Omaha, Nebraska, is a city of distinct neighborhoods. People from Omaha, situated on the eastern edge of the state on the Missouri River, often still reference the city’s districts by parish, and the parishes are generally defined by generations-old immigrant populations: Italian, Mexican, Polish, etc. It would be a shame to spend a night or two in Omaha and see nothing more than the freeway stops.
The grand lobby of the former Union Depot indicates the importance of railroads to Omaha’s past. Today the city is fed by the intersection of Interstate Highways 80 and 29.
Many visitors enjoy the Old Market, a popular downtown warehouse section preserved when ConAgra tore down much of the riverfront district. It’s filled with restaurants and notable shops. But venture a bit further to sample the town’s various influences and culinary surprises.
Dundee
One of the older classy neighborhoods of Omaha can be a good place to scout out a relaxed cup of coffee or a quiet dinner. Start with a coffee break at Blue Line Coffee to plan your day. Or wind down with dinner at Dario’s Brasserie to enjoy a French-style bistro with an impressive Belgian beer list.
Blackstone
Behind the more corporate and crowded Midtown Crossing, the Blackstone neighborhood combines a walkable residential area with a small commercial district peppered with appealing restaurants. You’ll find Blackstone between Farnham and Leavenworth, from about 27th to 41st streets. You can easily make a night of it right here. Start with a casual dinner of small plates at Mula Mexican Kitchen and Tequileria. Move on to Nite Owl for some ambiance and after-dinner drinks (or dinner, for that matter). And then, when you need a little something more, check out Noli’s Pizzeria for a slice of their New York style pie.
A classic Reuben sandwich
Chasing the Reuben
They say the Reuben sandwich was invented in Omaha, perhaps at the Blackstone Hotel. These days, a couple places vie for top Reuben honors. Crescent Moon Ale House in the Blackstone neighborhood makes a convincing claim to “Top Reuben,” and offers dozens of beers on tap, too. In the Old Market, Upstream Brewing also delivers an excellent Reuben sandwich with their house-made brew.
Mexican Food on South 24th
Omaha has long been home to a thriving Mexican community, and the food along South 24th Street is a testament to South-of-the-Border culture and culinary invention. We recommend El Alamo or La Casita for fresh and tasty Latin American and TexMex cuisine.
The bar of Johnny’s Cafe in South Omaha
Steaks and Stockyards
South Omaha was the country’s center of stockyards and railways. While that industry has changed and moved on, a few classic steakhouses and butchers remain. (Omaha really is the home of Omaha Steaks.) The historic Johnny’s Café on 27th and L Street, is one of the original chop houses in town. Now operated by the owners’ third generation, it was a filming location for Alexander Payne’s About Schmidt. Another famous steakhouse is Gorat’s, frequented by the value-minded Warren Buffet.
Reliable in the Old Market
If you are restricted to the Old Market, never fear. Local establishments outnumber chains. The favorite for all occasions continues to be M’s Pub, open again this past year after a devastating fire. For a more intimate scene, we enjoy La Buvette, part wine bar, part deli, offering a delicious French menu and freshly baked bread.
La Buvette Wine and Grocery
Whether you are passing through Omaha, visiting for the Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting, or attending the College Baseball World Series, remember to expand your horizons by exploring the diverse neighborhoods and dishes of this Midwestern city.
