Omaha Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience

Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Omaha. Your complete guide to dining in Omaha.

ByFun Around Me Team
5 min read

Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Omaha! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Omaha has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Omaha's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Omaha like a true food lover.

Key Takeaways

  • Omaha offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
  • Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
  • Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
  • Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
  • Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere

Must-Try Restaurants

From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Omaha.

Dirty Birds

Highly rated Bar in Omaha with 4.8 stars from 838 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 1722 St Marys Ave, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Memoir

Highly rated American in Omaha with 4.7 stars from 552 reviews.

πŸ“ 930 Harney St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic American cuisine

Salted Edge

Highly rated Restaurant in Omaha with 4.8 stars from 828 reviews.

πŸ“ 110 S 243rd St, Waterloo, NE 68069, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience

Twisted Fork

Highly rated Bar in Omaha with 4.3 stars from 2232 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 1014 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Brother Sebastian's

Highly rated Steakhouse in Omaha with 4.6 stars from 3040 reviews.

πŸ“ 1350 S 119th St, Omaha, NE 68144, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Steakhouse cuisine

Clio

Highly rated Mediterranean in Omaha with 4.7 stars from 491 reviews.

πŸ“ 1202 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Mediterranean cuisine

Ooh De Lally

Highly rated Restaurant in Omaha with 4.8 stars from 190 reviews.

πŸ“ 4916 Underwood Ave, Omaha, NE 68132, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Timber Wood Fire Bistro

Highly rated Restaurant in Omaha with 4.4 stars from 1349 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 8702 Pacific St, Omaha, NE 68114, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Corner Kitchen

Highly rated Restaurant in Omaha with 4.8 stars from 419 reviews.

πŸ“ 4218 S 50th St, Omaha, NE 68117, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Meddys

Highly rated Mediterranean in Omaha with 4.8 stars from 370 reviews.

πŸ“ 17255 Davenport St #111, Omaha, NE 68118, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Mediterranean cuisine

Jackson Street Tavern

Highly rated American in Omaha with 4.5 stars from 1080 reviews.

πŸ“ 1125 Jackson St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic American cuisine

J. Gilbert's Wood-Fired Steaks & Seafood Omaha

Highly rated Steakhouse in Omaha with 4.7 stars from 1601 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.

πŸ“ 1010 Capitol Ave, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Steakhouse cuisine

Street Food & Food Markets

Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Omaha.

Trader Joe's

Highly rated International in Omaha with 4.7 stars from 2545 reviews.

πŸ“ 10305 Pacific St, Omaha, NE 68114, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Asian Market

Highly rated International in Omaha with 4.6 stars from 2698 reviews.

πŸ“ 321 N 76th St, Omaha, NE 68114, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Old Market Farmers Market

Highly rated International in Omaha with 4.7 stars from 546 reviews.

πŸ“ 519 S 11th St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Omaha Farmers Market: Aksarben Village

Highly rated International in Omaha with 4.7 stars from 730 reviews.

πŸ“ 2285 S 67th St, Omaha, NE 68106, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Ellsworth Crossing Farm to Fork Market

Highly rated Restaurant in Omaha with 4.9 stars from 123 reviews.

πŸ“ 26902 W Center Rd, Waterloo, NE 68069, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Baker's

Highly rated Bakery in Omaha with 4 stars from 766 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.

πŸ“ 12025 W Center Rd, Omaha, NE 68144, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine

Omaha Tropical Market

Highly rated International in Omaha with 4.4 stars from 146 reviews.

πŸ“ 2312 N 72nd St, Omaha, NE 68134, USA

  • 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

The Mercato - Omaha

Highly rated International in Omaha with 4.8 stars from 46 reviews.

πŸ“ 16250 Evans Plaza, Omaha, NE 68116, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Food Tours & Culinary Experiences

Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Omaha.

