Food & Drink
GOHAN Market Brings Authentic Japanese Goods to Peachtree Corners
There’s a new specialty market in town. Trading exclusively in Japanese goods and prepared foods, GOHAN Market is the first of its kind in Peachtree Corners. Whether you’re an accomplished home chef looking for authentic ingredients, someone who calls Japan home and misses the cuisine, or simply curious about Japanese dishes and culture, GOHAN Market has an incredible selection of grocery items.
The shop officially opened on December 22 of 2021, and the reception has been overwhelmingly positive. While there are other similar Asian markets and shops, GOHAN is the only market specializing in Japanese items in Peachtree Corners. “Many people visit the store and inform us how they’ve been waiting for a market like this,” explained owner Takahiko Sugita.
What really sets GOHAN apart is their commitment to selling Japanese foods and goods. As opposed to many Asian markets that might feature some Japanese items alongside Korean, Chinese and Thai options, GOHAN has chosen to stock only authentic Japanese goods for sale. “We wanted the customers to enjoy a Japanese market in Peachtree Corners,” said Sugita. “There are many Asian grocery stores in Georgia, but I noticed that there’s only a few stores that are dedicated to selling only Japanese items.”
This 3,200 square foot storefront occupied by GOHAN Market in Spalding Woods Village has been transformed into a market akin to those you might find in Japan. Featuring row upon row stacked floor to ceiling with dry goods, snack foods and quality ingredients, the space is flanked by coolers and fridges that are similarly full of delectable, prepared foods, desserts and drinks.
At the back of the store is Ozaku Cafe, a counter-service eatery where customers can enjoy rich and creamy authentic Japanese Tonkotsu ramen. “Our most popular products are the Onigiri rice balls that we make in our kitchen. Many customers compliment on how it reminds them of the convenience stores in Japan and how hard it is to find something like this here in Georgia.”
A welcoming store in a welcoming city
With 9.3% of the Peachtree Corners population falling under the category of Asian per the 2020 census, and Forsyth County, which sits just north of Peachtree Corners, labeled the “fastest growing Asian population in the U.S.” by WABE in 2019, the area is ripe for development of businesses that serve those communities. Additionally, the opening of the state-chartered Japanese-English dual-language International Charter Academy of Georgia in the area in June 2018 has cemented Peachtree Corners as a diverse community that is welcoming to people of all walks of life.
As I meandered through the market on the day I visited, I saw plenty of items that I did recognize, but there were far more I did not. With labels that are often exclusively written in Japanese, I found myself taking my time as I looked closely at pictures, reading the ingredients lists and trying to infer using context clues what exactly I was looking at.
If you, like me, have never been to Japan and don’t read or speak Japanese, never fear. The staff of GOHAN Market were incredibly friendly and helpful from the moment I walked through the door. Greeting me cheerily, they offered me help and actually fetched me a basket when they saw my arms overloaded with goodies as I shopped.
Shoppers here can select from dozens of ramens, curries, soy sauces, marinades, snacks, sweets and much, much more. In one aisle, I recognized a snack food called Popin’ Cookin’, a gummy treat that you mix yourself and mold into different shapes like burgers, donuts and Kawaii characters. Knowing my niece loves these types of treats, I got one for her as well as some Hello Kitty green tea marshmallows and Pocky chocolates.
For myself, I picked up a bag of Jagarico Sukiyaki. I had never tried this before, but I was immensely pleased with the flavor. I am not ashamed to admit that I ate every last bite before I even got home from the store. It was that good.
A taste of Japan in Peachtree Corners
When asked what Sugita hopes that customers feel when they step into GOHAN Market, he said he hopes it feels relaxing and familiar for lovers of Japanese culture and foods. “I think many people who’ve been to Japan will say that they feel like they’re back in Japan. Whether it’s just the atmosphere or how the store is set up, it would be great if they are able to think they are back in Japan,” he said.
Sugita has worked in a number of Japanese markets in various states in America, and when it was time to strike out and open a store of his own, Peachtree Corners was the perfect place to settle down and open up shop. “Even though Atlanta is a big city, I was surprised to hear that they don’t have a Japanese Market.”
