Hidden gem of cultural flavors near Atlanta: Your city guide to Clarkston

Just outside the Perimeter on the east side of metro Atlanta lies a haven for good food, good neighbors and a unique blend of cultures. This tiny town is only a few square miles wide, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in the density of its offerings.

Like many suburbs of Atlanta, Clarkston started as a bustling railroad town. It was one of many towns built between hubs like Atlanta and Athens, incorporated and renamed in honor of railroad official W.W. Clark in 1882. While it remained a sleepy town for nearly a century, increasing immigration across America would soon reshape Clarkston’s legacy.

Starting with refugees from the Vietnam War in the mid-1970s, Clarkston became an ideal place to relocate thanks to its affordability and proximity to Atlanta, with its many transportation links. Refugees from various global conflicts arrived in the 1990s from Eastern Europe and Africa, and the foreign-born population grew to nearly 20% by the time of the 1996 Olympic Games. The diversity continued into the 21st century, and today Clarkston is one of the most diverse square miles in the state of Georgia. More than sixty languages can be heard across its boundaries, and the community has stepped up to welcome new residents with open arms.

Where are the best places to eat and drink around Clarkston?

Refuge Coffee Co.

If anything has broken outside of the confines of Clarkston, it’s this coffee shop with a mission. Still partially running out of a truck on location at their flagship cafe, Refuge Coffee isn’t just feeding the community hot cups of joe each morning. They are also providing job training for a resettled refugee or immigrant. Grab a cup of its house-blend coffee, soothing teas or a warm cider perfect for the winter months. You’ll be doing good for yourself and others.

Location: 4170 E Ponce de Leon Ave NE; Hours: Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Website: refugecoffeeco.com

Merhaba Shwarma

If you see a colorful shop along East Ponce or smell some inviting spices as you leave Refuge Coffee, it’s probably this much-loved Mediterranean restaurant. Owner Manna Samuel serves halal meats — from fresh gyro sandwiches to spit-fired shawarma platters — that you will soon love. Don’t forget to add a side of falafel or some flaky baklava for dessert.

Location: 4188 E Ponce de Leon Ave NE; Hours: Monday through Friday, noon to 7 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 6 p.m.; Website: yelp.com

DBA BBQ And Tacos

The beloved barbecue joint DBA has an outpost in Clarkston in an old fast-food restaurant. In addition to its slow-cooked meat plates, this DBA also features savory meats stuffed in a tortilla and topped with slaw and BBQ sauce. Whether you want tacos, a traditional pulled pork sandwich, or are hungry enough for a plate of ribs, DBA is here to serve. Wash it all down with a selection of beers and spirits. In a hurry? This location also has a drive-thru!

Location: 4540 E Ponce de Leon Ave NE; Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 9 p.m.; Website: dbatacos.com

Two Fish Myanmar Cuisine

Located in the new Clarkston Market development, what was once run from the owner’s home can now be enjoyed by all. The affordable dishes are packed with flavor, with unique dishes like a salad of veggies, crushed peanuts, and fermented tea leaves. Try the monhinga, a spicy fish soup that is the national dish of Myanmar, or one of the noodle dishes with chilis and ground meat. Soothe the spice with one of its colorful, cold dessert drinks made fresh.

Location: 980 Rowland Street, Suite 4130; Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Website: facebook.com

PS-Asian Restaurant

Don’t let the unassuming shopping center fool you, PS-Asian has been a community staple for years. The cozy diner within serves a warm and inviting mix of Burmese, Thai and Chinese dishes that will soothe your stomach and your soul no matter what kind of cuisine you’re looking for. From spicy basil meats to fried noodle dishes to traditional fish soup, PS-Asian has a wide array of authentic meals.

Location: 926 Montreal Road, Suite 6; Hours: Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Website: psasian.com