Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a promotion at work, an engagement, an anniversary or anything in between, life’s milestones deserve a venue worthy of the achievement! Fortunately, Omaha is filled with plenty of restaurants that are up to that challenge.
We rounded up 12 of Omaha’s most upscale and festive eateries for your next special occasion so you can celebrate in style. But, of course, you don’t really need a special occasion to enjoy a meal at these spots either!
Au Courant
Photo courtesy of Au Courant
There are several very popular dining destinations in the Benson neighborhood, but we have to say that Au Courant is one of our absolute favorites. Chef Benjamin Maides is behind this European-influenced, locavore concept, and he never fails to delight with his practiced techniques and flair for flavor combinations! Everything on the menu is crafted with the absolute best, local and sustainable products available and the quality definitely shines through in the finished dish. We recommend the six-course tasting menu for the full experience, which is $55 per person with wine pairings available at an additional cost.
Avoli Osteria
Nestled in the historic Dundee neighborhood, Avoli Osteria offers up a true taste of Northern Italy. The menu includes classic Italian dishes with contemporary twists and is ingredient-driven (as is tradition in Italy). Come dig into the house-made pastas, the delicious proteins and the flavorful appetizers, or order the prix fixe three-course menu for a little taste of everything!
Baela Rose
Run by husband and wife team Kyle and Rose Anderson, and affectionately named for their daughter, Baela Rose offers farm-to-fork cuisine crafted with the finest ingredients available. The menu showcases classic cooking techniques with influences from all over the world, as well as provisions from local farmers. Come settle into the rustic-chic space, which boasts brick walls and romantic lighting, and create your own tasting experience to celebrate the special occasion.
The Boiler Room
The Boiler Room, situated in the heart of Old Market, was actually a former, functional boiler room for the 120 year old Bemis Bag Building. Industrial accents have been left behind for a rustic feel, but the overall vibe here is contemporary and approachable! As for the food, the menu showcases ingredients from local growers in the European-inspired dishes and chef Tim Nicholson’s expertise shines through in everything he creates.
The Drover
Nebraska is known far and wide for its steak and this landmark chophouse is probably one of the reasons for that! The Drover serves up luxury in the form of whiskey-marinated filet mignon, succulent crab legs, excellent surf and turf pairings, and a strong selection of wines from California and South America. It’s definitely one of Omaha’s bucket list dining destinations!
The Grey Plume
Photo courtesy of The Grey Plume
Omaha’s favorite market and locavore eatery, The Grey Plume combines traditional culinary style and taste with modern techniques to create a seasonally-driven, contemporary menu. The offerings change frequently to accommodate the freshest, most high-quality ingredients, but you can always find a great selection of charcuterie, artfully prepared proteins, flavorful appetizers and a wine list designed to impress. All of this is served in The Grey Plume’s beautiful, modern dining room.
Ika Ramen and Izakaya
Chef and restaurateur Jose Dionicio has brought umami flavors and unbeatable ramen to the heart of the Benson neighborhood. You can expect creative bowls, small plates, upscale sushi dishes, bold cocktails and sake at this local favorite, but you might have to wait if you decide to visit on the weekend. We also love this option because of its proximity to Kaitei, a festive Tiki lounge in the basement! After your dinner, consider heading downstairs (through the blue door) for a nightcap.
Monarch Prime and Bar
Situated on the first floor of Hotel Deco, Monarch Prime and Bar has an atmosphere that is swanky, elegant and approachable all at once. It was one of the best restaurants to open in 2017, and is known for its inventive craft cocktails, succulent house-aged meats and flavorful shareables. A meal here is guaranteed to be a memorable experience!
Plank Seafood Provisions
Nothing says “special occasion” like a fresh and flavorful seafood feast! Come celebrate at Plank Seafood Provisions, conveniently located in the heart of Omaha’s Old Market. This modern restaurant is known for serving the best oysters and freshest seafood in town, and boasts an elegant dining room, a lively bar and a sun-splashed patio so you can choose how to enjoy your meal.
Stirnella
For locavore cuisine with global influences, you can’t do better than Stirnella! The name stems from Nebraska’s state bird (the Meadowlark — species Sturnella neglecta), and represents the restaurant’s desire to stay true to its Nebraska roots while impressing its patrons with new and exciting creations. Reserve a table in the cozy and rustic dining space, order a craft cocktail and explore the menu!
Yoshitomo
Photo courtesy of Yoshitomo
Sushi and special occasions go together so naturally and Yoshitomo is the frontrunner when it comes to sushi in Omaha. This restaurant is run by local chef David Utterback, who is known for his work at several other well-known establishments. Come try his creative takes on nigiri, sushi and maki, and don’t forget to accompany your selection with beer, wine or sake from the carefully curated drinks menu. Better yet, leave the night up to the chef and order the Omakase, a special tasting menu that features hard-to-find delicacies!
801 Chophouse
801 Chophouse never fails to impress with its elegant yet inviting atmosphere, its top-notch steak and its carefully curated wine list. The space (located inside the Paxton in Old Market) is modeled after classic 1920s New York steakhouses, and has been awarded the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2017 as well as Open Table’s 2017 Diners’ Choice. Whether you’re looking for some of the best steak in town or the most creative seafood options, a stop at 801 Chophouse is sure to impress.
Where is your favorite spot to celebrate in Omaha?
Our city is filled with festive and delicious restaurants! Share your go-to celebration spot with us in the comments.