Visiting from California for a conference. Stopped in for lunch, had a salad and deviled eggs -…read morefantastic. It was so good, I returned for breakfast the next day. Grits bowl. Thank you for vegetables in a bath of creamy flavorful grits. Everything is so well done. Service is kind and attentive. Ambiance is calm and cute. Perfect, really. Kudos to the chef! Good work, Omaha, I'm always impressed when I visit and Kitchen Table is another to add to my list of great places to eat while here.

I wrote this on my Facebook about my experience while traveling from California:…read more Today I was at a super cute café and ordered breakfast. After a couple of minutes, I went back up to the counter and asked if they had already started making it, because I wanted to change my order. The kitchen was open, so I said to the cook, "Don't worry about it if you've already started. I know my indecision can impact people, and I don't want to be a problem." He looked at me and said, "No, it's totally fine. Would you like some veggies on the side?" "Yes, that would be amazing," I said, and walked back to my table... and burst into tears. It wasn't just what he said. It was the kind energy in his eyes. I felt someone who took pride in what he was making, and who genuinely wanted people to be happy. I found myself asking, why am I crying? Because in a world where so many people in power feel disconnected, where corporations can make us feel like numbers, being genuinely cared for in a small café reminded me how much I love humans. Most people have love in their hearts and are trying to share it in their own small ways. As the world cracks, these simple things are more meaningful than ever.

Truly a gem, which explains why it's so popular amongst the locals. It's located in downtown Omaha,…read moreand attracted lots of visitors on the weekend that my partner and I were in town. Most of the highlight was the various types of burgers and fries they had, so my partner and I got two kinds, and we both enjoyed our respective meals. I had the block burger, which was as good as I imagined it to be, with juicy patty cooked to medium and every ingredient needed to make a good burger. The poutine had a lot of beef gravy and cheese curds, which made the dish a comprehensive experience to consume, rather than just fries. The duck duck goose fries were amazing! The duck confit, cheese curds, mayo, gravy, and gooseberry gastrique combination worked super well on top of the fries, because they altogether basically made it a gourmet dish that I had to eat with a fork. Finally, the sloppy nick was seasoned very well, even if we got the vegan version, which used impossible meat instead of ground beef. It was still really great! Hope everyone who visits Omaha gets to try this spot! Their wall has quite a few articles that recognized them as a locally renowned burger joint, and I could see why. Since they can be busy, I would recommend people getting there earlier to secure a good table spot, if dining in.

Block16 is one of my favorite local spots, and I use any excuse to stop in for lunch…read more Parking has always been a challenge, and with all the current construction downtown, it is even harder. But do not let that detour you from trying this gem. I usually like to grab one of my go-to orders, like the poutine burrito or the Croque Garcon Burger, plus whatever the daily special is. Sometimes the specials do not hit for me, but that is not their fault. It is a seat yourself space, but I have never had any issues finding a spot, usually by the time you order, someone has left. Despite the space being crowded whenever I come by, they do a great job of keeping the tables cleared and clean. Service has always been top-notch for me.

Our second time at Cattle Call, and it was just as good as the first time. I love that their menu…read morechanges so the offerings were different this time around we stopped in before a show at the Steelhouse, it was an easy walk to and from the venue. We ordered several appetizers and had drinks. The servers were friendly and the food was delicious. The Crudo was fresh and bright with a bite of spice. Burrata was soft and creamy with tamarind, orange and mint. Highly recommend the Steak Tartare the meat was velvety and the timmur chips had a great crunch for a contrast in texture. Lastly, you can't go wrong with an order of Momos, we got them steamed pork and I could have had 3 more orders. We'll definitely be back!

We really enjoyed our date night at Cattle call! We were able to grab a reservation same day for an…read moreearly dinner and were seated right away. Overall, our server was great and attentive. We started with the pork momo. We've had these before and they're always a great choice. The filling was rich and flavorful, the dumpling dough was perfectly chewy and the dipping sauces added another level of depth and flavor. For mains we split the duck breast and the tagliatelle. The duck was cooked perfectly and the bok choy that came with it added a perfect amount of crunch and mustard flavor. The tagliatelle was rich and the variety of mushrooms in the sauce added so much umami. We look forward to returning!

