Amuse-bouche. It’s the French word for appetizer that combines amuser (“amuse”) and bouche (“mouth”). It literally translates as “amuse the mouth,” and that’s just what amuse-bouches, or appetizers, are meant to do—tickle the tongue in preparation of the main gustatory event.
Whether you’re craving American classics or have an affinity for foreign foods, Omaha boasts a considerable range of world cuisines. Organized by type, here is Omaha Magazine’s guide to some of the best appetizers in the city, each one certain to get your taste buds tingling and stomach rumbling.
ITALIAN
Spezia
3125 S 72nd St.
speziarestaurant.com
Spezia is ready to make your date night, casual lunch, or fine dining experience a success with outdoor seating, reservations, walk-ins, romantic booths, and event rooms. Since its inception, Spezia has shared the owners’ love of Italian food with Omaha, including Fried Spicy Calamari, which comes with pepperoncini, roasted red and banana peppers, olive oil butter garlic, and coconut shrimp, served with chili marmalade.
Cascio’s Steakhouse
1620 South 10th St.
casciossteakhouse.com
For over 65 years, Cascio’s has been serving some of the finest steaks and other Italian fare in Omaha. Their famous spaghetti sauce—simmered for 7 hours in a 60-gallon kettle—has been a customer go-to since they opened their doors. Try their Toasted Ravioli covered in crispy breading served with marinara sauce.
Mangia Italiana
6516 Irvington Road
mangiaitaliana.com
A complete dining establishment with a venue for weddings, rehearsal dinners, and corporate events, Mangia Italiana offers classic and modern Italian fare for dine-in, carryout, and catering. Try their Breaded Mozzarella Wedges with Marinara or Fresh Dough with either cinnamon sugar or olive oil, parmesan cheese, and spices for a mouth-watering start.
Pasta Amore e Fantasia
11027 Prairie Brook Rd.
pastaamore.com
Pasta Amore e Fantasia is the life work of Chef Calgero Lillo “Leo” Fascianella. Born in San Cataldo, Sicily, in 1956, he emigrated with his parents to the United States in 1972. Enjoy Chef Leo’s Sicilian “edible paintings,” including appetizers like Taleggio Garlic Bread, Caprese, and Italian Popcorn.
Japanese
Jinya Ramen Bar
7010 Dodge St.
jinyaramenbar.com
Tomo Takahashi came to the United States in 2010 and soon discovered the classic ramen dish he enjoyed daily in Japan was missing in the land of opportunity; so he took that opportunity to create his own restaurant dedicated to the dish of noodles and broth that was so common in his hometown. Tomo set up shop in California and has since expanded across the country; now Omaha can enjoy their takoyaki (octopus balls), gyoza (fried pork dumplings), and Jinya’s signature Impossible Bun, made with “impossible” meat (from plants), guacamole, cucumber, and vegan mayonnaise.
Izakaya Koji
8718 Pacific St.
izakayakoji.com
Savory spices and rich sauces culminate in rice, noodles, and meat to produce the most famous of Asian flavors at Koji. Appetizers include the Chasu bun—pork belly, kewpie, hoisin, and pickle; the Tsukune Yakitori—meatball and egg yolk sauce; Shishito—Japanese peppers, garlic, soy, and lemon; and their famous Koji q, featuring smacked cucumbers with soy chili.
GREEK
Greek Islands
3821 Center St.
greekislandsomaha.com
Opektika is the formal word for “appetizers” in the Greek language. Greek Islands’ famous opektika include Flaming Saganaki, an imported Greek cheese cooked golden brown and served flaming at the table, and Sikotakia, or chicken livers baked in the Greek tradition. Order yourself some ouzo, raise your glass, and cheer, “Opa!”
Jim & Jennie’s Greek Village
3026 N 90th St.
jimandjennies.com
Dine-in and carry-out options make Jim & Jennie’s as convenient as can be. Authentic Greek dishes complemented by a full bar make this restaurant a favorite in Omaha. Appetizers include Dolmades—stuffed grape leaves filled with ground beef and rice, topped with a creamy egg lemon sauce served with pita bread, and Mezedes Pikilia—sautéed chicken and pork loin with hot peppers, garlic wine, and lemon juice.
SEAFOOD
Sand Point
655 N 114th St.
sandpointomaha.com
When quality seafood is discovered in landlocked Nebraska, it’s something to sing about! Sand Point boasts delicious oceanic treats that are just waiting to be savored, including Lobster Arancini, a creamy cheesy lobster risotto breaded and fried and served with Old Bay remoulade and lemon garlic aioli.
Charlie’s on the Lake
4150 S 144th St.
charliesonthelake.net
Taking reservations and walk-ins, Charlie’s on the Lake is known for their quality seafood in the heart of Omaha. With beautiful outdoor seating and a view of a lake, as its name suggests, Charlie’s makes for a lovely outing. They boast unique appetizers such as Fried Grouper Fingers—lightly breaded fresh grouper served with home-made tartar sauce, and their famous Bang Bang Shrimp, fried and tossed in a spicy sweet sauce.
