April 8, 2018

100 Things To Do In Omaha Challenge

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When my friends, Tim and Lisa, published their first book “100 Things To Do In Omaha Before You Die,” Lisa asked how many I’ve done. As bloggers at The Walking Tourists, they write a lot about Omaha, as do I (obvs). So, I too wondered how many I could check off. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking the link, at no extra cost to you, I receive a small compensation for recommending it. Thanks for supporting this blog!

things to do in Omaha

Answer: I’ve done about 75 things in the book. Being a completionist, there are some half-finished sections that I don’t want to count, like the coffee shop list that has just one place left to visit (The Bike Union/The Coffee Union) and the classic steakhouses (I’m missing The Drover and Cascio’s).

So I’ve got about 25 things to check off from “100 Things To Do In Omaha Before You Die.” Rather than list all of them, here are the 10 I’ve set up as a mini challenge for me to visit before summer ends. As you’ll see in my list, the book covers a good variety of things to do in Omaha, from dining and sports to arts and history.

If it ever begins. Will winter ever end in Nebraska?!

100 Things To Do In Omaha Mini Challenge

1. Alpine Inn

I know you’re shocked to hear I haven’t gone to this quirky restaurant, where the main draw is watching wild raccoons pick through chicken bones out on the patio. Tim and Lisa promise Alpine Inn’s fried chicken is worth the wait. If you go, snag seats by the large windows for the “big dinner show.” Alpine Inn, 10405 Calhoun Road

2. College World Series at Ameritrade Park

It’s been a few years now that Ameritrade Park became the new home of the NCAA College World Series. Maybe I ought to see a game there? Technically, I have been to the park, at least. I’ve been to Fan Fest. Should I count that? Should I say I’ve checked 76 things off the list? Ameritrade Park, 1200 Mike Fahey St.

3. Microbreweries

Omaha’s craft brewery scene is growing, and I can’t keep up. I can only check off half the list in the book “100 Things To Do In Omaha Before You Die.” Here are the breweries I have yet to visit: Lucky Bucket Brewery, 11941 Centennial Road, La Vista, Neb.; Farnam House Brewing Co., 3558 Farnam St.; Brickway Brewing & Distillery, 1116 Jackson St.; Kros Strain Brewery, 10411 Portal Road, suite 102, La Vista, Neb.; Scriptown Brewing Co., 3922 Farnam St.

4. Bryson’s Airboat Tours

Though technically not an Omaha thing, these boat tours on the Platte River are close enough. If you’re not from around here, you might be surprised to know the Platte River in Nebraska is pretty shallow – like inches deep. So it makes sense that airboats are about the only way to really cruise the river. Bryson’s Airboat Tours, 879 Co. Road 19, Fremont, Neb.

5. Florence Bank and Florence Mill

Florence is one of those historic neighborhoods of Omaha that I haven’t explore much of. Two museums included in the Florence section are on my list to visit: Historic Florence Bank and Florence Mill. Find them at 8502 N. 30th St. and 9102 N. 30th St.

6. Film Streams at Dundee Theater

Here’s another one where I can say I could check it off the list, as I’ve been to Dundee Theater back in the day (anyone remember Midnight Movies?). But, I haven’t revisited it since it’s been renovated by the nonprofit Film Streams. The plan is to have a meal at Kitchen Table first and then see a movie. Film Streams at Dundee Theater, 4952 Dodge St.

7. Diventures

I haven’t been to Diventures, but mainly because I’ve never had a good reason to. I don’t plan trips that off good scuba diving opportunities, so I haven’t had a reason to learn it. Yet. Side note for those with kids: They also offer mermaid and shark classes with fin bodysuits. Or forget the kids, maybe you want to learn to be mermaid? Diventures, 4303 W. 121st Plaza

8. Horsemen’s Park

One obvious reason that I haven’t been to Horsemen’s Park is that I don’t know a thing about horse racing. But, I’ve heard on the few nights a year that they have live horse racing, it’s quite a party at Horsemen’s Park. Maybe I should once just for the experience? The 2018 live racing schedule is: May 12 (Opening Day), May 18 & 19 (Preakness), May 26 & 27 (Family Day), June 1 & 2, and June 8 & 9 (Belmont). Horsemen’s Park, 6303 Q St.

