurant.
Buford Highway has become a beacon for immigrants, offering a slice of familiar culture alongside new opportunities. This evolving neighborhood now draws not only those seeking connections to their roots but also a growing number of young professionals, families, and singles attracted by its vibrant community and affordability. The area’s wide-ranging appeal ensures that its streets are filled with a rich mix of backgrounds—from families planting roots in a new land to millennials and singles seeking the buzz of its evolving cultural landscape and new businesses alike.
Inclusivity is at the heart of Buford Highway, making it a welcoming haven for immigrants, the LGBTQ+ community, and anyone drawn to its warm, community-focused atmosphere. The proximity and easy access to downtown Atlanta and numerous business hubs make it especially popular among young professionals who enjoy a more mellow, suburban vibe without sacrificing urban conveniences.
Nightlife here mirrors the community's diverse spirit. The evening brings everyone together, whether through food adventures at late-night international kitchens or at lively bars and clubs that host exciting entertainment, from karaoke to live music, reflecting the global palette of its residents.
In essence, Buford Highway is a place of convergence where the traditional meets the contemporary, where newcomers find familiarity, and long-time residents embrace the fresh cultural influx. It’s a neighborhood that continuously celebrates diversity, offering a vibrant, interconnected community for anyone who calls it home.
Things to Do on Buford Highway
This stretch isn't just a road; it's a destination rich with flavors, sights, and sounds, offering a unique glance at the globe in every encounter. As locals who have savored every corner, we're thrilled to share the insider spots and hidden gems that make Buford Highway a treasure trove of culinary delights, unique shopping experiences, and engaging attractions.
Whether you're a foodie, a shopper with a penchant for unique finds, or an explorer at heart, you’ll find countless ways to indulge your passions and spark new ones right here in our vibrant community.
Restaurants in Buford Highway
Buford Highway is a culinary canvas painted with the flavors of the world. Start your food journey at Lee's Bakery, renowned for its Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches and pho, among other delicious baked goods, perfect for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner. Next, step into El Rey del Taco, where locals rave about the authentic Mexican tacos and vibrant atmosphere, ideal for late-night cravings.
For those with a taste for Chinese cuisine, Northern China Eatery offers an exquisite experience with their famed juicy dumplings and hand-pulled noodles, capturing the essence of Chinese street food. Venture a bit further, and you’ll find Stone Bowl House, where a taste of Seoul is waiting to delight your taste buds.
Cap off your culinary tour at Plaza Fiesta, an indoor market that's not just a shopping destination but a bustling eatery with offerings from across Latin America, from Salvadoran pupusas to Colombian arepas, making Plaza Fiesta a perfect spot for families or groups who love to explore diverse palates.
Each stop along Buford Highway offers not just meals but a gateway to the cultures they represent, inviting diners to savor the story behind every dish.
More of the Best Buford Highway Restaurants:
Pho Dai Loi #2: Looking for Vietnamese restaurants along Buford Highway? Famous for its aromatic and rich Vietnamese pho, this is a must-try for noodle soup lovers.
Mamak: A Malaysian restaurant serving a blend of traditional dishes like roti canai and spicy rendang.
Purnima Bangladeshi Cuisine: Offers a rare glimpse into Bangladeshi flavors with dishes that emphasize fish, lentils, and rice.
Food Terminal: Showcases a modern take on Malaysian street food with a menu inspired by recipes from across Asia.
Sweet Hut Bakery & Cafe: A favorite for its vast selection of Asian-inspired pastries, desserts, and boba teas.
La Mei Zi: Offers Taiwanese specialties in a cozy setting, famous for its pork chop rice and bubble tea.
Bo Bo Garden Asian Cuisine: Well-regarded for its extensive menu featuring Cantonese and Szechuan dishes, perfect for family dinners or large groups.
Shopping on BuHi
Buford Highway unfolds as a shopper's paradise, where every store, strip mall, and shopping center, and market brings the world population a little closer to Atlanta. The Buford Highway Farmers Market stands out, a treasure trove of international groceries, exotic produce, and culinary rarities that attract food lovers and curious cooks alike.