Isla del Mar
5101 S 36th St.
2502 S 133rd Plaza
isladelmarrestaurante.com
Fresh Mexican seafood dishes are yours to enjoy at Isla del Mar! With appetizers such as tostadas with pulpo, marlin, and mantarraya (octopus, marlin, and stingray), this unique seafood experience is a must-try for fans of fish and fun atmospheres. Try their Super Botana—spicy shrimp with scallops, sea snail, shrimp aguachile, boiled shrimp, scallop, octopus, cucumber, onion, and tomato.
THAI
Mercy Thai
4741 S 96th St.
mercythairestaurantmenu.com
The marriage of spicy and savory blossoms at Mercy Thai result in unique and irresistible flavor combinations. Appetizers include SoMooSwa—fried wheat flour wrapped with beef, potatoes, and onion, and served with sweet chili sauce; and rice balls with garlic, black peppers, sweet soy sauce, clear noodles, and pork, served with cabbage, cucumber, and peppers.
Mai Thai
2279 S 67th St. B.
14618 W Center Rd.
maithaiomaha.com
Mai Thai owner and chef Preeda Joynoosaeng has invested incredible time, energy, and travel to continue to evolve and develop unique recipes for his restaurants. His Mango Crab Rangoon with seasoned cream cheese, mango, and pieces of real crab has garnered rave reviews in Omaha.
SPORTS BARS
Varsity Sports Cafe
Three Omaha area locations
varsityromancoinpizza.com
Watching your favorite athletes compete is never complete without the complement of good food. Pre-game with Varsity’s classics like Mozzarella Breadsticks with marinara sauce and moist Chicken Wings with a variety of sauce options.
DJ’s Dugout
Seven Omaha area locations
djsdugout.com
Voted Omaha’s #1 Sports Bar, DJ’s Dugout is locally and Vietnam Veteran-owned. Their seven locations deliver on the promise of tasty small plates to get you and your team through that losing streak or help celebrate the big win. Served with salsa, their famous Super Bowl Nachos serve three to four people and comprise flour or corn tortilla chips, beef, pulled pork, or grilled chicken, nacho cheese, cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeños.
PUB GRUB
Clancy’s Pub
2905 S 168th St.
clancyspubomaha.com
Experience weekly trivia night with prizes at Clancy’s while enjoying their Reuben Eggrolls and Loaded Nachos. With televisions lining the walls, there is no angle at which the big game can be missed.
Brazen Head
Irish Pub
319 N 78th St.
brazenheadpub.com
“A place where friends can gather,” Brazen Head was created to emulate the traditional pubs of the Emerald Isle. It accordingly offers not only a venue for parties, but legendary Irish Nachos, corn tortillas or waffle fries topped with ground beef, green onions, jalapeños, peppers, and cheese sauce, and Emerald Isle Bleu Chips, crunchy kettle chips tossed in spicy buffalo sauce and topped with bleu cheese crumbles, bacon, and green onion.
Sean O’Casey’s Pub
2523 S 140th Ave.
seanocaseyspub.com
Located jut north of Oakview Mall, Sean O’Casey’s is a comfortable neighborhood Irish pub that is well known for their Reuben sandwich and homemade soups. Try their famous Cheddar Potato Skins and Bleu Cheese Potato Skins. Heft a pint of Guiness and Erin go Bragh!
INDIAN
Saffron Urban Indian Kitchen
6706 Frances St.
saffronurbankitchen.com
When Executive Chef Diwesh Bhattarai first came to the United States from Nepal, he worked as a dishwasher while earning his culinary degree. Now co-owner of Saffron, he shares his love for Indian cuisine, with his hometown flavors and culinary schooling coalescing into one restaurant that offers appetizers like Papadam, Samosas, and their well-known Masala Crab cakes made with crab, garam masala, and sweet yogurt sauce.
Kinaara
120 Regency Pkwy
kinaaraomaha.com
Kinaara, meaning “the edge” in Hindi, is one of the many accomplishments of chef Ashish, who specializes in Biryani and South Indian cuisine. His Masala Fries—waffle sweet potato fries topped with tikka masala sauce and choice of Paneer, chicken, or tofu, topped with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, pickled onion, and cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese—can be converted to a vegan dish by opting for tofu and all fixings except cheese.
CHINESE
Buddha Belly Chinese Food
13748 P St.
20576 Highway 370
buddhabellygretna.com
With locations in Gretna and in the heart of Millard, Buddha Belly offers large portions of traditional Chinese cuisine. Appetizers include classics like egg rolls, rangoons, and wontons.
Rose Garden
9731 Q St.
rosegardenomaha.com
Rose Garden’s starters, including butterfly shrimp, fried dumplings, and steamed dumplings, are sure to please and whet appetites.
China Wok
12005 W Center Rd.
omahachinawok.com
Try China Wok’s Chinese Donuts for a unique twist on traditional Chinese meals.
