Ernest Hemingway's at Havana

[jrandall]

It is open. We went there for dinner last night. They haven't even announced their opening yet and the place was packed at 6:00. We waited 45 minutes. The customer service was outstanding and the food was YUMMY!!!!! My husband and I both had the Mahi Mahi entree and it was delicious. So was the Calamari and the Caesar's Salad. We will go again.
:ho::BigApplause:

[jdsl1998]

We got there about 4:45 and they told us it was an hour wait. We came home and had frozen pizza. Just too hungry to wait that long as we had a light lunch and had our first work out at MVP. But, looking forward to trying it out. The menus both looked clever without being over the top. I see it in my future....

[pooh]

We had lunch there on Tuesday.....great service and delicious food.
If you decide on a burger, do realize that they are not over cooked.
There was a slight complication with our order and apparently our server notified the manager. He immediately came to our table to let us know the charges for the delayed meal would be removed from our bill.

Diners are brought home made potato chips to munch on while waiting for their entrees. They were delicious, but I still can't quite name what they were seasoned with...;)

We will dine there again....and again and again!

[simpkinp]

We went there tonight at 4:30 and were seated inside immediately. There was a wait for outside. The service is professional and discrete, the happy hour drinks are very reasonable. The food was superb. I had the filet Mignon and my companion had the Cobia. Absolutely wonderful. I am so happy there is a quality restaurant in this area. We have always loved Lopez Legacy and now we have a unique restaurant with a Caribbean flair here down south. I heard they may be offering a frequent diner card like Legacy sometime in the future. Hope so. I will be frequent diner anyway. Owner John recognized my companion Peter as a "regular" at Legacy. What a great addition to our neighborhood. Bravo and well done

[Annie01]

we also went...thought the prices were WAY TOOO HIGH !!!! the same dull brown decor..that has to be the most depressing place in the villages...it needs some color..not impressed !!!!! the prices are about the same as LOPEZ...but this area is NOT the LOPEZ place!!! way tooo much for what you get !!!!

[JSR22]

I have eaten lunch and dinner at Hemingway's and both were very positive experiences. Excellent food and service and the price is worth for the high quality food.

[teekart]

Am very happy to say that my meal on Saturday night (petite filet) was excellent. Service was great and the place has been packed since Monday. They are still training personnel, but all went smoothly.

Very unlike too many past trips to this establishment. I hope it continues to thrive.

[PaPaLarry]

we also went...thought the prices were WAY TOOO HIGH !!!! the same dull brown decor..that has to be the most depressing place in the villages...it needs some color..not impressed !!!!! the prices are about the same as LOPEZ...but this area is NOT the LOPEZ place!!! way tooo much for what you get !!!!
Oh Wow!!! This area not the Lopez place????? (Don't really know what that means?) I always thought, you get what you pay for!! Maybe I'm wrong.

[buggyone]

we also went...thought the prices were WAY TOOO HIGH !!!! the same dull brown decor..that has to be the most depressing place in the villages...it needs some color..not impressed !!!!! the prices are about the same as LOPEZ...but this area is NOT the LOPEZ place!!! way tooo much for what you get !!!!

So, you are saying that the Villages around the new club like Largo and Amelia are a low income area and most of the folks who live there are on food stamps and welfare? :22yikes:

[Cobh521]

we also went...thought the prices were WAY TOOO HIGH !!!! the same dull brown decor..that has to be the most depressing place in the villages...it needs some color..not impressed !!!!! the prices are about the same as LOPEZ...but this area is NOT the LOPEZ place!!! way tooo much for what you get !!!!

What do you mean this is not a LOPEZ area?

[pooh]

we also went...thought the prices were WAY TOOO HIGH !!!! the same dull brown decor..that has to be the most depressing place in the villages...it needs some color..not impressed !!!!! the prices are about the same as LOPEZ...but this area is NOT the LOPEZ place!!! way tooo much for what you get !!!!

Can't agree with you on this Annie.....the prices are a bit more expensive than you might like, but you are also getting more than you might at some of the local chains. Beef is from a particular company, is not what is used in other establishments. Chicken is hormone free. These meats and poultry do cost more.

The decor is dark, but dark colors are more typical for areas of Florida and Cuba than white wicker and pastels that we might associate with those locales.

Personally I'm thrilled to have a "fine" dining area in this part of The Villages......an improvement over what was there previously.

[Mikeod]

we also went...thought the prices were WAY TOOO HIGH !!!! the same dull brown decor..that has to be the most depressing place in the villages...it needs some color..not impressed !!!!! the prices are about the same as LOPEZ...but this area is NOT the LOPEZ place!!! way tooo much for what you get !!!!
What did you order that you feel was way overpriced?

[ilovetv]

Can't agree with you on this Annie.....the prices are a bit more expensive than you might like, but you are also getting more than you might at some of the local chains. Beef is from a particular company, is not what is used in other establishments. Chicken is hormone free. These meats and poultry do cost more.

The decor is dark, but dark colors are more typical for areas of Florida and Cuba than white wicker and pastels that we might associate with those locales.

