Community Notebook: Forest Park: “Tratamos a Los extraños como amigos”

Our weekly feature, Community Notebook, is filled with snippets of information, conversations, and reporting about the communities where we work.

Words and photos by Nzingha Thompson Hall, West End and Innovation Lab Fellow
July 22, 2025

Israel Hernandez is originally from El Salvador, and he wanted to bring the flavors of his home country to metro Atlanta through the food he served at Los Amigos in Forest Park. 

When he opened the restaurant in 2016, he created a menu with empanadas, Cuban sandwiches, and tortas. But his recommendation: pupusas. 

Pupusas are griddle-cooked flatbreads with various fillings such as pork, cheese, and beans. They are similar to their cousin, the arepa of Venezuela. They are often served with a slaw or a tomato-based sauce. 

When you enter the restaurant, you are immediately welcomed by a kind staff and smooth percussive rhythms from speakers overhead filled with romantic Spanish lyrics. 

Inside, you see a sign that states: “Aqui en Los Amigos, Tratamos a Los extraños como amigos Y a los amigos como Familia.”

It translates to “At Los Amigos, we treat strangers like friends and friends like family.”

No matter if you are dining in or taking out, you will receive an authentic meal made with care and comfort.

Menu items range from $4 to $30. 

Pro tip: Be sure to check out their horchata and their fruity aguas frescas. 

Location:
541 Forest Parkway, Forest Park

Hours:
8 a.m.–10 p.m. Monday, Wednesday through Saturday
8 a.m.–7 p.m. Sunday
Closed Tuesday

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