9. General Crook House Museum

Here’s a landmark I have yet to truly explore. Built in 1879, it’s been lovingly restored and is now on National Register of Historic Places. I was thinking I’d time it with a special event, or when it’s decorated for the holidays in November and December…but then I discovered they offer Afternoon Tea events there. I think I need to round up a group for that. General Crook House Museum, 5730 N. 30th St., Building 11B

10. Alpacas of the Heartland

My kids can say they’ve been to the Alpacas of the Heartland farm during the annual open house, but I can’t. The pictures are stinking cute though. Who can resist alpacas? Incidentally, I just stumbled across an event coming up: Yoga Humm – Yoga in the Fields With the Alpacas on April 28. I think I know when I’ll be going there. Alpacas of the Heartland, 7016 County Road 39, Fort Calhoun, Neb.

 

If you’ve bought the book, I’m curious to know how many you’ve checked off. Leave a comment!

 

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January 22, 2018

Fast-Casual Pizza In Elkhorn

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It’s not an easy feat to make good pizza quickly. If you’re looking for pizza in Elkhorn, Neb., you can find fast, good, and personalized pizza now at 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria. The franchise opened its second location in the Metro – and it’s true, the pizzeria’s 1000-degree oven bakes pizzas in two minutes. My family was invited to a dinner out at the restaurant so I could tell you all about it.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria. I was compensated for writing about my experience. As always, my opinions, descriptions and typos are my own.

1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria

The Food At 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria

Let’s just jump into the food, that’s what you’re curious about, right? While the menu does branch out out to include some salads and fire-roasted chicken wings, the main reason to go here is pizza. You can order one of their classics, with toppings and sauces already decided, or you can create your own. The price doesn’t change whether you add two or 12 toppings.

Three 10-inch pizzas, plus cheese bread, was plenty for a family of four.

You can tweak the classics, too. I heard the White Out pizza was delicious as is: Extra virgin olive oil, shredded mozzarella, parmesan, fresh mushrooms, and garlic. But, I met Derek Benson-Williams, the franchise’s regional manager, and he mentioned he added bacon to the White Out.

Good call, Derek. Good call.

The White Out with bacon was a savory treat, but the standout pizza was the one Mr. Wonderful ordered. He got the Smokey Pollo and made no changes to it. This flavorful pizza has sweet and smokey bourbon barbecue sauce, roasted chicken, bacon, red onion, red peppers, pineapple, shredded mozzarella and blue cheese. I’m not a fan of blue cheese, but on this pizza, it was just right.

The Smokey Pollo at 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria was the favorite pizza among the adults. The kids stuck with pepperoni.

My family all went with Neapolitan-style pizzas, but 1000 Degrees also has a style called Roman, with a thicker, puffier crust.

For four of us, we got three 10-inch pizzas, plus cheesy breadsticks. That was more than enough for us. One pizza was enough for my two young kids, but adding the breadsticks insured they didn’t finish the entire pizza.

Feeding Kids at 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria

I loved the individualization of pizzas at 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria, particularly since my kids can be rather picky. I’m pretty sure once they begin venturing out beyond pepperoni, they would be happy to add something crazy like macaroni and cheese to their pizza, but for now, they were content with their usual.

My kids are completely satisfied with the pepperoni and shredded mozzarella pizza. Someday, they’ll realize you can add mac and cheese to things at 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria.

We’ve had Neapolitan style pizza before, and the kids have balked at eating pizza with the fresh mozzarella slices on it. Crazy, right? It’s so good when it’s fresh. You can get fresh mozzarella at 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria, but if you’ve got kids like mine, you can also opt for the shredded variety to satisfy them.

Ordering at a Fast-Casual Pizzeria

1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria takes some inspiration from places like Subway, letting people have things the way they want them. That may mean standing at the counter and pointing out the toppings you want, deciding on which of the eight sauces you like, and deciding if you want just want type of cheese on top (or all eight). Then you have to figure out which crust you want (there’s a gluten-free option, too).