Personally I'm thrilled to have a "fine" dining area in this part of The Villages......an improvement over what was there previously.

I don't mind the prices at Havana now, but I do agree with Annie about how it is dark brown and depressing inside the dining and bar areas.

When we walked in there a few days ago I'd been hoping for a change in interior that was not so dark and creepy. When I saw the same brown, cellar looking walls, floor and interior, all I could think of was "Well, Hemingway did commit suicide".

And I disagree that dark colors are more typical of S. Florida and Cuba. The Hemingway home in Key West is anything but dark and depressing inside, as seen in these photos starting with the 4th one down:

There's a place I dream about: Writers in Key West (http://conch-to-be.blogspot.com/2010/09/writers-in-key-west.html)

I was hoping the Lopez management would give it some of the interior design flare they've done at Lopez. Maybe they'll do that with time.

[gomoho]

To each his own - I always loved the interior of Havanna - just didn't love their food so much. Looking forward to a nice dinner their in what I feel is a beautiful atmosphere!

[Mikeod]

I was hoping the Lopez management would give it some of the interior design flare they've done at Lopez. Maybe they'll do that with time.

Perhaps with all the changes they made to the kitchen they didn't have time to remodel the dining area and still open as quickly as they did. I didn't go to Havana enough to tell if they changed the upholstery and/or added the ceramics in the booths. Anyone know?

[Indydealmaker]

I, for one, do not like the foo foo colors in some of the restaurants and rec centers. White and frilly belong in ladies' lunch spots. Dark woods and leather and bamboo and mahogany are condusive to warm, romantic interludes. Havana has always had the atmosphere, but lacked quality food and service. Thing are looking up!

[ricthemic]

Four of us had drinks on the patio and dinner inside. We were all very happy that Havana is finally fixed and we have another great restaurant near us. Dinner was excellent as was the service and cost.

[coconutmama]

We had drinks & appetizers at the bar on Sunday. Food was good, service needed a little more experience. To clarify, one young lady told us there was no food service on the patio under the umbrellas until they hired more people, yet the hostess at the door had told us we could be served food there after 4PM. She said the kitchen was just shut down for an hour while they switched from the lunch to the dinner menu.

When we were settled at the bar, the server told us the oysters were a serving of six, but there were actually eight (a pleasant surprise but our server should know their menu). Also, there was confusion on who could ring up our food if he wasn't the initial bartender who took our order. Additionally my Cosmopolitan was made too sweetly, but overall it was a pleasant experience and we'll go back.

Bottom line, we agree with other posters that it is nice to have a good restaurant in this area. Love the play on the new name.:thumbup:

[PaPaLarry]

Perhaps with all the changes they made to the kitchen they didn't have time to remodel the dining area and still open as quickly as they did. I didn't go to Havana enough to tell if they changed the upholstery and/or added the ceramics in the booths. Anyone know?
As long as the food is good, I'm happy.

[Madelaine Amee]

I, for one, do not like the foo foo colors in some of the restaurants and rec centers. White and frilly belong in ladies' lunch spots. Dark woods and leather and bamboo and mahogany are condusive to warm, romantic interludes. Havana has always had the atmosphere, but lacked quality food and service. Thing are looking up!

Agree! Always thought the interior was very classy, just not happy with their food. Looking forward to a new Hemingway's at Havana!

[mickey100]

I you have never been a fan of the decor at Lopez, but have really liked the Havana interior. My spouse had lunch there the other day and said the food was very good. I didn't realize Lopez served higher quality meats i.e. chicken that is hormone free. That is a real plus and worth paying a little extra for IMHO. We'll definitely be checking it out for dinner some night.

[dewilson58]

I, for one, do not like the foo foo colors in some of the restaurants and rec centers. White and frilly belong in ladies' lunch spots. Dark woods and leather and bamboo and mahogany are condusive to warm, romantic interludes. Havana has always had the atmosphere, but lacked quality food and service. Thing are looking up!

Got'a agree with you on the foo foo. Some of the brand-new facilities are coming from the same cans of paint. Sad to see it, but someone must like it.

:22yikes::22yikes:

[carol805]

A member of our group called and asked for reservations at 12:30. They said they didn't take reservations and that it would be no problem to be seated. We waited for just shy of an hour! In the meantime, after a long delay, we got someone to serve us beverages on the patio. The waitress clearly was not taught by management how to serve drinks. She handled the glasses from the top where one puts their lips if not using a straw. To be fair to this new place, I have seen this in many places here in The Villages. Does no one know how to serve drinks? On the plus side, the lunch I had was delicious and everyone else thought theirs was good, also.

[jnieman]

I was wondering if the new Havana would be a place to stop for lunch after golf? Do they have reasonably prices lunches?

[graciegirl]

I agree with you Bogie. You can please some of the people some of the time but rarely about restaurants in The Villages.


I am looking forward to eating at Ernest Hemingway's at Havana and think the décor is perfect. I bet the food will be yummy too. Some of my favorite food critics told me they enjoyed it.


