With so many restaurants to choose from, Omahans may seem spoiled when it comes to selecting a place to dine. From local mom and pop eateries to national chains, Omaha’s dining scene features more than 500 restaurants. That can make choosing the perfect dining spot very difficult.

One way to explore the culinary landscape is by visiting Omaha’s oldest restaurants. Only a handful of restaurants can say they’ve served Omahans dinner for more than 50 years.

Even fewer can say they’ve been around for nearly a century.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking the link, I receive a small referral stipend.

Omaha's Oldest Restaurants

Orsi's Italian Bakery & Pizzeria

Located in Little Italy, Orsi's Italian Bakery & Pizzeria is Omaha’s oldest restaurant, opening its doors as a bakery in 1919. Adding Sicilian-style pizza to the menu in the 1950s, Orsi’s became known for its rectangular pies. The deli, bakery, and pizzeria at 621 Pacific St. was a four-generation family restaurant before family friend Jim Hill took over in 2010.

While they bake amazing bread and rolls, the pizza and its special sauce are popular with Omahans. With limited seating, plan to order your pizza to go. It can be ordered in quarter (six slices), half (12 slices) and full size (24 slices). You may want to try the goudarooni, a double-crusted pizza.

Orsi’s is open 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays (closed Monday and certain holidays) and 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

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Johnny's Café

Steakhouses in Omaha were once commonplace. Many places bought their beef straight from the Omaha Stockyards, which was once the world’s largest. Practically located next door, Johnny’s Café started as a bar in 1922 before Prohibition outlawed alcohol consumption around the country.

As the stockyards continued to grow, Johnny’s Café sought to be the place where business people met during the day and evening for deals and farmers enjoyed breakfast after delivering their cattle and hogs to market.

Today, Johnny’s Café is operated by Frank Kawa’s granddaughters. The South Omaha restaurant, 4702 S. 27th St., is known as much for its décor as its culinary history. With a unique design, such as a steer head design in the carpet bordered by the letter J, Johnny’s Café invites you to explore its décor.

With a menu featuring fresh steaks, chicken and fish, Johnny’s Café is open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday and 5 to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday (closed Sunday).

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Gorat's Steakhouse

Louis and Nettie Gorat opened a steakhouse in 1944 in a then-rural part of Omaha. Today, Gorat’s is best known as the favorite dining spot for billionaire Warren Buffett. He even has his own room to entertain celebrity guests.

The Gorat family owned the restaurant at 4917 Center St. until 2012 when restaurateur Gene Dunn bought it. Sticking with the classic Italian-style steakhouse philosophy, diners enjoy a side of pasta with their steak dinners.

Gorat’s is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and 5 to 10 p.m. Saturday.

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NiteNawkes Café

Open since 1942, NiteHawkes Café features breakfast and lunch. A fourth-generation-owned restaurant, NiteHawkes’ menu isn’t for the meek. With large portions, such as the Scrambler, just try to go home hungry.

Located at 4825 N. 16th St., NiteHawkes Café is family-friendly, with basic décor. Why go all-out on design when food is the attraction?

The restaurant is open 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

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Bronco's

Who hasn’t enjoyed a Bronco Burger at Omaha’s original drive-in? Bill Barnes opened the first restaurant near 30th and Fort in 1959. With two locations - at 4510 Leavenworth and west Omaha at 1123 S. 120th St. - Bronco’s continues to offer a similar menu today as it did in the early days.

With Bill’s son Steve and grandson Blake managing the chain, Bronco’s entertains diners with a western décor and still plays early Rock-and-Roll music as longtime patrons enjoy classic burgers and hand-cut French fries.

Bronco’s is open 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

Photo credit: Odyssey Through Nebraska

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Dinker's Bar

Don’t let the bar part of Dinker’s discourage you from visiting. Home to one of the best spots in Omaha to enjoy a burger, Dinker’s Bar & Grill opened as a bar in 1965.

In the heart of Sheelytown, a melting pot of South Omaha eastern European immigrants, founder Frank Synowiecki, aka Dinker, added a hot plate to cook breakfast for patrons hungry after their overnight shifts at local factories. After adding a kitchen, a local newspaper columnist wrote that Dinker’s had the best “bar burgers” in town. Dinker added “Omaha’s Best Burgers” to the outdoor sign and a tradition was born. Dinker’s annually ranks among the best burgers in Omaha during citywide competitions.

Located at 2368 S. 29th St., Dinker’s is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

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Omaha restaurant history

I consider restaurants to be a part of Omaha history, so I can be pretty passionate when recommending people eat local in order to help preserve Omaha’s history.

Why?

