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Good morning, Forsyth County.
Last week, I asked you to name the local restaurant you keep returning to and what someone should order when they get there. Numerous emails came back with recommendations covering ten different restaurants. This was not a formal vote or a scientific ranking. It was something more useful: a neighbor-to-neighbor list of places Forsyth Flyer readers actually visit again and again. Here is what you recommended:
Quanto Basta Italian Bistro was praised its consistent food and service, neighborhood atmosphere, and welcoming bar. Suggested orders included the lamb chop lollipops, roasted artichokes, sea bass, and bone-in veal chop. The bourbon and wine selection also received a mention.
Provino’s earned a particularly long-term endorsement for the Cannelloni Genovese. One reader said it has been the unavoidable order for roughly 20 years.
Casa Nuova, the recommendation was the rollatini special. Depending on the evening, it may be prepared with chicken, veal, or pork.
Marie’s Italian Deli made the list for Mike’s Mighty Meaty pizza, topped with pepperoni, house-made meatballs, sausage, smoked ham, and mozzarella.
Los Rios on Highway 9 was recommended for the fajitas.
One reader said they visit Balsas Mexican Restaurant two or three times a month. The food received a strong endorsement, but the margaritas received an even more enthusiastic one.
Beto’s Tacos was the vegetarian pick, with a recommendation for the vegetable enchiladas and salsa bar. The reader usually visits the Johns Creek restaurant but noted that Beto’s also has a Cumming location.
Tam’s Backstage, readers suggested two different orders: Brian’s Chicken, topped with caprino cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and lemon butter sauce, or the calamari appetizer.
Reveille Café on Matt Highway was submitted without a particular dish attached. Sometimes naming the restaurant alone may be its own kind of endorsement.
Good Ol’ Days Bar & Grill, the recommendation was simple: just about everything on the menu.
So there it is: ten restaurants and plenty of ideas for the next time someone asks, “Where should we eat?” Thanks to everyone who replied!
- Chad
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THE DIGEST
Cumming Delays Decision on Sanders Road Development
Cumming City Council postponed a decision on a proposed mixed-use development between Sanders Road and Market Place Boulevard following a public hearing Tuesday, July 21. Shree Real Estate Developers is seeking approval to build an age-restricted neighborhood with 89 homes for residents 55 and older. Plans also include a 32,221-square-foot retail center and a 2,000-square-foot restaurant. Some nearby residents supported the proposal for its new housing, shopping, and dining options. Others raised concerns about tree removal, wildlife, noise, property values, and activity near neighboring homes. The property was previously approved for a 190-unit senior living facility and could also support more intensive office development under its existing zoning. Council members delayed both rezoning applications for two weeks to give the developer and residents time to discuss possible changes. The proposal will return at the August 4 work session.
Mae’s Cafe Preparing to Open in North Forsyth
A new locally owned breakfast and lunch spot is getting closer to opening near the intersection of Jot Em Down and Keith Bridge roads. Mae’s Cafe plans to welcome customers between mid-August and early September at 7650 Jot Em Down Road. The restaurant will serve Southern-inspired dishes, specialty coffee, and updated takes on familiar favorites, including fried chicken Benedict and homemade buttermilk biscuits. The cafe is being built inside a former general store believed to date back to the 1940s. Renovations will preserve the original interior brick while incorporating historic photographs and decorations connected to the building’s past. Mae’s will offer dine-in and takeout service seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.
FAPA Brings “Something Rotten!” to the Stage
Forsyth Academy of Performing Arts will open its summer production of “Something Rotten!” on Thursday, July 23, with performances continuing through Sunday, August 2. The Tony Award-winning musical comedy follows a struggling playwright in 16th-century England as he tries to compete with the overwhelming popularity of William Shakespeare. The show blends historical parody, musical numbers, dancing, and plenty of wordplay. It is rated PG-13 for language. More than 40 local adult actors and crew members are involved in the production, which is part of FAPA’s annual community theater program. A portion of ticket sales will benefit the Forsyth Community Clinic for the fourth consecutive year. Performances will be held at 520 Industrial Way. Tickets cost $30 for adults and $26 for students and seniors. Showtimes and tickets are available at forsythapa.com.
Ole Man - Male - 8 years old
Adoptable at FCSO Pet Adoption & Resource Center (PARC)
WHAT’S HAPPENIN’
Thursday
Tellus on the GO!
When: Thursday, July 23, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
What: Tellus Science Museum is visiting the Cumming Library for an interactive dinosaur program. Families will learn what makes an animal a dinosaur while examining fossils, participating in a dig activity and exploring the prehistoric world through hands-on demonstrations. Free event passes will be distributed beginning 30 minutes before the program.
Where: Cumming Library, 585 Dahlonega Street, Cumming, GA 30040
BPRC Cumming Run Group
When: Thursday, July 23, 7:00 PM
What: Big Peach Running Co. is hosting its weekly community run at Crooked Culture Brewing in Cumming City Center. Runners and walkers of all experience levels are welcome, with participants able to choose their own pace and distance. The group offers a casual way to get some exercise, meet other local runners and finish the evening at the brewery.
Where: Crooked Culture Brewing, 421 Vision Drive, Cumming, GA 30040
Twilight Tales
When: Thursday, July 23, 6:30 PM – 7:15 PM
What: Families can wind down the evening with stories, music and a puppet show presented in the library’s meeting room. The program is open to children and family members of all ages.
