Q: As a native of San Fran I know about Chinatown, but I heard there is a Chinatown in Atlanta. Can you tell me about it - if it really exists?
A: While Atlanta does not have a Chinatown per se, there is the Atlanta Chinatown Mall north of Atlanta located off I-285 in Chamblee, on the corner of New Peachtree and Chamblee-Dunwoody Roads.
“In the 1980’s the Asian population had grown quite a lot, yet there was no place that catered to them. It was first created as a place where Asian-Americans could simply hang out … and also buy groceries that you normally wouldn’t find in an American grocery store,” according to former property manager, Matthew Choy, in an AIB Metro YouTube video.
On a recent Sunday, the parking lot was packed, sending the overflow of patrons into the rear parking lot. Entering through the Dinho Supermarket, you know the store understands its audience. If there was anything printed in English, it was missed through the aisles of Asian (Chinese) packaging and media.
New owners took over in May, according to property manager John Melo. “We are in the process of spicing things up - refreshing and modernizing. I invite everyone to come see what it’s all about. The Asian culture is so beautiful,” said Melo.
The mall houses a variety of shops unique to the culture: Tailor, hair, clothing, bookstore, cosmetics, pharmacy, gifts, to name a few.
Entering through the main entrance, an open-air court showcases a bonsai garden that includes a koi pond. The Great Wall of China is depicted on two corner walls. A statue of Guanyin is in a corner.
Red and gold Chinese paper lanterns hang above the walkways.
Just outside of the food court are several cement patio tables. There were several men talking and laughing this Sunday afternoon.
The red-carpeted stage in front of the food court is used for performances during celebrations of the Chinese New Year and Mid-Autumn Moon.
The food court has seven restaurants offering authentic choices of Chinese, Taiwanese, Cantonese, Laotians and Korean food. There were only a few empty tables as the court was filled with people enjoying their meals.
Located on opposite ends are two dine-in restaurants: Oriental Pearl (Chinese) and Golden Saloon (Spanish bar).
Atlanta Chinatown is located at 5383 New Peachtree Rd., Ste C., Chamblee (770/458-6660).
Hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., and Saturaday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Hours vary among vendors in the food court.
For more information, visit atlantachinatown.com
New to town or simply have a question about this special place we call home? Send us your request to atlactualfact@gmail.com
About the Author
