Buford Highway Atlanta: Your Ultimate Guide to the World’s Best International Food
Ever wanted to eat your way around the world without dealing with airport security, jet lag, or passport renewals? Welcome to Buford Highway, Atlanta’s most delicious secret and one of the most diverse international food corridors in America! This 30-mile stretch of international food paradise has been serving up authentic global flavors for over 50 years, and trust us—your taste buds are about to thank you.
Why Buford Highway is Atlanta’s Best International Food Destination
Forget fancy downtown restaurants with $18 cocktails. Buford Highway is where Atlanta’s diverse immigrant communities come together to share their authentic culinary heritage. From Vietnamese pho to Korean bibimbap, Mexican tacos to Filipino kamayan feasts, this corridor is basically a United Nations of deliciousness—and most meals won’t break the bank!
The best part? Many of these spots are Michelin-recommended, cash-only gems tucked into strip malls and international markets. According to Atlanta Magazine, Buford Highway represents one of the most authentic ethnic dining experiences in the Southeast. It’s like a real-life food treasure hunt!
What Makes Buford Highway Special
Located along Georgia State Route 13, Buford Highway stretches from Atlanta through Chamblee, Doraville, and up to Duluth. This multicultural corridor has been recognized by Southern Living as one of the South’s most important food destinations, featuring cuisines from over 20 countries including Vietnam, Korea, China, Mexico, Thailand, and the Philippines.
The Ultimate Buford Highway Food Crawl: 20 Must-Try Restaurants
Vietnamese Vibes
1. Nam Phuong (4051 Buford Hwy NE)
Start your journey at this Michelin-recommended Vietnamese spot that’s been wowing locals for years. Their crispy wings with sweet chile glaze are legendary, but don’t sleep on the pho or shaking beef. Pro tip: It’s BYOB, so grab your favorite bottle of wine and settle in for a feast!
2. Quoc Huong Banh Mi Fast Food (Asian Square, 5150 Buford Hwy NE)
Want the best banh mi in metro Atlanta for around $4? This is your spot. The French bread is baked fresh daily, and the fillings are perfection. Just remember: cash only! But honestly, at these prices, you’ll want to order three.
Chinese Cuisine Central
3. Northern China Eatery (5141 Buford Hwy NE)
Dumpling lovers, this is your happy place. Watch the magic happen as chefs craft soup dumplings and pork & chive steamed dumplings right before your eyes. The cumin lamb and Chinese crepes with crullers are also absolute must-orders.
4. La Mei Zi (Asian Square, 5150 Buford Hwy NE)
Craving Taiwanese comfort food? Their three cups chicken and dan dan noodles will transport you straight to Taipei. The spicy seafood noodle soup is perfect for chilly Atlanta evenings (yes, we have those!).
5. LanZhou Ramen (Pinetree Plaza, 5231 Buford Hwy NE)
There’s something mesmerizing about watching hand-pulled noodles being made fresh. This Michelin-recommended spot serves up incredible oxtail and duck noodle soups that’ll warm your soul.
6. Best BBQ (City Farmers Market, 5000 Buford Hwy NE)
Dim sum dreams come true! Load up on shumai, har gow, chicken feet (don’t knock it ’til you try it!), and turnip cakes. Weekend mornings here are a vibe.
7. Masterpiece (3940 Buford Hwy, Duluth)
Chef Rui Liu brings authentic Sichuan heat to Atlanta. The Chongqing-style noodles, tea-smoked duck, and mapo tofu will make you understand why Sichuan cuisine is having a moment.
Thai Time
8. Tum Pok Pok (5000 Buford Highway NE)
Get ready for Isan-style Northeastern Thai street food that packs serious flavor. Their papaya salads, larbs, Isan sour sausages, and grilled meats are the real deal—spicy, tangy, and absolutely addictive.
Taiwanese Treats
9. Java Saga (5145 Buford Highway NE)
The Taiwanese hot chicken sandwich here (called “ABC”) is MASSIVE and Instagram-worthy. But don’t miss the Taiwanese chicken nuggets, Lou Ro Fan, or Dan Bing breakfast crepes. Breakfast lovers, this is your new weekend spot!
Filipino Flavors
10. Kamayan ATL (Asian Square, 5150 Buford Hwy NE)
Ready for a feast? This Michelin-recommended spot serves elaborate kamayan feasts meant to be eaten with your hands (yes, really!). The bistek silog and lechon sisig are incredible, but everyone raves about those famous fried green beans. Learn more about kamayan dining traditions and why this communal eating style is gaining popularity.
Korean Classics
11. Yet Tuh (3042 Oakcliff Road)
Home-style Korean cooking at its finest. The comforting tofu soup and world-class haemul-pajeon (seafood pancake) will make you feel like you’re eating at a Korean grandmother’s house—in the best way possible.
12. Woo Nam Jeong Stone Bowl (5953 Buford Highway)
Traditional bibimbap served sizzling in stone bowls is the star here, but the exceptional banchan (those amazing little side dishes) might steal the show. Come hungry!
Mexican Magic
13. Supermercado Chicago Taqueria (5263 Buford Highway)
Hidden in the back of a market (told you it was a treasure hunt!), this gem serves authentic tacos, tamales, quesadillas, and house-made chorizo that’ll make you forget Taco Tuesday exists—because every day should be taco day here.
14. Sinaloense Pollo Asados (5303 Buford Highway NE)
Sinaloan-style char-grilled chicken with incredible green salsa, fresh tortillas, beans, and rice. Simple, perfect, and absolutely delicious.
15. El Rey Del Taco (5288 Buford Highway)
“The King of the Taco” stays open late for all your post-everything cravings. Carne asada, al pastor, lengua, huitlacoche—they’ve got it all. And those margaritas? Strong enough to make you forget your ex’s name.