Always like Lopez and Palmer.

[simpkinp]

It is impossible to please everyone, and thankfully we have many choices here. If you want a $10 dinner, don't complain that the meals are mediocre. When you get a better dinner with quality ingredients, expect to pay more. The choice is yours. Better food and cheaper prices. Pick one. If the decor at Hemmingway's does not suit you, then neither does Palmer's, which is also dark. If you want a lighter room, try Lopez. We are fortunate to have three higher quality restaurants in this small town. I love all three. You'll find me at Hemingway's frequently as it is so close to home. Bon appetit.

[PaPaLarry]

It is impossible to please everyone, and thankfully we have many choices here. If you want a $10 dinner, don't complain that the meals are mediocre. When you get a better dinner with quality ingredients, expect to pay more. The choice is yours. Better food and cheaper prices. Pick one. If the decor at Hemmingway's does not suit you, then neither does Palmer's, which is also dark. If you want a lighter room, try Lopez. We are fortunate to have three higher quality restaurants in this small town. I love all three. You'll find me at Hemingway's frequently as it is so close to home. Bon appetit.
Very well said!!!

[Vernster]

I don't mind the prices at Havana now, but I do agree with Annie about how it is dark brown and depressing inside the dining and bar areas.

When we walked in there a few days ago I'd been hoping for a change in interior that was not so dark and creepy. When I saw the same brown, cellar looking walls, floor and interior, all I could think of was "Well, Hemingway did commit suicide".

And I disagree that dark colors are more typical of S. Florida and Cuba. The Hemingway home in Key West is anything but dark and depressing Connie:
I tried for 3 years to sell my timeshare and then ended up selling it online with Sell timeshare Buy timeshare Timeshare resale - Time share for sale and rent. Timeshares Only (http://www.timesharesonly.com). I lost a lot of money BUT got out of special assessments coming up AND if you have a deeded timeshare you can write off your loss on your taxes as a long term capital loss....

inside, as seen in these photos starting with the 4th one down:

There's a place I dream about: Writers in Key West (http://conch-to-be.blogspot.com/2010/09/writers-in-key-west.html)

I was hoping the Lopez management would give it some of the interior design flare they've done at Lopez. Maybe they'll do that with time.

Enjoyed your attachment. Very interesting and no dark and depressing interiors.

[simpkinp]

Went to Hemmingway's again on Saturday with friends. I had the Shrimp and Grits. I never thought I would eat anything like that. It was absolutely delicious. Friends had the Lobster Mac and Cheese, another strange combination, but it was also outstanding. Love that place.

[Bill32]

wife and I went today, very good food and service and not dark at all. A few dollars more than other CC's but definitely worth it. For those interested ( not us) many gluten free dishes available.

[mrbgull]

Now,Now Boys and Grils ..................................

[Annie01]

Oh Wow!!! This area not the Lopez place????? (Don't really know what that means?) I always thought, you get what you pay for!! Maybe I'm wrong.

i meant the prices at LOPEZ should not be the prices at hemmingway....it is hemmingway..NOT LOPEZ!!! not too many rich people live near havanna....but they sure DO in lopez!!! it like comparing a hilton hotel with a motel 6 !!!!

[Bogie Shooter]

i meant the prices at LOPEZ should not be the prices at hemmingway....it is hemmingway..NOT LOPEZ!!! not too many rich people live near havanna....but they sure DO in lopez!!! it like comparing a hilton hotel with a motel 6 !!!!

What?

[graciegirl]

i meant the prices at LOPEZ should not be the prices at hemmingway....it is hemmingway..NOT LOPEZ!!! not too many rich people live near havanna....but they sure DO in lopez!!! it like comparing a hilton hotel with a motel 6 !!!!


Annie? I am kind of surprised and puzzled at your post. It is interesting to live here awhile and meet some very wealthy folks who don't look wealthy and some very not so wealthy folks who look wealthy. One way or another, most of us can pay for a "nice" meal every once in awhile AND we all live like the Gatsbys in this beautiful place with golf and tennis and polo and painting and music and all of the trappings of wealth available to all of us here in The Villages. (NO. I don't work for Gary Morse).


I think Annie, you haven't gone across the street from Havana to some mighty spiffy looking places south of 466A and the ones right around the country club are not shabby either. HECK, nothing is shabby here. I see your Lopez and raise you one Havana.

[jblum315]

Annie, I think you should check your spelling of one of the most famous people of all time: his name is Hemingway, not Hemmingway.
And trust me, the area near Havana is swarming with rich people.

[RErmer]

:MOJE_whot: Clearly the people "down south" are wealthier because they could afford the higher new home prices in the south.

Seriously, when did this become a discussion of relative wealth instead of the restaurant? Any additional restaurant with good food, service and ambience is good for all of us, whether we live north or south in TV.

[MelZ]

Wife and I had lunch their today, yes Decor was basically the same but that's OK because we liked it before. Service was excellent and menu was very interesting. Wife had Shrimp and Cheese grits and I had the crab cake sandwich. Both were excellent as were the homemade potato chips that came with our drinks.

