Restaurants and Bars

If there's one thing Omahans love to do, it's eat. You'll find more restaurants per capita in Omaha than in any other U.S. city. Most visitors come looking for steak, and they don't go away disappointed. But Omaha is more than a beef town, as the city also boasts excellent Italian, Mexican, Thai, Indian and Continental cuisine.

Downtown

If you find yourself downtown at mealtime, head to the Old Market, where you'll find everything from fine French dining to a corner hot dog stand. If you're looking for an outstanding steak dinner, try Omaha Prime, where you'll select your steak from a table-side array of cuts. For eclectic Italian, try Vivace, where big plates of homemade pasta, irresistible risottos and an extensive Italian wine list are the order of the day. M's Pub, one of Omaha's favorite spots, offers an outstanding array of options.

If you're craving a big, juicy burger and an icy cold brew, stop into Billy Froggs. Veggie lovers enjoy the good food and fresh atmosphere at Dazy Maze: A Veggie Place. For special occasions, try the French Cafe or V. Mertz, two Old Market mainstays featuring romantic ambiance, exceptional service and some of the best food in town. Just west of the Market sits the Flatiron Cafe, the perfect place for a business lunch or a romantic dinner. For old-style Italian dining, try Caniglia's Original Restaurant.

Central

When you're ready to enjoy that famous Omaha steak, try one of the many traditional steakhouses in midtown. Anthony's Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge and Gorat's Steak House are two of the oldest and finest in the city. Locals flock to The Drover to enjoy the Whiskey Steak and the freshest salad bar around. If you're a barbecue lover, don't miss McKenna's Blues, Booze & BBQ. And for a quick bite, try the Dundee Dell or Goldbergs.

West Central

A cluster of excellent restaurants is located in and around the major West Omaha shopping malls, so you don't need to hit the food court to reenergize. Imperial Palace, rated "Omaha's Best Oriental Restaurant" by Omaha Magazine, offers authentic Chinese cuisine in an unforgettably beautiful atmosphere. At Kobe Steakhouse of Japan, diners experience the art of table-side Hibachi cooking. If a more subdued atmosphere is what you have in mind, try the elegant Cafe Di Copia. For food with a little sizzle, try Stokes Grill and Bar.

Northwest

Many excellent restaurants, both new and established, are ready to serve the many residents and visitors of Northwest Omaha. A little more upscale is the Thai Spice, a wonderful choice for Thai lovers. If you like Italian, you're going to love Vincenzo's. For upscale dining, be sure to try Bebo's.

South Omaha

The streets of South Omaha are dotted with restaurants known and loved for generations. This area is the best place to find authentic Mexican, Italian and Old World cuisine. Put some spice in your life with the mouthwatering enchiladas, tacos and margaritas at El Alamo. Lo Sole Mio Ristorante Italiano, a neighborhood favorite, offers heaping bowls of pasta in a friendly atmosphere. For a taste of the Old Country, try the light-as-a-feather dumplings and tangy kraut at the Bohemian Cafe. South Omaha is also known for its impressive list of traditional steakhouses, including Johnny's Cafe, Cascio's, Gorat's and Angie's. Another mainstay is Joe Tess Place, a greasy fish-and-fries spot popular with the locals.

Southwest

The dining options here include an exciting blend of tried-and-true eateries and newly opened cafes. Big Fred's Pizza Garden whips up a mean combo topped with "the works." Brother Sebastian's Steakhouse & Winery serves outstanding food in a dark, comfortable atmosphere. For great Indian cuisine, try the Jaipur, where the Chicken Tika Korma is out of this world. Some of the newer restaurants include Charlie's on the Lake and Prima 140.