The food this valentine's was very good. We enjoyed. The menu was prix fixe for $45/person. They did not offer an optional menu. We witnessed multiple tables of college aged valentine's dates (and some older folks too) sharing one dinner or actually walking out before ordering because they couldn't afford it. Our waiter was HORRIBLE. He had an incredibly loud voice and though friendly enough, was not really "nice restaurant" material. For example: instead of "may I offer you more coffee sir?" he said, "do you want more coffee?" (in that really loud obnoxious voice--think yelling).... I mean, I am not snooty but it's Valentines and we are trying to be romantic on a night out so a little politeness could go a long way. I could hear his voice across the dining room. He actually called out one of the couples who left before ordering---saying "Sorry Guys! You know the menu is really good and if you were in Chicago, you would pay $150, etc." I mean, he kind of went on and on....really loudly...and you know these broke college kids were just trying to sneak out of there with the least amount of embarrassment. Geesh! HE was horrible. Did I say that already? and we had to ask for everything- bread, refills, etc. nothing was anticipated---he was just bad.
The price is steep- especially for Champaign- but it was a holiday so the splurge can pretty much be justified. Portion sizes were very big and good. Food was hot and perfectly cooked. They didn't accommodate vegetarians well- as we overheard at the table next to us----the veg options included the Chilean Sea bass without the Chilean Sea bass---so just basically the sides (what? Like, have a pasta dish, it is an italian joint after all).
We had a decent date---would have been great if the waitstaff were better. Would probably go back. I think they should consider some new staff though. :)