Two Drinks at Corner Pocket

The look Corner Pocket is on Main Street in Ames, below DG's Taphouse. A combo pool hall/sports bar, I initially felt out of place stopping by in my business casual attire after work. But I was quickly put at ease. Pool tables take up one side of the bar with seating, Silver Strike and video poker machines on the other. Flat screen TVs were within view at pretty much any location in the bar, and classic rock belted from the speakers. There is a gritty pool hall feeling, but one mellowed by a friendly staff and sports bar vibe.

The crowd There were small groups of drinkers in the bar - most playing pool. One of the bartenders, Jen Bertsch, says she only works a few times a month to fill in but has been around since she was in college. She came as a customer one night, and never really left. She told me the place really is a "big family" between the regulars and the staff.

The two drinks A bartender named Ben first made us a drink called the Main Attraction. The drink was very fruity, but not overly sweet. Refreshing and something that would be great to drink in the summer. He wouldn't spill the secret ingredients. The second drink was a shot called Sex after Midnight, made with Midori, Grape Pucker and Blue Curacao. My friend commented that it tasted a lot like a snow cone - and that remains the best way for me to explain it. It would be too sweet for an entire drink, but was pleasant for a shot.

And if you like Olde Main's local brew (Scott Griffin owns Olde Main, Corner Pocket and DG's Taphouse), the beer is served for $1.75 a pint or $5.50 a pitcher.

The grub Snacks and candy bars behind the bar.

The verdict I left feeling welcomed into the Corner Tap "family," even if it was just for a few drinks.