Best eats and hidden gems: Your city guide to Snellville

Located northeast of Atlanta in Gwinnett, the city of Snellville has come a long way from its humble beginnings. Sitting at the crossroads of US-78 and Georgia 124, Snellville started as a mercantile spot and remains a great place to visit and live today.

Georgia may have been named for Britain’s King George, but that’s not the state’s only connection to the UK. Back in 1884, two London friends journeyed to America and eventually settled in rural Georgia. One of those friends, Thomas Snell found his way to Gwinnett County and settled in former Creek lands under the supposed banner of New London. Snell and James Sawyer built up a general store and established Snellville on the map, and soon the town bared his name as people traveled there from as far as Atlanta and Athens.

Though Snell died relatively young and his business partnership dissolved, his legend lived on. The town was officially incorporated in 1923 and after World War II, Snellville transitioned from an agricultural town to a residential destination, with hospitals and parks, among other amenities. By last year, a new Towne Center complex was developed as a central residential and shopping district and the city’s population continues to grow. You can never stray too far from your roots.

What can I do for fun in Snellville?

Get fluffy at the Creekwater Alpaca Farm. Home to adorable alpacas for over two decades, the Creekwater farm is the perfect getaway for kids and adults to interact with all sorts of fluffy creatures. Currently, educational tours are available by appointment only.

Relax and take a load off at Saltville Grotto and Spa. In these crazy times, sometimes you need a day to escape from the world. Relax in Saltville’s salt caves, like indoor Zen beaches for your senses. Recline in a quiet den amongst a bed of Pink Himalayan salt and let peace wash over you. They also have classic massages, saunas, and float therapy chambers.

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Snellville?

Cuckoo’s Cafe

You’d have to be cuckoo not to fall in love with this adorable café! Whether you’re just popping in for a sip of their boba tea or sitting down for a quick bite and a work session, Cuckoo Café has you covered. The drinks will draw you in with their many colorful flavors but don’t skip out on the snacks: crunchy Taiwanese chicken bites, sugar-drizzled donuts, and bento boxes with noodles or chicken if you need a full meal. Settle into a booth or relax on a colorful couch and enjoy!

Location: 1987 Scenic Highway N, Suite 101; Website: cuckooscafesnellville.com; Hours: Every day, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Provino’s Italian Restaurant

Nothing says “date night” like a classic Italian dinner with pasta and wine, and Provino’s is a great place to take that special someone. Their garlic rolls — served with every pasta dish and entrée — are dripping with flavor and as comforting as the classic decor. The pasta is perfectly cooked and loaded with sauce and veggies. Gluten-free? Fear not, there are several options here for you. If you still have room, cap off the night with a creamy cannoli or tiramisu.

Location: 2250 E. Main Street; Website: provinos.com; Hours: Monday through Saturday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

EscovitcheZ

Get a taste of the Caribbean at this classy diner. Dine in for the ambiance or relax on the covered patio, grab a drink, and be transported to an island of flavor. Enjoy the cross-cultural jerk chicken nachos, the flavorful jerk mac and cheese, and a fresh salad to start. Then dig into the entrees with oxtail, curried goat and chicken, fresh fish, or penne pasta topped with your choice of meat. Brunch diners get to enjoy their pina colada French toast that puts a tropical twist on a classic dish.

Location: 1350 Scenic Highway S, Suite 804; Website: escovitchez.com; Hours: Monday through Friday, 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, noon to 9 p.m.

Roll It Up Ice Cream

Rolled ice cream was a hot trend a few years ago, and this cool ice cream shop is keeping it rolling. Rocky Road is so last century. Instead, watch as your colorful combinations get crafted right in front of you and rolled into thin towers of cream and topped with sweet treats. Each order is themed around a flavor base like chocolate, matcha or taro and toppings such as Oreos and fresh fruit.

Location: 1864 Scenic Hwy North; Website: rollitupicecream.com; Hours: Sunday through Thursday, noon to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, noon to 11 p.m.