Yes it's more expensive than fast food but I am willing to pay for quality food made with fresh ingredients. Place was packed at luncn time with very few empty tables.

We will happily eat there again:icon_hungry:

[keithwand]

We just came from happy hour there. Do they give you chips or only with a meal?

[ilovetv]

i meant the prices at LOPEZ should not be the prices at hemmingway....it is hemmingway..NOT LOPEZ!!! not too many rich people live near havanna....but they sure DO in lopez!!! it like comparing a hilton hotel with a motel 6 !!!!

Where have you been? Surely not in The Villages.

[simpkinp]

This thread is about a restaurant. The change in direction makes me sad. We are a classless society here, and all can enjoy all amenities as well as restaurants, no matter where you live. Everyone can enjoy better quality dinners as well as the wonderful specials offered by our restaurants. And so can our friends residing outside TV. Back to topic please.

[Mikeod]

This thread is about a restaurant. The change in direction makes me sad. We are a classless society here, and all can enjoy all amenities as well as restaurants, no matter where you live. Everyone can enjoy better quality dinners as well as the wonderful specials offered by our restaurants. And so can our friends residing outside TV. Back to topic please.

:agree:

[Wandatime]

I couldn't wait to eat at Havana's when I started my newbie tour of all the country club restaurants. Unfortunately, I was bitterly disappointed. Skip forward to now and I am THRILLED to hear all these good things about Hemingway's and am really looking forward to eating there. Yippee!

[SusanOfWoodbury]

The first time I came to Havana
with guests. The food was awful the waitress was slow and rude. I contacted management and they did not return phone call. I never went back
So today the women's LUNCHEON..New name 8th Hemingway
Reservations were made for outside seating for 15 ladies and we were told; no tables outside were available
We could not sit together!! NOT IMPRESSED

[Golfingnut]

After 5 years, I had a meal so good at Havana today and it brought big smile to my face. Finally, they have a cook that knows how to cook.

If today was an example of the new Havana. County Club, I am all in. It is about damn time.
:BigApplause::BigApplause::mmmm::BigApplause:

[OpusX1]

Reservations? When I asked they told me they do not take any reservations at this time.

[Bootcamp]

They put a sause on their flat bread that is outstanding. changed the interior of the place and got some good servers. Will go back again, and again. Finally made it into a good restaurant.

[dewilson58]

Good to hear the positive news!!!

:MOJE_whot::MOJE_whot:

[SusanOfWoodbury]

I went to lunch there on Saturday with 15 women.. We had a reservation on the patio, but, when we arrived. They told us they could not accommodate us until 2 p.m.
However, around 1:30 we were able to get two tables across from each other, but only inside!!!! yuck!

However, the waiters were friendly and helpful.. The meals look delicious and everyone commented the food was good. I had a hamburger with no roll and it was cooked perfect...There was also a kale slaw that came with the sandwich, that I did not eat. But, everyone said they loved it.

So, overall it was a good day!https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/images/smilies/BigApplause.gif

[Happinow]

Went to Hemingways for lunch today and am pleased to report that the food was really good. I had mushroom Brie soup with tea sandwiches. The sandwiches were on mini croissants and there were two of them, One with ham salad and one with egg salad. Both were really good. One other person had the quiche with a side kale salad. The kale salad was wonderful! The other ladies had sandwiches which they were both pleased with. The service was very good in the beginning but then our server left for a long time and it was hard to get her back to the table for our checks. She was very kind though. We will go back to try dinner. I can't wait!

[philmonaco]

Mixed feeling. Wife's fillet excellent my paella was very dry and you needed a microscope to find the seafood. While waiting for a table we were directed to the covered seating area for a drink. I sat on a cushion which was so wet I had to go home and change. When I told the manager that he should block off chairs which were wet due to golfer coming in from the rain, he said yes I told them about that. Not even an apology. Disappointed in his lack of proper response.

[Ruthtomnorma3]

I, for one, do not like the foo foo colors in some of the restaurants and rec centers. White and frilly belong in ladies' lunch spots. Dark woods and leather and bamboo and mahogany are condusive to warm, romantic interludes. Havana has always had the atmosphere, but lacked quality food and service. Thing are looking up!

Agree....sneak a book in too

[Shirleevee]

Mixed feeling. Wife's fillet excellent my paella was very dry and you needed a microscope to find the seafood. While waiting for a table we were directed to the covered seating area for a drink. I sat on a cushion which was so wet I had to go home and change. When I told the manager that he should block off chairs which were wet due to golfer coming in from the rain, he said yes I told them about that. Not even an apology. Disappointed in his lack of proper response.

I agree about the Paella......dry, bland and lacking seafood, however, for a real treat try the Shrimp & Grits!!!!!!!!:clap2:

[raynan]

Had dinner there last night and both husband and I had the duck. It was wonderful. Served with a stuffing and green beans. Service was good. We had to wait but we arrived at 5pm and expected to so we sat outside in the breezeway with friends and had a cocktail. Wait time flew and waitresses outside were terrific. Definitely happy with the improvements in this restaurant.
Nancy

[Annie01]

we tried it....the food was so so but very $$$$$$$ and the place is still dark and depressing!!! not going back !!! no one smiles there...all employees very sad!!!!