I wrote a book about well-known restaurants and hidden gems throughout Omaha’s history that have since closed. While writing the book, I learned about how restaurants played a role in the Civil Rights movement, Prohibition (and the repeal of it), and how the city fared during wars, recessions, and changing tastes.

Regrettably, I hadn’t been to most that were open at one point in my life. In an attempt to change that, I’ve started dining at some of the oldest restaurants in Omaha. I hope you’ll do the same!

Truth be told, the food has been hit or miss at the restaurants. But I’m glad I patronized a local restaurant each and every time. There’s no mistaking how these restaurants played a role in Omaha history.

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Omaha’s Old Market is a historic neighborhood with brick streets, quirky shops, and an abundance of restaurants. If you’re new to Omaha, or rarely visit the Old Market, it’s not always the easiest decision on figuring out where to eat. Since I love food and the Old Market, I’ve made this guide to help you pick a good restaurant.

Where is the Old Market in Omaha?

The Old Market is located in downtown Omaha, Neb. It runs from Farnam Street on the north side to Jones Street on the south side, and from 10th Street on the east side to 13th Street on the west side. The main intersection is 11th and Howard – head there to get an iconic photo for Instagram.

Driving & Parking in the Old Market

Old Market can be a headache for drivers, but if you go in prepared, you’ll do just fine. 

Old Market driving tips:

• – Most of the main streets of the Old Market are two-way. HOWEVER, many of the streets around those main streets are one-way…and some just stop being two-way. Pay close attention to street signs! The main drag, Howard Street, is two-way.

Old Market parking tips:

• – Just expect to pay for parking. You’ll get very frustrated trying to find that elusive free parking spot. (Tip: Head to the 10th Street bridge heading south from the Old Market toward The Durham Museum.)
• – Parking meters are everywhere. Meters run until 9 p.m. Time limits vary, but if you download the app, you should be able to add to it at least once if you’re dinner runs long. 
• – You do not need to pay meters after 9 p.m., Sundays, or federal holidays. 
• – Meter maids are quick to ticket cars. I used to live in the Old Market. They get you every time. I don’t care to share how many tickets I’ve gotten due to expired meters. Just make sure you keep track of time.  
• – Meters aren’t your only option. There are parking lots in the Old Market – some with rates as low as a $1/hour. See all the downtown parking options here. 

Guide to Old Market restaurants

I’ve made recommendations below based on living and working near the Old Market for more than 10 years. While I try to make recommendations for locally-owned restaurants, I have to sprinkle in a few chains just because. I’ll let you know which ones are chains, though. 

Also, I will admit, this is not a comprehensive list of all restaurants, cafes, and bars in the Old Market. There are some places I just won’t recommend, either because I’ve never been there and I’m unsure of its reputation for service, or I’ve been and I don’t like it.

You’ll just have to guess why I left a place off. 🙂 

Related post: 33+ Must-Try Restaurants In Omaha

Best restaurant for large groups

I’ve hosted a few gatherings for large groups in my lifetime, and they were held in the Old Market. My top recommendation is Upstream Brewing Co., which can accommodate a large group and, if you plan ahead, you can have a large part of the second floor for your group. 

I held my husband’s surprise 30th birthday party there. While it is a brewery, it’s more of a brew pub-restaurant, and it’s family-friendly.

Best restaurants for a family

It might surprise you, but Upstream Brewing Co. is a pretty family-friendly restaurant. Besides a great kid’s menu, there is weekly entertainment. We love catching the magic show on Tuesdays.

If you go for weekend brunch, though, there is no kid’s menu. If the weather’s nice, try to snag sidewalk seating to people watch.

Other options:

Plank Seafood Provisions – If your kids will eat fish, this is a good pace to go! 

Zio’s Pizzeria – Ask for some pizza dough while you wait. It’s the best make-shift playdough you can find.

Related post: 8 Kid-Friendly Restaurants In Downtown Omaha

Best date night restaurants

La Buvette Wine & Grocery will always have a special place in my heart. This charming French restaurant & wine shop is comfortable and cozy. You can easily pretend you’re in a small wine bar somewhere in France. It’s first come, first serve so hover by the table you want to snag.

Le Buillon is another great French restaurant, and a bit more upscale than La Buvette. They specialize in farm-to-table cuisine. 

Other options:

Ahmad’s Persian Cuisine – I love Ahmad’s. Get the chicken kebab, you won’t be disappointed.

Jams American Grill – Contemporary American food

Monarch Prime & Bar – You can get really decadent here.

M’s Pub – This is one of the oldest and more respected restaurants in the Old Market. I haven’t been there since it reopened after a devastating fire, but I hear it’s as good as ever.

Nicola’s Italian Wine & Faire – This place has the best outdoor patio. This is a small restaurant, so make reservations.

The Boilerroom Restaurant – The creativity in the kitchen will impress you.

