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| - For so long, Champaign residents recognized the need for a classic steakhouse and the arrival of HW was filled with a great deal of anticipation and excitement. We visited HW for the second time last night and I have a mixed review of the experience. First, the cocktails were very good. My wife ordered the Hemingway and I had the Old-Fashion. We waited on the appetizers, Lollichops (lamb) and the Baked Goat Cheese, a bit longer than we should have. We had made it clear to our server that we had an hour and a half before a show and believed that would be sufficient time for our dining experience. By the end we were rushing through our main course to make our show. I ordered a Bordeaux from the wine list and 15 mins later, the waitress came back to tell me they were out of that wine. The alternative was a weak substitute. The apps were very good. The goat cheese is one of my all time favorite apps. The chops were decent. The main course was a filet and a strip. Both requested to be prepared med rare but were medium when they arrived 15 mins before our show. Not only were they over cooked, but the quality of the cuts were average at best. We had the garlic mashed pots and creamed spinach as sides. Both were fantastic but we had to rush out the door and did not have the time we needed to truly appreciate the meal in its entirety. My first experience was better but both visits left me happy with everything but the steaks. Pretty sure a steakhouse should build around a spectacular steak, not the other way around. I have lived in New York and Chicago for a number of years in each location. I know a good steak (Peter Luger's, Erie Cafe, The Palm, Gene and Georgetti, Smith and Wolenski's, etc) so when I tell you this was a disappointment, you can take that to the bank. I am happy to spend 200+ on a meal for two if it fulfills even the basic expectations of what is advertised, but HW failed overall because they have an inferior primary product. The $40 steaks, are worth about $10 and the slow service despite repeated requests drops this to an average, overpriced restaurant in Champaign.
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