Nestled within Atlanta’s city limits, Jack’s Pizza & Wings is one of those unassuming hidden gems that often escape notice. My introduction to this eatery came via a friend’s recommendation; without that nudge, I might never have ventured inside. To be candid, I probably wouldn’t have given it a second glance based on its exterior—a building adorned with graffiti inside and out.
Upon entering Jack’s with my friend Allison, we found ourselves virtually alone, save for a solitary patron quietly nursing a beer at the bar. The atmosphere inside is refreshingly laid-back and eclectic, though the walls could use a fresh coat of paint. It seems customary for patrons to leave their marks, scribbling names and whatever else strikes their fancy onto the tables. The condiments are neatly stashed in vintage lunch boxes on each table, a charming touch. If boredom strikes during your wait, there’s the option to indulge in arcade games or select tunes on the jukebox.
Seating ourselves seemed to be the norm, as no alternative was readily apparent. We chose a cozy booth, and within minutes, a friendly waitress appeared, bearing menus and taking our drink orders. A few more staff members trickled in from the kitchen and a couple of patrons with a biker-esque flair sauntered in to partake in the dining experience. While we awaited our glasses of water, we perused the menus, and I briefly visited the ladies’ room—a choice I soon regretted, given its less-than-spotless condition.
When we were ready to place our order, our waitress returned. Both of us opted for a Blue Moon draft beer, enticed by the prospect of a slice of orange to accompany it. Alas, the promised oranges were absent when our beers arrived, but the oversight was inconsequential.
For our main courses, Allison selected the Sunshine (“Artichoke Hearts, Mushrooms, and Spinach on a White Pie”), while I couldn’t resist the allure of the Pesto (a delightful pesto instead of marinara sauce, with mozzarella cheese). Appetizers beckoned, but our indecision prevailed. Our waitress suggested the garlic bread with cheese, assuring us we could customize it with our choice of toppings. Naturally, this only deepened our indecisiveness. Ultimately, we settled on spinach as our topping of choice.
Our appetizer arrived shortly thereafter, followed by our pizza slices. The garlic bread was indeed delicious, but it paled in comparison to the culinary delight that is Jack’s Pizza & Wings. I swiftly understood why this seemingly shabby establishment, with its carefree staff, enjoys popularity. The crust possessed the perfect level of crispness, just as I prefer, while the toppings exploded with flavor. It was evident that the ingredients were fresh, and each dish was crafted to order. The “slices” we ordered were nothing short of generous, offering superb value for our money.
In summary, my initial impression left much to be desired, but I’m grateful I persevered. The delectable fare more than compensated for the restaurant’s somewhat unkempt appearance and the staff’s lack of overt enthusiasm.
Jack’s Pizza & Wings is a local, family-owned dive bar that doesn’t pretend to offer an upscale dining experience. If you seek a relaxed, laid-back ambiance, coupled with outstanding food and reasonable prices, Jack’s may just be your ideal destination.