If you’re familiar with ordering at sub shops, you’ll like the way you can oversee your pizza’s creation and point out what you’d like added to it (with no extra charge).

Being a newly opened restaurant, this could mean a line forms as people get the hang of things. Bring your patience at meal time until everyone gets the hang of it.

Omaha Location Deals

We dined at the Elkhorn location, the newest 1000 Degrees in the Metro area.

Pizza in Elkhorn

The newest Metro area location of 1000 Degrees is in Elkhorn, Neb.

There is an Omaha location of 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria that’s been open since last May. You can head there for some great deals to save a little money. The biggie is the $6 Thursday deal. Any 10-inch pizza is $6, which is about 30% off the regular price.

The Omaha location also has five meal combos that are nice deals, too. These are the current bundle deals:

 

If you go

1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria

Where: 1405 S. 204th St., Elkhorn, Neb., and 17676 Welch Plaza, Suite 9, Omaha

Take Out: For the Elkhorn location, call (402) 905-2628.

View menu

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Love pizza? Don’t miss this post:

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January 11, 2018

Must-Try Restaurants In Omaha

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Omaha is a city that loves food. There are a lot of great, locally-owned restaurants producing creative dishes. If you’re short on time and wondering what the must-try restaurants in Omaha are, you’re in luck. I’ve already sought out the answer.

Oh My! Omaha Facebook page followers are pretty opinionated about food and loyal to local restaurants. So, I decided to find out what everyone’s must-try restaurant is in Omaha. See the original post here!

A lot of people had strong opinions, and there was a huge variety. I’ve picked my Top 10 out of the recommendations:

Block 16

1611 Farnam St.

Our Next Adventure recommends the block burger and duck duck goose fries

There’s a reason why there’s nearly always a line at Block 16. It’s that good. I’m partial to the Croque Carcon burger, and not just because Alton Brown deemed it one of the best in the world (though, I do feel like his opinion means something).

 

Dante Pizzeria Napoletana

16901 Wright Plaza, suite 173

“I have a lifelong love of Italy and a meal at Dante really does feel like a meal in Campagna. The pizza is amazing, of course, but what I love even better are Chef Nick Strawhecker’s inventive entrées. Nearly all the food is locally produced, but with authentic Italian preparation, the wine all comes from sustainable vineyards and the service is top-tier. I bring everyone who visits me in Omaha to Dante and they all love it as much as I do.” Jenna G., who wrote about the restaurant on her blog, The Beaspora

Jenna says it much more eloquently than I can, but I concur with her. Dante’s is the real deal.

The Grey Plume

220 S. 31st Ave., suite 3101

“I always recommend The Grey Plume.” Rebecca H.

“Be sure to order the duck fat fries for an appetizer!” – Patty N.

The Grey Plume has one of the most celebrated chefs in Omaha. Dining there is an experience. This one’s better without the kids, FYI.

The Kitchen Table

1415 Farnam St. and 4952 Dodge St.

Recommended by Lindsay W.

This hip farm-to-table restaurant just opened its second location in Omaha. The downtown location is so Instagrammable, and I bet its new location in Dundee is as well.

La Casa Pizzaria

4432 Leavenworth St.

“For pizza, La Casa.” – Marlys N.

Marlys and I have similar tastes, apparently. La Casa is my all-time favorite pizza in Omaha. The crust. The crust is unforgettable. It’s thin, for sure, so if you don’t like that kind of pizza…you’re out of luck. Look at this list for other great pizza joints in Omaha.

Lo Sole Mio Ristorante

3001 S 32nd Ave.

Recommended by Christina S. and Brian A.

Come hungry. The portions are huge at this wonderful Italian restaurant. My family has been going here for years.

Modern Love

1319 S. 50th St.

Suggested by Jennifer K.

Omaha has become known for its steaks, but we do venture away from meat from time to time. Modern Love is a vegan restaurant that is top notch, and will impress even the biggest meat eater in your group. It’s seasonally-based, so I’m not sure which dish to recommend (I was impressed with the mac and cheese).