[Indydealmaker]

we tried it....the food was so so but very $$$$$$$ and the place is still dark and depressing!!! not going back !!! no one smiles there...all employees very sad!!!!

Oddly enough my wife and I and our next door neighbors were just talking about how reasonable the prices are for the quality of the food and the creativity of the menu.:confused:

[JSR22]

Oddly enough my wife and I and our next door neighbors were just talking about how reasonable the prices are for the quality of the food and the creativity of the menu.:confused:

Totally agree the food is very reasonable for the quality. We ate dinner there last night and tonight and the 4 entrees were terrific. I had the paella tonight and there was plenty of seafood and it was moist. All of the staff were smiling and friendly. The restaurant is very busy so there are plenty of Villager's who like the restaurant.

[Challenger]

Dinner with neighbors at Havanna 2 nights ago. After very bad experiences had not been there in 18 mos.
What a great surprise. Great service, place looks very nice and all four meals were clearly outstanding.
IMHO is one of the two best CC in TV --

Management is the whole difference

[rp001]

I've eaten there twice since the re opening. Food and service was great both times. For a real treat try the Calamari. The staff has been wonderful on both occasions. My new favorite country club.

[CFrance]

I know this post is old, but I have to chime in anyway. I like the soothing, dark decor at Hemingway so much better than, say, the bright, fake beachy, noisy atmosphere of Bonifay. I've spent a lot of winters in Key West and gone on a lot of home tours there, and this is typical tropical decor.

Not to mention the shrimp & grits are wonderful, the waitress was cheerful and professional, and regardless of what my husband says, the kale slaw is great! I give it a thumbs up.

[ricthemic]

Four of us had dinner at Hemingway tonight.... Awesome and service was great.

[Madelaine Amee]

We went to Havana for a late lunch yesterday. I have always loved the decor there and I am so glad to see the restaurant coming back to life after such a long period of neglect and mismanagement. However, I thought the food was very good, but nothing exceptional. The service was excellent and our server did everything she could to make sure we were pleased with our lunch.

The thing that stood out for me was the front staff. There is a great person on the door who welcomes you, when we were there the young woman on the desk was excellent and the young manager standing with her was also very good. First impressions go a long way! I am familiar with hotel management and I was watching how they handled people.

I am very pleased that Havana is back on its feet and joining the other country club dining areas scattered throughout The Villages.

[shcisamax]

The first time was great so couldn't wait to go back. A gentleman who said he was the manager was making the rounds to check on our satisfaction. The second time, Paella was ordered and was really bad. It wasn't even Paella. A woman who introduced herself as the manager said it was "American" style Paella. Ridiculous. Wouldn't take it off the check. Why are managers so short sighted sometimes. So disappointing.

[CFrance]

My husband's mother and grandmother used to make a dish called arroz con pollo, translated "chicken with rice." We used to refer to it as Cardboard Chicken (behind their backs, of course). Perhaps that is what Hemingway is making and calling paella.

[shcisamax]

I don't know what they think Paella is but there isn't an "American" style Paella. That basically is a euphemism for "We don't know how to make it so we will cover ourselves".

[dbussone]

I know this post is old, but I have to chime in anyway. I like the soothing, dark decor at Hemingway so much better than, say, the bright, fake beachy, noisy atmosphere of Bonifay. I've spent a lot of winters in Key West and gone on a lot of home tours there, and this is typical tropical decor.

Not to mention the shrimp & grits are wonderful, the waitress was cheerful and professional, and regardless of what my husband says, the kale slaw is great! I give it a thumbs up.


Just love the kale slaw! Very different, but very good!

[Madelaine Amee]

Just love the kale slaw! Very different, but very good!

I loved the kale slaw and decided to make my own tonight. I grow kale in a huge pot and the heat is going to finish it off, so I gathered what is left, chopped it up, soaked it in Raspberry Balsamic Vinegar from the olive oil place in Sumter Landing and it was really good. Bit chewy, but very good.

[Skip]

My husband's mother and grandmother used to make a dish called arroz con pollo, translated "chicken with rice."

Sorry to correct your translation but "Arroz con Pollo" means "Rice with Chicken", (not the other way around). I don't want you to go into a Spanish restaurant and order "Arroz Frito" and expect to get Fried Chicken. :eek:

Skip

[CFrance]

Sorry to correct your translation but "Arroz con Pollo" means "Rice with Chicken", (not the other way around). I don't want you to go into a Spanish restaurant and order "Arroz Frito" and expect to get Fried Chicken. :eek:

Skip
Ha ha! Right you are. Thanks for the correction.

[KathieI]

I don't know what they think Paella is but there isn't an "American" style Paella. That basically is a euphemism for "We don't know how to make it so we will cover ourselves".

