Great food and recreation: your city guide to Sugar Hill

The town of Sugar Hill may have gotten its name from an accident. Local legend has it that a farmer lost a 100-pound bag of sugar from his wagon while cresting a hill. Or it could have something to do with the gold mines in the area — supposedly, pulverized quarts in the mines had the consistency of sugar.

Initially developed around a rail line stop between Buford and Cumming, Sugar Hill was founded March 24, 1939, and became a city in 1975.

The natural resources of the area — namely creeks — influenced early economic activity like the aforementioned mines, but also moonshining, which took place along these flowing bodies of water. There are still remnants of mines and stills in the area. The creeks also supported farming due to the fertile soil surrounding them.

Located in Northern Gwinnett County, it’s now one of the largest cities in the county, but that growth is relatively recent. For much of the 20th century, Sugar Hill was a quiet, rural community; it wan’t until the latter portion of the century that it started growing significantly in population. In 2001, an increase in natural gas prices resulted in the formation of a committee to dissolve the city and its municipal utility. That effort, despite a sizable petition, failed, and civic engagement actually increased as a result.

Today, Sugar Hill blends old-fashioned charm with considerable conveniences and access to amenities. There are opportunities for health and fitness, shopping, and entertainment, and the city affords easy access to Lake Lanier, one of the state’s most significant recreational lakes.

What can I do for fun in Sugar Hill?

Pirkle Park: This 67-acre tract offers access to a plethora of activities. Richland Creek runs through it, and there are also six turf fields for organized recreation. A playground housed under a solar-powered pavilion means play rain or shine, and there are nearly two miles of lighted, paved walking paths. Restrooms, public WiFi, a community garden, picnic facilities and concessions make this a great place to spend the day with family and friends.

The Bowl Amphitheater: Love outdoor entertainment? There’s no shortage of it in Sugar Hill with the presence of The Bowl Amphitheater. Tiered seating offers a view of the diverse musical lineups the venue brings in. Attendees can bring their own food, or they can purchase a meal from nearby downtown restaurants. The venue also hosts community events throughout the year.

Lake Lanier: This massive manmade lake borders Sugar Hill’s northern edge and affords myriad recreational opportunities like fishing, hiking, swimming, boating and more. And Lanier Islands Resort, with its water park and golf offerings, is just a short drive away.

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Sugar Hill?

Samba Steakhouse

Ready for some great South American cooking? This is like going to Brazil — in Sugar Hill. Since 2017, this family owned restaurant has provided the public with savory dishes like filet mignon porterhouse steak and sea bass. Not in the mood for a heavy meal? There’s a great salad bar, and you can enjoy a full menu of handcrafted cocktails and bottled beer with your meal.

Location: Samba Steakhouse; Hours: Tuesday-Saturday - 5-9 p.m., Sunday - 4-8 p.m.; Website: sambasteakhouse.net

WNB Factory

A fulfilling wings-and-burgers experience awaits here! Boldly flavored beef and crispy chicken make up the heart of this menu — perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. Try the Falcons Kickin’ Bourbon Burger with fried onions and jalapeño jack cheese or the WNB Deluxe Chicken Sandwich with hand-breaded chicken and Swiss cheese. Or choose a sandwich from the cheesesteak menu, and pair any one of these with delicious sides like fried okra, onion rings or sweet potato fries.

Location: WNB Factory; Hours: Monday-Thursday - 11 a.m. to 9:45 p.m., Friday-Saturday - 11 a.m. to 10:45 p.m., Sunday - noon to 8:45 p.m.; Website: wnbfactory.com

Frontera Mexican Kitchen

This is a great spot for classic tacos, fajitas, burritos and quesadillas. It’s one of several locations in the Atlanta area, so if you latch onto a favorite menu item, chances are you can find it at another location, too.

Location: Frontera Mexican Kitchen; Hours: Sunday-Thursday - 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday-Saturday - 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; Website: myfrontera.com

Central City Tavern

Long day at the office? Need to get your weekend started? This is the place to kick back and relax with 20 TVs, a shuffle board table, a bar and outdoor seating. Alongside a full drink menu with cocktails, beer and wine, you’ll find soups and salads, sandwiches wraps and burgers, and desserts.

Location: Central City Tavern; Hours: Sunday-Thursday - 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday-Saturday - 11 a.m.-12:30 a.m.; Website: centralcitytavern.com

Revielle Coffee House Cafe

In search of breakfast, brunch or lunch or just some great coffee? Get a hot or cold brew here to put alongside your avocado toast, sunrise quesadilla or Irish oatmeal. Lunch includes fresh salads and sandwich options like the Dyne-o-mite burger, which includes a fried egg.

Location: Revielle Coffee House Cafe; Hours: Daily - 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Website: reveillecafe.com