Restaurant Review: 16 Prime Steak & Seafood

16 Prime Steakhouse in Denver

Pictured: The opening night staff at the new 16 Prime Steakhouse in Denver and Catherine Cuestra the General manager in the center (do you recognize anyone?)

16 Prime Steak & Seafood

From Family to Fine Dining:

The Acovski Legacy at 16 Prime

Nestled in Denver, NC, 16 Prime Steak and Seafood is not just another upscale dining experience—it’s a heartfelt journey brought to life by the Acovski family. Joe and Agnes Acovski, along with their son Joseph, have poured their decades of restaurant experience and passion for hospitality into this stunning new venue. With 45 years in the service industry, the Acovskis have created a legacy of family, food, and community.

The Acovski Family: From Yugoslavia to North Carolina

Joe and Agnes began their culinary adventure back in 1985 when Agnes joined Joe in his family’s restaurant, Rosie’s Family Dining, in St. Clair Shores, Michigan. In 2000, they branched out with their first solo venture, Big Joe’s Chicken and Ribs, eventually opening two more locations. Their boldest move came in 2007, when they relocated to North Carolina to build a pizza franchise from scratch.

Life threw them a curveball when a corporate buyout shifted their plans, but the Acovskis leaned on their resilience. Joe took on a sports bar venture, and Agnes explored the corporate world, but it wasn’t long before Joe stumbled upon a small, promising gem in Denver, NC: Madison’s at the Lake. Together, they transformed it into Joey’s, a beloved local staple that has served the community for over a decade.

Now, with Joseph by his side, Joe is realizing a long-held dream—opening a fine dining steakhouse. 16 Prime Steak and Seafood is more than a restaurant; it’s a love letter to their community and a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality and connection.

The Food: Next-Level Flavors

The menu at 16 Prime is a culinary masterpiece created by Chef Antonio Rosendiz, who has worked with the family for over ten years. Chef Antonio’s dedication to sourcing responsibly and creating flavorful dishes elevates this fine dining experience. Steaks come from regenerative farms, and the produce is sourced within 200 miles, ensuring every bite bursts with freshness and quality.

As the Fit Foodie, I’ve eaten my fair share of steak, but the ribeye at 16 Prime? Hands down the best I’ve ever had in a restaurant. The crispy Brussels sprouts are perfection, and the jalapeño creamed corn is a bold, flavorful dream. Even the smoked Gouda mac and cheese, though indulgent, is absolute heaven.

And let’s talk about the fish. Normally, I avoid fish—but the dish I tried here completely changed my mind. Chef Antonio’s mastery of flavor and technique shines through, making even the most skeptical diner (me!) a fan. For vegetarians, the seared cauliflower steak is an incredible option, proving that fine dining can cater to everyone without compromising on taste.

They also have a children’s menu and a full wine list with craft cocktails too. They have it all! Here is a link to the menu: https://www.16prime.com/menus/

Ambiance: Where Elegance Meets Warmth

Step into 16 Prime, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported from small-town Denver to the heart of Charlotte’s upscale dining scene. The Acovskis poured their hearts into every detail. The result is an atmosphere that’s sophisticated yet inviting—a place where you can dress up, enjoy an unforgettable meal, and feel completely at ease

The restaurant has a dress code to match its elegant vibe: no sweats, flip-flops, or ball caps. But don’t worry—you don’t need to be in a tuxedo either. Just dress to impress and enjoy the incredible ambiance the Acovskis have created.

The Nutrition: Fine Dining with a Healthy Twist

It’s rare to find fine dining that gets the Fit Foodie stamp of approval, but 16 Prime delivers. Their commitment to real, responsibly sourced ingredients means you can enjoy your meal guilt-free. My go-to recommendation? A ribeye with crispy brussel sprouts and a glass of red wine—simple, healthy, and oh-so-satisfying.

For vegetarians, the cauliflower steak is a standout, while those with allergies will appreciate the kitchen’s attention to detail. While substitutions and modifications are limited due to the fine dining nature, the menu offers plenty of options that align with a real food philosophy.

Fine Dining, Family Style

At its core, 16 Prime is more than a steakhouse; it’s the culmination of the Acovski family’s journey. Their deep love for hospitality, dedication to quality, and passion for connecting with their community are felt in every corner of the restaurant. From their early days in Michigan to building Joey’s in Denver, and now, creating an upscale dining experience, the Acovskis have always focused on family—both their own and the ones they’ve built through their restaurants.

Come hungry, and come ready to be amazed. Whether it’s the food, the ambiance, or the heartwarming story of a family living their dream, 16 Prime Steak and Seafood is an experience you won’t want to miss. See you there—and don’t forget to say hi if I’m your server! 

Amber Valentine
Amber Valentine

Amber Valentine – Owner of Hotmess 2 Hotness, llc.

Meet Amber Valentine, a bold and empowering speaker known for her 300 pound transformation story.  She is a Certified Personal Trainer, Weight Loss Coach, and an expert in helping women unleash their inner Bad B.  As the CEO of Hotmess 2 Hotness, LLC, Amber specializes in mindfulness techniques, healthy eating, and conquering your own B.S. and offers a 12 week fat loss program for women.  

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