Sadly I cannot recommend this restaurant at this time but I hope with time they will work out the…read morekinks. Availability of service was inconsistent when I stayed there, mainly breakfast (a couple days there was just no chef during their open hours). The servers were very kind and helpful and the ambience is there too! Also great cocktails but the food can be somewhat lacking. The smash burger was very dry and the bun tasted old. Hopefully they make some improvements!

We grabbed dinner before going to The Orpheum on a Tuesday night. The restaurant is on the ground…read morefloor and has a seating area with various tables an a bar that seats about a dozen people. We wondered if we'd need a reservation, but it's much more casual than that, so none is necessary. The menu has a few entrees, handhelds, appetizers, and salads. The night we were there, one dessert was available as well. I should have taken a picture of the menu, but it is one page and a bit abbreviated from the one I saw at ZMenu and on Facebook. The bartender was the server for the bar and all the tables, but was able to keep up pretty well. We each ordered a glass of wine and they didn't have that one, so he upgraded us at no additional charge. For dinner, I got the Chicken BLT - it was very tasty, with fresh avocado, tasty bacon, fresh tomatoes (in March in Nebraska!), and tender grilled chicken. My wife got the Rice Bowl and added Salmon, Also, very fresh, tasty, and flavorful. Prices are on the high side, but not unexpected for a nice hotel. The rice bowl with salmon was $24 and my sandwich was $22. The wine selection was good, and they had a decent hard alcohol array as well. Wines were about the retail price of a bottle for each glass, and martinis and drinks were around $16. Service was good. Definitely worth a visit if you're staying here or to stop in for a casual bite to eat.

We stopped here for brunch with family on Sunday, and I don't know how it wasn't packed! Every…read moresingle thing on the menu sounds fantastic. We started with the biscuits, which came out hot and fresh. These were so delicious and buttery, and the peach and blueberry jam took them to the next level. My husband and I both had the mountain morning bowl. To me, this is a perfect breakfast! Goat cheese grits, crispy potatoes, egg, a little spice...YUM. The other members of our party also loved their meals. I can't wait to come back and try more!

They do have good happy hour deals. However, I only know about happy hour because I look it up…read moreonline prior to visiting. When I go, they have never offered up or handed out the happy hour menu... I've had to ask. And I don't love that :/ because I'm all about the deals of course!!! It is a cute spot with a lot of space inside plus a patio. $6 happy hour house marg tastes good but wasn't super strong

In town visiting our kids from Florida and we stopped in JST for lunch yesterday. My lunch was…read moreabsolutely delicious! I had The Cobblestone salad... Chef's kiss. The steak was cooked perfectly! We were sat right upfront to over look the old market and it was clean and I loved the home feel of the space, very casual and comfortable. Our server (ugh, can't remember his name) was incredibly knowledgeable about the menu and attentive. The ONLY thing that was a downside is that on yelp it says the restaurant is pet friendly and that is not the case. We traveled with our puppy and we had to leave her back at my daughter's apartment downtown which was a big bummer. Other than that, not one single bad this to say.

We found Jackson Street Tavern on Yelp while looking for a place to eat that was 1. walkable to our…read morehotel, and 2. would have hamburgers for the kids. This fit the bill so we walked over around 5pm one evening for an early dinner after spending the day exploring the zoo. When we arrived the place was pretty empty - think maybe two tables occupied, and the hostess asked us if we had a reservation. We did not, and honestly she seemed a bit put out for a bit. I kind of wondered if we were going to be able to eat in this empty restaurant, but alas she decided it was okay and we were seated. This is one of my pet peeves at restaurants. I know, I know, that there could have been a ton of business booked for later, but it's such a bad look to make such a big deal about reservations when the place is empty. Also - while it did start to fill it was by no means full by the time we left. At any rate, things perked up at that point and we all got seated, ordered drinks, food etc. and had a good time. The server was kind and thoughtful and the food was pretty tasty. I had the fish and chips and shared it with my husband as the entrees are a good size here. My six year old had the kids hamburger, though we did have a bit of a scare when the server said "your cheeseburger will be out soon!" we had a long wait on the kids meal and when she said cheeseburger I immediately said - "no cheese!" the menu item was described as a "hamburger" with no mention of cheese and our kid doesn't like cheese her burgers so that was a really close call. I sort of got the impression that server wasn't accustomed to kids, but when the burger came out it was right and even though she had to wait, my kiddo gave it two thumbs up. Overall this is a good pub style restaurant in Old Town. Nothing really to write home about, but they do have decent food and local beers which was all we really cared about after a long day at the zoo.

