Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
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Coyote
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Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I'll start a poll later as I get suggestions, but what is your favorite ethnic restaraunt in the metro area?
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ita
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I have a suggestion. Could we have a few polls, such as having one for favorite Asian, favorite Indian, favorite Mexican/Hispanic restaurants? I feel like with Omaha's growing diversity in restaurants, it's hard narrowing down my favorite non-American restaurant in town. Also, if you keep it broad, would ethnic include Italian, French, and other European cuisines?Coyote wrote: Wed Jun 12, 2019 3:43 pm I'll start a poll later as I get suggestions, but what is your favorite ethnic restaraunt in the metro area?
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RockHarbor
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
Great thread. This will help "lasso" together all the great places in Omaha to try out...
Ok, I cant say "favorite", but these are my favorites so far:
CHINESE:
Hong Hing (great smaller/medium buffet, near 90th & Fort)
Jade Garden (love the serene name, great place for a quick lunch or dinner, near 120th & Blondo)
Beijing Gate (near 168th & Harrison) Love that restaurant's dramatic name. I can just hear the gong. Sauces sold there.
China Buffett and Grand China Buffet (for big eaters, both near 108th & Dodge)
INDIAN:
The Taj Kabob & Curry (in a strip mall adjacent off the big First National Bank, the west side of Miracle Hills Dr). Lunch buffet. (There were 2 Indian restaurants originally there, side by side in a strip mall, if I remember correctly. I walked into the wrong one once. I hope this listing is the correct restaurant I experienced.)
THAI:
Taste of Thailand (Bob Boozer Dr and West Center Road, near 156th, north side of Center). What a wonderful, perfect Thai meal I had there once... Not since "Swing Thai" in Denver had I found such a great Thai joint w/ a lovable peanut sauce dish. That culture's dish w/ rice, peanut sauce, and spinach is not necessarily easy to find. Not every Thai restaurant has it. I check any Thai restaurant I go to. I found it there.
IRISH:
Brazen Head (in a strip mall off 78th & Dodge area). It is actually modeled after the Brazen Head Pub in Dublin, Ireland. I think the inner decor was even all imported from Ireland. Great Irish food.
Ok, I cant say "favorite", but these are my favorites so far:
CHINESE:
Hong Hing (great smaller/medium buffet, near 90th & Fort)
Jade Garden (love the serene name, great place for a quick lunch or dinner, near 120th & Blondo)
Beijing Gate (near 168th & Harrison) Love that restaurant's dramatic name. I can just hear the gong. Sauces sold there.
China Buffett and Grand China Buffet (for big eaters, both near 108th & Dodge)
INDIAN:
The Taj Kabob & Curry (in a strip mall adjacent off the big First National Bank, the west side of Miracle Hills Dr). Lunch buffet. (There were 2 Indian restaurants originally there, side by side in a strip mall, if I remember correctly. I walked into the wrong one once. I hope this listing is the correct restaurant I experienced.)
THAI:
Taste of Thailand (Bob Boozer Dr and West Center Road, near 156th, north side of Center). What a wonderful, perfect Thai meal I had there once... Not since "Swing Thai" in Denver had I found such a great Thai joint w/ a lovable peanut sauce dish. That culture's dish w/ rice, peanut sauce, and spinach is not necessarily easy to find. Not every Thai restaurant has it. I check any Thai restaurant I go to. I found it there.
IRISH:
Brazen Head (in a strip mall off 78th & Dodge area). It is actually modeled after the Brazen Head Pub in Dublin, Ireland. I think the inner decor was even all imported from Ireland. Great Irish food.
Last edited by RockHarbor on Thu Jun 13, 2019 3:26 pm, edited 1 time in total.
I can get pushed out because I'm "too much" for some. Then, an observer of me comes suddenly swooping in to "fill my shoes." People are always more accepting of the new one, because their feathers aren't truly ruffled by them. (Yawn) I can count on it every time.
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bigredmed1
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
Vietnamese: Saigon
Irish: Sean O’Casey’s (Brazenhead is a close second, but neither makes a ToastedSpecial and both should.
Burmese: High Peak
Thai: don’t really have a fave.
Mexican: Dos De Oros taco truck (Albuquerque level Carne Adovada)
Irish: Sean O’Casey’s (Brazenhead is a close second, but neither makes a ToastedSpecial and both should.
Burmese: High Peak
Thai: don’t really have a fave.
Mexican: Dos De Oros taco truck (Albuquerque level Carne Adovada)
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RockHarbor
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
GREEK:
Jim & Jennies Greek Village (near 90th & Maple)
Greek Islands (near 30th & Center, great mural in there)
Both are YUM.
***Kansas City has a wonderful mediterranean restaurant called "Jerusalem Cafe." It's a lot like Greek food. I wonder what restaurant Omaha has that is comparable?***
Jim & Jennies Greek Village (near 90th & Maple)
Greek Islands (near 30th & Center, great mural in there)
Both are YUM.