M’s Pub

422 S. 11th St.

Becky W. suggested trying the Thai lavosh, lamb burger or the brie en croute. Also recommended by Diane T. and So Yun G.

M’s Pub is the Old Market darling that suffered a terrible fire, was closed for ages, and is now back open and, from the reviews, as good as ever. I haven’t been back since the fire, but it was a gem before it, so I trust the reviews.

Ted & Wally’s

1120 Jackson St. and 6023 Maple St.

“…save room for Ted & Wally’s!” – Ticha R.

I’ve tried them all and Ted & Wally’s remains my favorite ice cream shop in Omaha. A little tip: The Benson location never has a line quite like the Old Market location. If you’re impatient, head to Maple Street.

V. Mertz

1022 Howard St.

“We are there a couple times a month and love the seasonal menus. Enjoying the tasting menu each time it changes is a must.” – Dana Z. from momsgoodeats.com

 

Be sure to download the app Together A Great Good so you can do good while dining out! Some of these restaurants will donate a percentage of your bill to the charity of your choice. Restaurants on this page that contribute (as of January 11, 2018) include: Au Courant, Block 16, Hiro 88, J. Coco, Railcar Modern American Kitchen, and V. Mertz.

 

Here are the other must-try restaurants of Omaha

Anthony’s Steakhouse

7220 F St.

Recommended by Kathy B.

There are a couple old school Omaha steakhouses on this list, and Anthony’s may be the most recognizable on the exterior because of the giant steer on the rooftop. I’ll be honest, it’s not my favorite of the old school steakhouses, but it’s been around for decades, and it has its fans.

beef Omaha

Au Courant Regional Kitchen

6064 Maple St.

Recommended by Jordan B. and Adam P.

Au Courant has been on my to-visit list for months and months. I’ve heard rave reviews about this Benson restaurant and I’m determined to visit this year.

Brother Sebastian’s Steak House & Winery

1350 S. 119th St.

Recommended by Steven W.

This is another great old school restaurant in Omaha, though unlike the others on this list, I can say I’ve been here. It looks and feels like a monastery inside, and the wine list is superb. It’s a memorable restaurant to celebrate a special occasion.

Cascio’s Steakhouse

1620 S. 10th St.

“Cascio’s, for one of the last remaining ‘Omaha Italian Steakhouse’ experiences.” – Mark W.

I’ve been on a kick visiting some of Omaha’s oldest restaurants, and Cascio’s is on my list to visit. I’ll be honest with you all, I have not had the best experiences at our venerable Italian steakhouses, but they are still running for a reason.

Cilantros Mexican Bar & Grill

14440 F St. and 640 N. 114th St.

“Cilantro’s – specifically the tomatillo cream sauce chicken enchiladas.” – Abby K.

Cilantros surprised me – I thought it was chain, but it’s not. It’s just more polished than your average local joint. Anyway, I’ve been there. The food is better than average.

 

Crane’s Coffee

5 locations

“Warm up with the “sugar & spice” latte at Crane.” – Ticha R.

Crane’s is a family favorite and locally-run coffee shop without much of the hipster vibe you may encounter at some places (and I like those places – they have great coffee – I just could deal with less of everything else). I like the chai lattes, my husband gets the Crane Special, and the kids always ask for a chocolate chunk scone.

Dinker’s Bar & Grill

2368 S. 29th St.

“Dinker’s is the best!” – Katie T.

I’ve visited my share of burger places around Omaha to figure out who has the best. I haven’t settled on a verdict, yet, but Dinker’s is right up there. It’s a bit of a hole in the wall, but don’t be scared off by the exterior. It’s popular, been around for more than 50 years, and will likely to be very busy when you go.

The Drover Restaurant & Lounge

2121 S. 73rd St.

Recommended by Taylor S.

The Drover is another classic Omaha steakhouse that I have yet to visit. It’s on my list (and actually, at the top of my list).

For reviews of Omaha’s oldest restaurants, check out the Old School Omaha Series.

Early Bird

3824 Farnam St., suite 121

“For brunch – Early Bird brunch! Soooo gooood and different!” – Kaila W.

