The Local Revamps Menu with New Dishes, Brunch, and the Cocktail You'll Hope to Never Finish

The Local has very quietly released their spring/summer menu. "We kept the old favorites, and dropped some of the items that didn’t quite fit," said Owner and Manager Kenn Bermel. “We’ve also separated the pick-your-own pizza toppings menu to make it clearer and easier to read.”

One new facet of the menu is that appetizers now come in smaller, sharing-sized portions. We tried the spinach artichoke dip, served with garlic sticks and tortilla chips (RMB 48); mini fish and chips (RMB 20, small); basil pesto hummus (RMB 20, small); chicken satay skewers (RMB 20, small); and stuffed banana peppers (RMB 25, small).

Good news for vegetarians: there are now over 10 meat-free items on the menu, and even two vegan options. The Local also plans to make a list of the menu items that can be made vegan without sacrificing their awesomeness.

By popular demand, the mini fish and chips is back, and we're extremely thankful for its return. The basket of deep fried beer-battered goodness is served alongside with a helping of tartar sauce.

The chicken satay skewers will serve as a reminder that you need to visit Southeast Asia again this year and are served with a peanut paste, lime, and secret spice sauce. We also love the basil pesto hummus, a mix of olive oil, chickpeas, garlic, and basil, served with vegetable sticks and toast. Again, yummy.

And now something for chili-lovers – stuffed banana peppers. The small serving was not small, but it did come loaded with a sizeable kick. After just one bite of the pepper with sausage stuffing, you'll feel the burn.

It's took all of our strength to save the drink for last but it was most certainly worth it as we have found true love in the Naughty Pear (RMB 40, or RMB 30 at happy hour). It was so good that I had to come back for another one the following day. The cocktail is made from a mix of housemade cinnamon-infused gin, fresh pear juice, and is topped off with pear slices and a cinnamon rim. Attention cinnamon lovers (and gin lovers and pear lovers and drink lovers), be careful with this one – one sip and you may never leave The Local. Seriously, what’s in there? Opium?

Sorry, we could go on, but we're going to slink away here to drink another Naughty Pear. Don't forget that Tuesdays are quiz night and Wednesdays means wings. Brunch, including classics such as pancakes and eggs benedict (on a bagel), are now available every Saturday and Sunday from 11am till 3pm.

More stories by this author here.

Email: tracywang@thebeijinger.com
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Photos: The Local, Tracy Wang