Reminiscent of convenience stores that you might encounter on the streets of Japan, GOHAN Market is a unique store that fills a need in Peachtree Corners. Located in a popular shopping center on Holcomb Bridge Road, it is a welcome addition to the community.
Whether you’re a ramen aficionado, a lover of all things anime, fond of authentic sushi, wanting to try a Bento box prepared meal or seeking hard-to-find staples like Kewpie Mayonnaise and fermented soybeans, you’ll find that and much more at this unique and popular local shop.
Address: 4015 Holcomb Bridge Rd #620, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092
Phone: (770) 674-1263
Explore Gwinnett celebrates a decade of culinary creativity with $10 chef-crafted burgers at 23 locally owned restaurants
Explore Gwinnett, the official tourism organization of Gwinnett County, is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its popular Gwinnett Burger Week. Making its anticipated return March 17–23, 2025, the event invites burger lovers to enjoy exclusive, chef-crafted creations for just $10 at 23 locally owned restaurants across the county.
“We are proud to celebrate a decade of Gwinnett Burger Week and the incredible talent of some of our very best local chefs,” said Lisa Anders, chief operating officer of Explore Gwinnett.
“What started as a way to highlight locally owned eateries has grown into a beloved tradition, and we cannot wait for the community to see what we have in store for them this year!”
Throughout the week, each of 23 participating restaurants will feature an exclusive, off-menu burger.
Peachtree Corners highlights include:
- “The Alma” at Marlow’s Tavern — a perfectly seasoned and grilled burger with salsa verde, pepper jack, fried jalapenos, avocado, tortilla strips, lettuce, tomato and onion on a buttered sesame brioche bun.
- “The Blue Flame” at LOL Burger Bar — a 5 oz. premium beef patty topped with homemade macaroni and cheese, pulled pork, blue cheese crumbles and the restaurant’s secret sauce to add a bit of spice.
- “Fired Up Burger” at Firebirds Wood Fired Grill — a wood-grilled burger, lettuce, tomato, pepper jack cheese, jalapeno bacon jam, fried onions and tangy mayo topped with fried pickles garnish.
- “K-BBQ Burger” at Stäge — an Angus beef smash burger with Korean BBQ glaze, roasted cheese corn, house-pickled veggies and gochujang mayo on a sesame brioche bun.
Gwinnett Burger Week digital pass
Back for its second year, the Gwinnett Burger Week Digital Pass encourages diners to check in at participating restaurants and earn points throughout the week, which are redeemable for prizes.
Each check-in is worth one point. Points can be redeemed for exclusive Gwinnett Burger Week merchandise from Explore Gwinnett, including restaurant gift cards, t-shirts, totes, sicker packs and a special edition 10th anniversary burger sticker designed by Lawrenceville-based artist Max Eve in celebration of this milestone.
Diners can also vote for their favorite burger by uploading an image of their receipt to the Gwinnett Burger Week website.
The Wall of Fame
Participants who track their dining experience at 10 or more restaurants throughout the week will be inducted into the Gwinnett Burger Week Wall of Fame with their photo published on Explore Gwinnett’s website.
“Our 10th anniversary milestone reflects the passion and creativity of Gwinnett County’s culinary community and the enthusiasm of all those who make this event a success year after year,” said Anders. “We can’t wait to indulge in the exclusive $10 burger creations ourselves, as we toast to 10 years of one of our favorite events!”
More details
To sign up for the Gwinnett Burger Week Pass, visit ExploreGwinnett.org/Gwinnett-Burger-Week/Burger-Week-Prize-Pass and provide the participant’s name, e-mail address and mobile phone number. A link will be sent to the participant’s phone, allowing them to access the pass and add the pass icon to their home screen.
For a full list of participating restaurants and limited-time burger offerings, visit exploregwinnett.org/gwinnett-burger-week.
Stay up-to-date on the latest Explore Gwinnett news by following @ExploreGwinnett on Instagram or ExploreGwinnett on Facebook. Diners are encouraged to share their experience on social media by using the hashtag #GwinnettBurgerWeek.