The Oven – Cuisine from northern India and Bhutan

V. Mertz – The romantic atmosphere at V. Mertz is second to none.

Related post: 25+ Omaha Date Night Ideas

Breakfast in the Old Market

I’m a sucker for brunch at Upstream Brewing Co. It seems at least once a year, we go there on a Saturday in the summer, right after we’ve shopped the farmer’s market. 

You bet I get a mimosa when I have brunch at Upstream.

Other options:

Billy Frogg’s Grill & Bar – I know! It’s a bar. Word is that the breakfast is pretty good, though. I’ve been here for lunch with my kids – this quirky place is pretty family-friendly in the daytime.

Scooters Coffeehouse – This is a local chain with pretty good coffee and pastries.

WheatFields Express – This is a pretty good option for breakfast, though the menu will overwhelm you.

Casual restaurants in the Old Market

Stokes Grill & Bar has never had a dud of a dish. This Tex-Mex restaurant has some scrumptious enchiladas (Sharon, what do you put in them??), filling salads (Koko’s Harvest Salad), and the best tortilla chicken soup I’ve ever had.

If the weather’s nice, be sure to ask to sit outside.

Other options:

Craft Sliders + Beer – I like the beer selection here.

Poke Boba House – Fresh, healthful food served up in a cute little restaurant.

The Monster Club – This is a horror movie-themed restaurant. I haven’t been to it yet, but it has its fans. It’s also one of Omaha’s quirkiest restaurants.

Roja Mexican Grill – The salsa is addicting at Roja.

Trini’s Mexican Restaurant – I love the atmosphere at this restaurant and the salsa is so good.

Urban Abbey – More bookstore with a cafe, this is a place to get a light snack or coffee.

Best Old Market restaurants for sushi

I’m a fan of Matsu Sushi Japanese Restaurant. The sushi is top-notch and pretty reasonable.

Other options:

Blue Sushi Old Market – Head here if you want sake bombs. Go during their Happy Hour; it’s held daily but time vary.

Hiro 88 – The Happy Hour specials on Sundays are great here.

Where to go for dessert in the Old Market

I’m a die-hard fan of Ted & Wally’s Ice Cream. It’s worth waiting in line to get a scoop. I recommend sampling a few of their creative flavors before settling on a choice. Keep in mind that a “single scoop” is actually, like, two scoops so you can request two flavors.

I usually just go for a dish or waffle cone, but this is the place where you can try a choco taco or, sometimes, get a donut sandwich with ice cream in the middle. Wear your stretchy pants.

Other options:

Brownie Bar – This is pretty new, but they dropped off some samples at my office recently and I can’t wait to visit the shop!

Chocolat Abeille – Chocolate that’s almost too pretty to eat. Almost.

Hollywood Candy – If you can make it past the candy aisles, there is an old-fashioned soda fountain in there.

Old Market Candy Shop – I go here for my truffles fix.

Best Old Market bars for drinks

I highly recommend getting a drink and sitting outdoors at Mr. Toad’s – it’s fun and a prime location for people watching. You’ll love it! They string up lights and you can people watch all day long. The interior is pretty cozy too.

Other options:

Brickway Brewery & Distillery – Another Omaha brewery you should check out.

Dubliner Pub – It always feels like St. Patrick’s Day here. There’s often live music on weekend nights.

Laka Lono Rum Club – I haven’t been to this tiki bar yet, but I’ve heard it’s a fun place to go. They have flaming drinks, y’all.

The Berry & Rye – This is the craft cocktail lounge you’ve been looking for.

Thunderhead Brewing Taproom – One more microbrewery to add to your list.

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Omaha has a brag-worthy culinary scene. And now, in recent years, Omaha diners have embraced the food hall scene. Here’s what you can expect at each of the city’s food halls, including which local Omaha restaurants have a location at a food hall. Plus, I share tips on what to order and which restaurants have kid-friendly grub.

What’s a food hall

Think of a food hall as an upscale food court, typically with a focus on locally-owned restaurants with a few new-to-the-city concepts. I call them hipster food courts. And I mean that affectionately.

Where are Omaha’s food halls?

Omaha’s first food hall, Flagship Commons, opened at Westroads Mall in late 2015. Westroads is a pretty conveniently located mall near busy Dodge Street, as well as near Interstate 680.

It’s definitely not like any mall food court you may have encountered. Flagship was the first of its kind in the entire state.

Most of Flagship’s seating is in a common area, with a mix of typical table seating, bar seating, and my favorite spot, couch seating by a fireplace. Most seating is indoors, though if you dine at The Blatt, you can snag a table outside.

