Hideaway of The Woods

Continuing our superior series of insightful restaurant reviews, we now turn our attentions to Hideaway of The Woods in Mahomet. Located just off of I-74 at the Prairieview Road exit, the bill of fare offered is standard American cuisine served in a relaxed atmosphere. The facility is neat, clean and inviting, though the interior decor lacks imagination. The harsh acoustics are such that when the restaurant is busier, it is a rather noisy place -- almost too much so for guests to carry on a normal conversation without "involving" others nearby.

Our party was interested in catfish, so only that entrée was on the docket for our table this time around. It would turn out to be a good choice.

Our meal began with a trip to the salad bar for the usual "bag" salad and toppings. The few other available salad bar sides, a pasta salad, potato salad and seasoned cottage cheese were good, but one could not help but notice the scarcity of items on what had been (on previous visits) a more imaginative salad bar. The salad toppings were ample, fresh, and tasty. The clam chowder, however, was excellent. Spicy and full-flavored, it made up for the lack of other amenities.

The service was prompt and efficient. Plates arrived hot and in a very reasonable time. Glasses were refilled as needed, and extra rolls were not a problem. My only small reservation was the annoying habit that our 20-ish wait exhibited, constantly addressing an older mixed couple as "you guys." At Taco Bell that might be marginally acceptable, but at a medium priced sit-down restaurant, it's just a little too familiar, bordering on impolite. But the young man was friendly and attentive, so we let it go.

The large whole catfish served was fresh, well battered and cooked to perfection. The batter was fried to a crispy brown which suited well. The baked potato side was fully cooked and hot, and the warmed dinner rolls were fresh and served with honey butter and regular butter pats.

On previous visits we have enjoyed the French dip sandwich, the baby back ribs, the steaks, and salmon entrées. All passed the test.

Upon leaving Hideaway of the Woods, the deck-style Northwest-facing stairway proved to be the worst feature of the night. Very poorly lit, the first step down is almost invisible at night. One member of our party almost took a nasty tumble, and warned the rest in time. No broken bones this time, but the next person might not be so lucky.

The evening rated a solid B+ for overall quality and service. A little bit more item diversity on the salad bar would have made it an A-. With drinks, dessert, tip, and taxes, expect to pay around around $55.00 for two. Luncheon prices are of course lower.

Hideaway in the Woods is located at 809 South Prairie View Road Mahomet, Illinois. For information or reservations, call (217) 586-7722.