The South African fast-casual favorite expands in Georgia, bringing its signature flame-grilled spice and art-filled interiors to Peachtree Corners
Less than six months after opening its flagship Atlanta-area location at Perimeter’s High Street, world-famous South African restaurant brand Nando’s PERi-PERi opened its second Georgia restaurant to the public — for lunch and dinner service — on Tuesday, February 25.
Located within the premier mixed-used development and outdoor lifestyle center The Forum Peachtree Corners, Nando’s PERi-PERi is ready to offer its beloved flame-grilled chicken dishes, signature hot sauces and more to Atlanta-area locals and visitors alike.
“Atlanta has shown us so much love with the opening of our first location at High Street, so we couldn’t be more thrilled to expand our footprint in Georgia by bringing Nando’s to The Forum Peachtree Corners,” said Sepanta Bagherpour, chief brand officer at Nando’s PERi-PERi. “As a brand so rooted in community, we are excited to be a part of this lively hub where food, fun and connection unite.”
PERi-PERi flavor
Nando’s is known around the world for their flavorful flame-grilled chicken, and the concept’s popularity can be traced to PERi-PERi — or African Bird’s Eye Chili — the heart and soul of the Nando’s experience.
“We marinate our chicken in PERi-PERi for at least 24-hours, so the flavor goes right through to the bone,” Bagherpour explained. “Then we grill it over an open flame and baste it with PERi-PERi sauce to the customer’s preferred spice level. That’s what makes our chicken so addictive.”
Nando’s sources its PERi-PERi in Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Malawi and South Africa via a network of 1,400 local farmers who are empowered with upfront access to funds, equipment and seedlings. And before the growing season even starts, they are guaranteed a fair price purchase commitment.
Warm space and friendly service
Nando’s intensely loyal following has not only been driven by its high-quality food, but also by its friendly service presented in a relaxed atmosphere that elevates the typical fine-fast casual experience.
Every Nando’s location is uniquely designed with earthy textures and vibrant colors that reflect its sunny African heritage while retaining a sense of place in which it lives and breathes.
The restaurant’s location in Peachtree Corners is no exception.
Designed by Fusion, Nando’s at The Forum is packed with custom lighting, furniture and authentic art imported from South Africa, showcasing the strong ties to its cultural heritage.
On a prominent corner within the newly refurbished open-air development, the new Nando’s visibility is boosted by its large, canopy-covered outdoor seating area. Inside the restaurant, guests will feel warm and welcome with design elements that balance the contrast of raw, textural finishes and saturated hits of color and pattern.
A great fit for The Forum
“As we continue energizing The Forum with new experiences for guests, Nando’s PERi-PERi stood out as an international favorite that would excite the community,” said Adam Schewgman, director and head of retail leasing at Jamestown. “From the inventive menu options to the meticulously selected design elements, we’re looking forward to giving visitors a taste of South Africa right here in Peachtree Corners.”
About Nando’s PERi-PERi
Since making its 1987 debut in Johannesburg, South Africa, Nando’s has spread its flame to legions of fans in 24 countries on five continents. The company entered the US market in 2008 with the opening of its first location in Washington, D.C., and now operates nearly 50 restaurants in and around Virginia, Maryland, Washington, Chicago, Texas and now Georgia.
For more information visit nandosperiperi.com or follow @nandosusa on Instagram.
Metro Atlanta’s food scene is a tapestry of flavors, cultures and culinary creativity. Long known for its traditional Southern fare, recent years have also seen an increase in the number of restaurants — both independent and franchise — showcasing international, fusion or new South cuisines opening throughout the city.
While the busy food halls and trendy eateries in Midtown and Buckhead may get a lot of press, the northern suburbs, including Peachtree Corners, Norcross and Duluth, are experiencing a culinary Renaissance of their own.
Dozens of new and exciting restaurants have opened in Peachtree Corners over the last few years, with more planned for 2025.
Reflecting the eclectic tastes of a growing community, places like Stäge, H&W Steakhouse, and Fire & Stone Italian Pizza Kitchen have joined long-standing favorites such as J. Alexander’s and Taqueria del Mar in finding a following.
The upcoming scheduled openings of Golestan, Sei Ryu and the multi-restaurant lineup at The Forum’s new Politan Row has only added to the buzz around dining in Peachtree Corners.