***Kansas City has a wonderful mediterranean restaurant called "Jerusalem Cafe." It's a lot like Greek food. I wonder what restaurant Omaha has that is comparable?***
I can get pushed out because I'm "too much" for some. Then, an observer of me comes suddenly swooping in to "fill my shoes." People are always more accepting of the new one, because their feathers aren't truly ruffled by them. (Yawn) I can count on it every time.
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Louie
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
Those are ties in my book. So good.RockHarbor wrote: Thu Jun 13, 2019 3:23 pm GREEK:
Jim & Jennies Greek Village (near 90th & Maple)
Greek Islands (near 30th & Center, great mural in there)
Both are YUM.
***Kansas City has a wonderful mediterranean restaurant called "Jerusalem Cafe." It's a lot like Greek food. I wonder what restaurant Omaha has that is comparable?***
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bigredmed1
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
Agreed. Feta's has a good gyro in a pinch, but J & J's beats them.Louie wrote: Thu Jun 13, 2019 4:08 pmThose are ties in my book. So good.RockHarbor wrote: Thu Jun 13, 2019 3:23 pm GREEK:
Jim & Jennies Greek Village (near 90th & Maple)
Greek Islands (near 30th & Center, great mural in there)
Both are YUM.
***Kansas City has a wonderful mediterranean restaurant called "Jerusalem Cafe." It's a lot like Greek food. I wonder what restaurant Omaha has that is comparable?***
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Padre
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
Jim and Jennie’s just doesn’t do it for me. I would pick Feta’s.bigredmed1 wrote: Thu Jun 13, 2019 4:32 pmAgreed. Feta's has a good gyro in a pinch, but J & J's beats them.Louie wrote: Thu Jun 13, 2019 4:08 pmThose are ties in my book. So good.RockHarbor wrote: Thu Jun 13, 2019 3:23 pm GREEK:
Jim & Jennies Greek Village (near 90th & Maple)
Greek Islands (near 30th & Center, great mural in there)
Both are YUM.
***Kansas City has a wonderful mediterranean restaurant called "Jerusalem Cafe." It's a lot like Greek food. I wonder what restaurant Omaha has that is comparable?***
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RockHarbor
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I've never been to Feta's. Sounds really good.
(I dont really know that many restaurants. For example, I'm more simply mentioning ones I've eaten at. I probably would like any Omaha restaurant I go to... )
CHINESE:
I forgot about Hunan Garden. There's something about their particular Chinese food that I've always liked. If I remember right, it isn't soppy Chinese food -- for one. (I dont mind soppy sometimes, though. Heck, even HyVee has good Chinese food, imo.) I've learned they serve both Chinese food and Korean food, so perhaps their Chinese food is influenced by a Korean dish mindset? I don't know, but I do like their food.
Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Chinese: I love all of it. With all this ethnic food talk, my mouth is watering for something deLISH!
MEXICAN:
Fernando's (off 108th & Dodge). I would meet people there. Fun, festive & delish.
I used to love that Mexican restaurant on 90th, north of Center, that was sadly removed when they built the Loveland Center Strip Mall on 90th & Center. I had to google to remember the name of it: "SENOR MATIAS." (They had big $.99 Happy Hour tacos.) Because there is such good architecture on that corner now: Forgiven.
JAPANESE:
Tokyo (Old Market). All you can eat wonderful sushi, great atmosphere. I met both friends & family there. Lots of food, lots of fun.
(I dont really know that many restaurants. For example, I'm more simply mentioning ones I've eaten at. I probably would like any Omaha restaurant I go to... )
CHINESE:
I forgot about Hunan Garden. There's something about their particular Chinese food that I've always liked. If I remember right, it isn't soppy Chinese food -- for one. (I dont mind soppy sometimes, though. Heck, even HyVee has good Chinese food, imo.) I've learned they serve both Chinese food and Korean food, so perhaps their Chinese food is influenced by a Korean dish mindset? I don't know, but I do like their food.
Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Chinese: I love all of it. With all this ethnic food talk, my mouth is watering for something deLISH!
MEXICAN:
Fernando's (off 108th & Dodge). I would meet people there. Fun, festive & delish.
I used to love that Mexican restaurant on 90th, north of Center, that was sadly removed when they built the Loveland Center Strip Mall on 90th & Center. I had to google to remember the name of it: "SENOR MATIAS." (They had big $.99 Happy Hour tacos.) Because there is such good architecture on that corner now: Forgiven.
JAPANESE:
Tokyo (Old Market). All you can eat wonderful sushi, great atmosphere. I met both friends & family there. Lots of food, lots of fun.
I can get pushed out because I'm "too much" for some. Then, an observer of me comes suddenly swooping in to "fill my shoes." People are always more accepting of the new one, because their feathers aren't truly ruffled by them. (Yawn) I can count on it every time.
