Growing up in New York City, I enjoyed being part of the “melting pot” where people from all around the world brought their culture, food and traditions to be a beautiful part of our community. Arriving in Gwinnett almost 35 years ago, I had to leave all of that behind. My wonderful new hometown was a great place to live but didn’t have these attributes in the 1980’s. It has been exciting to watch the change – to experience the transformation, hear other languages being spoken, listen to music, taste the food and watch dances from other countries.
Two years ago, I joined the CID and immersed myself in this part of Gwinnett, meeting residents, business and property owners, visiting schools and going on food adventures. What an amazing place with so many dimensions and assets; people are here from across North America and from around the world. They have brought their styles and values, their heritage and their dreams.
I truly believe that we are fortunate to live, work, learn, pray and play in the most diverse community within the most diverse county in Georgia. With that blessing comes an array of experiences and flavors from around the world.
To celebrate this community and its exceptional choices, Gateway85 CID is hosting our first annual Gateway Flavors Global Food Tour on September 15 from 1:00 – 5:00 PM. The tour offers participants the opportunity to sample food from five restaurants in the district representing five distinct cultures.
Tour restaurants include:
- D’Cuban Café – Cuban Cuisine
- Ashiana – Indian Cuisine
- Bento Café – Taiwanese Cuisine
- Hong Kong Supermarket Walk-through
- Elizabeth Panaderia – Salvadoran Cuisine
- Al-Madina Halal Market
I invite you to join our small group as we tour the district on a trolley, learn about the different cultures and foods represented on the tour and make new friends. Once you discover your favorites, come back on your own, bringing friends and family to experience the world in their own backyard. Find out more about the tour here. I hope to see you there, as we celebrate our international flavor!
