If you’ve ever tried to navigate the intersection of Highway 20 and Old Peachtree Road during rush hour, you already know the vibe. It’s busy. It’s growing. And right in the middle of that Gwinnett County chaos sits the Publix at Buford Drive and Old Peachtree, specifically located at the Cascade Village shopping center. It isn't just a place to grab milk. For people living in Lawrenceville and Buford, it’s basically the community hub where you run into your kid's teacher or that neighbor who always has the best lawn.
Actually, it’s more than a grocery store. It’s a logistical landmark.
When people talk about this specific location—Store #596 for the real nerds out there—they usually aren't just talking about the BOGOs. They’re talking about how to get in and out of that parking lot without losing their mind.
The Layout of Publix at Buford Drive and Old Peachtree
Location matters. This store sits at 2669 Buford Hwy NE, which puts it right on the edge of the Lawrenceville and Buford border. Honestly, the first thing you’ll notice is the traffic flow. Because it’s tucked into the corner of a major intersection, entering from Buford Drive (Hwy 20) is a totally different experience than coming in from the Old Peachtree side.
If you take the Old Peachtree entrance, you're usually dealing with people trying to cut through to get toward I-301 or the Mall of Georgia. It gets tight.
Inside? It’s classic Publix.
You’ve got the pharmacy right up front, which is a lifesaver for the local families. The deli is usually the busiest part of the store, especially around noon when the local construction crews and office workers descend for those Chicken Tender Subs. If you’re planning on a "Pub Sub" Friday, use the app to order ahead. Seriously. Waiting in that line at 12:15 PM is a rookie mistake.
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The produce section is consistently crisp. That’s the thing about this specific location—they keep the standards high because the competition is fierce. With Krogers and specialized markets not far off, the Publix at Buford Drive and Old Peachtree relies on that "where shopping is a pleasure" mantra to keep the locals coming back.
Why This Specific Spot is a Power Player
Think about the geography for a second. You’re minutes away from Coolray Field. You’re a short drive from the Mall of Georgia. You’ve got a massive influx of new townhomes and apartments popping up within a three-mile radius. This isn't a sleepy suburban grocer anymore.
It’s a high-volume machine.
They handle a massive amount of foot traffic, yet the floors are usually spotless. Have you noticed that? Even on a rainy Tuesday when everyone is tracking in mud, the staff is on it. The management at this location seems to prioritize the "front-end" experience, meaning you rarely see long lines snaking back into the aisles unless it’s the day before a snow threat—which, in Georgia, means a light dusting.
The Deli and Bakery Hustle
Let’s talk about the bakery. The Publix at Buford Drive and Old Peachtree does a weirdly high volume of custom cakes. Maybe it’s the proximity to all the schools like Mountain View High, but that bakery counter is always slammed with orders for graduation parties and birthdays.
The bread is baked daily. You can smell it the second you walk through the sliding glass doors.
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- Pro tip: Check the "Quick Pick" section in the deli if you're in a rush. They often have pre-made wraps and salads that are fresher than what you'd find at a gas station but faster than waiting for a custom sub.
- The Cookie Rule: If you have a toddler in the cart, head to the bakery. The free "kids' cookie" is a legendary Publix staple that keeps the peace while you're trying to compare prices on olive oil.
Navigating the Cascade Village Parking Lot
Okay, let’s be real. The parking lot at the Publix at Buford Drive and Old Peachtree can be a nightmare if you don't have a plan. It’s a shared lot with several other businesses, including a Starbucks nearby. That Starbucks line often wraps around and can choke the main artery of the shopping center.
If you’re coming in for a quick trip, try to park further out toward the Old Peachtree side. It feels like a longer walk, but it’s actually faster to exit.
Getting back onto Buford Drive heading toward I-85? That’s the real challenge. The light cycles are long. If you’re heading toward Cumming, you’re golden. If you need to make a U-turn or head back toward Lawrenceville, patience is your best friend.
Pharmacy and Health Services
A lot of people overlook the pharmacy here, but it’s one of the most efficient in the area. They offer the standard stuff—flu shots, prescription refills, and sync-your-meds programs. But what’s actually cool is the integration with the Publix app.
You can literally scan your prescription bottle and get a notification when it’s ready while you’re picking out avocados. It’s seamless. They also carry a surprisingly wide range of over-the-counter wellness products that cater to the fitness-conscious crowd coming from the nearby gyms.
Community Impact and Local Vibe
This store reflects the diversity of Gwinnett County. Walk down the "International" aisle and you’ll see it’s been expanded over the years. They carry a decent selection of Hispanic and Asian staples because the neighborhood demands it. It’s not just "taco kits" and "soy sauce" anymore. They’ve got the real stuff.
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Staffing here also feels more "long-term" than at other retail spots. You’ll see the same baggers and cashiers for years. That matters. It builds a sense of familiarity in a part of Georgia that is growing so fast it often feels anonymous.
The Realities of Shopping Here in 2026
Prices are what they are. We all know Publix is a bit more expensive than the "budget" stores. You’re paying for the service. You’re paying for the fact that someone will actually help you find the canned artichokes instead of just pointing vaguely toward Aisle 4.
At the Publix at Buford Drive and Old Peachtree, the value isn't just in the price—it's in the time saved. The store is organized logically. The signage is clear. Even if you haven't been there in six months, you can find the eggs without a map.
Actionable Shopping Strategy
To get the most out of your trip to this specific location, follow these steps:
- Check the Weekly Ad on Wednesday: That’s when the new deals drop. The BOGOs (Buy One Get One) are the only way to shop Publix if you're on a budget.
- Use the Back Entrance: If the Buford Drive entrance is backed up, loop around to the Old Peachtree Road side. It’s usually less congested.
- Order Subs at Least 30 Minutes Ahead: Use the app. Don't be the person standing awkwardly by the deli counter for twenty minutes.
- Target the "Off-Hours": If you can swing it, shop Tuesday nights or Wednesday mornings. Avoid the Saturday 10:00 AM rush at all costs—it's a zoo.
- Scan Your Receipts: Use the Club Publix loyalty program. It’s free, and the digital coupons actually add up, especially on store brands.
The Publix at Buford Drive and Old Peachtree remains a cornerstone of the Buford/Lawrenceville shopping experience. It's efficient, clean, and manages to handle the massive growth of Gwinnett County with a level of grace you don't always find in big-box retail. Just watch out for those delivery trucks in the back—they move fast.