Local is one of my favorite downtown restaurants. In my opinion, Chippewa is getting a new vibe, moving away from the club-only, underage drinking that it used to be. Of course, those clubs still exist but more and more restaurants are popping up making it a more civilized scene for everyone to enjoy! (Did I just make myself sound old?!) Local Kitchen and Beer Bar is definitely one of the game changers.
First, the atmosphere is more chill, with repurposed wood from an old local barn covering the walls and bar. The menu boasts local vendors and 716 inspired dishes. Obviously, with the name of the restaurant, they have a multitude of beer options available on draft which is typically what I go for.
The Beef on Weck Egg Roll appetizer is one of my favorites. Just something so unique and delicious, with a side of horsey sauce that gives it a kick! Other Buffalo staples include their Local Platter with a Beef on Weck Sandwich and 5 wings with french fries, and on Friday’s you can get their Rusty Chain beer battered Fish Fry.
You also can’t go wrong when ordering any of the sandwiches or salads (if healthy is what you are looking for!). If you are gluten-free, they have gluten-free pasta and buns that you can substitute to still enjoy the menu.
Local will continue to be one of my go-to spots downtown and a great place to bring out-of-towners to sample all the local favorite foods. Stop on by and let me know what you ordered!!
Local Kitchen and Beer Bar is located at 88 W. Chippewa St.
We went in the evening knowing there would be a decent wait for a table, so we put our names in and got drinks at the bar first. The have many local beers on draft and about 15 signature drinks. I started with their “Liberty Mule” which was really refreshing after a day in the sun.
Sinatra’s has been a family favorite of mine for years now. It’s a great place to go for celebrations because they have delicious food and high-end service. Having been in business since 1981, this past year the moved into a new building right across the street. The new location is much more modern and can serve twice as many people.
During this visit, we were celebrating a birthday and went a little overboard with food and wine! We started with a couple appetizers including the Antipasto, Artichoke Francese, and a Clams Casino special.
The meatballs are huge and unbelievably flavorful, and the ravioli nice and cheesy. I would definitely order this again. The rest of the table ordered the Veal Parmesan, Shrimp and Lobster Scampi, and the Strip Steak.