With so many incredible places to choose from, figuring out where to enjoy your next lunch or dinner out can be a challenge. So, we turned to a few experts for help. And who knows the local food scene better than the influencers who get out, taste and share their thoughts on the latest and greatest spots in the city?
The following foodies answered the call to share some of their picks for must-try restaurants in Peachtree Corners and Norcross, with choices that offer something for just about every taste.
From Southern favorites to sushi, seafood, steak and more, these are a few of the local restaurants to check out — or revisit — in 2025.
Lena Ahn (@atlbestbites)
Dahlia’s Restaurant & Porch
One of Peachtree Corners newest restaurants, Dahlia’s Restaurant & Porch serves Southern American fare in the heart of the city. The setting is casual, and they often have live music in the evenings, which is a nice touch. They also have a beautiful patio, so be sure to dine outside when you can to truly enjoy the facilities.
On my most recent visit, I ordered the Bourbon Glazed Peach Pork Belly, Grilled Steak, Red Chile Glazed Shrimp and Bourbon Pork Tenderloin. The shrimp was crispy and flavorful, and you can’t go wrong with steak!
Mai Le (@lemaitravel)
Stäge Kitchen & Bar
This was our third visit to Stäge Kitchen & Bar, and once again, it did not disappoint. The quality of the sushi here remains absolutely incredible. Every roll is fresh, flavorful and beautifully presented, showcasing the attention to detail that sets this place apart.
The consistency of the flavors and the impeccable service make it a standout spot. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or just starting to explore Japanese cuisine, Stäge delivers an experience that keeps you coming back.
Highly recommend this gem for anyone seeking high-quality sushi in a welcoming atmosphere!
The Spider-man, Phoenix, Hotel California, Smoking Gun, Tsunami and Goku rolls were melt-in-your-mouth good! (My personal favorites were the Hotel California and the Phoenix.)
We loved their calamari and grilled Spanish octopus. Both were very flavorful and fresh.
The Lychee Martini and Whiskey Sour were the best drinks we’ve had in a while — strong but perfectly not-too-sweet that will warm you up.
And you need to get the brownie as the complimentary dessert; It’s our favorite!
Adam & Cole (@atlfoodiesofficial)
H&W Steakhouse
One of the BEST meals we had in 2023 and one of the best new restaurants we’ve dined at overall is hands down H&W Steakhouse in Peachtree Corners.
This stunning, fine-dining steakhouse is located 30 minutes outside of Atlanta and is one of the most beautiful restaurants we dined at [last] year.
Serving everything from high-end steaks to luxury delicacies like caviar and A5 Japanese Wagyu, with over-the-top, tableside presentations, you will be absolutely blown away by your meal there.
You also have to end the meal with their famous Turtle Gelato Pie and Carajillo (a Spanish coffee cocktail made with espresso and liquor)! Both were absolutely phenomenal and a great way to end an amazing dinner.
Saadia Raja (@peachy_palate)
Pêche Modern Coastal
Good cheese needs good companions!
Our long overdue Girls’ Night Out led us to Pêche Modern Coastal where we had a cheesy good time.
We started our night with a cheese board and croissants followed by the Beet Cannelloni and Burrata and Peach salad from their small plates menu.
For our entree, we had the Truffle Pasta, which was delicious.
I loved the patio at Pêche. We hung out [there] even after they closed. I can’t wait for spring and summer to come so I can enjoy it again.
Helen Dong (@_helenfoodie)
Super Banh Mi Pho
I finally got to try Super Banh Mi Pho, and I’m definitely coming back!
This Vietnamese restaurant has been on my list to try, and everything we got was so good! Some of my favorites are their banh mi and pho, which are made with fresh ingredients. The broth was so good, and adding in all the fresh ingredients made it taste even better!
Editor’s note: Serving traditional Vietnamese dishes, the family-run Super Banh Mi Pho has developed a following among local foodies not just for its excellent food, but for its buzzworthy Dragon Ball Z décor, lively atmosphere and fun events.
This article originally ran in the February/March issue of Peachtree Corners Magazine. A digital edition of the publication can be found here.
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