:agree:

CFrance, Arroz con polo is a very delicious dish, I'm sorry your husbands family didn't make it tasty, but my nephews made it for me when they came here and it was out of this world.

[Shirleevee]

The first time was great so couldn't wait to go back. A gentleman who said he was the manager was making the rounds to check on our satisfaction. The second time, Paella was ordered and was really bad. It wasn't even Paella. A woman who introduced herself as the manager said it was "American" style Paella. Ridiculous. Wouldn't take it off the check. Why are managers so short sighted sometimes. So disappointing.

Loved the Shrimp & Grits..........hated the Faux Paella.......dry and tasteless. Excellent service, there is hope!:bigbow:

[Nancy C Jacobs]

We were pleasantly surprised when we returned to TV to learn that Lopez bought the restaurant at Havana. We have eaten there numerous times and the food has been very good. I am not a big fan of fish, but I have to say the fish dishes at Hemingway are excellent.

We went to eat dinner with a group after golf on a Sunday and almost left and went to Mallory. The hostess was less than cordial and told us there would be an 45 plus minute wait for a table. We didn't understand that because the place was less than half full. When we asked why that would be since there were so many empty tables she rather rudely told us "because there are people ahead of you waiting." We saw no one waiting inside or out.

We then asked if we could eat outside and she gave us the same reply - and yet most of the tables outside were empty.

By that time many of us had gone ahead ordered drinks outside while we were waiting. We were trying to decide whether to just leave and go to Mallory when our pager went off and we were seated.

Our server was extremely friendly and very attentive. When we told her what had taken place with the hostess and how rude she had been she was surprised. Her response was "she didn't tell you we close the kitchen for an hour in preparation to serve dinner?" Evidently during that time people are not being seated in the dining room or the area outside where they serve food.

Needless to say, had the hostess bothered to share this information with us we would have been fine. I don't know if the hostess was new or what, but in any case, Hemingway needs to make sure they tell folks why there is a wait at that time of the day even though the restaurant is almost empty.

[Madelaine Amee]

I don't know what they think Paella is but there isn't an "American" style Paella. That basically is a euphemism for "We don't know how to make it so we will cover ourselves".

I'm going to be in Spain and Portugal next year and I intend to stuff myself with the real Paella. Ordered it once in Ft. Myers and it was quite dreadful and not Paella at all, so now we stay away from it.

Many years ago we were in a tiny fishing village in Spain, the dish of the evening was Paella. It was a family hotel and the Grandfather paraded around the tiny outside dining area with a huge platter of Paella - to die for!

[TomOB]

Sorry to correct your translation but "Arroz con Pollo" means "Rice with Chicken", (not the other way around). I don't want you to go into a Spanish restaurant and order "Arroz Frito" and expect to get Fried Chicken. :eek:

Skip

Arroz con Pollo is a famous Spanish dish. I would hate for you to go to a Spanish restaurant an order Pollo con Arroz.

[CFrance]

Arroz con Pollo is a famous Spanish dish. I would hate for you to go to a Spanish restaurant an order Pollo con Arroz.
I already said I was sorry!:oops:

[DougB]

You say to-may-toe, I say to-mah-toe.

[CFrance]

You say to-may-toe, I say to-mah-toe.
You say rice with chicken, and I say chicken with rice!
To-may-toe, to-mah-toe; rice with, chicken with...
Let's call the whole thing off!

[shcisamax]

Having issues quoting and posting a photo so i am copying the original post and hopefully my response and the photo will come through.

Posted earlier by Madelaine Amee


I'm going to be in Spain and Portugal next year and I intend to stuff myself with the real Paella. Ordered it once in Ft. Myers and it was quite dreadful and not Paella at all, so now we stay away from it.

Many years ago we were in a tiny fishing village in Spain, the dish of the evening was Paella. It was a family hotel and the Grandfather paraded around the tiny outside dining area with a huge platter of Paella - to die for!


My response:

Paella is a real treat....but if someone doesn't know how to make it, they shouldn't bother. I am sure what you had in Spain WAS to die for. We were in Spain years ago in search of the best Paella. We ate alot and I don't think I ever had a bad dish. I have yet to find Paella in Florida that begins to come close. With my husband supervising, we made it with our neighbors for dinner a couple nights ago...after the Havana fiasco...and it was outrageous. I'll try to attach a photo.

[CFrance]

Having issues quoting and posting a photo so i am copying the original post and hopefully my response and the photo will come through.

Posted earlier by Madelaine Amee


I'm going to be in Spain and Portugal next year and I intend to stuff myself with the real Paella. Ordered it once in Ft. Myers and it was quite dreadful and not Paella at all, so now we stay away from it.

Many years ago we were in a tiny fishing village in Spain, the dish of the evening was Paella. It was a family hotel and the Grandfather paraded around the tiny outside dining area with a huge platter of Paella - to die for!


My response:

Paella is a real treat....but if someone doesn't know how to make it, they shouldn't bother. I am sure what you had in Spain WAS to die for. We were in Spain years ago in search of the best Paella. We ate alot and I don't think I ever had a bad dish. I have yet to find Paella in Florida that begins to come close. With my husband supervising, we made it with our neighbors for dinner a couple nights ago...after the Havana fiasco...and it was outrageous. I'll try to attach a photo.

