Buford Highway, Atlanta

Overview

Havana Sandwich Shop, the Cuban restaurant opened by Benedit family in 1976, was arguably the first international restaurant on Buford Highway, the now seven-lane stretch of suburban road that runs north out of Atlanta. Other immigrants from across the world followed. By the later years of the 20th century, Buford Highway became the preferred on ramp for immigrants to the South who want to start and grow businesses. Today restaurants like Kamayan, a Filipino spot in Asian Plaza owned by Mia “Amormia” Orino and Carolo Gan, and Gula, a family-owned Indonesia sweet café across the street in Pinetree Plaza, showcase the results of their belief in what American has long promised.