Is it possible that the Local is simply too swank of a joint to qualify as the best place in town to drink alcoholic beverages of Irish derivation? With its beautiful, dark wood bar, elegant windows, white-shirted bartenders, and $5.50 pints, it's hardly the kind of joint to attract Paddy McAlcoholism, hell-bent on liver destruction by age 40. But the Local has too many fine attributes to pass over. The food is top-notch, from delicious, creamy hash browns to perfectly fried calamari to traditional mainstays such as shepherd's pie. It's also the best place in town to watch soccer or rugby, with the staff willing to accommodate most viewing requests, from Italian league matches to international competitions like this summer's World Cup. And while the Local's pint prices are steep, daytime drinking (a cherished Irish pastime) is rewarded: Each weekday from 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., all 20-ounce pints are just $4, while glasses of wine and rail drinks are slashed by $1.50 each. Just remember to scarf down a Cobb salad or some fish 'n' chips along with the booze.