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Omaha Cowboy
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
Being of both Greek and Italian decent, I’ve sampled plenty of both cuisines..RockHarbor wrote: Thu Jun 13, 2019 3:23 pm GREEK:
Jim & Jennies Greek Village (near 90th & Maple)
Greek Islands (near 30th & Center, great mural in there)
Both are YUM.
For Greek food in Omaha, I’m on board with these two choices. My favorite, being Greek Islands.. Jim & Jennie’s is a solid 2nd...
Ciao..LiO...Peace
Go Cowboys!
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daveoma
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I second thisita wrote: Wed Jun 12, 2019 4:58 pmI have a suggestion. Could we have a few polls, such as having one for favorite Asian, favorite Indian, favorite Mexican/Hispanic restaurants? I feel like with Omaha's growing diversity in restaurants, it's hard narrowing down my favorite non-American restaurant in town. Also, if you keep it broad, would ethnic include Italian, French, and other European cuisines?Coyote wrote: Wed Jun 12, 2019 3:43 pm I'll start a poll later as I get suggestions, but what is your favorite ethnic restaraunt in the metro area?
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Louie
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I third this.daveoma wrote: Fri Jun 14, 2019 1:06 amI second thisita wrote: Wed Jun 12, 2019 4:58 pmI have a suggestion. Could we have a few polls, such as having one for favorite Asian, favorite Indian, favorite Mexican/Hispanic restaurants? I feel like with Omaha's growing diversity in restaurants, it's hard narrowing down my favorite non-American restaurant in town. Also, if you keep it broad, would ethnic include Italian, French, and other European cuisines?Coyote wrote: Wed Jun 12, 2019 3:43 pm I'll start a poll later as I get suggestions, but what is your favorite ethnic restaraunt in the metro area?
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Padre
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I think we can probably move to an "All in favor?" point now.Louie wrote: Fri Jun 14, 2019 9:42 amI third this.daveoma wrote: Fri Jun 14, 2019 1:06 amI second thisita wrote: Wed Jun 12, 2019 4:58 pmI have a suggestion. Could we have a few polls, such as having one for favorite Asian, favorite Indian, favorite Mexican/Hispanic restaurants? I feel like with Omaha's growing diversity in restaurants, it's hard narrowing down my favorite non-American restaurant in town. Also, if you keep it broad, would ethnic include Italian, French, and other European cuisines?Coyote wrote: Wed Jun 12, 2019 3:43 pm I'll start a poll later as I get suggestions, but what is your favorite ethnic restaraunt in the metro area?
And yes I am in favor.
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RockHarbor
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
With all the "Greek Food" talk here, I just HAD to go out and get a Greek/Mediterranean dinner. So, I went to a restaurant I had never been to, branching out, trying new things. And, it was one of the BEST, most delicious Greek/Med dinners I have ever had. I had a steak kabob. I had this flat (Pita?) bread you dip in spicy, pasty salsa. My Greek salad could not have been more scrumptious. Not boasting, just showing Im not "all talk" here. This thread is so mouth-watering, inspiring & fun... 
Last edited by RockHarbor on Fri Jun 14, 2019 4:48 pm, edited 2 times in total.
I can get pushed out because I'm "too much" for some. Then, an observer of me comes suddenly swooping in to "fill my shoes." People are always more accepting of the new one, because their feathers aren't truly ruffled by them. (Yawn) I can count on it every time.
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ita
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
Here are some of my faves:
Korean: Korean Grill in Bellevue
Japanese: used to be Sushi Japan, but they closed
Chinese: Grand Fortune because of dim sum and traditional Chinese menu
Southeast Asian: Salween Thai on Saddlecreek
Middle Eastern: El Basha
Mexican/tacos/burritos: Abelardo's (sorry haven't been to many, unfortunately)
Mediterranean: Greek Islands
Italian: Lo Sole Mio
Indian: Maharaja, though South Indian that was in Mockingbird (it's now something else) had the best Chicken 65
There are still a lot of places that I haven't been too, but that's the beauty of the Omaha food scene. It's continues to expand, but we already have very good options.
Korean: Korean Grill in Bellevue
Japanese: used to be Sushi Japan, but they closed
Chinese: Grand Fortune because of dim sum and traditional Chinese menu
Southeast Asian: Salween Thai on Saddlecreek
Middle Eastern: El Basha
Mexican/tacos/burritos: Abelardo's (sorry haven't been to many, unfortunately)
Mediterranean: Greek Islands
Italian: Lo Sole Mio
Indian: Maharaja, though South Indian that was in Mockingbird (it's now something else) had the best Chicken 65
There are still a lot of places that I haven't been too, but that's the beauty of the Omaha food scene. It's continues to expand, but we already have very good options.
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nativeomahan
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
Some of my favorites in the Omaha area:
Chinese: China Garden. Probably the largest menus (they have two huge ones, numbering perhaps 20 pages each.) The food is consistently delicious. I just choose a table where I don’t have to see the obnoxiously large TV screens.