Early Bird is one of the newest restaurants to open in the trendy Blackstone District. I haven’t been, but I’ve had more than one friend tell me that I need to go (they all know I love breakfast).

FarmHouse Cafe & Bakery

3461 84th St.

Recommended by Mary D.

My extended family loves Farmhouse Cafe, and I have to agree, it’s pretty tasty. Be sure to order a cinnamon roll… and be ready to share.

Golden Bowl Chinese Restaurant

513 Fort Crook Road N, Bellevue, Neb,

Recommended by Nichole M.

I’ll be honest, I haven’t been to this Chinese restaurant. However, I have a foodie friend, Danell, and he is always eating there (here’s his review), so I’ve got to assume it’s pretty good.

Hiro 88

4 locations

Recommended by Sarah G.

Hiro 88 doesn’t disappoint with its sushi. Time it to coincide with Happy Hour, and you’ll have a happier wallet, too.

Ika Ramen and Izakaya

6109 Maple St.

Recommended by Katrina L.

This is a newer dining spot in Benson that I haven’t made it to yet, but I’ve heard nothing but good things about it.

J. Coco

5203 Leavenworth St.

Recommended by Allyson H.

I ventured to J.Coco during Restaurant Week one year and enjoyed the dinner tremendously. This is a good date night spot.

Netties Fine Mexican Food

7110 Railroad Ave., Bellevue, Neb.

Recommended by Marcy S.

I’m not too familiar with Nettie’s but word on the street, it’s great Mexican food in Bellevue.

Nicola’s Italian Wine & Fare

521 S. 13th St.

Recommended by Carrie M.

I’m pretty partial to this tiny Italian restaurant on the edge of the Old Market. The food is so fresh and so good. Reservations are a must, and if the weather is nice, sit out on the patio.

Railcar Modern American Kitchen

1814 N. 144th St.

Recommended by Lauri  C.

This was a nice date night for me and Mr. Wonderful a few years ago. I wish I had a better memory to tell you what order.

Runza

Various locations

Recommended by Mallory B.

Though technically a chain fast food restaurant, Runza has its roots here in Nebraska. Go here to try the Runza sandwich. You won’t find it anywhere else in the world.

Stokes Old Market

1122 Howard St. and 13615 California St.

Recommended by Kristi M.

Stokes (the Old Market location on Howard Street) is pretty great. Try Sharon’s enchiladas if you go. Delish!

 

Your turn! What’s the one restaurant in Omaha that you think every visitor should go to?

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September 27, 2017

Best Coffee In Omaha

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Omaha loves a good cup of coffee, so there are many great local coffee shops with loyal fans. You can’t throw a corn hat without hitting a Omaha coffee shop window.

I asked Oh My! Omaha fans on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to share their favorite place for coffee, and they did not disappoint. Here you go, the list of the best places to get coffee in Omaha:

Accerlerando Coffee House

7023 Cass St.

Accerlernado had a couple fans recommend it. They might just win for most intriguing coffee drink name: @frommetovuu wrote “Accelerando coffee house and totally the cornflake latte!!” Anyone else curious what’s in the Cornflake?

 

Archetype

3926 Farnam St.

For the freshest and smoothest coffee around, Archetype is your place. They’ve made it a science and roast in-house. @programmerman tweeted “Archetype has the best coffee in Omaha.” And over on Instagram, others were just as definitive. @emilymtaber wrote “Archetype. No question.” @mylittlelorelaiI shared my sentiments exactly on Instagram: “I do love archetype but I always feel like I stand out for not being hipster enough.”

 

Aromas Bliss

1033 Jones St., 6051 Maple St., and inside Westroads Mall at Flagship Commons

This had a couple fans across different social platforms. I’ll admit, I got to Aromas more for the Bliss Bakery goodies than their coffee drinks, but its caffeinated fans are loyal! “We love Aromas!” tweeted @therusticroad.

 

Beansmith Coffee Roasters – Closing Oct. 15, 2017

1213 Harney St.

Beansmith is particular about coffee and it left a good impression on me when I visited during the Caffeine Crawl a year ago. Do you know how hard it is to stand out from the pack on a tour?

