Ever since Red Hawk Casino first opened, the buzz was all about Henry’s Steakhouse within.

Most of us have never tried rare and expensive Kobe beef, but we’ve heard of it; reserved of course for people who live lifestyles of the rich and famous. At Henry’s Steakhouse, the Kobe-style beef is called Wagyu beef. Wagyu is the American cousin to Kobe, which is beef from cattle that are bred to produce tender meat, fed special diets and are pastured differently than those we see driving down Highway 5.

My husband and I decided to make a side-by-side comparison of Henry’s U.S.D.A. Corn-Fed Midwestern Beef, aged 35 days, and their American Wagyu beef, from Snake River Farms Idaho. We both ordered filet mignon, the corn-fed weighing in at eight ounces and the Wagyu at five ounces. Both were unbelievably tender and flavorful; the Wagyu was one of the most tender “cut-with-a-fork” steaks I’ve ever tried. The midwestern beef filet was very close in quality, also extremely tender, juicy and all the flavor of a perfectly aged and prepared cut of beef.

We began with Henry’s Wagyu Tenderloin Tartare prepared with Cuitlacoche Cilantro Pesto and Ancho Chili Puree, served with Fried Plantain Tostones, sort of a banana crisp wafer with great texture, perfect with the tartare. We also shared Henry’s Wedge Salad, their specialty. A crisp wedge of iceberg lettuce with a creamy House of Socrates dressing, Applewood bacon, roasted pickled onions, and toy box tomatoes – very light and refreshing. Of the soups, we chose the French onion, rich with caramelized onions and a bubbly cheese crust.

To go along with our filets there were more than 10 side dish choices; we went with the Mashed Potatoes served with caramelized onions, and the Tempura Asparagus. We were amazed at the portion sizes, which was more than enough for two. The potatoes were so fluffy and buttery, even the guilt didn’t stop us from indulging. The asparagus was battered and fried to airy perfection.

Our evening at Henry’s elegant, executive-chic steakhouse was a night we’ll certainly not forget. Hands down, Henry’s offers a distinctive dining experience.