MEXICAN
Fernando’s Cafe and Cantina
380 N 114th St. & 7555 Pacific St.
fernandosomaha.com
Serving authentic Sonoran-style dishes, Fernando’s traces their recipes all the way back to Jalisco, Mexico. The family-friendly establishment uses a traditional Mexican recipe to make their tortillas by hand every morning, with their tomato-based home-made hot sauce getting its distinctive kick from a secret blend of peppers and chilies. Chefs Mario, Martin, Pascual, and Antonio do their best to create an authentic taste for patrons, and that includes the “Fiesta Trio Di” starter, which comes smothered with fresh Pico de Gallo, guacamole, and blanco dip with a serving of corn or flour tortilla chips.
La Mesa Mexican Restaurant
Seven locations
la-mesa.com
Voted Best Mexican Restaurant for 19 years, La Mesa strives for outstanding customer service as part of a quality dining experience. La Mesa features Mexican specialties created from family recipes, an extensive selection of premium margaritas, and a collection of over 100 tequilas. Restaurant locations are decorated to promote a fun atmosphere and create a unique customer dining experience for the entire family. Fresh ingredients are a priority, creating irresistible appetizer plates like the Jalapeño Poppers.
Primo’s Modern Mexican
5914 Center St. | Omaha
930 5th Ave. | Council Bluffs
primosmodernmexican.com
The idea of Primo’s Mexican Restaurant was born with the vision of three “primos” (cousins) who wanted to reawaken their family’s recipes and bring back the taste of their delicious Mexican dishes. Great grandparents, Luis and Carmen Rocha, were immigrants from Mexico and settled in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Primo’s serves a variety of authentic Mexican dishes along with American favorites with a south-of-the-border twist, such as Papas Locos—fresh homemade fries, topped with choice of beef or chicken, (other toppings), sour cream and salsa.
El Vallarta Mexican Restaurant
Four Omaha area locations
elvallartamenu.com
El Vallarta was built based around the simple idea that everyone needs a healthy escape now and then. This sanctuary of wholesome food has served happy customers for years. Try their Queso Fundido (queso with chorizo) and Guacamole Salad.
AMERICAN
Jams Modern American
Three Omaha area locations
jamseats.com
Jams, an Omaha restaurant legacy, is an American Grill that offers a melting pot of different styles and varieties of dishes containing high-quality ingredients paired with the optional cold drink or creative cocktail. Sample Jams’ Lettuce Wraps, a delicious appetizer featuring citrus-and-soy marinated grilled chicken, peanut glaze, crisp romaine, shiitake mushrooms, red pepper, shredded radish and carrots, toasted almonds, and pineapple sweet chili sauce.
Mouth of the South Southern Grub
1111 Harney St.
16909 Lakeside Hills Plz.
motsomaha.com
Mouth of the South, as this restaurant’s name suggests, is committed to providing the best authentic Southern Cajun cuisine in Omaha. With a mission to “bring New Orleans to Omaha,” they strive to create an authentic experience by offering traditional Cajun flavors, seasonings, and spices but with a modern twist. Appetizers and specialties are abundant, notably the Boudin Balls, a trinity of pork, rice, and vegetables rolled and fried and served with remoulade sauce. Also notable is the Crawfish Queso, which features roasted jalapeño cream sauce and blackened crawfish, served with fresh corn chips.
Twisted Cork
10730 Pacific St.
twistedcorkbistro.com
Aiming to bring “a little bit of Seattle to Omaha,” Twisted Cork boasts locally sourced ingredients, handcrafted ales, and Pacific Northwest wines. Pair one of these wines with their small plates, like Hawaiian Ahi Nachos or their famous Crying Crackers—Piedmontese flank steak, cucumber, pistachio, fiery Jaew sauce, kimchi, and rice crackers.
Pine & Black Bistro
248 Olson Dr.
pineandblackbistro.com
Taking their name from the translation of “pinot noir,” Pine & Black Bistro offers various dishes for “shoot-from-the-hip” diners or parties of guests with differing tastes, ranging from seafood to lavosh to vegan plates. The G.O.A.T. is sure to please all with warm goat cheese, everything spice, garlic chips, sesame seeds, cauliflower bread, and strawberry-hot honey.
Pacific Eating House
1130 Sterling Ridge Dr.
pacific-eatinghouse.com
“Always Natural, Always Wild” is Pacific Eating House’s slogan, emphasizing their natural ingredients and wild-caught seafood. Ahi Poke Tacos are a popular choice, with lime-wasabi slaw, fried wontons, sriracha, and pistachio, but the Pike Place Mac & Cheese takes the cake with customers, as the thick and gooey concoction of penne pasta, hint of spice, and cheeses (white cheddar-Gruyère-jack) makes for an irresistible combination.
This article originally appeared in the June 2024 issue of Omaha Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
Photo by Sarah Lemke.
Chasu bun—pork belly, kewpie, hoisin, and pickle.
Photo by Sarah Lemke.
Super Botana.
Photo by Sarah Lemke.
SoMooSwa.
Photo by Sarah Lemke.
Super Bowl Nachos.
Photo by Sarah Lemke.
Cheddar Potato Skins
Bleu Cheese Potato Skins.
Photo by Sarah Lemke.
Papadam, Samosas, Masala Crab Cakes.
Photo by Sarah Lemke.
Butterfly Shrimp
Fried Dumplings
Steamed Dumplings.
Photo by Sarah Lemke.
