Hey neighbor!

Happy Wednesday! Whether you're looking for a spontaneous outing today or planning ahead for the weekend, I've got you covered.

Today's edition includes two restaurant suggestions you can book last-minute, events coming up this week, a local coffee shop in Gwinnett, a Gwinnett business spotlight, a hidden resource from one of our cities, plus one family-friendly event for the week.

Let's dive in.

📍 95 Main St NW, Lilburn
⏰ Tue-Sun 7am-7pm | Closed Monday
📞 470-365-2167

Right in the heart of Historic Downtown Lilburn, Haven Bodega brings New York-style deli vibes to Gwinnett. This isn't your average coffee shop—it's a cozy market and café rolled into one. Think crafted deli sandwiches (the Cajun turkey and Garam Masala chicken salad get rave reviews), aromatic espresso from Cool Beans Coffee Roasters, fresh bread, wine, and unique grab-and-go items.

The artistic atmosphere and welcoming vibe make it perfect for a quick lunch, a slow morning coffee, or picking up essentials with character. Locals call it "more than a place—it's an experience."

Pro tip: Try the Cajun turkey sandwich on focaccia—it's a crowd favorite.

👉 havenbodega.com

📍 2491 Second Ave, Dacula (Historic Downtown)
⏰ Wed-Sat 5pm-9pm | Closed Sun-Tue
📞 470-403-4026

Looking for something unique? This French creperie just opened in downtown Dacula, brought to you by Yannick and Viviane Fonfrede—a husband and wife team straight from Western Northern France. While their Braselton location is known for brunch, the Dacula spot is all about dinner.

Expect authentic French galettes (savory buckwheat crepes) with heartier options like salmon, beef, and seafood, plus sweet crepes for dessert. The historic building, full bar with French wines and cocktails, and intimate 80-seat space make it feel like a true escape. Gluten-free? They've got you covered with a dedicated crepe maker.

Pro tip: Save room for the lemon citrus dessert crepe—it's worth it.

👉 thegallopinggalette.com

Today, January 14 at 10:30am (Toddler Time) and 11:30am (Preschool Storytime)

Engaging stories, songs, and activities for little ones at branches like Dacula and Mountain Park. Free and perfect for early learning fun.

📍 Check gwinnettpl.org for locations
👉 gwinnettpl.org/events

Monday, January 19 at 11am

Join the community for this inspiring parade honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with floats, bands, and local groups. A great way to celebrate the holiday.

📍 Downtown Lawrenceville
👉 exploregwinnett.org/event/2026-annual-mlk-day-parade

Need a cozy spot to unwind? Boulder Creek is a local favorite roasting their own beans for fresh pours, lattes, and cold brews. Their menu includes pastries, sandwiches, and seasonal drinks in a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere with plenty of seating for work or chats.

📍 233 E Crogan St, Lawrenceville
⏰ Mon-Fri 7am-6pm | Sat 8am-6pm | Sun 9am-5pm
📞 678-765-6789

Pro tip: Grab a bag of their house-roasted beans to take home.

👉 bouldercreekcoffee.com

Got a to-do list that keeps growing? Meet Blake Taylor, the owner of Gwinnett Handyman Installations—a local handyman service launched right here in Gwinnett in 2024.

Blake's story is one of passion meeting purpose. After eight years in the insurance industry, he turned his love for carpentry into a full-time career. His resume includes building custom sea skiffs on the Gulf Coast and working with one of Atlanta's top architectural design/build firms on high-end residential projects.

Now he's bringing that same attention to detail to homeowners across Gwinnett and Metro Atlanta.

What they offer:

Blake lives in Lilburn with his wife Claire and daughter Margot—so when you hire GwinnHI, you're supporting a neighbor.

📍 Lilburn, GA
⏰ Mon-Fri 8am-5pm
📞 850-339-9060

👉 gwinnhi.com

Did you know Gwinnett County offers free book exchanges through the G.R.E.A.T. Minds program? Pick up or drop off books at little free libraries around the county—no card needed. It's a fantastic way to encourage reading for all ages, with spots in parks and community centers.

Locations include: Bethesda Park, Bogan Park, and more.
Hours: Open daily during park hours
Cost: FREE for everyone

To find a spot, use the interactive map.

📍 Various parks in Gwinnett
👉 gwinnettcounty.com/great-minds-book-exchange

Saturday, January 18 — FREE, must register

Kick off Valentine's prep with this creative craft session! Families can make decorated boxes and heartfelt letters—ideal for kids and parents to bond over. Supplies provided.

📍 733 Pleasant Hill Rd, Lilburn
👉 Check Plaza Las Americas Facebook for registration details

Take a quick walk in a local park and pick up one piece of litter—it keeps Gwinnett beautiful and feels good!

It takes 30 seconds. It might inspire others.

Have a great week, neighbor.

— Gus Ruballo
Your neighbor at Gwinnett Best

Know someone who lives in Gwinnett? Forward this email to them — they'll thank you.