Upon our arrival, we were presented with a selection of concoctions that defied ordinary…read moredescription. These spirits were mixed with an artistry that borders on the miraculous; each ingredient was measured with a precision that would rival the finest apothecary. They were at once invigorating to the constitution and exceedingly smooth upon the palate, proving to be the perfect antidote to the weariness of the day. One could discern that only the most superior ingredients had been gathered to produce such sublime refreshments. Upon crossing the threshold, one was instantly struck by the sheer elegance of the architecture, which seemed designed specifically to enchant the weary traveler. The woodwork was of a deep, lustrous mahogany, polished to such a high degree that it softly mirrored the flickering candlelight from the grand chandeliers suspended overhead. Rich, heavy draperies of crimson velvet adorned the tall windows, successfully shutting out the dreary chill of the exterior world and sealing within a sanctuary of warmth and exclusivity. The arrangement of the seating was a triumph of social engineering; plush leather hearth-chairs and intimate velvet settees were positioned at such agreeable distances as to afford the utmost privacy for confidential discourse, yet the room maintained a lively, convivial spirit. A gentle warmth emanated from a magnificent marble fireplace, where a crackling hearth threw a golden hue over the assembly. The gentle murmur of polite conversation, punctuated occasionally by the delicate clinking of crystal and the low, melodious strains of a pianoforte playing in a distant corner, coalesced into a symphony of pure tranquility. It was, in every conceivable sense, a haven of the highest order, where time itself seemed to slow to a more dignified and graceful pace.

Mercury is always my go-to stop for a pre-show cocktail before heading to the Orpheum. The vibe is…read moresleek yet cozy, and the bartenders always seem genuinely excited about what they're mixing up. Their rotating cocktail menus are one of my favorite things about this spot -- each one has its own creative theme, and the current Halloween menu is such a fun touch. On my most recent visit, I tried the Poltergeist and the Bahama Rita on the recommendation of the bartenders -- both were absolute hits. The drinks here are always beautifully crafted and well-balanced, with a lot of thought behind the presentation and flavor combinations. My only complaint (and it's a small but sad one) is that they no longer serve entrées. I miss when Mercury had a full food menu -- their pasta and burger were truly underrated. These days, you'll only find light bar snacks, which pair well with the cocktails but don't quite replace a meal. Still, for creative cocktails, a stylish atmosphere, and great service, Mercury remains one of the best spots downtown.

Food - excellent Sunday brunch choices. The steak was perfectly medium rare and I went back for…read moreseconds! Service - just enough check ins by the waitress. Location. Convenient and free parking on Sundays. Mission - worthwhile to support

Ooh De Lally: Golly what a lovely evening. Sad we finally made it here for the first time while…read moreliving so close but so happy we have a new regular spot and suggestion for others. We went on a Wednesday evening for my wife's birthday. Reservation maybe not required but there were quite a few tables in use. We had our 18month old with us and they were very accommodating. The staff was great very friendly. One of our servers was training another and they were both great sad I can't remember their names for a shoutout. Drinks: I had the Thymekeeper which was a mezcal drink which I really enjoyed the thyme infused smokiness to it and the lemon and passion fruit gave it just enough sweet/sour to balance perfectly. My wife had the Açaí Cosmo and said it was her favorite cocktail of the last year at least. Fav cosmo ever also. Starters: Dundee Dip which is just cheesy goodness the bread soaks up the oils and was very tasty. The sausage had a really strong flavor which I enjoyed fennel in it I think. The banana peppers gave it a perfect hint of kick/crunch. Mains: Marks signature Mac and cheese which was great and had a really unique flavor this was ordered first and came out quick for the baby which was super nice they accommodated our request. We all loved it. I had the short rib grilled cheese and upgraded to the broccolini. It also came with an amazing herbed horseradish dip that was to die for. Perfect blend with the sandwich. Only ate half and had the other half for lunch the next day and was still very tasty. My wife had the smoked chicken lasagna which she really enjoyed it also had a super unique flavor that was great. They ended up giving us a free dessert for her birthday which we had to take to go as our daughter was acting up and we didn't want to ruin other guests experience. She went with the peach cobbler cheesecake I believe it was called and it was also delicious. They take and box up all the leftovers in the back which I always enjoy and use nice microwave safe containers which makes taking it to work or warming up a breeze. 10/10 all around for service, food quality, and atmosphere. Pricing is fair for the quality and service. Very cute place and the patio looks amazing for the warmer weather on the horizon. We will be back.

