Buford, Ga., is sometimes known as the “Leathery City,” betraying its origins as a tannery town. Today, the town is known for its bustling art culture, and is home to the Buford Artists Colony. The shops of downtown Buford are replete with items for sale from the colony. If the town’s proximity to Lake Lanier puts you in the mood for seafood, you won’t have a difficult time feasting on whatever you fancy--Buford’s seafood restaurants are original and worth a look.
Third Coast Grille has been a mainstay in Buford since 1996, and though the location may be Lake Lanier, the atmosphere is pure Florida Keys. With murals all over the walls depicting palm trees, boats and sandy beaches, guests will feel as though they have been transported to a beachside cottage. There is also a full service bar and a complete kids menu. Entrees include the fried seafood platter and macadamia-crusted fresh catch.
Third Coast Grille
5390 Friendship Road
Buford, GA 30518
770-614-9508
thirdcoastgrille.com
Char 88 is an upscale steak and seafood restaurant located in historic downtown Buford. Owners Jim Bernard and Pat Sutherland have created a setting where patrons can enjoy their meal while experiencing a live piano bar with local entertainers seven nights a week. The restaurant also boasts fresh homemade pastries for desert, as well as carry out. Entrees include osso bucco, Dorito-crusted fish and a wide variety of steaks.
Char 88
15 E Main St. NE
Buford, GA 30518
770-945-8818
As the name implies, this quaint restaurant aims to bring customers the best choices from both the sea and the land. Meals and appetizers are prepared as they would be in the fanciest of New York City restaurants, with an eye towards decoration and presentation. Traditional meals at Aqua Bistro are informed with the chefs’ influences from cuisine from around the world, meaning that the food here is truly unique. Entrees on the seafood (Aqua) side include crispy tilapia and bacon-wrapped trout.
Aqua Terra Bistro
55 East Main St.
Buford, GA 30518
770-271-3000
aquaterrabistro.com
