Our local businesses bring incredible flavors and experiences to our community and we love shining a light on them. This month, we’re highlighting Dai Nam Restaurant, a Vietnamese eatery just south of I-85 off Jimmy Carter Boulevard. Located in the same shopping center as Hong Kong Market, Dai Nam offers authentic, flavorful Vietnamese dishes in a welcoming, low-key atmosphere.

The Food
Dai Nam’s menu offers a wide variety of Vietnamese favorites, and we sampled several standout dishes:

• Gỏi cuốn (Spring Rolls): These rice paper wraps were filled with shrimp, vermicelli noodles and fresh herbs, and served with a rich peanut dipping sauce. Light, fresh and flavorful, they set the tone for our meal.
• Bánh Mì: This classic Vietnamese sandwich featured a crispy baguette filled with savory meats, pickled vegetables and fresh herbs. The perky mix of textures and flavors hit the mark.
• Phở: The broth was deeply flavorful, infused with warm spices and paired beautifully with tender slices of beef, fresh herbs and rice noodles. A squeeze of lime and a few jalapeños added brightness and heat.
• Cơm Tấm Đặc Biệt: A plate of broken rice topped with a grilled pork chop, a fried egg and pickled vegetables. The pork was perfectly seasoned and the egg added a delicious richness.
• Bánh Xèo: This crisp, golden crepe filled with pork, shrimp and bean sprouts stole the show. Served with fresh greens and tangy fish sauce for dipping, the contrast of textures and flavors made every bite exciting.

The Service
The service at Dai Nam was friendly and efficient. Our server was attentive, bringing out dishes promptly and ensuring we had everything we needed. The staff was happy to answer questions about the menu and provide their recommendations. Whether dining in or grabbing takeout, you can expect a smooth and welcoming experience.

The Location
Dai Nam is conveniently located near I-85 at 5495 Jimmy Carter Boulevard, Suite B21, making it an easy stop whether you’re a local or just passing through. If you’re heading south on Jimmy Carter from I-85, take a left on Live Oak Parkway and make the second left into the shopping center. Coming from the opposite direction? Turn right at Live Oak Parkway and enter through the same lot. There’s plenty of free parking, and despite its popularity, we had no trouble finding a spot during our visit.

The Ambiance
Dai Nam’s dining room is warm and inviting, blending modern and traditional Vietnamese touches. High ceilings and exposed ductwork give it an open feel, while soft lighting and decorative accents create a cozy vibe. The wooden tables and chairs are comfortable, and a large TV adds to the lively but relaxed atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for a casual, enjoyable meal.

Final Thoughts
Dai Nam Restaurant is a true hidden gem, delivering authentic Vietnamese flavors in a comfortable, low-key setting. Whether you’re craving a warm bowl of phở, a crispy bánh mì or the standout bánh xèo, there’s something for everyone. It’s conveniently located off Jimmy Carter Boulevard and their affordable prices make it a great spot for lunch or dinner. If you’re looking for delicious Vietnamese food in the Norcross area, Dai Nam is well worth a visit.

For more information, visit www.dainamrestaurant.com.

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By Nico Drake, Intern – Gateway85 CID

Our local businesses are the heart of our community, and we’re thrilled to spotlight Los Portales, a Mexican restaurant that combines exceptional food, warm service and a lively atmosphere. With its convenient location and surprise touches like a live mariachi band, Los Portales exceeded all expectations and deserves a spot on your must-visit list.

The Food

Los Portales’ menu offers a variety of traditional Mexican dishes, each crafted with care and packed with flavor. One standout was the Quesadilla Texana, stuffed to perfection with tender, well-seasoned fillings. Another highlight was the Filete a la Plancha, a grilled fish dish paired with a fresh salad, rice and crispy fries. The fish was flaky, tender and perfect.

Every dish was thoughtfully prepared, beautifully presented and made with high-quality ingredients. The generous portions ensured we left feeling satisfied, with leftovers to enjoy later.

The Service

Service at Los Portales was nothing short of excellent. From the warm welcome upon arrival to the attentive care throughout our dining experience, the staff went above and beyond to make us feel at home. Our server was friendly, efficient and ensured our drinks were refilled, and our meals arrived promptly. The combination of quick service and a comfortable atmosphere made for an enjoyable and stress-free experience.

The Location

Los Portales is located on the northbound side of Jimmy Carter Boulevard, just south of Buford Highway. If you’re coming from I-85, head northbound on Jimmy Carter Boulevard and turn right into the parking lot just before reaching Buford Highway. Approaching from Buford Highway? Simply pass the restaurant, make a U-turn at Regency Parkway under the powerlines and take a right into the lot. Parking is abundant and during our late lunch visit, finding a spot was quick and easy.

The Ambiance

Stepping into Los Portales feels like entering a mission-style hacienda, complete with adobe-inspired walls, warm tones and authentic Mexican décor. The spacious layout offers a perfect mix of cozy tables for intimate meals and larger areas for group gatherings. The highlight of our visit? A live mariachi band that added an energetic, festive vibe to the afternoon, making the dining experience truly memorable.

Final Thoughts

Los Portales is a standout destination for anyone craving authentic Mexican food in a vibrant and welcoming setting. The live mariachi band was the cherry on top of a fantastic visit, making it an ideal spot for everything from casual dinners to festive celebrations.

