David Abes, the visionary behind Funwoody, shares his journey in creating vibrant spaces that will soon include Good Vibes Ice Cream. We talk about his experience as our Parade Grand Marshal, and how he’s redefining community through events like Cinco de Hanukkah and Green Eggs and Kegs, while fostering local connections in the Village. From innovative dining to family-friendly activities, David’s passion for making Dunwoody a destination shines.
On This Episode of What’s Up Dunwoody
Matt Weber welcomes David Abes back to What’s Up Dunwoody, proudly brought to you by Dr. Bret Freedman and Village Orthodontics. David, a key figure in Dunwoody’s food and beverage scene, shares his insights on his growing businesses, his commitment to the community, and his passion for creating spaces that bring people together. This conversation dives into David’s innovative concepts, upcoming events, and his vision for making the Dunwoody Village a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike. If you’re interested in moving to Dunwoody or living in Dunwoody, this episode will give you a glimpse into the heart of what makes this city special.
Creating Community Through Innovation in Dunwoody
David’s journey in Dunwoody began with a vision to transform the area into a destination for families and food enthusiasts. His first project, The Barn, started the trend, and now his portfolio includes several restaurants and unique spaces in Dunwoody Village. David credits his success to listening to the community and adapting to their needs. His goal is simple: make Dunwoody a place where people want to stay, eat, and enjoy.
David highlights his newest venture, “Good Vibes Ice Cream Shop and Soda Pop,” a dessert shop designed to cater to all ages. Featuring 24 flavors of premium ice cream, non-dairy options, and gourmet brownies baked fresh in-house, the shop promises to add another layer of excitement to the Village. The shop also introduces a fun concept called “Fizzies,” handcrafted soda drinks with creative flavor combinations.
A Focus on Events that Unite Dunwoody
David’s passion for creating events is evident. From the recent Village Celebration, which featured lantern parades, tree lightings, and performances, to the upcoming “Cinco de Hanukkah,” his team focuses on hosting events that resonate with Dunwoody’s diverse community. These gatherings highlight the best of what living in Dunwoody has to offer: connection, fun, and local charm.
David also shares details about the annual “Green Eggs and Kegs” event, scheduled for April 26th. This fundraiser for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation combines local food, drinks, and live music for a day of community celebration. With a target of 3,000 attendees, it’s shaping up to be one of the biggest adult events in Dunwoody.
The Evolution of Dunwoody Village
David describes his vision for Dunwoody Village as a modern community hub, blending dining, entertainment, and retail. His innovative approach has transformed underutilized spaces into vibrant destinations, including restaurants with indoor and outdoor seating, stages for live performances, and areas for families to gather.
The concept of “Funwoody” captures the spirit of this transformation. David shares how his team has worked tirelessly to create a balance between maintaining Dunwoody’s charm and introducing fresh, engaging concepts. By fostering collaboration with local merchants and organizations like Discover Dunwoody and Create Dunwoody, David has elevated the Village’s appeal for both residents and visitors.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Success
Despite his successes, David doesn’t shy away from addressing challenges. From managing online criticism in local forums to navigating the complexities of the restaurant industry, he emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability. His philosophy is to focus on quality service and hospitality, ensuring that every guest leaves with a positive experience.
David’s dedication to listening to feedback and evolving his business models has earned him the trust and admiration of the Dunwoody community. His team’s efforts have created a thriving environment where families, friends, and visitors can come together and enjoy all that Dunwoody has to offer.
Why Dunwoody is the Perfect Place to Call Home
David’s contributions underscore why moving to Dunwoody or living in Dunwoody is so rewarding. From its strong sense of community to the unique events and dining options available, Dunwoody stands out as a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the Village’s shops, attending a local event, or enjoying a meal at one of David’s restaurants, Dunwoody provides an exceptional quality of life.
Through his businesses and events, David has helped shape the narrative of Dunwoody as a place of innovation, connection, and joy. His story is a testament to what can be achieved when passion and community come together.
Discover More About Living in Dunwoody
If you’re curious about what makes Dunwoody so special, tune in to this episode of What’s Up Dunwoody to hear David Abes’ inspiring journey. From his creative ventures to his commitment to the community, David’s story highlights the best of what living in Dunwoody has to offer.
For more insights and updates about Dunwoody, visit the What’s Up Dunwoody website and follow along for the latest happenings in the area.
