Water Street has a long list of places to drink, but the bar on the north end of the main drag is once again open for business.
Now called The Corner, the new tavern (1247 N. Water St.) is the former home of London Bridge and McGillicuddy's, and it opened this February. It's named, of course, for its location: the intersection of Water and Knapp.
"The Corner is a combination of so many things," says owner Joe Sorge, who also owns 1225, down the street. "It's an American tavern with a diverse menu, serving lunch every day, and it's a popular new hangout for happy hour catering to downtown business people."
After nightfall, Sorge said the tavern morphs into a "let your hair down, get wild, anything goes party bar. "
He adds, "Many of our guests tell us it reminds them a lot of the old McGillycuddy's. I take that as a compliment."
Patrons at The Corner are greeted by a spinning red light above the entry -- the first indication that this is not a quiet, "sit and gather your thoughts" kind of establishment.
Monday is Karaoke night and has become a popular night for the bar. "Free Miller beer from 8 to 10 p.m. sure doesn't hurt," says Sorge.
Despite its small size, the bar features plenty of seating, as well as darts and Golden Tee. Like the other bar Sorge owns, it also serves sports fans with its 11 TVs.
"We sponsor so many different local teams that you'll always find an interesting group in attendance," says Sorge.
{INSERT_RELATED}As far as décor, neon beer signs and street signs hang on the walls and ceiling. The illumination is dim, but not so dark that patrons will be tripping over barstools, and if they do, it's not because of the lighting. The food selection is standard bar fare, plus a little more.
"Our most popular food items are our Panini sandwiches," says Sorge. "The cook's creative flair in the kitchen makes for some great combinations like the Wisconsin cheesy chicken with broccoli."
Nightly specials throughout the week include "Working Women Wednesdays." Tuesdays are two-for-one taps and bottles, and Thursdays are "Support Rugby" night.
For more information, stop in or call (414) 224-8281.
