The Local

"We already know what you’re thinking. How can we recommend any other food item at The Local besides their famous wings? But this beloved dive bar in O4W proves they aren’t a one-trick pony with their surprisingly awesome hot dog selections (and yes, they offer both all-beef and veggie dogs). After a few rounds of beer and darts, dive into our favorite—the Dirty Dog topped with sriracha aioli, vinegary slaw, and a spicy jerk seasoning. To-go orders aren’t a thing at the Local, so we recommend going on a Monday for karaoke night, so you can enjoy it while basking in a drunken and emotional rendition of “You Oughta Know.”" - juli horsford, demarco williams

"This gritty pub on Ponce is the overwhelming “people’s choice” for smoked wings. Even as smoked wings have become one of Atlanta’s most popular styles, the wings at The Local are crispy yet still juicy, a difficult combination to master. Order the dry-rubbed jerk or lemon pepper, or try the sauced versions like the tikka masala or spicy Korean barbecue." - Mike Jordan, Henna Bakshi

"The wing wars in Atlanta are everlasting, but I don’t think anyone would argue that The Local isn’t among the best. I love a good smoked wing, and they’re great here—tender with crispy skin. The lemon pepper and BBQ are probably my favorites with a side of crunchy tater tots."—Jacinta Howard, senior staff writer" - nina reeder, juli horsford, demarco williams, jacinta howard

"Filled with gritty dive bar charm, the Local is a gathering spot for locals throughout the week and those cruising Ponce on the weekends. This bar features a dart board, trivia nights, karaoke, and serves some of Atlanta’s best wings in flavors like tikka masala and spicy Korean BBQ. Share baskets of wings with a pitcher of cold beer with good friends for a solid evening in Atlanta. With its future no longer in question, and with renovations completed and service tweaked to keep up with chicken wing demand, this treasured dive bar is prepped for its next chapter on Ponce." - Denise K. James, Eater Staff

"When you pull up to The Local, you might spot a pug chilling on its owner’s chest or even hanging out on a bar stool on the patio. Maybe this would annoy someone without a dog of their own, but if you’re reading this guide, you get it. While your dog gets comfortable, order that smoked drums and flats that made our best lemon pepper wings guide. They go nicely with crispy tater tots and a Pabst, IPA, cider, or stout from their lengthy beer list." - jacinta howard, nina reeder, juli horsford