The Nook

Don't get us wrong, the Nook still retained much of the former Prince of Whales' charm, but thanks to a heavy-yet-playful menu it's also now a paradise for the buzzed and hungry. Spicy smoked wings in a Coca-Cola barbecue sauce anchor the appetizers while fried Twinkies get listed as a must-try dessert. "Tachos” are a combination of childhood favorites--nacho-like mounds of greasy goodness over a base of tator tots--and come hammered with the likes of barbecue pork, gooey cheese or sweet peppers. (We recommend these after a few pints.) Overlooking Piedmont Park, a few flat screens satisfy sports fans but in a great park setting, don't dominate conversation. The beer list has both indie brews and old-man staples while cocktails stick to classics and ring in under $10. Neighborhood, meet your match