Korean: I have not explored all of them, but I like Korea Garden
Thai: several are good, I don’t have a favorite
Vietnamese: I have three: Fusion Taste, Saigon and Vietnamese in LaVista, for the best banh mi sandwiches I have ever eaten
Pho: Saigon
Ramen: Jinya
Poke: on my “to do” list
Indian: Shahi edges out Jaipur, but Jaipur has the best Mulligatawny soup anywhere
Japanese: for sushi I like Tokyo in the Old Market. Hiro is very good overall
Filipino: I heard there were some in town but I have yet to try any
Eastern Mediterranean: Omaha has so few to choose from, but el Basha is excellent
Greek: none are particularly good, but Greek Islands comes close.
Italian: Osteria Avoli
Belgian: again, it’s hard to pick a “best” when there is only one, but Dario’s is really good
Northern Mexican: el Dorado
Mexican seafood: el Dorado again
Mexican non seafood: el Pollo Tote
Salvadoran: la Choza
French: I have not spent much time or money at Omaha’s French restaurants. La Voltaire is good, if unpretentious
Ethiopian: Lalibela
Indonesian: Crystal Jade is about as close as you can get, but it is not an Indonesian restaurant
Spanish: ummm
Russian: ummm
German: ummm
Scandinavian: ummm
Brazilian: ummm
Argentine: ummm
Canadian: ummm
Cuban: ummm
Puerto Rican: ummm
Swiss: ummm
Czech: ummm
Hungarian: ummm
I guess you really have to live in a larger US city to experience greater ethnic variety than what we have here in Omaha. It’s better than it used to be, but there are still glaring omissions. My adoptive city is only 1/3 the metro population of Omaha but still has multiple Scandinavian, German, Brazilian, Argentine, Cuban, Canadian, Spanish and Mediterranean restaurants. But they lack very many Indian, Thai and Vietnamese places to eat. At least I have those other dining options when I am there. I have 2 Greek restaurants within 3 blocks of my front door, plus nearby Taiwanese, Canadian, Italian, Sushi, Argentine, Mexican, ramen, Cuban and French places within about a 10 minute walk. And two Dairy Queen’s for a blizzard afterward if I am still hungry.
Chinese: China Garden. Probably the largest menus (they have two huge ones, numbering perhaps 20 pages each.) The food is consistently delicious. I just choose a table where I don’t have to see the obnoxiously large TV screens.
Korean: I have not explored all of them, but I like Korea Garden
Thai: several are good, I don’t have a favorite
Vietnamese: I have three: Fusion Taste, Saigon and Vietnamese in LaVista, for the best banh mi sandwiches I have ever eaten
Pho: Saigon
Ramen: Jinya
Poke: on my “to do” list
Indian: Shahi edges out Jaipur, but Jaipur has the best Mulligatawny soup anywhere
Japanese: for sushi I like Tokyo in the Old Market. Hiro is very good overall
Filipino: I heard there were some in town but I have yet to try any
Eastern Mediterranean: Omaha has so few to choose from, but el Basha is excellent
Greek: none are particularly good, but Greek Islands comes close.
Italian: Osteria Avoli
Belgian: again, it’s hard to pick a “best” when there is only one, but Dario’s is really good
Northern Mexican: el Dorado
Mexican seafood: el Dorado again
Mexican non seafood: el Pollo Tote
Salvadoran: la Choza
French: I have not spent much time or money at Omaha’s French restaurants. La Voltaire is good, if unpretentious
Ethiopian: Lalibela
Indonesian: Crystal Jade is about as close as you can get, but it is not an Indonesian restaurant
Spanish: ummm
Russian: ummm
German: ummm
Scandinavian: ummm
Brazilian: ummm
Argentine: ummm
Canadian: ummm
Cuban: ummm
Puerto Rican: ummm
Swiss: ummm
Czech: ummm
Hungarian: ummm
I guess you really have to live in a larger US city to experience greater ethnic variety than what we have here in Omaha. It’s better than it used to be, but there are still glaring omissions. My adoptive city is only 1/3 the metro population of Omaha but still has multiple Scandinavian, German, Brazilian, Argentine, Cuban, Canadian, Spanish and Mediterranean restaurants. But they lack very many Indian, Thai and Vietnamese places to eat. At least I have those other dining options when I am there. I have 2 Greek restaurants within 3 blocks of my front door, plus nearby Taiwanese, Canadian, Italian, Sushi, Argentine, Mexican, ramen, Cuban and French places within about a 10 minute walk. And two Dairy Queen’s for a blizzard afterward if I am still hungry.
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Garrett
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
For a city of its size, Omaha has a great array of sushi restaurants. Blue, Hiro, and Yoshi tomo all do wonderful things imo, but Blue is probably the one I go to most often with my family when I’m home.
Roja has a soft spot for me for Americanized-Mexican, and Jacobo’s has some of the best salsa I’ve ever had.
Beyond that, it’s been so long since I’ve lived in the city and whenever I come back we mostly hit the same spots that I’m having trouble remembering other spots.