We can’t wait to return and explore more of their menu. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Los Portales is a must-visit for delicious food and a lively atmosphere.

Check out the Los Portales website here.

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This Month’s Spotlight: El Wey del Taco
In the heart of Gateway85 CID lies one of its most unexpected treasures—El Wey del Taco. Nestled inside a gas station convenience store on Jimmy Carter Boulevard, this 24-hour taco joint serves up some of the freshest and most flavorful Mexican fare you’ll find in the area. If you’re craving a casual yet satisfying meal, El Wey del Taco is a must-visit destination.

The Location:
El Wey del Taco is conveniently located just half a mile south of I-85 on Jimmy Carter Boulevard. Heading south, you’ll turn into the Amoco station just after Dawson Boulevard but before QuikTrip. Traveling north? A quick U-turn at Live Oak/Dawson Boulevard will get you there. While the gas station setting might seem unconventional, don’t let that deter you—what awaits inside is well worth the trip. There’s ample free parking and you’ll find the restaurant tucked inside the brightly lit convenience store.

The Interior:
The setup at El Wey del Taco is simple and straightforward. This is a no-frills spot designed for quick and delicious meals, with a counter for ordering and a handful of tables for dining in. The casual, laid-back vibe makes it a perfect spot to grab a bite, whether it’s for lunch, dinner or a late-night snack. The open kitchen lets you see your meal being prepared fresh to order, adding a sense of authenticity to the experience.

The Food:
Here’s where El Wey del Taco truly shines. We started our meal with their hearty soup—a comforting bowl of rich, flavorful broth brimming with tender meat and fresh vegetables. It’s the perfect warm-up before diving into their star dishes.

The tacos were next and they didn’t disappoint. The asada and chicken tacos were a standout, packed with juicy, well-seasoned meat and topped with fresh cilantro and onions. Each bite was a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making them a hit at our table.

The highlight of our meal, however, was the Asada Burrito. Generously stuffed with tender, perfectly cooked steak, the burrito was a flavorful and filling delight. Paired with their house-made green and red salsas, which strike just the right balance of heat and flavor, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

In addition to their tacos and burritos, El Wey del Taco offers an array of other options, including quesadillas, tortas, nachos and platillos. Every dish is crafted with fresh, quality ingredients and authentic flavors that truly shine through.

The Service:
Despite its casual setup, the service at El Wey del Taco was impressive. The staff was friendly, attentive and happy to guide us through the menu, offering recommendations and making sure we felt welcome. Our food came out quickly, and whether dining in or taking it to go, the process was seamless and efficient.

Final Thoughts:
El Wey de Taco is a hidden gem that offers authentic, no-nonsense Mexican food at its best. Perfect for a quick lunch, a late-night snack or dinner on the go, this spot delivers delicious food with a side of great service. Its convenient location just off Jimmy Carter Boulevard makes it a favorite for locals and commuters alike.

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit and can’t wait to return. If you’re a fan of bold, authentic flavors served in a casual setting, El Wey del Taco should be at the top of your list.

For more information, visit their website: https://www.elweydeltaco.com/.

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Gateway85 CID thrives thanks to the incredible local businesses that bring culture and character to our community. This month, we’re featuring Pollo Campero, a quick-service restaurant on Jimmy Carter Boulevard in Norcross. Our team recently enjoyed a delicious meal there and we’re excited to share our experience.

The Location:
Pollo Campero is conveniently located at Jimmy Carter Boulevard and Singleton Road, less than a mile from I-85 and Buford Highway, making it easily accessible. The restaurant offers plenty of free parking, even during busy lunch hours, and a drive-thru window for to-go orders—perfect for a quick bite or grabbing dinner on the way home.

The Interior:
The atmosphere inside Pollo Campero is casual, comfortable and welcoming. The modern, clean interior offers a bright and spacious dining area with seating for both groups and solo diners. It’s a relaxed spot ideal for families or anyone looking to enjoy flavorful food without fuss.

The Food:
We opted for the classic three-piece fried chicken meal, paired with crispy fries and flavorful beans. The fried chicken was a standout—perfectly crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside and seasoned to perfection. The fries were golden and crunchy, while the beans added a comforting touch with a hint of smokiness that elevated the meal.

We also sampled the empanadas, which were nothing short of amazing. These crispy, golden pockets were filled with tender, seasoned chicken and made for a satisfying appetizer.

No visit to Pollo Campero would be complete without trying their dipping sauces. From tangy BBQ to creamy ranch, each sauce was delicious, but the buffalo sauce was a personal favorite—it struck the perfect balance of heat and flavor.

The Service:
The service at Pollo Campero was friendly and efficient. Despite a lunchtime crowd, the team moved quickly, ensuring our food was served hot and fresh. The staff was welcoming and helpful, offering menu suggestions and making sure we had a great first experience.

Final Thoughts:
Pollo Campero is a fantastic choice for anyone craving delicious, crispy fried chicken and authentic Latin-inspired flavors. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch or taking the family out for dinner, this restaurant delivers on taste, quality and value.

Conveniently located on Jimmy Carter Boulevard, Pollo Campero is a must-visit for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank. We left with full stomachs and big smiles and can’t wait to go back. If you haven’t tried it yet, we highly recommend stopping by for your next meal—you won’t be disappointed!

For more information on Pollo Campero, visit their website: https://us.campero.com/

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