 

Caffeine Dreams

4524 Farnam St.

This Midtown coffee shop was accidentally left off this list but @aroger brought it to my attention: “Great hangout spot, warm and cozy, good for studying or casual conversation, their roasting is top-notch and best chai latte.” He’s right. How could I forget Caffeine Dreams?? I’ve been a few times to play games with my kids (and probably annoy the college students studying). If the weather’s nice, check out their outdoor space!

 

Crane Coffee

5923 Center St., 7772 Cass St., and 3027 S. 84th St.

This is a particular favorite in my family. Any early morning road trip begins at the Crane on Cass Street, picking up a coffee for me and Mr. Wonderful and a chocolate chunk scone for the kiddos before we head out.

 

Culprit Cafe

1603 Farnam St., suite 101

Like Aromas, I associate Culprit with baked goods more than coffee, but it has some serious fans. “From simple pour overs to amazing lattes (try the vanilla one), @culpritcafe is my go-to,” writes @jbath13.

 

Delice European Cafe & Bakery

3201 Farnam St., suite 6112

 

Karma Koffee

587 N. 155th Plaza

 

Mug Life

2452 Harney St.

 

Omaha Bicycle Co.

6015 Maple St.

This place wins for most unique combo: It is in fact a bike shop and a coffee shop.

 

ROAST Coffee House

1904 S. 67th St.

This is a newer one in Omaha, and it already has a lot of fans. @spartanjess wrote she loved the breve there. I love a Hill of Beans, who has amazing coffee beans you can purchase for home brewing, so I know their coffee shop has to be serving incredibly good coffee.

 

Scooters

Several locations

This local chain of coffee shops had quite a few fans. I’m going to guess it’s partly because they’re super convenient (and they have a great of flavored coffee, IMO).

 

Stay Sweet Nicolas

805 S. Main St., suite 2, Council Bluffs, Iowa

 

Urban Abbey

1026 Jackson St.

Urban Abbey got a vote from @jbrummer1031 on Instagram, and it reminded me to return to this great place. I usually only go on Saturdays when I make it to the farmers market next door.

 

Well Grounded Coffee House

707 S. 24th St.

 

Whole Foods

10020 Regency Circle

Those familiar with the chain probably have a favorite treat there (mine is the cheese samples…). @_mommyk._ wrote “A simple vanilla latte at Whole Foods has my vote!”

 

Zen Coffee Co.

230 S. 25th St., suite 3

 

13th Street Coffee

519 S. 13th St.

Kerri W. is a fan of this place. I used to go there often back when I had an Old Market apartment, but once more coffee shops opened downtown, I’ve found new favorites.

 

Best Coffee Shop Specialty Drinks in Omaha

Green Beans Coffee

6831 S. 167th St.

This one had a couple fans raving about, particularly the mocha. Says Amy R. “I usually get a mocha but anything there is great!”

 

Scooters

Several locations

“Scooters has the best cappuccino blender. It’s not overloaded with sugar like some others,” said Darci D. Kelly R. recommended the Carmeclious, “It is amazing.” (I have to agree with her)

 

Is this list missing your favorite Omaha coffee shop? Leave me a comment telling me what it is and why!

 

Hungry?

 

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July 14, 2017

Lost Restaurants Of Omaha

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Update: I’ve been adding author appearances & locations to purchase the book. Scroll down to find them!

Disclosure: The following posts contains affiliate links. At no cost to the consumer, when you make a purchase from the link, I receive a teeny, tiny amount of money to help me continue doing what I love to do – writing. Thanks for your support!

I’ve written a book, you guys, and it’s now published!  “Lost Restaurants of Omaha” was published by Arcadia Publishing and The History Press on Oct. 30, 2017. 

Lost Restaurants of Omaha cover

 

This has been a labor of love for over a year. I’ve interviewed a number of families and friends connected to some of Omaha’s most beloved restaurants; scoured hundreds of newspaper stories, magazines and books; and one time, chatted on the phone with Alexander Payne during my son’s 7th birthday.