Roja has a soft spot for me for Americanized-Mexican, and Jacobo’s has some of the best salsa I’ve ever had.
Beyond that, it’s been so long since I’ve lived in the city and whenever I come back we mostly hit the same spots that I’m having trouble remembering other spots.
OMA-->CHI-->NYC
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ita
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I feel like some of the missing ethnic spots on your list have been filled recently with newer restaurants or left empty with the departure of old ones. For example, Chaikhana is a new Central Asia (Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kazakhstan) restaurant, that serves some dishes many associate with Russia. You could argue that Bock 16 is "Canadian"; the owners are from Canada, and incorporate Canadian favorites like Poutine in their dishes. There are other ethnic restaurants I haven't tried yet that represent other regions such as Chaima, which is a highly regarded West African restaurant and Caribbean Delight that specializes in Jamaican cuisine.nativeomahan wrote: Wed Jun 19, 2019 10:07 pm Spanish: ummm
Russian: ummm
German: ummm
Scandinavian: ummm
Brazilian: ummm
Argentine: ummm
Canadian: ummm
Cuban: ummm
Puerto Rican: ummm
Swiss: ummm
Czech: ummm
Hungarian: ummm
I guess you really have to live in a larger US city to experience greater ethnic variety than what we have here in Omaha. It’s better than it used to be, but there are still glaring omissions. My adoptive city is only 1/3 the metro population of Omaha but still has multiple Scandinavian, German, Brazilian, Argentine, Cuban, Canadian, Spanish and Mediterranean restaurants. But they lack very many Indian, Thai and Vietnamese places to eat. At least I have those other dining options when I am there. I have 2 Greek restaurants within 3 blocks of my front door, plus nearby Taiwanese, Canadian, Italian, Sushi, Argentine, Mexican, ramen, Cuban and French places within about a 10 minute walk. And two Dairy Queen’s for a blizzard afterward if I am still hungry.
There have been other restaurants that have closed that was the sole representative of a particular region's food that you listed. Bohemian Cafe was our City's longstanding Czech restaurant, Gerda's representing German cuisine, and Gusto Cuban repping Cuba but they have all closed in the last few years.
Omaha's food diversity game still has a lot of room to grow, but it will grow in a way that represents its population. We have had a growing Burmese population over the years, and we just got a quality Burmese restaurant in High Peak; that's the same story with Chaima and Chaikhana. We have seen a similar trend in Indian food where we have both a growing Indian population and increasing number of Indian restaurants.
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nativeomahan
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I agree with the above comment. As I mentioned, Omaha has come a long way from the day when most people thought going out either meant pizza or meat and potatoes. But then so has every other city. Our ethnic diversity plays a role in what we have, and don’t have. It is still surprising to me that we lack any good Spanish tapas restaurants, for example, or Brazilian churrascarias or Argentine steakhouses. And for that matter many domestic cuisines are AWOL, such as Floribbean or New England themed places, or true California cuisine. And don’t even get me started on our abysmal barbecue scene.
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Padre
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I think you hit the nail on the head. Ethnic diversity plays a big role in what is here. I’d love to have an English Tea room in Omaha There was one when I got here, Lady Caroline’s in Dundee. But the British lady who ran it sold it, and now it’s gone. There wasn’t enough of an Anglophile crowd here to support it.nativeomahan wrote: Sat Jun 22, 2019 8:50 pm I agree with the above comment. As I mentioned, Omaha has come a long way from the day when most people thought going out either meant pizza or meat and potatoes. But then so has every other city. Our ethnic diversity plays a role in what we have, and don’t have. It is still surprising to me that we lack any good Spanish tapas restaurants, for example, or Brazilian churrascarias or Argentine steakhouses. And for that matter many domestic cuisines are AWOL, such as Floribbean or New England themed places, or true California cuisine. And don’t even get me started on our abysmal barbecue scene.
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bigredmed1
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
Exactly, bitching that Omaha doesn’t have Romanian food when it doesn’t have a large Romanian population while ignoring that we do have two new Burmese places is like bitching that Santa Fe doesn’t have Burmese restaurants while ignoring their Mexican ones.Padre wrote: Sat Jun 22, 2019 10:10 pmI think you hit the nail on the head. Ethnic diversity plays a big role in what is here. I’d love to have an English Tea room in Omaha There was one when I got here, Lady Caroline’s in Dundee. But the British lady who ran it sold it, and now it’s gone. There wasn’t enough of an Anglophile crowd here to support it.nativeomahan wrote: Sat Jun 22, 2019 8:50 pm I agree with the above comment. As I mentioned, Omaha has come a long way from the day when most people thought going out either meant pizza or meat and potatoes. But then so has every other city. Our ethnic diversity plays a role in what we have, and don’t have. It is still surprising to me that we lack any good Spanish tapas restaurants, for example, or Brazilian churrascarias or Argentine steakhouses. And for that matter many domestic cuisines are AWOL, such as Floribbean or New England themed places, or true California cuisine. And don’t even get me started on our abysmal barbecue scene.
