Appease Your European Palate at these Nebraska Destinations!

So you’re looking to dip your toes into the culinary world of Europe, only, you don’t actually want to go all the way there? Fair enough. Hopefully this list of some of Nebraska’s best European eateries will satiate your hunger for exploration.

Bella Italia, Cozad

Italian

This hidden gem is located in Cozad, residing within an unassuming building that is home to old country recipes, generous portions and a comfortable atmosphere. Since 2003, Bella Italia has been known for their authentic Italian food served up with love.

 

Lithuanian Bakery
Lithuanian Bakery
 
Lithuanian Bakery, Omaha

Lithuanian

Founded in 1962 by Lithuanian immigrants Vytautas and Stefanija Mackevicius, this family-owned shop in Omaha is a local favorite for Old World baked goods. Specialty breads and sweet tortes are their main offerings, which you can try at either the main bakery on south 33rd or their more comfortable café on Pacific Street.

 

Verdigre Bakery, Verdigre

Czech

For years this small family-run bakery has been churning out nearly every kind of baked good, made from scratch. Their most popular items are a Czech favorite: kolaches! From poppy seed to prune, Bavarian cream to blueberry, there’s a flavor for everybody.

 

The Mixing Bowl
The Mixing Bowl
 
The Mixing Bowl, Gering

German

This Gering restaurant aims to serve up food that your grandma might’ve made. A fusion of german-inspired comfort food and contemporary options makes for the perfect breakfast, lunch and dinner spot. Whether it’s the streusel-covered muffins or the short rib slider with goat cheese, this restaurant has something for you.

 

The Normandy, Lincoln

French

You might forget that you’re in Lincoln while dining on chicken à la crème at The Normandy! This restaurant strives to be fine dining that everyone can enjoy, with a menu fit for a French king. A word of advice – while it’s tempting to try all of the desserts, that probably isn’t a good idea.

 

Le Boullion
Le Boullion
 
Le Bouillon, Omaha

French

Braised escargot…cassoulet…croquet monsieur…you really can’t get much more French than this place. Stopping in during their daily happy hour or grabbing a table for dinner doesn’t make much difference, since the experience is incredible either way.

 

Sebastian’s Table, Lincoln

Spanish/Mediterranean

Lincoln is home to Sebastian’s Table, a restaurant that takes inspiration from Spanish tapas bars and Mediterranean cuisine. The paella is to die for, but the albondigas – Spanish meatballs – are nothing to sneeze at either.

 

McKinney's Irish Pub
McKinney's Irish Pub
 
McKinney’s Irish Pub, Grand Island

Irish

Shepherd’s Pie with a glass of 18-year Jameson? Sounds fantastic. Maybe the baked fish and chips with a Guinness, instead? It’ll be tough to choose exactly what you want at this shining example of an Irish pub, so maybe the best option is to just go multiple times and try everything.

 
Nick’s Gyros, Hastings

Greek

Yes. Oh yes. Gyros, salads, even phillies! Don’t be fooled by their location, this Greek restaurant will make your mouth water with their options. Whether you’re looking for some pita piled high with toppings, or a lighter salad to get you through the afternoon – they have it and more.

Bella Italia
Bella Italia