The Local, a popular West Newton gastropub opened by Wellesley’s Frank Santo and Tom Wynn about 5 years ago, will soon be opening in Wellesley at the former China Sky location at 11 Forest St. (we strongly hinted that this would happen back when we reported China Sky had suddenly gone dark “for repairs”.) By soon, we mean in the September-November time frame.
The news is being met with much enthusiasm by those on The Swellesley Report Facebook page and Twitter page, where those familiar with The Local have been chiming in with Yeahs, Yays, Yesses and Can’t Waits.
Rumors have been circulating for months that The Local would be coming to Wellesley, though as recently as November we were told by Local management that these were just rumors. Now The Local is saying this:
“Word’s out! Local Wayland, Local Wellesley. Need a Local in your neighborhood? Let us know. After all, you make us possible. Look forward to locally sourced food/beverages in your parts.”
The Local features fine food (steak tips, salmon, sashimi and more) and a fun bar atmosphere. It’s been packed just about every time we’ve been in there. (Here’s a 2011 review from WellesleyWeston Magazine and here’s what people say on Yelp).
And here’s a Phantom Gourmet video from 2011 that takes you inside The Local.
UPDATE: 1/28/13:
The Globe also followed up on our story with a few comments from Santo.
4 Comments
This is fantastic news! Wellesley needs more restaurants like this. As proven by the wait times at places like the Cottage, family friendly restaurants are in demand! It will be nice to stay in town instead of always going to Newton.
Don’t the zoning laws prevent bars in Wellesley (no more than 10 bar stools or something like that)?
The town approved new restaurant liquor rules last year, but yes, not sure the bar stools rule changed:
hmm, that’s not good news for us Forest St. residents…