In 2019, Inner Rail Food Hall opened at Aksarben Village. Unlike Westroads, this isn’t a mall setting in the traditional sense. Aksarben Village is an entertainment district with a mix of shops, restaurants, apartments and businesses, as well as a large green space and playground. Inner Rail is within that development in its own space with indoor and outdoor seating.

Things to know about the Inner Rail

Inner Rail Food Hall is all quick-service restaurants with a definite world flavor appeal to it. Located at the ever-growing Aksarben Village, it’s in Midtown Omaha and not nearly as easily accessible to get to as Westroads.

(If you’ve ever driven 72nd Street during rush hour in hopes of reaching Aksarben Village, you’ll understand my rage.)

Being the new kid on the scene, you can expect a wait to order at most counters at Inner Rail. You’ll find some counter seats, and a lot of traditional table seating. 

Inner Rail has a great outdoor space with two firepits and a lot of seating. When the weather’s nice, you might see a giant Jenga and bean bag games set up.

Fun side note for all of you youngsters or out-of-towners: Inner Rail is a racing term that references the former life of the area where Aksarben Village is located. It was once Aksarben Race Track and Colosseum, a horse race track.

Restaurants at Inner Rail include:

The Bánh Mì Shop – This restaurant has a devout following at its Bellevue location, so no doubt, Midtown people love to have a close location now. The quick service restaurant here serves up the most popular sandwich in Vietnam, the Bánh Mì. It’s a baguette served with mayo, sweet carrot and daikon pickles, cucumber and cilantro. (LOCAL)

Noli’s Pizzeria – Noli’s original location is in the hip Blackstone neighborhood. These guys take their New York-style pizza seriously, even getting the water filtered to mimic the granite filtered qualities of New York’s water. (LOCAL)

Maharani Indian Kitchen – Indian cuisine with a few good options for vegetarians out there.

Sofra Creperie – This place serves savory and sweet crepes. I have one word for you all: Nutella. They have Nutella. I had the savory So Cal and it was pretty good, though maybe it’s more of a testament to my appetite, I was still hungry afterward.

ACTQ – This is the third taqueria to be opened by Brooklyn chef and restaurant Akhtar Nawab. It stands for Alta Calidad Taqueria and the food is defined as Mexican-inspired (and it’s yummy).

B Squared Burger – What could be better than burgers and tater tots?

Briggs Bean – Here’s where you go to get your caffeine fix, including nitro cold brew. They also happen to serve pastries from the local pastry shop, Sweet Magnolias.

Kathmandu Momo Station – These guys were the popular as a pop up and now they have this great little space in Inner Rail. Kathmandu serves up Nepalese street food including momos (stuffed dumplings) and Burmese ramen. (LOCAL)

Ela’s Creamery – Serves up soft-serve ice cream in two flavors that rotate each week. I had the luck of sampling Cinnamon Toast Crunch when I was there. If that’s ever an option for you, get it!

Backstretch Bar – The bar! What more need I say? OK, I can say more. The perk of Inner Rail is that you can order a drink at Backstretch and take it outside with you to sit by a firepit.

Best food to order at Inner Rail Food Hall

I’ve eaten at Inner Rail an impressive amount of times since it’s only been open like a month and I don’t even work near there. 

The surprise winner was the roti at ACTQ. It’s a flat bread that’s great for sharing. I had the vegetarian roti, which had queso and avocado.

I also highly recommend getting the naan with whatever entree you order at Maharani. It’s top notch.

SO MANY people told me to try the momos at Kathmandu. I tried both the fried and the traditional steamed ones. I preferred the steamed dumplings, though truth be told, good luck trying to get your kids to try one.

What’s kid-friendly at Inner Rail

Since Inner Rail is so new, we haven’t had many chances to test places out on our kids just yet. However, they are fans of the Noli pizza slice.

I didn’t notice many kid’s menu options at the restaurants, so unless your kid has a big appetite, just plan on sharing with him or her.

I’ll tell you what, my kids want nothing to do with momos. There. I said it.

Related food: Best Omaha Restaurants For Families

Things to know about Flagship Commons

Flagship has mostly quick dining restaurants, as well as a bar, coffeehouse and one full-service eatery. A few Omaha favorites have opened a location there, including my favorite, Blatt Beer & Table. 

Restaurants at Flagship Commons include:

Blatt Beer & Table – Blatt makes every “best of” restaurant list I ever write. I love the Blatt, and so does my family. It’s the only full-service restaurant at Flagship. The drink specials here are pretty good. (LOCAL)

Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob – Small menu, big tastes. I can’t get my kids to like the falafel here, but if I’m dining without them, it’s a solid choice. (LOCAL)

Aromas Coffeehouse – This is the place to go for your caffeine fix, or if you’re so inclined, dessert. I personally like the baked goods there more than the coffee.  (LOCAL)

Yum Roll – Run by Blue Sushi Sake Grill, this is your sushi joint, if that’s what you’re craving.