True story.

 

This is what book research looks like at Louie M’s Burger Lust. Louie Marcuzzo’s grandma opened Italian Gardens in Little Italy, a restaurant that was bombed right before opening.

 

There are some incredible photos in the book, too, and I want to express my appreciation for the folks at The Durham Museum Photo Archive, who not only helped me search for photos properly, but helped make it affordable to secure the rights to use the images. You can browse their archives, too, and even reprint photos for your own use. 

Researching this book made made me realize how connected restaurants are to this city’s history. Many of the restaurants in this book were open during my lifetime and, yet, I never dined there. My hope is that what I’ve written will recreate some of those dining experiences for those who did make it to those restaurants, and inform the rest of us what we missed. Writing this book spurred the Old School Omaha dining series on this blog where I visited some of Omaha’s oldest restaurants, because I don’t want to realize too late that I missed visiting a gem in my own city.

 

Where to buy “Lost Restaurants of Omaha”

The following list is for online and Nebraska-based booksellers:

Amazon

Arcadia Publishing

Barnes & Noble

Big G Ace Hardware, 3203 Osborne Drive W., Hastings, Neb.

Books-A-Million

The Bookworm

Costco, 12300 Dodge St.*

Costco, 8250 S. 125th St., La Vista, Neb.*

Douglas County Historical Society gift shop, 5730 N. 30th St., #11b – available soon

The Durham Museum gift shop

Fairmont Mercantile, 1209 Jackson St. – available soon

Indie Bound

Landmark Stores, Lincoln, Neb.

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters in Omaha

Nebraska Historical Society Museum gift shop, 131 Centennial Mall North, Lincoln, Neb.

Sam’s Club, 9851 S. 71st Plaza, Papillion, Neb.*

Sam’s Club, 3221 Manawa Center Drive, Council Bluffs, Iowa*

Sam’s Club, 13130 L St.*

*May be seasonal; books were available at Christmas

Upcoming Appearances

May 17 – Omaha Business Men’s Association

 

Previous Appearances

2018

Jan. 12 – Cosmopolitan meeting, 7:30 a.m.

Jan. 13 – Facebook Q&A with Omaha History Club, noon

March 11 – “Omaha’s Delicious History: Stories From Lost Restaurants of Omaha,” speaker at Douglas County Historical Society’s Second Sunday Series, 2 p.m., Metropolitan Community College Fort Omaha Campus

2017

Nov. 2 – Tune in to KMTV Channel 3’s “The Morning Blend” to hear me talk about the book. The show airs from 9 to 10 a.m.

Nov. 3 – Tune to Star 104.5 FM morning show with Chris and Terri. I’m pre-recording an interview with them and anticipate it airing the following morning.

Nov. 4 – Omaha Public Library’s Read It & Eat Culinary Conference (I’ll be doing the Q&A at 12:15…the conference is all about sweets, you guys, and there will be food samples. You need to go!)

Nov. 12 – Forgotten Omaha monthly meeting at DJ’s Dugout, 5 p.m. Books will be available for purchase.

Dec. 9 – Book signing at Barnes & Noble Booksellers at Crossroads Mall, 1 to 3 p.m. Books will be available for purchase.

Dec. 10 – Book signing at Barnes & Noble Booksellers at Oak View, 1 to 3 p.m. Books will be available for purchase.

Dec. 16 – Book signing at Sarpy County Museum, 2402 Clay St, Bellevue, Neb., 1 to 3 p.m. Books will be available for purchase.

Dec. 17 – Book signing at The Bookworm, 2501 S. 90th St., suite 111, 1 p.m. Books will be available for purchase. Other authors at the book signing will be Gretchen Garrison (“Detour Nebraska”) and the author of “Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium (Landmarks)”

 

 

Stay tuned for updates on local stores to purchase the book and more author appearances!

 

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Filed Under: Explore Omaha Tagged With:
June 28, 2017

Feed Your Inner-Child At These Omaha Restaurants

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Omaha’s food scene has made it entirely possible to eat like a child and not feel guilty. Cotton Candy after dinner? Yes, please. Homemade pop tarts? I’ll try one of each. Mac and cheese? Well, it is gourmet.