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Coyote
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
Gold Mountain in Aksarben is always full of Asian patrons so I know it is pretty authentic.
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Omaha Cowboy
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I’ll chime in here with a couple comments-
Gold Mountain is about as authentic a Chinese/Vietnamese Asian restaurant as you’ll find in the metro. It’s one of only a handful of places that serve Dim Sum..
Someone mentioned El Basha for Mediterranean food. The last several times I’ve dined there, the food was below average. The last time was the worst. Their Baba Gounush appetizer was completely underwhelming. I ordered the Shish Kabob. The rice was good, but the beef was horribly prepared. They had asked how I wanted the beef cooked and I told them medium, the beef was cooked so well done it was not edible.. The Mediterranean Bistro however, blows El Basha away. I’ve eaten their Shish Kabob at least a dozen times over the past 2 years and their beef tenderloin while always prepared perfectly, is also superior in quality. The only thing I can say negatively about Mediterranean Bistro is— the place is pricey. But, you get what you pay for..
I also want to comment about Greek food. My father was Greek and my mother was Italian. So I had the best of both worlds when it came to home cooked authentic Italian and Greek food. For Greek food in Omaha, the pickings are pretty slim for good places.. But there is one place- The Greek Islands- which is excellent. Many of their dishes are prepared and taste almost as good as my grandmother used to make..their Pastichio, which is a baked Greek pasta dish, is a must try. Their Dolmathes- a stuffed Grape leaves dish, is very good. For an appetizer, you can’t go wrong with their flaming cheese called Saganaki. The place is locally owned and I’ve known their family since I was a little kid. So I’m probably a bit biased
.. After Greek Islands, Jim & Jennie’s is good.. After that, for Greek food in Omaha, it’s very much a mixed bag..
Just my $.02 cents for now...
Ciao..LiO...Peace
Gold Mountain is about as authentic a Chinese/Vietnamese Asian restaurant as you’ll find in the metro. It’s one of only a handful of places that serve Dim Sum..
Someone mentioned El Basha for Mediterranean food. The last several times I’ve dined there, the food was below average. The last time was the worst. Their Baba Gounush appetizer was completely underwhelming. I ordered the Shish Kabob. The rice was good, but the beef was horribly prepared. They had asked how I wanted the beef cooked and I told them medium, the beef was cooked so well done it was not edible.. The Mediterranean Bistro however, blows El Basha away. I’ve eaten their Shish Kabob at least a dozen times over the past 2 years and their beef tenderloin while always prepared perfectly, is also superior in quality. The only thing I can say negatively about Mediterranean Bistro is— the place is pricey. But, you get what you pay for..
I also want to comment about Greek food. My father was Greek and my mother was Italian. So I had the best of both worlds when it came to home cooked authentic Italian and Greek food. For Greek food in Omaha, the pickings are pretty slim for good places.. But there is one place- The Greek Islands- which is excellent. Many of their dishes are prepared and taste almost as good as my grandmother used to make..their Pastichio, which is a baked Greek pasta dish, is a must try. Their Dolmathes- a stuffed Grape leaves dish, is very good. For an appetizer, you can’t go wrong with their flaming cheese called Saganaki. The place is locally owned and I’ve known their family since I was a little kid. So I’m probably a bit biased
Just my $.02 cents for now...
Ciao..LiO...Peace
Go Cowboys!
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nativeomahan
- County Board
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
We ate at Gold Mountain a week or so ago, with a gathering of friends in their party room. It is one of our “go to” places for Asian food, and one of the few dim sum places in town. Omaha has a decent Asian restaurant scene, with the greatest variety now that has ever existed here. And that is despite the fact that Asians represent only about 4% of the total population.Coyote wrote: Sun Jun 23, 2019 4:28 pm Gold Mountain in Aksarben is always full of Asian patrons so I know it is pretty authentic.
I had mentioned that I love el Basha. I ate there earlier this month with a friend, out on their comfy patio. The food was excellent. I had the lentil soup, and shrimp, and my friend a chicken wrap as I recall. The rice is always excellent. I wish I could duplicate it!
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Coyote
- City Council
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I haven't been there in a while, but I used to really like the Meditteranean Bistro around 120th & Blondo (Franklin).
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RockHarbor
- Planning Board
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I just went to an Indian joint yesterday w/ a friend. It was delectable. Bring a taste of Bombay (Mumbai?) or Calcutta my way anyday...
Love this thread.
Love this thread.
I can get pushed out because I'm "too much" for some. Then, an observer of me comes suddenly swooping in to "fill my shoes." People are always more accepting of the new one, because their feathers aren't truly ruffled by them. (Yawn) I can count on it every time.
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Omaha Cowboy
- The Don
- Posts: 1013711
- Joined: Wed Jan 07, 2004 5:31 am
- Location: West Omaha
Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I just ate at Mediterranean Bistro this past weekend. I have to get my fix every other month. The food there is fantastic..Coyote wrote: Mon Jun 24, 2019 7:38 pm I haven't been there in a while, but I used to really like the Meditteranean Bistro around 120th & Blondo (Franklin).
