Corner 16 is part of the Copper Cellar Family and a restaurant I will be back to explore more of the menu. There are so many menu items to explore here. This is definitely a place to go catch a game, bring the kids, or to sit outside, which is what I did on my visit. Initially I sat down at the inside patio area, which is great because it gives you the outdoor feel with all the glass garage doors but still has the warmth of being inside. However, I soon realized it was very loud and echoey that day, so I requested to be seated outside. Walking through the restaurant, there is ample seating with several TVs around, the bar area is huge with several seats as well. The outdoor area has turf and firepits, which is always a nice touch, along with the 80s & 90s genre music that was playing. This made for a great afternoon of enjoying some appetizers, drinks, and catching up with a friend.
I started with a Winter Sea Breeze to drink. Prices are not outrageous, which was nice. The drink is made with vodka, grapefruit juice, and white cranberry juice. It did have some pulp, which was a result of being freshly squeezed juice, and the fresh cranberries were a nice touch. It was decent, but not memorable. I also tried the fan favorite Herbal Remedy, and can I see why it’s a favorite. It is refreshing, light, and different, with blackberry and lemongrass vodka, lime juice, bitters and fresh red grapes. It is definitely worth a try if you go. I didn’t make it to the adult milkshakes, but I did try the Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini and the Peanut Butter Conspiracy. The CCSM tastes just like you are drinking a chocolate covered strawberry! It had fresh strawberries which was a little “seedy” to say the least, so not sure if I really cared for the drink overall just because I would rather eat the chocolate covered strawberries instead of drinking them with the seeds. I am not much of a peanut butter person, and I am not certain I would order it again just because I am not much of an amaretto person either. But other than that, it was a delicious drink for having both ingredients. There are lots of drink options including some zero proof, which you can add alcohol to. There are also low-calorie cocktails which is a nice touch, along with handcrafted beers. There is something for everyone.
Smoked Brisket Chili Nachos
Let’s get to the food. I was there to munch a little and catch up with a friend, so we started with the Smoked Briskey Chili Nachos. The overall presentation was pleasing, with the fresh sliced jalapenos and tomatoes, and the taste was decent as well. The chili was a little bit soupier than I like, with occasional chunks of brisket. However, this brisket was on the fatty side for more flavor in the chili, so I would beware if you order a bowl of the Smoked Brisket Chili. The chips did get a little soggy before we finished, but a delightful way to start.
Bacon Wrapped Brisket Burnt Ends
Seared Ahi Tuna Salad
My companion ordered the Bacon Wrapped Brisket Burnt Ends. OMG … these were outstanding! Unlike the brisket in the chili (which, again gives more flavor) these burnt ends were lean, wrapped in bacon and served with a side of TN Whiskey BBQ sauce that was out of this world. If you like meat, this is a must try when you go, and can definitely be a meal in itself with a side.
I opted for the Seared Ahi Tuna Salad. I was a little hesitant due to the soy ginger vinaigrette dressing because I am not much of a full-on ginger person. However, this surprised me. The tuna isn’t the best grade, but it was cooked perfectly which was rare with blackened seasoning. The Asian slaw that was served on top with the wonton strips made the salad, adding so much flavor and texture along with the wasabi peas. Portion size, it was huge and I couldn’t finish it all.
Overall, this place has something for everyone and I plan to revisit in the near future. There are two locations in Knoxville, one at Northshore (which is where I visited) and the other at Middlebrook. Definitely a place you can take the family, go on a casual date, catch a game with friends, or just enjoy a pretty day.
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-Tennessee Taster
