The Hemingway brings moody steakhouse glamour to Tulsa

The public verdict

The Hemingway holds a 4.5 Google rating from 310 reviews, with its strongest praise centered on atmosphere, attentive service and special-occasion appeal. Diners repeatedly describe the room as dark, moody and intimate. Speakeasy-inspired details and a Roaring Twenties look give the restaurant a sense of theater before dinner begins.

That presentation makes The Hemingway an especially natural choice for anniversaries and dressed-up evenings. Reviewers often frame it as an experience rather than a quick steak dinner. It is also firmly expensive, so expectations for the cooking, drinks and hospitality are understandably high.

Steaks and standout sides

Steak is a major part of the draw, but the feedback is not completely uniform. One diner called the filet mignon exceptionally tender and flavorful, adding that a medium-rare-plus request was handled precisely. Another found the tomahawk good overall, though a noticeable portion was fat. A more critical review questioned whether the steak quality fully matched the restaurant’s positioning.

The sides and starters may be just as important when ordering. Arancini received unusually enthusiastic praise for flavor and execution. Sweet corn gratin was another surprise favorite, standing out more clearly than the macaroni and cheese. The latter was described as unremarkable, suggesting diners may get more from the less familiar accompaniments.

Seafood feedback is limited and less reassuring. One reviewer expressed doubts about the freshness of the shrimp cocktail. That is only one account, but it is worth noting when the restaurant otherwise makes such a polished first impression.

Service and drinks

Service is one of the more dependable themes in the available reviews. Diners mention knowledgeable staff, clear guidance on specials and drinks, well-paced attention and prompt table maintenance. The best reports describe servers who remain present without becoming intrusive, a useful balance during a longer celebratory meal. A four-course dinner was also praised for presentation and overall execution.

The espresso martini earned positive feedback and appears to suit the room’s glamorous tone. Wine is more contentious. One reviewer considered the selection expensive and weak in quality, particularly among by-the-glass options. For diners who prioritize wine as much as steak, that criticism may be the clearest reservation.

Who should book

The Hemingway looks best suited to couples and small groups seeking an atmospheric, formal-feeling night out. Its strengths are the setting, polished hospitality and several well-received steakhouse dishes. The filet mignon, arancini and sweet corn gratin form the most convincing path through the sampled feedback.

Still, the reviews leave room for improvement. Steak quality is not praised consistently, and concerns about seafood freshness, fatty cuts and wine value matter at this price level. The overall picture remains favorable, but the restaurant seems strongest when the ambience and service carry as much weight as flawless cooking.