Schisamax... Looks very good. Can you part with the recipe?

[shcisamax]

Absolutely. It is my husband's but he isn't possessive. Will send it later under separate cover.

[CFrance]

Absolutely. It is my husband's but he isn't possessive. Will send it later under separate cover.
Schisamax,

[dbussone]

The Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City makes a wonderful paella.

[DougB]

Schisamax,

Is it Muchas Gracias or Gracias Muchas?

[stuckinparadise]

I agree with the majority of posters, the Hemingway at Havanna CC is great! Our meals were delicious and we thought the prices were quite reasonable. Now besides, Lopez, Palmer and Legacy, we have another favorite.

[CFrance]

Is it Muchas Gracias or Gracias Muchas?

:shrug: You're bad!

Senora Fluharty is turning over in her grave. Sorry, ma'am, don't send me to the principal!

[DougB]

I agree with the majority of posters, the Hemingway at Havanna CC is great! Our meals were delicious and we thought the prices were quite reasonable. Now besides, Lopez, Palmer and Legacy, we have another favorite.

Which would you say is better, Lopez or Legacy? :jester:

[jnieman]

Went to Hemmingways last night after golf. Sat in a booth and we sunk down so low the table was about shoulder level. Moved to the bar. Had trouble finding something to order and since I'm not a seafood fan my choices were limited. Ordered the chicken wings and hubby had the duck flatbread.
I was shocked when the wings came out with all joints totally attached. It was if they had just ripped them right off the chicken whole. The tips were still on. Made me lose my appetite. Would you all tell me what you eat when you go there besides the shrimp and grits. I know not the paella. I'd like to give it another try because I love Nancy Lopez.

[Nancy C Jacobs]

I had the Quail and it was delicious. I'm not a "wings" person so I can't comment. I've had several of the flatbreads and they were all good. Other sandwiches have been good. Funny but I've never been a "fish" person either, but I tried several of their fish dishes and they were really good. Very mild - not fishy taste, but the sauces made them delicious.

[DonH57]

We were there last night with good friends and had a great time. I had the shrimp and grits and was very pleased. I thought about the wings. They looked to me. Very pleased with our waitress as well.

[CFrance]

Went to Hemmingways last night after golf. Sat in a booth and we sunk down so low the table was about shoulder level. Moved to the bar. Had trouble finding something to order and since I'm not a seafood fan my choices were limited. Ordered the chicken wings and hubby had the duck flatbread.
I was shocked when the wings came out with all joints totally attached. It was if they had just ripped them right off the chicken whole. The tips were still on. Made me lose my appetite. Would you all tell me what you eat when you go there besides the shrimp and grits. I know not the paella. I'd like to give it another try because I love Nancy Lopez.
I can't tell you what to eat because I can't get past the shrimp & grits on the menu. I can tell you, however, that a couple of the booths on the left-hand side of the restaurant as you enter need to be replaced. We experienced the same sinking feeling, and due to my husband's back we requested another spot. We found a booth on the other side of the restaurant that was fine. So the next time you go in, head for a table on the right, or the first roundy booth on the left row of the right-hand side.

[simpkinp]

I agree about the Shrimp and Grits. I never considered eating something called Grits, it sounded icky, until I tried it. OMG Delicious. I have since tried this dish at Eaton's Beach and Harry's. Hemingway's has the best by far. I also tried the Plantain Chicken Salad, also very good. I am going today, don't know if I will succumb to Shrimp and Grits again... Probably!

[DougB]

How long does it take to cook a grit?

[gomoho]

I'm assuming the "shrimp and grits" is the Key West influence???

[graciegirl]

Grits are a well kept secret that is known by a lot of mid westerners.


I wish they had chicken and grits. I am allergic to shellfish.

[simpkinp]

Chicken and Grits sounds great Gracie. Actually I ended up trying the Gun Club Salad. It is a steak salad and delicious. So far I have not had a bad meal there but I did tell others in our group what I heard about the Paella on this forum.

[CFrance]

How long does it take to cook a grit?
Starting with slaughtering the grit?

[dbussone]

Starting with slaughtering the grit?


After you pick it off the grit tree!

[DonH57]

You can break your neck falling out of the grit tree if you're not carefully.

[DougB]

John Wayne had true grit.

[buggyone]

I'm assuming the "shrimp and grits" is the Key West influence???

Actually, shrimp and grits are a South Carolina specialty.

[buggyone]

How long does it take to cook a grit?

Isn't that a line from "My Cousin, Vinnie"?

[graciegirl]

I am waiting for someone to kiss mine.

[EnglishJW]

We are new residents and based upon all of the positive things that have been posted on TOTV, we were eager to eat at Hemingway's. It was everything that we were expecting. Being a life long NJ resident, I was somewhat nervous about following all of the advice I had read but went ahead and ordered the shrimp & grits. It was great! Thanks.

