BROOKHAVEN, GEORGIA—JUNE 2025—Recently, Explore Brookhaven rolled out the red carpet for a select group of lifestyle influencers, food bloggers and media professionals on a tour of the city’s thriving dining scene. And if these culinary hotspots were good enough to wine and dine influencers, you can bet they’re worth a visit for food lovers and locals alike. From Caribbean flavors to French classics, Brookhaven has no shortage of dining experiences that deserve a spot on your must-try list.
“The writers loved the tour,” said Renée Areng, President/CEO of Explore Brookhaven. “Not only did they enjoy the time spent with passionate restaurant owners, but the common thread that ran through so many of their stories was that these owners left corporate life behind to follow their culinary dreams. The stories behind these restaurants are inspiring, and the food is even more so.”
Influencers and media outlets had the chance to sample incredible dishes at places like Azucar Cuban Cuisine (2142 Johnson Ferry Road Northeast), The Ashford (1418 Dresden Drive Northeast, Suite 170), Kategna Ethiopian Cuisine (2857 Buford Hwy Northeast), Sucré (3930 Peachtree Road Northeast, Suite 101), and Henri’s Bakery & Deli (2163 Johnson Ferry Road Northeast). Jerks Caribbean Grill (705 Town Boulevard Northeast, Suite R415), with its family-run vibe, stood out, with Chef Rob—trained at the prestigious Culinary Institute and former chef at Justin’s—leading the kitchen alongside his son. Their passion for food and family was clear, and the flavors? Simply unforgettable.
Another crowd favorite was Petite Violette (2948 Clairmont Road Northeast), a Brookhaven institution for over 50 years. In addition to its renowned French menu, the restaurant hosts a variety of events like murder mystery dinner theatre and opera nights, proving it’s not just a meal—it’s an experience.
Guests also enjoyed the warm hospitality at Brookhaven Wines (1418 Dresden Drive Northeast, Suite 140), where expert-led tastings introduced influencers to some of the finest local selections. The cozy space and weekly free tastings are a must for wine lovers.
Beyond food, the tour highlighted the rich history of the community. Lynwood Park (3360 Osborne Road Northeast), a stop on the tour, introduced attendees to Gary McDaniel and Cassandra Bryant, who shared their powerful stories of leadership and community-building in the African American community.
“Brookhaven is a food lover’s dream, and it’s about more than just great meals,” said Areng. “It’s about the people who’ve built these incredible culinary spaces from the ground up. These restaurants are a testament to Brookhaven’s vibrant culture—and if they’re good enough for top influencers and media, they’re definitely worth experiencing for yourself.”
So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, don’t miss out on the deliciousness that earned the approval of influencers and food critics alike. Treat yourself to a dining experience in Brookhaven that you won’t soon forget. To explore more of what Brookhaven has to offer, visit ExploreBrookhaven.com.