Brickway Brewery & Distillery

Highly rated Sushi in Omaha with 4.5 stars from 499 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

Southern Culinary Tours

Highly rated International in Omaha with 4.8 stars from 106 reviews.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

Elite-Goody Tours

Highly rated International in Omaha with 3.6 stars from 75 reviews.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

Special Journeys, LLC

Highly rated International in Omaha with 4.9 stars from 56 reviews.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

Au Courant Regional Kitchen

Highly rated Restaurant in Omaha with 4.8 stars from 459 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

Le Bouillon

Highly rated Restaurant in Omaha with 4.5 stars from 619 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

  • β€’Book in advance, especially during peak season
  • β€’Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • β€’Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • β€’Bring a camera for memorable moments
  • β€’Ask your guide for local recommendations

Cafes & Bakeries

Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Omaha.

Con AzΓΊcar CafΓ© Downtown

Highly rated Cafe in Omaha with 4.8 stars from 206 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 1213 Harney St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Edge of the Universe Cafe

Highly rated Cafe in Omaha with 4.7 stars from 464 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 6070 Maple St, Omaha, NE 68104, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Godega Market

Highly rated Cafe in Omaha with 4.9 stars from 334 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 423 S 11th St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

The Mill on Leavenworth

Highly rated Cafe in Omaha with 4.6 stars from 408 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 3105 Leavenworth St, Omaha, NE 68105, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Sozo Coffeehouse

Highly rated Cafe in Omaha with 4.7 stars from 1010 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 1314 Jones St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

The Table Coffee Co.

Highly rated Cafe in Omaha with 4.7 stars from 422 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 1122 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

BrewMoon ApotheCoffee and CuriosiTeas

Highly rated Cafe in Omaha with 4.9 stars from 126 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 13808 W Maple Rd #104, Omaha, NE 68164, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Dundee Double Shot Coffee

Highly rated Cafe in Omaha with 4.8 stars from 512 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.

πŸ“ 118 N 50th St, Omaha, NE 68132, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
  • 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine

Local Specialties & Signature Dishes

Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Omaha.

Signature Dish

A must-try Omaha specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Local Delicacy

This beloved Omaha dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Traditional Recipe

Experience the authentic taste of Omaha with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Street Food Favorite

Discover why this Omaha specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Regional Specialty

This iconic Omaha creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Seasonal Treat

A Omaha classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Classic Comfort Food

A must-try Omaha specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Modern Fusion

This beloved Omaha dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Artisanal Product

Experience the authentic taste of Omaha with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Heritage Recipe

Discover why this Omaha specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.

  • β€’Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
  • β€’Best enjoyed fresh and in season
  • β€’Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
  • β€’Try it at multiple places to compare
  • β€’Pair with local beverages for the full experience

Bars & Nightlife

Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Omaha.

Wicked Rabbit

Highly rated Bar in Omaha with 4.7 stars from 1116 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 1508 Harney St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Laka Lono Rum Club

Highly rated Bar in Omaha with 4.6 stars from 1237 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 1204 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

The Berry & Rye

Highly rated Bar in Omaha with 4.6 stars from 557 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 1105 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Upscale dining experience
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Alice

Highly rated Bar in Omaha with 4.7 stars from 371 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 17070 Wright Plaza Suite 10, Omaha, NE 68130, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Sips On 10th

Highly rated Bar in Omaha with 4.9 stars from 452 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 1022 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68108, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Established local favorite
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine

Popcorn & Cocktails

Highly rated Bar in Omaha with 4.8 stars from 50 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.

πŸ“ 1118 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102, USA

  • 🍽️Highly rated by customers
  • 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
  • 🍽️Knowledgeable staff

Essential Tips

  • 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
  • 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
  • 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
  • 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
  • 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
  • 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
  • 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
  • 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
  • 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
  • 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

Omaha's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.

Average Price

Dining costs in Omaha vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Omaha is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.

For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.

Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.

Most restaurants in Omaha offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.

Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Omaha specifically.

Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.

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