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Local Gems for Grub and Sips: My Hometown Favs
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items If you’re ever rolling through Omaha or just looking to find a fresh spot to eat, this list has you covered! Whether you're in the mood for something hearty and comforting, craving a quick taco fix, or ready to splurge on a steak, these are my person...
Map
Big Mama’s serves soul food straight from the heart. I’m talking fried chicken, okra, and collard greens that remind me of Sunday dinners growing up. This place just feels like home.
Big Mama's Kitchen and Catering
Block 16 is where I go when I need something hearty and indulgent—honestly, their Croque Garcon burger is a meal in itself! Topped with a fried egg, cheese, and truffle mayo, it’s the kind of burger you crave on a cold day (or, let’s be honest, any d...
Block 16
For date night or just a classy evening, Lot 2 is a local gem. Their burger is incredible, and the wine list is always on point. I love how intimate it feels, even when it’s bustling.
Lot 2 Restaurant and Wine Bar
Old Market Italian at its best! The pasta is fresh, the ambiance is cozy, and their Italian wine list is the cherry on top. I’m a fan of their marinara—it’s a flavor bomb in every bite.
Nicola's Italian Wine & Fare
I come to Le Bouillon when I’m feeling like a cozy night with French flavors. The duck confit and steak frites are my go-tos. Tucked in the Old Market, it’s the perfect little escape to Europe.
Le Bouillon
The whiskey-marinated steak at The Drover is Omaha legend. I was skeptical until I tasted it, but trust me—it’s worth every bite. This is the place for meat lovers and anyone looking to savor a great steak.
The Drover
Italian comfort food at its finest. Avoli’s handmade pasta is melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and their sauces are rich without being too heavy. It’s one of those places that just feels like a warm hug.
Avoli Osteria
This spot feels fancy but not pretentious, and the seasonal menu is always worth the splurge. I came here for an anniversary dinner once, and between the ambiance and the perfectly cooked steak, it was unforgettable.
The Boiler Room
If you love French food, this is your place. I’m a sucker for the mussels and frites—fresh, garlicky, and with that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside fry. It’s one of those “treat yourself” spots that I keep coming back to.
Dario's Brasserie
Walking into La Buvette feels like stepping into a café in Paris. They have small plates, a killer cheese selection, and an amazing wine list. I’ll come here when I want to sip wine, nibble, and catch up with friends—it’s got that relaxed European vi...
La Buvette Wine & Grocery
This ice cream is just… wow. They make small-batch, locally sourced flavors, and their ‘Omaha Butter Brickle’ is dangerously good. I tried their seasonal cornbread flavor once, and it was surprisingly delicious. This is one of those places where you ...
Coneflower Creamery: Home
This is my go-to when I can’t decide what I want. Their menu has everything, and it’s all good. I’m especially a fan of the almond-crusted walleye—super light but so flavorful. It’s great for a casual night out or even lunch.
Jams Old Market
I love the vibe at M’s—chill but upscale, and the food always delivers. I had the lavash appetizer on a recommendation, and it’s the perfect thing to munch on while you wait for their delicious lamb burger. You can never go wrong here.
M's Pub
When I’m in the mood for something with a Southern twist, Herbe Sainte hits the spot. The gumbo tastes like New Orleans, and the beignets are the best way to end a meal here. I’m transported to the South with every bite.
Herbe Sainte
I’ve had many a good Reuben at Crescent Moon. They’re famous for it, and rightly so. With a great beer selection and chill vibe, it’s my go-to for a hearty meal without the fuss.
Crescent Moon
As a comfort food lover, I was shocked that a vegan mac and cheese could taste this good. Modern Love has vegan dishes that could fool any meat lover. The chickpea cutlet is another standout—rich, crispy, and super satisfying.
Modern Love
The Grey Plume is what I call a “celebration spot.” Their presentation is beautiful, and they’re so committed to sustainability that you feel good about every bite. I still think about their duck confit!
Provisions by The Grey Plume
Good food, good beer, and good times. Upstream is that reliable place where you can find a mix of everything. Their house-brewed beers, especially the oatmeal stout, go great with pub classics like fish tacos or their famous burgers.
Upstream Brewing Company
If you’re a pizza lover, Pitch is a must. The coal-fired crust gives it a smoky edge, and they’re not shy with their toppings. The truffle fries are a must on the side—trust me on this.
Pitch Pizzeria
Amsterdam Falafel has a simple menu, but it’s packed with flavor. The falafel is crispy, and the kabobs are grilled to perfection. It’s my quick stop for something light but oh-so-satisfying.
Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob
Tucked away in the Old Market Passageway, this little spot is all about elegance and romance. I came here for a special occasion and felt pampered with every bite. They do amazing things with local ingredients, and the wine selection is just chef’s k...
V. Mertz
Dinker’s is all about classic, no-frills burgers. They’re famous for their Haystack Burger, which has these crispy onion rings piled on top. It’s one of those old-school places where everything just tastes like home.
Dinkers Bar and Grill
This place has “farm-to-table” down to a science. Their sandwiches are out of this world, and I’m convinced it’s because of their house-made bread. I like to pop in for lunch and end up with a plate that looks and tastes like it’s made just for me.
Kitchen Table
Blue Sushi is where I go when I’m craving something fresh and a little fancy. The rolls are creative and just beautifully presented, and they’ve got a fun, trendy vibe. Their happy hour deals make it easy to try a little of everything.
Old Market - Blue Sushi Sake Grill
Ika Ramen is my comfort food in a bowl. Their rich, savory ramen is perfect on a chilly day, and the casual atmosphere makes it the kind of place you can just settle into. The gyoza on the side is always a great add-on!
Ika Ramen and Izakaya
This is a go-to spot when I’m craving fresh and creative Mexican food with a twist. Their tacos are inventive, and their margaritas are downright tasty. The shrimp tacos and charred salsa are my personal favorites. They’re perfect for a fun, lively n...
Hook and Lime
Ok, this is a hidden gem that I love for authentic arepas. The food feels homemade, and the flavors are so bold and rich. If you’ve never had an arepa, their shredded beef and cheese combo will make you a fan for life!
El Arepón Venezuelan Food
For those special occasions when I want to go all out, Sullivan’s is my top pick for a classic steakhouse experience. The filet mignon is melt-in-your-mouth tender, and their garlic mashed potatoes are pure comfort. It’s perfect for a celebratory mea...
Sullivan's Steakhouse
Taqueria Tijuana is the real deal for authentic Mexican. Their street tacos are just bursting with flavor, and the tortillas are handmade, which makes all the difference. Try their al pastor and carne asada tacos for that “just like grandma made” tas...
Taqueria Tijuana
This place is a local treasure for authentic Mexican food, and the line is a sure sign that it’s worth the wait. Their barbacoa tacos are seasoned perfectly, and their green salsa packs just the right amount of heat. El Rey’s is one of my top picks f...
Taqueria el Rey - Omaha