Yoshi-Ya Ramen – Classic ramen quick service. Some people swear this place is the best. I’ve never embraced the whole ramen scene, though, so I’ve got nothin’.

Weirdough Pizza Co. – Weirdough serves Roman-style pizza al taglio. Surprisingly, my kids won’t eat this pizza.

Juan Taco – Love fancy tacos? Juan Taco serves food-truck style tacos.

Clever Greens – This is an upscale salad quick-service restaurant.

The Bar – It’s exactly what it sounds like.

Best food to order at Flagship

There are a few places I frequent regularly at Flagship Commons. If you go to Blatt, you have to try the Dirty Bird at least once. It’s a chicken sandwich that’s absolutely horrible for you, which means it tastes delicious.

For something a little quicker, head to Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob. I absolutely love the falafel here, as well as curry fries.

What’s kid-friendly at Flagship Commons

Like I said before, we’re a Blatt family. The kid’s menu has great food, and the staff is typically pretty great with the kids.

There is also a great discount on Wednesdays at select restaurants. Family Wednesday means ½ price kids meals for ages 12 and younger at Juan Taco, Blatt Beer & Table,

Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob, Clever Greens, Weirdough Pizza Co., Yum Roll and Yoshi-Ya.

Flagship has started Family Bundles at a few restaurants, where you can get a meal for four for $30 (upgrade to feed more mouths). These bundles are offered at Juan Taco, Weirdough, Amsterdam and Yum Roll. Pre-order your bundle and they’ll be available any time from 4 to 7 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

Happy Hour at Flagship

Like your food and drinks discounted? Of course you do. Two places at Flagship Commons has happy Hour specials: 

The Bar

Fridays, 3 to 6:30 p.m.

Saturdays, 3 to 6:30 p.m.

Sundays, noon – close.

Blatt Beer & Table (dine-in only) 

Mondays through Saturdays, 3 to 6:30 p.m.

Fridays & Saturdays, 8 to 9 p.m.

Sundays, noon to 6 p.m.

Go beyond the Omaha Food Hall

Food halls are great because of the variety of food options paired with high-quality ingredients. However, if you’re looking for something with more service, check out other restaurants in Omaha. Here are a few lists to get you started:

Best Omaha Restaurants For Families

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8 Great Downtown Omaha Restaurants For Families

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Try One Of These Romantic Omaha Restaurants For Your Next Night Out

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19 Great Places To Get Breakfast In Omaha

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Where To Find The Best Pizza In Omaha

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33 Must-Try Restaurants In Omaha

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Best Donuts In Omaha

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West Omaha is starting to be the spot for great, locally-owned restaurants. There was a time when I struggled to name one perfect West Omaha restaurant. But now, I’ve got a list of favorite West Omaha restaurants .

Read on for my list of the best restaurants in West Omaha, including those that are great for brunch, a few family-friendly options, and the best restaurants for date night. I included my recommendations on what to order, too.

I’m not done exploring West Omaha, so I have a to-visit list. Share your to-visit list in a comment!

What is considered West Omaha?

Even if you are from Omaha, where exactly is West Omaha is up for debate. Depending on who you ask, West Omaha could have very different boundaries. Is West Omaha anything east of 72nd Street?? Should West Omaha include Elkhorn or La Vista??

Fun fact: Omaha has expanded over the years and annexed cities like Elkhorn and Millard. I’ve grown up always thinking of Millard as part of West Omaha, but not Elkhorn.

Anyway, I had some tough decisions to make, as West Omaha IS different for each person you ask.

For now, here’s the Oh My! Omaha definition of West Omaha: I’m considering restaurants in the area located between 120th and 192nd streets and between Giles Road and State Street. 

Casual dining in West Omaha

Casual here means you won’t need a reservation (though, there may be a wait), and you don’t need to dress up.

Blatt Beer + Burger

It wouldn’t be an Omaha restaurant list if I didn’t include Blatt, now would it? This is one of my top go-to restaurants when we’re out with the kids, because the food is fantastic and there’s a decent kid’s menu.

What to order: If you’re feeling indulgent, get the Dirty Bird. Do not attempt to eat it on a first date.

The Corner Kick Street Tacos & Sports Cantina

For creative Mexican dishes, head to The Corner Kick in Millard. This would be a good go-to spot to watch sports, if you’re looking to dine on something a little more inventive than the traditional sports bar fare.

What to order: They’re known for their street tacos, which aren’t too big, so you’ll want to order a few. I recommend barbacoa, carnitas and brisket.

