Eating your way through Sandy Springs is a joy, but if you ask locals “Where do you go for truly memorable meals?”—the answer is often Old Vermont. Nestled just east of Roswell Road and centered around the gentle, leafy lanes near Vermont Road and Johnson Ferry Road, this charming neighborhood has quietly blossomed into a dynamic food destination. Whether you’re after a world-class sit-down dinner, a flaky pastry and perfect latte, or just crave an authentic food truck experience, Old Vermont’s dining scene punches far above its weight. Here’s an enthusiastic foodie guide to the neighborhood’s best spots, from celebrated hotspots to hidden culinary gems.
Vermont Road: The Beating Heart of Old Vermont’s Food Scene
Strolling down Vermont Road on a weekend afternoon is to walk through Sandy Springs’ unpretentious culinary soul. You’ll spot locals crowding the sunny patios, restaurant doors propped open, the scent of smoked meats and fresh bread wafting across the sidewalk.
- Vermont Table
Tucked near the Vermont Road and Johnson Ferry intersection, Vermont Table is Old Vermont’s standard-bearer for modern Southern cuisine. The menu changes seasonally, but regulars swear by their shrimp and local grits with smoked cheddar ($21) and the crispy fried green tomatoes with housemade pimiento cheese ($10). Weekend brunch is a treat, with decadent buttermilk biscuits stealing the show.
- Cafe Belgique
Smack in the middle of the Vermont Road retail strip, this bright café is an all-day crowd-pleaser. Their Belgian waffles are legendary—custardy on the inside, crackly on the outside, served with imported chocolate or spiced pear compote ($9). It’s a gathering spot for families and remote workers alike, with silky lattes and a case of European-style pastries that disappears fast.
- Roswell Road Pizza Co.
Just east of Vermont Road, this neighborhood joint is lauded for hand-tossed Neapolitan pies (most under $16), tangy housemade tomato sauce, and a chewy, wood-fired crust. The “Old Vermont Special”—sausage, caramelized onion, and sweet peppers—is a local rite of passage.
Johnson Ferry Road: Eclectic Eats and Global Flavors
Old Vermont is defined by its fusion of old and new, and the dining scene around Johnson Ferry Road reflects that diversity.
- Chaat Box Food Truck
Parked most evenings beside the Ace Market parking lot (Johnson Ferry at Meadowlake Drive), Chaat Box delivers sensational Indian street food at unbeatable prices. Try their samosa chaat ($7) or spicy pav bhaji slider trio ($10). Regulars flock here for the sheer flavor and relaxed, communal vibe.
- Azúcar Latin Bakery
This cheerful bakery and café is nestled on the northern end of Johnson Ferry Road and is a sugar-lover’s paradise. Cuban pastelitos, flaky empanadas, and guava-and-cheese danishes ($2.75 each) make for the perfect morning pick-me-up. Don’t skip the cortado, brewed strong and sweet.
- Little Saigon on Vermont
A bit hidden off the street (look for the red lanterns near Vermont Park), Little Saigon is beloved for its steaming pho, crisp bánh mì sandwiches ($9), and spring rolls loaded with fresh herbs. Prices are pocket-friendly and the vibe is serene—a tucked-away lunch favorite for those in-the-know.
Hidden Gems and Local Traditions
Old Vermont may not be lined with glitzy chains, but some of its best flavors are tucked just out of sight.
- Shady Lane Provisions
On a wooded side street just off Cross Creek Ct, this specialty market and deli is both a lunchtime secret and a weekend foodie haunt. Their sandwiches—think roast turkey and brie with tomato jam ($13)—sell out daily, and the staff’s cheese and charcuterie picks are legendary. Friday evenings mean “Backyard BBQ Night” with a rotating smoked meat platter.
- Thalia’s Greek Grill
Snuggled behind an unassuming shopfront on Meadowlake Drive, Thalia’s is a tiny taverna where the atmosphere is as warm as the freshly baked pita. Souvlaki platters ($16) and the grilled halloumi salad ($12) are house favorites. Don’t leave without a slice of honey-soaked baklava.
- The Vermont Farmers Market
Held every Saturday morning in Vermont Park (near the school), this bustling market is a feast for the senses. Besides farm-fresh produce and southern honey, don’t miss “Dough To Go” for pillowy cinnamon buns and the legendary “Tamale Lady” selling scratch-made pork and roasted vegetable tamales.
Why Old Vermont Food Scene Shines
What brings Old Vermont’s food scene together is its community spirit, independent ownership, and respect for both tradition and innovation. It’s common to see Vermont Table chefs browsing the farmers market or Cafe Belgique baristas swapping dessert ideas with Azúcar’s team. Prices tend to hover in the mid-range, making this a welcoming destination for casual dinners, cozy breakfasts, and celebratory meals with friends.
Parking is mostly free and plentiful, and the neighborhood’s layout—walkable and leafy—makes it easy to sample several spots in a single outing. No matter whether you’re a lifelong local or just exploring Sandy Springs, Old Vermont is a must-visit for anyone who loves to eat well, eat locally, and experience true neighborhood flavor.
Plan Your Food Tour
Here’s an ideal “Foodie Day” in Old Vermont:
- Start with a morning cortado and guava danish from Azúcar Latin Bakery.
- Grab a late breakfast of Belgian waffles at Cafe Belgique.
- Wander the Vermont Farmers Market for snacky treats and people-watching.
- Lunch on bánh mì or spring rolls at Little Saigon, then a midday coffee stroll down Vermont Road.
- Try a Neapolitan slice at Roswell Road Pizza Co. for a snack.
- Cap it all with an early dinner at Thalia’s Greek Grill, savoring souvlaki and baklava.
- For night owls, hit Chaat Box for an evening chaat feast or Vermont Table’s lively bar for craft cocktails.
From sunrise to starry night, Old Vermont offers a tempting plate for every palate. The only problem you’ll have is finding room for dessert.