Retreat to nature: your guide to Pine Lake

This city — DeKalb County’s smallest — may be tiny, but it’s certainly not lacking in energy. Pine Lake is known for its emphasis on nature, art and a neighborly attitude.

The community began in 1935 as a resort escape for Atlantans. the Pine Woods Corporation started selling small lots with access to Pine Lake, with connected amenities like diving boards and docks, a playground, and a bath house. The area earned city status in 1937, and over time, the tents and cabins set up by the original part-time residents gave way to a proper community of full-time owners.

Today, Pine Lake, lying 12 miles to the east of Atlanta, has a land area of less than a quarter of a square mile. Its population rounds out at just under 800, but it has its own city council, mayor, court and police force.

It’s attracted environmentalists and artists with its wetlands and green spaces, which have been the springboard for those looking to live more sustainably and in connection with the natural world.

What can I do for fun in Pine Lake?

Pine Lake Lounge: Second Saturdays at the Lounge offer a musical experience every second Saturday of the month at the Beach House on Pine Lake. Catch live jazz, folk and blues alongside other music lovers. A suggested $10 donation is appreciated.

Pine Lake: The lake itself affords a getaway in the midst of an urban setting. Find a place along the shore and drop a line for brim and catfish, or jump in for a relaxing swim. Non-motorized kayaks and canoes are also allowed.

Walking and playing: True to its reputation, this outdoor-centric community offers lots of chances for physical exercise. There’s a children’s play area near the lake’s Southwest corner that will keep little ones entertained, or you can set out on the trails that curve around the lake and see birds, turtles, fish and natural granite formations.

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Pine Lake?

Dragon Delite

This local establishment delivers genuine Chinese Halal food. Think plates heaped with sweet sesame chicken, spicy kung pao shrimp, or tender stir-fried Mongolian beef. Or go the lo mein route with vegetables, beef, chicken or veggies. You’ll leave satisfied and eager to make this a regular destination.

Location: Dragon Delite; Hours: Monday-Thursday - 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday - 3-9 p.m., Saturday - 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Website: Facebook

Le Nouveau Maquis

This West African restaurant offers authentic cuisine like jollof rice and stew featuring chicken, turkey, fish or goat meat. Or try the turkey tails with peppers, onions and tomatoes. Soups from potato leaf to peanut butter and sides like plantains and semolina will round out your meal.

Location: Le Nouveau Maquis; Hours: Tuesday - 1-9 p.m., Wednesday-Thursday - noon to 9 p.m., Friday-Saturday - noon to 10 p.m.; Website: lnmaquis.com

Elegance Bar & Grill

Jamaican, American, Caribbean, seafood and international cuisine: It’s all under one roof here. Start your meal with wings or pepper shrimp, follow up with steamed snapper or rasta pasta with meat and a side of plantains or Jamaican bammy bread. You’re sure to find some new favorites on this diverse menu!

Location: Elegance Bar & Grill; Hours: Wednesday-Thursday, Saturday - Sunday - 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., Friday - 4 p.m.-3 a.m.; Website: elegancebargrill.com

Nostalgia Kitchen + Cocktails

Southern comfort food meets international fare. Try the soul rolls (think collards, yams and mac and cheese in a crispy wrap) for a starter and move on to the braised oxtails with peach sauce or the honey glazed salmon. Delicious sides like collard greens or sweet potato soufflé round things out, and an array of cheesecakes (churro, oreo, strawberry cream) will finish out your experience with a sweet flourish!

Location: Nostalgia Kitchen + Cocktails; Hours: Friday - 11-3 a.m., Saturday - 11-2 a.m., Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday - 11-1 a.m.; Website: nostalgiarestaurants.com

A Taste of ChiTown at The Atrium #1

True to its name, this eatery will transport you temporarily to the windy city. Try the double gyro cheeseburger or the chicken Philly sandwich with a side of salmon fries or steak-loaded fries for a stick-to-your ribs experience. Or go for the pizza puffs or an array of nachos ranging from beef to veggie.

Location: A Taste of ChiTown at The Atrium #1; Hours: Tuesday - 6-10 p.m., Wednesday - 6-9 p.m., Thursday - 6-10 p.m., Saturday - 2-8:30 p.m.; Website: atrium.tasteofchi-town.com