Valentine’s Day in Omaha is an opportunity to explore the city’s most charming neighborhoods, each offering a unique blend of romance, fantastic food, and architecture. Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting for the first time, these neighborhoods provide an array of date spots that will make your day special. Here’s a guide to a few of Omaha’s most romantic restaurants and cocktail lounges, showcasing great dining and the details that give each area its distinctive charm.
Want the list A-Z? Click here to drop to the bottom of the page!
Downtown: Charm & Ambiance
The Old Market is the staple of Omaha’s downtown, with cobblestone streets and brick buildings that create an intimate atmosphere. It’s an area that exudes romance, making it an ideal location for a Valentine’s Day date. Stroll to the streets outside of the Old Market and you’ll find both modern and historic buildings with never ending options for food and drink.
- Anna’s Place: For after dinner drinks, head to Anna’s Place, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar tucked away inside the historic Hotel Indigo. The hotel beautifully displays its late 19th century commercial architectural significance with modern updates. Inside Anna’s Place, the hidden gem displays a red-lit glow, perfect for sharing a quiet drink with your date. Anna’s Place will leave you both feeling like you’re in a secret world of your own.
- The Berry & Rye: Boasting their collection of rare spirits and fresh ingredients, The Berry & Rye is a must stop before or after dinner in the Old Market. Their high ceilings, moody decor and velvet booth seating makes for a very romantic night out with your partner. There is always something new to try with the rotating menu at The Berry & Rye.
- The Boiler Room: For a more upscale yet relaxed atmosphere, head to The Boiler Room. Located in a beautifully restored building with unique views of the kitchen, this spot offers exceptional food and a classic setting. It’s the perfect spot for couples who want to enjoy an elegant meal and a cozy environment.
- Cattle Call: If you’re looking for late night food, but want fine dining, Cattle Call is your spot this Valentine’s Day. Their small, but mighty menu is continuously updated with seasonal ingredients and new items. They also have a curated wine list and cocktail menu. Fun fact, Cattle Call is located in the historic First National Bank building, which was the first high-rise building built in Omaha in 1917.
- Le Bouillon: For an intimate, French-inspired dining experience, Le Bouillon is a must-visit. This spot, housed in a historic building, combines exposed brick and soft lighting, creating an ambiance that’s both timeless and chic. Whether you’re savoring their French dishes or enjoying the intimate setting, it’s a perfect place to pop some bubbly and enjoy your evening. Pick up a bottle of wine to go next door at Howard Street Wine, or head down to their wine bar below, Mon Cave, for a night cap.
- Memoir: Where new development meets nostalgia, Memoir is one of the best newer restaurants in town. This vibrant sanctuary offers a range of cuisine, cocktails and mocktails. If you’re looking to take your Valentine to an elevated restaurant with comforting food, Memoir is a must!
Benson: Vibes & Creative Cuisine
The Benson area is filled with character, from vintage shops to vibrant art galleries, making it an ideal spot for couples looking to enjoy a unique Valentine’s Day experience.
- Au Courant: For a memorable dining experience, Au Courant is a top pick. Known for its 6-course chef’s tasting menu and inventive cocktails, the restaurant sits in a beautifully restored building that adds to the overall charm of your evening. Its intimate vibe and creative menu will ensure a special night with your date.
- Yoshitomo: If you’re craving sushi, Yoshitomo offers a crafted dining experience like no other in Omaha. The sleek design of this Benson spot complements the neighborhood’s vibrant and artistic atmosphere. With exceptional sushi and Japanese dishes, it’s an ideal place for couples who appreciate fine dining in a small setting.
- Krug Park: For a laid-back, yet stylish bar, head to Krug Park. Known for its craft cocktails and cozy ambiance, this spot is perfect for couples who want to relax and enjoy a drink in a fun, welcoming environment. The vintage architecture of the building adds to the charm, giving you the feeling of stepping back in time while enjoying modern drinks.
Dundee: Quaint & Comfort
Dundee is a historic neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets and stately homes. Its quaint charm and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect place for a more low-key Valentine’s Day date, where you can enjoy great food and conversation.
- Avoli: This Northern Italian restaurant makes some of the best handmade pasta in town. Avoli will have you feeling comfortable and romantic with their chandeliers, floral vintage style dinnerware and local, quality ingredients. You’ll leave wanting to book a romantic getaway to Italy.
- Lyle’s Pizzeria: For a casual but delicious dinner, Lyle’s Pizzeria is an excellent choice. With its inviting atmosphere and sourdough pizza, it’s an ideal spot to share a pie and a bottle of wine.
- Ooh De Lally: This restaurant combines culinary excellence with a noble cause. For Valentine’s Day, the atmosphere paired with dishes like their decadent dark chocolate crème brûlée makes it the perfect spot for couples seeking a memorable evening.
- Pageturners: If you’re looking for a comfortable place to enjoy a drink, Pageturners is a literary-themed bar that offers both charm and character. Surrounded by books and quirky décor, it’s a great spot to enjoy cocktails and have intimate conversations with your Valentine.
Countryside Village: Timeless & Cozy
Countryside Village was designed in the long-and-low Frank Lloyd Wright Prairie style architecture, offering shopping, dining and cocktail lounges in the heart of Westside. The area is convenient to enjoy an entire evening with your Valentine without walking too far from restaurants to cocktail lounges.
- Koji: The dark interior with wood accents makes for another moody and intimate option. With a few favorite sushi menu items from it’s sister restaurant, Yoshitomi, Koji’s izakaya style menu is a great spot to share cold and hot Japanese plates with your date.
- Cedar: Stop into Cedar before or after dinner for a laid-back cocktail, beer or glass of wine. This small lounge is warm spot to cozy up with your Valentine.
- Mootz: If a night in on your couch is more your date style, order a heart shaped pizza for pickup at Mootz! Don’t forget to include their cookies, cannolis, tiramisu or bottles of wine.
Romantic Celebration Spots in Omaha A-Z:
- Anna’s Place – Downtown
- Au Courant – Benson
- Avoli – Dundee
- Berry & Rye – Downtown
- Cattle Call – Downtown
- Cedar – Countryside Village
- Koji – Countryside Village
- Krug Park – Benson
- Le Bouillon – Downtown
- Lyle’s Pizzeria – Dundee
- Memoir – Downtown
- Mootz – Countryside Village
- Mon Cave – Downtown
- Ooh De Lally – Dundee
- Pageturners – Dundee
- The Boiler Room – Downtown
- Yoshitomo – Benson
Happy Valentine’s Day!