I didn't even know this restaurant was there since it's kind of far out. I was just walking by the…read moreold market and when the door opened, it smelled really good and fancy. I think they open at 5, so I told myself I'd come back at 5 and I actually did. The food was really good, you can tell from the picture lol. The service was great and everyone was super nice. The place looked nice too. It would've been better if the curtains were open though. I like when the sun hits my skin when I sit by the window.

We had an excellent dinner at Dynamite Woodier Grill recently while staying at the hotel the…read morerestaurant is located within. Actually, we enjoyed our meal and service so much we had dinner there twice. First off, the restaurant is really well designed inside. It's a really contemporary space with a great vibe. The service is exceptional (for dinner) and they go out of their way to take care of their guests. Then comes the cocktails, which were also quite excellent. And they have an extensive (VERY extensive) wine list! Impressive. The food is also (mostly) excellent. We dine in fine restaurants all over the world from Chicago to Paris to Tokyo and London and the food here was top quality, prepared exceptionally, and really delicious--largely due to their wood fire oven. I hadn't seen an oven like this since Grant Achatz's Roister/Fire in Chicago. I was very impressed. We started with Wood Fired Oysters, which were delicious. Their house corn bread and honey butter were also quite good. I normally don't care for corn bread but this was a really nice accompaniment. My wife and I shared the ribeye and truffle cava mac and cheese. Both were very good. On our second dinner we had Omaha Farmer's Board, a very good charcuterie and meats appetizer. But the Ricotta Agnolotti was our only complaint to this truly exceptional restaurant. The pasta dish felt like it was trying too hard to be fancy. A parmesan foam on top was cold, brining a nice hot dish down. The overall look of the plated dish was "overfull diaper." Not appetizing. The creme brûlée was very good. Overall, highly recommend this place as a steakhouse with an incredible wood fired grill. This place should be busier than when we went, to be sure. It deserves attention and it deserves to be recognized as one of the top restaurants in Omaha.

Aww I wish I remembered the name of our server, he was very good at recommending dishes and we had…read moreexcellent service. This is one of the fancier places to eat in Omaha, located in Old Market near Embassy Suites. Our food was tasty, ambiance was fancy, service was 10/10.

Memoir, in the downtown area of Omaha, is an absolute VIBE. You will want to bring your camera with…read moreyou, even if you're not normally a food photog, because the ambiance and food are made for the perfect pics! My husband and I first visited Memoir for our anniversary, and it was such an awesome experience, especially for a special occasion like that. After we were done doing all of our (admittedly annoying) photography of the awesome ambiance, we finally sat down to order and eat - and the original amazingness didn't stop there! The menu is not gigantic, which I always appreciate - because I get overwhelmed by too many choices. We picked a few things to share, at the recommendation of our server (who was also amazing and made sure we had a great anniversary dinner). They even gave us a card signed by the staff wishing us a great anniversary! Those little extra touches are what really make a dining experience special. We had the Kale and Bacon Dip for an appetizer, which was DECADENTLY delicious. The dip was smooth and silky with a toasty focaccia which went really well together with the two different textures. And we also grabbed the Pork Potstickers, and my oh my, were those fantastic. Delicate potsticker wrapper, with tons of filling, resting in a carrot-ginger dressing that complemented the potsticker fantastically. We were already so pleased, and didn't believe the entrees could top the starters, but they were just as awesome, which should be no surprise. It was easier to share two entrees, because we couldn't decide between two. Our first entree was the Faroe Island Salmon, and it was cooked to perfection, and served atop an indulgent bed of sweet corn risotto that I still dreeeeam about. And our second entree was the Rigatoni Alla Vodka, which was a little lighter of a meal, so was great paired with the salmon dish which was a tad heavier. I would recommend either of these dishes! We were SO full at this point but we knew we had to get a dessert since this was a special occasion. We shared the chocolate torte and devoured it, even with our extreme fullness. It was so fluffy and chocolatey and DELISH. From start to finish, this was one of the best meals I've had in Omaha. The service was on point, the eats were out of this world, and the vibe of the interior is something to behold. If you're looking for an awesome place to have a special occasion meal or just a nice dinner on a date night, look no further than Memoir for all of the above!