[Bogie Shooter]

Nervous? About following restaurant postings, good or bad. Discount them all and go see for yourself.

[DougB]

Isn't that a line from "My Cousin, Vinnie"?

Most certainly is. :highfive:

[simpkinp]

We went to Hemingway's again tonight for dinner. The place was busy, but we were still able to be seated at 6:30. My companion had the Salmon St. Croix and it was incredible. I had the Warm Montego Bay Lobster Salad and it was very good too. This is definitely a new favorite place for us, and my companion goes quite often.

[VT2TV]

Went today for lunch, much better than several months ago. Excellent service, menu not quite to my taste, but friends all enjoyed their food, and I was still able to find something that was very good.

[kb8tpw]

Just finished 4 complete years here in The Villages. We have double and triple check all of the country clubs, have our favorites, have our "not again". Havana was at the top of the "Not Again" list and swore off of ever going again after two very dissatisfying experiences, including a Thanksgiving special. I am a forgiving soul though, and last night after we left the house to have dinner, at the last minute, we decided to go to Havana. Didn't know there had been a change until we pulled in the parking lot and saw the new logo and the entrance niceties. Not a seating problem as we generally avoid that hassle by going early. WOW ! The service, food and every other imaginable aspect were superior. I personally think the darker atmosphere fits the "Old Cuba" persona, though not my choice either. The menu was like reading a Hemingway writing. I can't wait to try them all. I followed the recommendation and had shrimp and grits and I am glad that I did. If you told me prior that I had ordered anything to do with grits I would have questioned your sanity - grits are for the confederacy cliental, not Hoosiers. Best meal and overall dining experience in our four years, bar none ! Prices are a bit higher than most, but I have always said I'll judge that on the food presented, and I got my money's worth multiplied. I cannot believe I let this one get past me as I drive by on the way to Publix nearly every day.....
Hemingway's Havana goes to the top of our favs.
The re-birth was monumental !!

[Bogie Shooter]

A "not again" recinded.

[dbussone]

A "not again" recinded.

Make it two. I was quite impressed last week - after saying I would not go again.

[Annie01]

no...but they certainly aren't $800,000 homes...are they....mostly like the rest of the villages 200-400,000 take a look hardly rich folks....they are just normal...at lopez...they own VERY $$$$$$$ homes....i can't afford a steak for $34.00...sorry...

[Annie01]

went with a friend there to pick up food...still a dark dingy place...i hear the service people are NOT allowed to smile or talk to customers...hmmmm thats probably why all the havana people left....the help does seem very sad...it must be very hard to work at a place like that...they all seemed depressed....the manager walk by and looked at us like.."what you are looking at"?? very strange..not even friendly. no hello...nothing..only 3 people there...gee i wonder why !!!??!! food very $$$$$ about $3-8 over other places

[Indydealmaker]

no...but they certainly aren't $800,000 homes...are they....mostly like the rest of the villages 200-400,000 take a look hardly rich folks....they are just normal...at lopez...they own VERY $$$$$$$ homes....i can't afford a steak for $34.00...sorry...

That is the going rate for quality beef depending upon the cut and size. A good restaurant has a lot of overhead and must make money or close down. There are plenty of affordable restaurants in this area, so why obsess over Hemingway's?

[Shortie]

We went to Hemingway yesterday for dinner after golf (around 5:30 PM). Everything was great! We went in the back door from the golf course and walked to the hostess station. We were seated in minutes. The hostess chatted with us and gave us our menus. The waitress was at our table in 2 minutes or less. We ordered 2 pasta dishes - Apricot Chicken Chorizo and Shrimp Jardinera. These dishes were absolutely terrific. Since it was our anniversary, we splurged and had dessert - key lime pie and a spice cake - they were very good. The waitress stated that they get their desserts from the Wildwood Cottilion (sp). Bottom line - this was a VERY good experience. Go check it out for yourself!

[scrapperonce]

Have eaten there several times since it changed hands and we have been VERY pleased each time...Our servers have been exceptionally friendly; the food has been excellent and we have been served in a timely manner...We ate there last night and 2 of us had "Papa's filet", one had the salmon and one had the plantain chicken salad....All of us enjoyed our meals and we look forward to going again...

[CFrance]

I don't know who stated that the servers weren't allowed to smile or chat with the customers. Could that have been someone being facetious and AnnieO misinterpreted what they said? Did a waitress say that? Because our waitresses have always been chatty and friendly. Perhaps the poster got a wrong impression since she was only there long enough to pick up food. I wouldn't slam a place after such a short pass-through.

We are very happy that the old Havana has been resurected and the problems fixed. We like the quiet, muted decor, the food, and the waitstaff. And yes, it is expensive anywhere to get a steak at a good restaurant. You're better off buying one from Fresh Market and grilling it at home.

[MelZ]

We have eaten there a few times since it was reopened and each experience was excellent. Servers were friendly and knowledgeable. Food was plentiful and well prepared, yes it's a little more expensive.

I for one am willing to pay for better service and food. If you want to eat for less there are plenty of options.