Hey neighbor!
Happy New Year! 🎉
We made it. 2026 is officially here — and I don't know about you, but I'm ready to make this year count.
Whether you're easing back into routine or looking to squeeze every last drop out of winter break, I've got a few ideas to kick off your first weekend of the year.
☕ 2 LOCAL COFFEE SHOPS TO TRY
No chains. Just neighbors serving neighbors.
1. 45 South Cafe (Norcross) 📍 45 S Peachtree St, Norcross Tucked in the heart of historic downtown Norcross, this cozy cafe feels like stepping into a friend's living room — brick walls, big windows, and a back patio perfect for quiet mornings. They serve locally roasted coffee, fresh-made quiche, bagels, and pastries. Try their honey lavender latte. Live music some evenings too. Open daily 8am–4pm
2. Refuge Coffee Co. (Clarkston + Norcross) 📍 4170 E Ponce de Leon Ave, Clarkston (original) or 127 S Peachtree St, Norcross This nonprofit coffee shop uses great coffee as a platform to train and employ resettled refugees. Drinks are served from their iconic red coffee trucks, and the vibe is warm, welcoming, and full of purpose. Every cup makes a difference. Clarkston: Mon–Sat 7am–5pm | Norcross: Tue–Fri 7:30am–3pm, Sat–Sun 8:30am–5pm
💕 2 DATE NIGHT OPTIONS
Because you deserve a night out.
1. Frankie's The Steakhouse (Duluth) 📍 6500 Sugarloaf Pkwy, 3rd Floor, Duluth Manhattan-style steakhouse vibes right here in Gwinnett. USDA Prime steaks, Italian-inspired dishes, exceptional service, and a dress code that makes it feel like an event. Perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, or just because. Reservations highly recommended. Open Mon–Sun starting at 5pm
2. Good Word Brewing & Public House (Duluth) 📍 3086 State Hwy 120, Duluth If your ideal date night includes craft beer, delicious food, and a laid-back atmosphere — this is your spot. In-house brewed beers, a stellar burger, and a family-owned feel. Grab a seat on the patio if the weather cooperates. Check hours — typically open for dinner Tue–Sun
👨👩👧👦 2 FAMILY EVENTS THIS WEEKEND
1. Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary (Lilburn) 📍 4525 US Highway 78, Lilburn Start 2026 with some animal adventures! Meet otters, bears, wolves, bison, lemurs, and farm animals. Kids can feed deer and goats with $6 feed cups. The 25-acre sanctuary is perfect for a 2-hour family outing — shaded trails, petting areas, and peacocks roaming free. Open Sat–Sun 10am–5pm | Adults $22, Kids (3–12) $15
2. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament (Lawrenceville) 📍 5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Lawrenceville (inside Sugarloaf Mills) Treat the family to an unforgettable dinner experience — jousting knights, sword fights, falconry, and a four-course feast you eat with your hands. The new show is action-packed, and kids absolutely love cheering for their knight. Arrive early to explore the castle. Show times vary — book online | Adults ~$75, Kids ~$47
💬 YOUR TURN — I'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU
I'm curious...
What's ONE thing you're hoping to do more of in 2026?
Hit reply and let me know — I read every single response. (And your answers might just inspire a future email!)
Here's to a great first weekend of 2026, neighbor.
— Gus Your neighbor at Gwinnett Best
Know someone who'd love this newsletter? Forward it their way — or have them sign up at [link].
Quick note: Enjoying these emails? Reply and let me know what you want to see more of — restaurant guides, hidden gems, family fun, or something else. This newsletter is for YOU.