Where: Cumming Library, 585 Dahlonega Street, Cumming, GA 30040
Friday
Die Laughing Comedy at NoFo Brew Co.
When: Friday, July 24, at 6:30 PM and 9:00 PM
What: Die Laughing Comedy is bringing an evening of professional stand-up to NoFo Brew Co., featuring touring comedians and local favorites. Guests can enjoy craft beer and a comedy-club atmosphere inside the brewery. Two showtimes are available, and tickets are required. This event is for ages 21 and older.
Where: NoFo Brew Co., 6150 GA-400, Cumming, GA 30028
Friday Mood: Jazzercise Move & Groove on the Lawn
When: Friday, July 24, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM
What: Start Friday with a free outdoor Jazzercise session combining cardiovascular exercise and strength training. All fitness levels are welcome. Participants should bring water, an exercise mat and handheld weights, with weights between five and 10 pounds recommended. Check the organizer’s website or social media for weather-related changes.
Where: Cumming City Center, 423 Canton Road, Cumming, GA 30040
The Georgia Art Company Grand Opening
When: Friday, July 24, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
What: The Georgia Art Company is opening its new paint-your-own pottery studio. Visitors can choose a pottery piece, select their colors and create a personalized design before leaving it with the studio to be glazed and fired. No previous painting experience is necessary, and walk-ins are welcome. Finished pieces are generally ready for pickup in about a week.
Where: The Georgia Art Company, 2080 Ronald Reagan Boulevard, Suite 600, Cumming, GA 30041
Summer Fridays in Forsyth
When: Friday, July 24, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
What: The Collection at Forsyth is hosting an evening of live music and outdoor gathering on The Green. Participating restaurants will offer to-go cocktails and drink specials that visitors can enjoy while walking through the shopping district or listening to the music. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating.
Where: The Collection at Forsyth, 410 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming, GA 30041
Brotherhood: A Doobie Brothers Tribute Band
When: Friday, July 24, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
What: Brotherhood will perform the rock, soul and blues-influenced music made famous by The Doobie Brothers during a free outdoor concert. Admission and parking are free. Visitors may bring lawn chairs or blankets, but outside food, drinks, alcohol, coolers, cans and glass bottles are prohibited. Leashed dogs are welcome.
Where: Lou Sobh Amphitheater at Cumming City Center, 423 Canton Road, Cumming, GA 30040
Saturday
Cumming Farmers Market
When: Saturday, July 25, 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
What: Shop for farm-fresh produce, locally raised meats, eggs, honey, homemade breads, desserts, jams, plants and handmade arts and crafts. The market will be set up in the Vision Parkway parking lot, with parking available in the same lot and along Vision Parkway.
Where: Cumming City Center, 423 Canton Road, Cumming, GA 30040
Forsyth History Documentary: Celebrating America 250
When: Saturday, July 25, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
What: The Cumming Library is hosting a screening of a Forsyth County history documentary as part of its programming commemorating America’s 250th anniversary. The presentation offers residents an opportunity to learn more about the people, places and events that shaped the local community.
Where: Cumming Library, 585 Dahlonega Street, Cumming, GA 30040
Double Take at the Lou Sobh Amphitheater
When: Saturday, July 25, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
What: Double Take will perform a high-energy mix of rock, pop, dance and party songs from the 1980s. Admission and parking are free. Visitors may bring lawn chairs or blankets, but outside food, drinks, alcohol, coolers, cans, glass bottles and tents are prohibited. Leashed dogs are welcome.
Where: Lou Sobh Amphitheater at Cumming City Center, 423 Canton Road, Cumming, GA 30040
Sunday
Atlanta Vibes Kids Market
When: Sunday, July 26, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
What: Young entrepreneurs and creators will operate more than 50 market stalls showcasing products, crafts and other items they have developed. More than 100 young participants are expected, giving families an opportunity to shop while supporting children who are learning about creativity and entrepreneurship.
Where: Fowler Park, 4110 Carolene Way, Cumming, GA 30040
Slide Into Sundays with Jump N Jacks
When: Sunday, July 26, 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
What: Cumming City Center and Jump N Jacks Moonwalks are turning the lawn into an afternoon of bounce houses, water slides and games. Admission is $10 per child. Families should bring clothing and supplies appropriate for outdoor water activities.
Where: Cumming City Center, 423 Canton Road, Cumming, GA 30040
WEATHER
Thursday
87° 🌡️ 71° | ⛈️ | 60% | 💨 5–10 mph W
Friday
84° 🌡️ 71° | ⛈️ | 90% | 💨 5 mph E
Saturday
85° 🌡️ 71° | ⛈️ | 80% | 💨 5 mph variable
Sunday
89° 🌡️ 72° | 🌦️ | 20% | 💨 5 mph SW
💧🌡️ Water temperature = 78ºF
Temperature readings taken from Lake Sidney Lanier the night before publication
THANKS!
Thanks for reading today’s Forsyth Flyer.
And thank you to everyone who shared a favorite local restaurant. Your replies helped turn a simple question into a useful list of places and dishes for readers across Forsyth County to try.
Keep the recommendations coming! This publication is better when readers help point out the businesses, events, and local stories worth knowing about.
If someone comes to mind who would enjoy the Flyer, forward this issue their way. You can also reply anytime with an event, news tip, or something happening around town that deserves more attention. I personally read every message.
Local businesses interested in reaching Forsyth County readers can reply here or email [email protected].
Have an amazing weekend!