I asked Oh My! Omaha Facebook fans and friends in the Omaha Area Foodies Facebook group, to share their thoughts on the topic: Restaurants that include your inner-child.

Want to indulge your inner-child? Dine at one of these Omaha restaurants:

Omaha restaurants to feed your inner-child

Cotton Candy

Salt 88 has been surprising diners for a few years, handing over cotton candy as an unexpected treat at the end of a meal. You’ll never know what flavor it will be, but it’s safe to assume it’s going to be tasty. Heather reminded me of this delicious treat, adding 💕💕💕 to her comment, because it is that good.

Salt 88, 3623 N. 129th St. (Closed July 22, 2017)

 

French Fried Twinkies & Other Delights

The only thing better than a Twinkie, Oreos or a Snickers, is a french fried Twinkie, Oreo or Snickers. Amirigtht? Gabriela agrees with me. She recommends going to W.C. Frank to try these delicious treats. Yeah, the W.C. Frank from your childhood is back.

W.C. Frank, 210 S. 16th St. (in the Brandeis Building food court).

 

Grilled Cheese…But Fried

Cheese and fried foods. It’s a match made in heaven. Amanda recommended readers try the cheese frenchee at Don & Millies.

There are seven locations in Nebraska.

 

Hot Dogs

Hot dogs have been taken to a new level at B & B Classic Dogs. Think of topping a hot dog off with peanut butter and bacon, or perhaps try the Some Mitch, which is covered with mac & cheese, bacon & barbecue sauce. Two people, Jen and Danell, gave me high praise for this Bellevue restaurant.

B & B Classic Dogs, 1020 Lincoln Road, Bellevue, Neb.

 

Ice Cream

If it was socially accepted, I’d eat ice cream daily. Maybe as a meal itself. Cindy agreed with me, and confessed she sometimes eats ice cream for lunch…Ted and Wally’s ice cream, that is. I get it. It’s that good. Cindy and I would get along, because she’s also a traditionalist when she orders, getting vanilla and Dutch chocolate in a waffle cone. You can get fancier and more playful flavors, but why would you? That Dutch chocolate is the best in the world.

Ted and Wally’s, 1120 Jackson St. and 6023 Maple St.

Loose Meat Sandwiches

Craving this Midwestern staple? Jamie at The Kitchenarium recommends going to B&G Tasty Foods to relive your childhood. The Bee Gee hasn’t changed since 1953.

B&G Tasty Foods, 7900 W Dodge Road

 

Mac N Cheese

Omahans love their macaroni and cheese, the more gourmet, the better. When I was pregnant, I swear I’ve tried them all. The best of the best, in my opinion, is found at Marks Bistro. Others disagree. Jamie at The Kitchenarium recommends going to the Blatt Beer & Table (in NoDo) for their mac and cheese. Jake suggested going to Leadbelly at Midtown Crossing for it. And, Cassie directed people to Benson Brewery to try it.

Marks Bistro, 4916 Underwood Ave.

Blatt Beer & Table, 610 N. 12th St.

Leadbelly, 3201 Farnam St., Suite 6101 (there’s a Lincoln location, as well)

Benson Brewery, 6059 N. Maple St.

 

Open-Faced Grilled PB&J

You’re going to want to head to Kitchen Table for this modern take on the peanut butter and jelly classic. Janelle from Bakes in Slippers suggested it.

Kitchen Table, 1415 Farnam St.

 

Pizza Cones

You didn’t even know these were a thing, did you? They are, and they’re so good. You can get the cone of cheesey goodness at The Session Room in NoDo. While there, further indulge that inner-child and play some oversized Jenga.

The Session Room, 1506 Mike Fahey St.

Pop Tarts

If you’ve never had a homemade pop tart, you’re missing out. Over Easy in West Omaha serves up this amazing breakfast pastry with a twist. You can get one stuffed with Nutella or a seasonal flavor.

Over Easy, 16859 Q St.

 

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Filed Under: Where To Eat In Omaha Tagged With:
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