As it relates to El Basha, to each their own. The last time I ate there (about 3 months back) was the last straw. I used to occasionally enjoy the place. I ordered Shish Kabob. In reality, I received a grossly overcooked and grisly plate of what was supposed to be beef tenderloin. Completely un-edible.. Shame. I do agree- at least their rice is always good. I won’t be back...
Ciao..LiO...Peace
Go Cowboys!
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bigredmed1
- Parks & Recreation
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
Just went to Chaikhana’s that specializes in food from Russia and Central Asia. Tasty food and nice decor. Encourage everyone to give it a try.
90th between Blondo and Maple by Romeos.
90th between Blondo and Maple by Romeos.
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guy4omaha
- Parks & Recreation
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I was there about a month ago and really liked the kabobs. My wife had beef stroganoff which wasn't much to her liking. She should have had the kabobs. Yum yum.bigredmed1 wrote: Tue Jun 25, 2019 8:05 pm Just went to Chaikhana’s that specializes in food from Russia and Central Asia. Tasty food and nice decor. Encourage everyone to give it a try.
90th between Blondo and Maple by Romeos.
My old signature got too old. So old it was getting almost as old me as me. Yeah, it was up there in years.
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BPHusker
- Home Owners Association
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- Location: Omaha Metro Area
Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
CHINESE
Golden Bowl - It is run by the original owner/chef of House of Hunan (132nd and Center, now Hunan Fusion). Its the pretty much the same menu as the old House of Hunan and still as delicious!
JAPANESE
For sushi, it was Sushi Japan, but with them closing, I'm trying to find a new sushi place. I did really like Umami when I went. For Ramen, I loved Ugly Duck, but after they closed, I have really grown to like both Jinya Ramen Bar and Ika Ramen.
Golden Bowl - It is run by the original owner/chef of House of Hunan (132nd and Center, now Hunan Fusion). Its the pretty much the same menu as the old House of Hunan and still as delicious!
JAPANESE
For sushi, it was Sushi Japan, but with them closing, I'm trying to find a new sushi place. I did really like Umami when I went. For Ramen, I loved Ugly Duck, but after they closed, I have really grown to like both Jinya Ramen Bar and Ika Ramen.
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Omaha Cowboy
- The Don
- Posts: 1013711
- Joined: Wed Jan 07, 2004 5:31 am
- Location: West Omaha
Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I’m with you 1000%. All the food is great. Their peanut butter chicken and combo fried rice dishes are to kill for. Great food, great people, great service.. My only complaint is that when it was House of Hunan, it was only blocks away from my residence. Now that it’s in Bellevue, it’s quite a drive. But still worth it...BPHusker wrote: Mon Jul 01, 2019 10:50 am CHINESE
Golden Bowl - It is run by the original owner/chef of House of Hunan (132nd and Center, now Hunan Fusion). Its the pretty much the same menu as the old House of Hunan and still as delicious!
Ciao..LiO...Peace
Go Cowboys!
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ChadJK
- Planning Board
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
Taqueria los Compadres (108th & Q), Mercy Thai (96th & L), Korea King (96th & L), Saigon (121st & Center), Astoria Biryani House (108th & O), Golden Bowl (Fort Crook Rd in Bellevue), Umami Asian Cuisine (Galvin Rd in Bellevue) and it's not a restaurant really, but who doesn't love the take out from Jacobo's (24th & L).
Last edited by ChadJK on Tue Nov 28, 2023 2:58 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Omaha Cowboy
- The Don
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- Location: West Omaha
Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I ate at Cascio’s Italian Steakhouse Sunday evening with family in from out of town (Chicago and San Francisco).. We were a party of 18. The food was great (I had the 16oz Ribeye as did 3 other people) along with all the sides including Mostaccioli and red sauce (which was a big and unique hit for my Bay Area family). We ordered multiple appetizers and I have to say their fried ravioli is even better than La Casa’s (never thought I’d say that)..
My family, especially my Bay Area contingent, was looking to eat at and experience a quintessential Omaha Italian Steakhouse. Cascio’s didn’t disappoint..and to top everything off, their service was excellent and on point..
It’d had been at least 5 years since I ate at Cascio’s. But l’ll be back again soon. Don’t sleep on this fantastic Italian Steakhouse on 10th street
...
Ciao..LiO...Peace
My family, especially my Bay Area contingent, was looking to eat at and experience a quintessential Omaha Italian Steakhouse. Cascio’s didn’t disappoint..and to top everything off, their service was excellent and on point..
It’d had been at least 5 years since I ate at Cascio’s. But l’ll be back again soon. Don’t sleep on this fantastic Italian Steakhouse on 10th street
Ciao..LiO...Peace
Go Cowboys!