More Global Goodness
16. Food Terminal (5000 Buford Hwy NE)
This international food court vibe gives you options on options. Multiple vendors mean you can try a little bit of everything—perfect for indecisive eaters (we see you!).
17. Havana Sandwich Shop (2905 Buford Hwy NE)
Cuban sandwiches that’ll make you want to book a flight to Havana. Spoiler: You won’t need to, because these are the real deal.
18. Machu Picchu Restaurant (2863 Buford Hwy NE)
Peruvian cuisine bringing those Andean flavors to Atlanta. Ceviche, lomo saltado, and all the classics you crave.
19. La Guelaguetza
Oaxacan Mexican cuisine with traditional moles and regional specialties you won’t find at your average Mexican restaurant. This is next-level stuff.
20. 90 Kabob
Middle Eastern and Persian grilled kebabs and rice dishes that are perfectly seasoned and absolutely satisfying.
Best International Markets on Buford Highway
Don’t just eat—explore! The corridor features incredible international markets where you can find exotic ingredients:
- Buford Highway Farmers Market – One of the largest international markets in the Southeast
- Asian Square – Multiple restaurants and Asian grocery options
- Plaza Fiesta – Latin American market and cultural hub
- Nam Dae Mun Farmers Market – Korean grocery paradise
Insider Tips for Your Buford Highway Food Adventure
Bring Cash: Many of these spots are cash-only. Hit up an ATM before you go!
Go on Weekends: That’s when you’ll find the best specials and the most authentic crowds.
Late Night Korean: Many Korean spots stay open late—perfect for those midnight kimchi cravings.
Explore the Markets: Check out Buford Highway Farmers Market and other international markets for exotic fruits, spices, and ingredients you can’t find anywhere else.
Span the Corridor: Remember, Buford Highway stretches from Atlanta through Chamblee, Doraville, and up to Duluth. Each section has its own flavor!
Michelin Knows What’s Up: Several of these restaurants are Michelin-recommended, which is basically a fancy way of saying “really freaking good.”
Public Transportation: MARTA bus routes serve parts of Buford Highway, making it accessible without a car.
Food Tours: Consider joining a Buford Highway food tour to learn the history and stories behind these incredible restaurants.
The History and Cultural Significance of Buford Highway
Buford Highway’s transformation into an international food corridor began in the 1970s and accelerated through the 1990s as immigrant communities from Asia, Latin America, and other regions established businesses along the corridor. According to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, this area represents one of the most successful examples of immigrant entrepreneurship in the American South.
The corridor has been featured in national publications including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and The New York Times as a must-visit food destination.
Best Times to Visit Buford Highway Restaurants
- Breakfast/Brunch: 9 AM – 11 AM (try Java Saga or Best BBQ for dim sum)
- Lunch: 11:30 AM – 2 PM (beat the dinner crowds)
- Dinner: 6 PM – 9 PM (prime time, expect waits at popular spots)
- Late Night: After 10 PM (Korean restaurants and some Mexican spots)
Nearby Attractions and Things to Do
While you’re exploring Buford Highway, check out these nearby Atlanta attractions:
- Chamblee Historic District – Charming downtown area with shops and cafes
- Doraville MARTA Station – Easy access to downtown Atlanta
- Brook Run Park – Beautiful green space in Dunwoody
- Discover DeKalb Visitors Center – Learn about the area’s history
Why We Love Buford Highway
In a city that’s constantly changing, Buford Highway remains authentically, unapologetically itself. It’s where immigrant communities have built culinary empires in strip malls, where $5 can buy you the best meal of your life, and where you can literally eat your way around the world in a single afternoon.
This isn’t just one of Atlanta’s best food destinations—it’s one of the most diverse and authentic international food corridors in the entire Southeast. Whether you’re an adventurous eater ready to try chicken feet dim sum or you just want really good tacos, Buford Highway has something for everyone.
According to Visit Atlanta, Buford Highway attracts food enthusiasts from across the country who want to experience authentic international cuisine without leaving Georgia.
Plan Your Buford Highway Food Tour
Getting There: Buford Highway is easily accessible from I-85 and I-285. Most restaurants have parking lots, though they can fill up during peak hours.
Budget: Plan $10-25 per person for most meals. Some upscale spots may be $30-40 per person.
Time: Allow 2-3 hours for a leisurely meal and market exploration, or plan a full day to hit multiple spots.
What to Wear: Casual! This is strip mall dining at its finest—comfort is key.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buford Highway
Is Buford Highway safe? Yes! Like any urban area, use common sense, but the corridor is generally safe and welcoming, especially during daylight hours and evening dining times.
Do I need to speak other languages? Not at all! While staff may speak various languages, most restaurants have English menus or picture menus, and staff are accommodating to English speakers.
Are there vegetarian options? Absolutely! Many Asian restaurants offer extensive vegetarian menus, and Mexican spots have plenty of veggie options.
Can I bring kids? Yes! Most restaurants are family-friendly and casual.
Start Your Buford Highway Adventure Today
So grab your appetite, your cash, and your sense of adventure. Your taste buds are about to go on the trip of a lifetime—no passport required! 🌎🍜🌮
Ready to explore more of Atlanta’s amazing neighborhoods and food scenes? Check out our guides to Ponce City Market, Krog Street Market, and the Atlanta BeltLine restaurants to discover what makes Atlanta one of the most exciting food cities in the South!
Related Articles You’ll Love:
- Best Walkable Neighborhoods in Atlanta
- Atlanta Food Scene Guide: Best Restaurants by Neighborhood
- Things to Do Near Georgia Aquarium: A Neighborhood Guide
- Virginia Highland vs Inman Park: Which Atlanta Neighborhood is Right for You?