Frank’s Pizzeria

Frank’s has some fans who will fight you if you say there is a better place to find New York-style pizza in Omaha. It’s been a while since I’ve had a slice, but I still trust it holds up given how die-hard some people are.

What to order: The last time I was there, I was vegetarian, so I can vouch for the margherita pizza. You can order by the slice, though, so get what you want.

Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill

Emperyean Brewery out of Lincoln opened a second location for its restaurant, Lazlo’s. This is a burger and beer joint, but it’s also family-friendly.

What to order: I’m a sucker for a good burger paired with one of their beers, like Third Stone Brown Ale.

Shucks Fish House & Oyster Bar

If you want seafood in Omaha, you’ll find the freshest seafood at Shucks, the restaurant arm of Absolutely Fresh Seafood. You’ll usually find paper covering the tables, which makes coloring (with or without kids) a fun way to pass the time.

What to order: The New England lobster roll is pretty tasty, but if you like a little spicy kick to your meal, try the jambalaya.

Best West Omaha for fine dining

I use fine dining loosely here. You’d be just as comfortable in a cute pair of jeans and top as you would in a cute black dress at one of these restaurants.

Dante

Italian food has never had it so good. Dante serves seasonal food in creative Italian dishes. The wine list is extensive.

What to order: The pizza’s delish, but if we’re talking date nights, try one of the fresh pastas so you’re not splattering sauce all over yourself.

Related post: Try one of these Omaha restaurants for your next date night!

Dolce

Dolce is one of those under-the-radar date night places that I never knew about until I was given a gift card there. What a treat! It’s nice enough to impress but not overly fancy. The food is expertly prepared.

What to order: Splurge and get the five-course chef’s tasting menu.

Pitch

The West Omaha location of Pitch not the original, but it maintains the stylish look of the Dundee location…and one ups it with an excellent rooftop patio. I’m always tempted to order a stone-fire pizza there, because they are so good.

What to order: Get the garlic cauliflower appetizer. You’re welcome.

Hiro 88 Millard

I love sushi, but my kids, they don’t like the stuff. So, I save Hiro 88 for date nights. I’ve never had a bad roll. If you want to save money, go on a Sunday for their all-day reverse Happy Hour.

What to order: If you like rolls, get the Hiro Special.

Best breakfast in West Omaha

Breakfast is where West Omaha really excels. Here are some of my favorite places to get breakfast in West Omaha:

Bailey’s

You kind of have to expect a bit of a wait for this wonderful restaurant (just over the border of 120th Street, so I count it). Fresh and indulgent, I have yet to find a dud on the Bailey’s menu.

What to order: Bailey’s is known for their egg benedicts, all served with a homemade hollandaise dressing. Go for the classic or get a little wild and order one of their specialties like the the Blackstone benedict, which has grilled tomatoes and maple smoked bacon with the poached eggs and sauce.

Green Beans

Passionate about coffee? Then get your caffeine fill at Green Beans, quite possibly the best coffee in all of Omaha. I make special trips just to stop there.

Green Beans does serve food, however, I just order my delicious cup of coffee every single time I’ve been.

What to order: Coffee, of course. But if that’s too boring, go with the spiced chai latte.

Over Easy

Over Easy is a hip breakfast place that puts a creative spin on traditional breakfast foods (which is why my kids don’t like it). Ingredients are seasonal, so the menu is ever-changing.

What to order: Get the homemade pop tart in whatever seasonal stuffing they’ve concocted.

Shirley’s Diner

I grew up going to Shirley’s Diner back when it was a small place decorated with retro kitch. I loved it.

The diner outgrew its old digs, and it’s now in a shiny new space. It still has retro decor, and the same home-style food, though.

What to order: Get a fluffy pancake.

Vidlak’s Brookside Café

Vidlak’s has been around for ages and is a no-frills diner offering the best kind of breakfast comfort food you can imagine.

What to order: If you’re extra hungry, add one of their ginormous cinnamon rolls to your order.

West Omaha restaurants on my to-try list

This list features restaurants that probably should be on the “best of” list of West Omaha restaurants, but I haven’t been to them yet, so I don’t want to include them. However, they have pretty solid reputations, so I feel pretty confident including them.

La Casa Pizzaria West – I’m a huge fan of the original La Casa in Midtown Omaha, so I’m eager to see how the second location compares. La Casa has a thin crust pizza to die for. My personal favorite is the margarita.

Le Voltaire – Mr. Wonderful swears we’ve had a meal at the French restaurant Le  Voltaire. If we have, it happened early on in our dating years, so like, more than a decade ago. It’s time to revisit, sil vous plais.

Wave Bistro – I’ve heard raves about Wave Bistro, an Asian fusion restaurant in West Omaha. I wanted to go there during Omaha Restaurant Week, but alas, they were not open for my Sunday date night.