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skinzfan23
- City Council
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- Joined: Mon Feb 09, 2004 11:26 am
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
Great to hear. We ate there about a year ago and the owner was so nice. I talked to him about business during the CWS and he was a little upset because one of the teams was supposed to eat there and cancelled at the last minute to go eat at a chain steakhouse in town. He was a great guy to talk to and even gave both of my kids free Cascio's t-shirts.Omaha Cowboy wrote: Tue Jul 09, 2019 2:18 am I ate at Cascio’s Italian Steakhouse Sunday evening with family in from out of town (Chicago and San Francisco).. We were a party of 18. The food was great (I had the 16oz Ribeye as did 3 other people) along with all the sides including Mostaccioli and red sauce (which was a big and unique hit for my Bay Area family). We ordered multiple appetizers and I have to say their fried ravioli is even better than La Casa’s (never thought I’d say that)..
My family, especially my Bay Area contingent, was looking to eat at and experience a quintessential Omaha Italian Steakhouse. Cascio’s didn’t disappoint..and to top everything off, their service was excellent and on point..
It’d had been at least 5 years since I ate at Cascio’s. But l’ll be back again soon. Don’t sleep on this fantastic Italian Steakhouse on 10th street...
Ciao..LiO...Peace
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Omaha Cowboy
- The Don
- Posts: 1013711
- Joined: Wed Jan 07, 2004 5:31 am
- Location: West Omaha
Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
That’s fantastic he did that. Not only is Cascio’s a nice place to eat for large parties or a date night, but it’s family friendly with a nice kids menu too.. All things being equal, I’d much rather spend my money at a local quality restaurant than a national chain establishment...skinzfan23 wrote: Tue Jul 09, 2019 11:06 amGreat to hear. We ate there about a year ago and the owner was so nice. I talked to him about business during the CWS and he was a little upset because one of the teams was supposed to eat there and cancelled at the last minute to go eat at a chain steakhouse in town. He was a great guy to talk to and even gave both of my kids free Cascio's t-shirts.Omaha Cowboy wrote: Tue Jul 09, 2019 2:18 am I ate at Cascio’s Italian Steakhouse Sunday evening with family in from out of town (Chicago and San Francisco).. We were a party of 18. The food was great (I had the 16oz Ribeye as did 3 other people) along with all the sides including Mostaccioli and red sauce (which was a big and unique hit for my Bay Area family). We ordered multiple appetizers and I have to say their fried ravioli is even better than La Casa’s (never thought I’d say that)..
My family, especially my Bay Area contingent, was looking to eat at and experience a quintessential Omaha Italian Steakhouse. Cascio’s didn’t disappoint..and to top everything off, their service was excellent and on point..
It’d had been at least 5 years since I ate at Cascio’s. But l’ll be back again soon. Don’t sleep on this fantastic Italian Steakhouse on 10th street...
Ciao..LiO...Peace
Ciao..LiO...Peace
Go Cowboys!
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Coyote
- City Council
- Posts: 34366
- Joined: Tue Nov 18, 2003 11:18 am
- Location: Aksarben Village
Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
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BIGO88
- Library Board
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
There is a new Seafood/Mexican restaurant that just opened on 22nd and Leavenworth called Mariscos El Culichi. Super Clean inside and the food was really good. I will definitely be back!
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ChadJK
- Planning Board
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
Looks like they closed sometime in the last 6 months or so. Their old unit in Harrison Village is now a D'Leon's Taco Rico.RockHarbor wrote: Wed Jun 12, 2019 9:50 pm Beijing Gate (near 168th & Harrison) Love that restaurant's dramatic name. I can just hear the gong. Sauces sold there.
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nativeomahan
- County Board
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- Joined: Fri Nov 12, 2004 2:46 pm
- Location: Omaha and Puerto Vallarta
Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
I will update my earlier comments to add that my husband and I have had nothing but excellent meals at both Omaha Kebabs at 120th north of Blondo and at Cateus Pita at 76th and Cass. I highly recommend the combo appetizer platter at both places. They are each some of the very best appetizer platters we have ever sampled…at any restaurant anywhere!
The kebabs are also very good at both restaurants.
Earlier today I stopped with a friend into Maru sushi/Korean restaurant on south 108th between L and Q streets. It had probably been 6 years since I last had lunch there. The Korean soups and bowls were super delicious, and prepared to my “slightly spicy” request. My friend, who is from Mexico, had never had Korean food, and he loved his meal. The calamari just might be the best deal in town for that dish,
The kebabs are also very good at both restaurants.
Earlier today I stopped with a friend into Maru sushi/Korean restaurant on south 108th between L and Q streets. It had probably been 6 years since I last had lunch there. The Korean soups and bowls were super delicious, and prepared to my “slightly spicy” request. My friend, who is from Mexico, had never had Korean food, and he loved his meal. The calamari just might be the best deal in town for that dish,
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ricko
- Parks & Recreation
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Re: Favorite Ethnic Restaraunt
It moved to Lincoln from Omaha a few years ago, but I’d have to go with High Peak Asian.