At Plaza Fiesta, shoppers can explore a vibrant selection of traditional Latin American clothing, crafts, and jewelry. Meanwhile, Pinetree Plaza blends charming local boutiques with cozy eateries, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon of shopping and dining. Not done shopping yet? Check out Village Square for more!
Each destination along this lively corridor showcases the diverse cultures and communities that Buford Highway represents, with some of the best, most unique shopping along Buford, in Gwinnett County, and within the greater Atlanta metro.
Attractions and Things to Do on Buford Highway
Buford Highway is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a playground for the soul. Looking to relax? Treat Your Feet provides a rejuvenating experience with expert reflexology and massage therapies that draw both metro Atlanta locals and visitors seeking solace from the bustling city life.
The community also comes alive with vibrant events that celebrate the area’s rich cultural tapestry. Annual festivals like the Brookhaven International Festival bring people from all walks of life together to enjoy performances, food, and crafts from around the world.
For more Buford Highway attractions, discover a rich art scene at Exhibition Hub Art Center Atlanta and relish their incredible exhibitions, like the Van Gogh Immersive Experience. Or, for those interested in the area's history, learn more at the Southeastern Railway Museum in Duluth, GA, a captivating destination just off Buford Highway that offers a glimpse into the golden age of trains and railroads.
Each of these community events and things to do on Buford Highway offers a unique way to connect with the community and immerse oneself in the local culture.
Buford Highway spans multiple school districts, each offering distinct educational opportunities. In DeKalb County, Georgia, the area is served by the DeKalb County School District, known for schools like Cross Keys High, which is celebrated for its diverse student body and strong community involvement. Brookhaven and Chamblee fall under the jurisdiction of the Atlanta Public Schools and DeKalb County Schools respectively, with notable institutions such as Chamblee Charter High School and Ashford Park School, both recognized for their academic excellence and robust extracurricular programs.
Is Buford Highway Georgia Safe?
Buford Highway traverses through a diverse array of neighborhoods, each with its unique character and safety profile. While the communities along this corridor, including Brookhaven, Chamblee, and Doraville, among others, typically exhibit crime rates that are higher than other places in the country, it's important to consider the nuances.
These areas are densely populated cities and highly trafficked, factors that can contribute to higher reported crime rates. However, local law enforcement in each jurisdiction is actively engaged in community policing and safety initiatives aimed at reducing crime and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. Despite these challenges, Buford Highway remains a welcoming place, with strong community ties and a commitment to safety that makes it a beloved destination for both residents and visitors alike.
Buford Highway GA Real Estate
Buford Highway features a dynamic real estate market characterized by diverse housing options. In key areas like Brookhaven, Chamblee, and DeKalb County, median home prices vary significantly, so it's all about the location:
Brookhaven: Homes typically sell for around $680,000, with a median price per square foot of $292.
Chamblee: The median home price here is $540,000, reflecting a robust demand with a price per square foot of $278.
DeKalb County: More affordable options are available, with a median home price of $370,000 and $214 per square foot.
Housing stock in these areas ranges from mid-century ranch-style and simple single-family homes to more contemporary townhouses and condos, catering to a diverse range of preferences and lifestyles, be it a suburban neighborhood or a more lively city center.
For renters, the Buford Highway corridor offers apartments with median rents typically ranging from $1,200 to $1,500, providing relatively affordable living options compared to many urban areas. Local rental markets offer a variety of living spaces, with numerous amenities that cater to both singles and families.
Considering moving to Buford Highway, GA? Connect with Wirks Moving, the best Atlanta movers, to ensure a seamless transition to this vibrant and diverse community. Call us now at (404) 635-6683 to start your journey with trusted, expert support!
Eric Wirks
Eric Wirks started out in the moving industry over 16 years ago and after gaining in depth expertise in all industry related areas, went on to found Wirks Moving & Storage in 2009. Under Eric’s expert tutelage Wirks Moving & Storage has since serviced over 10,000 moves and kept their customers very happy, proven by a 98% customer referral rate.