Whisk and Measure – This bakery keeps getting by my friends, especially those who’ve attended their brownie sundae pairings with Coneflower Creamery. Word is, Whisk and Measure has delicious vegan and gluten-free options, too.

Your turn: What is your favorite West Omaha restaurant?  

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Omaha has a variety of fine dining restaurants that make date night a cinch. If you’re looking for a new romantic Omaha restaurant to try, this list is a good start!

I’ve divided the list into distinct regions of Omaha: Downtown/Old Market; Midtown Omaha; West Omaha; and North Omaha. Am I missing a good one? Leave a comment and let me know!

Downtown Omaha & Old Market restaurants that should be on your radar

La Buvette Wine & Grocery – This is quite possibly the most charming Old Market restaurant ever. The look and feel is French bistro, with wine bottles lining the wall and small wooden tables crowding the room and patio.

Definitely make an effort to snag a patio table, then just order a bottle of wine, a meat and cheese tray and watch the world pass by. Address: 511 S. 11th St. website

Lo Sole Mio – Away from the bustle of the Old Market, you’ll find this Italian restaurant hidden away in a neighborhood near Hanscom Park. They don’t accept reservations so expect a wait, but I promise it’s worth it. This was one of my first dates with my now-husband.

By the way…go hungry! You get your money’s worth here, and then some leftovers. Address: 3001 S. 32nd Ave. website

Nicola’s Italian Wine & Faire – This small Italian restaurant has a beautiful outdoor seating area that I highly recommend. Imagine fresh food served while seated under strung lights that twinkle. A fence helps make the busy street feel a world away. Address: 521 S. 13th St. website

The Boiler Room – For me, The Boiler Room is the ultimate splurge for a night out. It’s the perfect blend of craft cocktails, expertly prepared American cuisine, and a chic setting. Address: 1110 Jones St. website

V. Mertz – My introduction to V. Mertz, tucked in the uber romantic Passageway, was during a tasting event for bloggers. I returned a few months later with my husband for an anniversary meal. This is the archetype of romantic Omaha restaurants.

Both times, the intimate setting was unparalleled – and the food was delicious. If it’s in your budget, get the tasting menu. Address: 1022 Howard St. website

Midtown Omaha restaurants you shouldn’t skip

Au Courant Regional Kitchen – Benson is one of my favorite neighborhoods and its Maple Street corridor is one of my favorite roads to stroll. Au Courant is arguably one of the best restaurants in the city, so if you want a date night option to impress, make a reservation.

I went with friends and we all opted for the chef’s tasting menu with wine pairings. It was a superb menu. Address: 6064 Maple St. website

Avoli Ostera – This is the lone restaurant on the list that I haven’t been to, but it’s included because its reputation is so solid. This Dundee neighborhood restaurant is designed to impress. The seasonal menu is focused on northern Italian dishes. Address: 5013 Underwood Ave. website

Dario’s Brasserie – This Dundee staple is a favorite go-to restaurant that doesn’t feel overly fancy, but still makes a romantic night out. It feels like a European bistro, with the best Belgian beer menu you can imagine.

It’s not a pretentious place, and if you go, be sure to get the frites with your meal. They are quite possibly the best french fries in the city. Address: 4920 Underwood Ave. website

The Grey Plume – The darling of the Omaha restaurant scene, this Midtown Crossing restaurant marries eco-friendly practices with gourmet cuisine. Address: 220 S. 31st Ave. suite #3101. website

West Omaha restaurants to add to your list

Brother Sebastian’s – Dim lighting and fireplaces at Brother Sebastian’s sets the mood for a special night out. For a steakhouse aiming for a California monastery feel, it is surprisingly cozy and romantic. Address: 1350 S. 119th St. website

Dante Pizzeria Napoletana – Italian food made with fresh local ingredients? Sign me up. This was a memorable anniversary dinner for me and my husband. I got to return a few years later to have a fall tasting menu with fellow bloggers and it was even better than I had remembered. Address: 16901 Wright Plaza, suite 173. website

Dolce – Dolce serves contemporary American cuisine in an unassuming location in West Omaha. On our date night there, we opted for the tasting menu. This is one of the few places I’ve seen that frequently offers a Groupon. Address: 12317 W. Maple Road. website

North Omaha restaurant to try

Sage Student Bistro – This restaurant tucked in the Metropolitan Community College Fort Omaha campus inside the Institute for the Culinary Arts is going to surprise you. It’s gourmet cuisine at a fraction of the cost.

If you can snag reservations for one of their pairing dinners held each quarter, you are in for a treat. I’ve attended dinners ranging from Irish spirit pairing to tapas and sangria pairings. Address: 5730 N. 30th St. website

More great restaurants in Omaha

Date night doesn’t have to be so fancy. Here’s a list of 30+ must-try restaurants in Omaha. You’ll find recommendations for pizza, donuts, ice cream and even brunch ideas.

Don’t want to take your date to a romantic Omaha restaurant? Let’s say you want to take your date out to somewhere a little bit different, something a little bit nontraditional. Check out this list of 15+ quirky Omaha restaurants.

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On a recent spring afternoon, my kids and I headed to Freddy’s Custard & Steakburgers in Papillion, Neb., for a treat. We had just finished two soccer games and were planning a walk around the trails at Walnut Creek Recreation Area. For a quick but satisfying lunch, this was a great restaurant in Papillion to head to!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Freddy’s Custard & Steakburgers. All thoughts, opinions and typos are my own.

What should you order at Freddy’s?

Having only been to Freddy’s one other time to write about it as a cub reporter at The Daily Nonpareil, I wasn’t quite sure what to order. So, I chatted with Mary Seretta, to get the scoop on what’s popular at the restaurant.

Freddy’s was started by a guy name Freddy (surprise!), who opened up his first restaurant in Kansas with the idea of serving up down home food.

The burger that started it all the double steakburger. Unique to Freddy’s is the flat patty that makes up the steakburger. If you haven’t had one, they’ve got a crispy edge that makes them pretty unique.

At the Papillion location of Freddy’s, the bacon and cheese double steakburger and patty melt are more popular in than the original. Being a newbie to Freddy’s, I went with the original. Everything is cooked to order. See the full menu here.

Related post: Find more places to get the best hamburgers in the city (and steak…this is Omaha, after all) in this post.

I had fries with my burger (of course), and Freddy’s just might have the best ones in the business. These thin, almost shoestring thin, fries are perfectly seasoned. Freddy’s has two fry sauces in addition to ketchup, and you should try them. The jalapeno version wasn’t spicy, surprisingly.

Other menu items include hot dogs, chili (and therefore, chili dogs), and limited-time food like fish sandwiches. The Papillion Freddy’s just started serving crispy chicken sandwiches, with a spicy option available.

And then there’s the custard. There are a variety of specialties to choose from, as well as sundaes, shakes and concretes (which has the toppings blended in). Or you can order your own creation – there are about 30 toppings to choose from.

I ordered the mint Oreo concrete, which was a delicious treat. The custard is a lot creamier and richer than ice cream I’m used to.

What kids can eat at Freddy’s?

There is a kid’s menu available at Freddy’s, which includes the entrée, fries and drink. One of my kids ordered chicken fingers and the other had a steakburger, which was a pretty generous serving for a kiddo. Glad he was hungry!

They both opted for Dirt ‘N Worms sundae, a tasty treat with vanilla ice cream, cookie crumbles and gummie worms, topped with whipped cream and a cherry.

And, I’ll confess, we also tried the brownie sundae. The chocolate ice cream is a rich chocolate that I loved.

The other frozen treats you might be interested include custard cookie sandwiches. One is made with Oreos, the other made with Nutter Butters.

Tip: If you have dogs with you, Freddy’s has a “pup cup” available to order! These small servings of custard make nice treats for the pups. 

Related post: For more kid-friendly restaurants in the Omaha metro, read Best Omaha Restaurants For Families.

What it look like inside Freddy’s?

Freddy’s has a cool retro look to it, with red throughout. It’s got a pretty nostalgic feel to it.

You’ll find black and white pictures of the real Freddy throughout the Papillion location. Freddy was a Vietnam vet, and it’s interesting reading the captions of the photos to learn more about his history and travels.

Freddy’s is a restaurant chain that involves itself in the local community of each location. This particular Freddy’s, which is right be Shadow Lake Towne Center, participates in a variety of fundraisers, especially for schools. They offer up to a generous 30% donation on profits for fundraising nights. On the day we visited, Mary told me about the effort the restaurant had made to raise money for the Red Cross to support Nebraska flood victims.

What’s near this restaurant in Papillion?

The big draw to the area is Shadow Lake Towne Center, where the Freddy’s Papillion location is located. This is a great outdoor shopping center with a mix of national brands and local stores like Michaels, Bath & Body Works, Chocolatier Stam and Nebraska Brewing Co.

If you head east on Highway 370, you’ll hit two favorite places of mine. The first, is Walnut Creek Recreation Area, which consists of a large lake, a playground, and paved and dirt bike trails.

The other place worth mentioning is Sumtur Amphitheater, which hosts outdoor concerts and has a great lineup of free, family-friendly movies each summer.

If you go

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers

Where: Shadow Lake Towne Center, 11674 S. 73rd St., Papillion, Neb.

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