The Cozy Restaurant In Nebraska That’s Perfect For An Intimate Dinner
By Andrea Verschuyl|Published February 13, 2024
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Andrea Verschuyl
Author
Having grown up in Washington, Andrea is a self-admitted Pacific Northwest snob. In their opinion, there's simply nowhere else in the country with the Evergreen State's beauty. After attending university, Andrea devoted themselves to writing full-time. They're thrilled to represent Washington for Only In Your State while pursuing other professional and personal projects. They currently reside in Olympia, where they enjoy leaf-blowing their yard, perfecting homemade ramen, cuddling with their three tiny dogs, and feeding their pufferfish, Sea Biscuit.
Are you looking for the right place to take your someone special? There’s no shortage of fantastic dining in Omaha, but this spot may be the most romantic restaurant in Nebraska. V. Mertz has been a local institution since its 1970s debut, becoming the town’s go-to spot for marking occasions and impressing partners. If it’s not there already, it belongs on your Cornhusker bucket list.
Part of V. Mertz's appeal is its location. It's nestled in Omaha's Old Market Passageway, a century-old alleyway that once served as the city's commercial hub - a mecca of boutiques, mercantile shops, and eateries. Over the years, this special Omahan spot fell into disrepair. That was until the Mercer family acquired it in the 70s and set to work restoring its luster.
And holy cow, what food! Executive Chef Jonathan Miller heads the talented kitchen, producing imaginative plates that are almost too pretty to eat. Almost.
Chef Miller is fond of saying that his main goal is to "keep it simple." While I find that claim dubious - V. Mertz's menu is a gallery of culinary creativity - I concede that the restaurant doesn't sacrifice tried-and-true techniques for the allure of dining trends.
I recommend handing over the reins and opting for the Chef's tasting menu. For optimal indulgence, spring on the wine pairing, which showcases general manager and sommelier extraordinaire Matthew Brown's formidable knowledge. Or try one of bar manager Elizabeth Wallace's libations, which never fail to disappoint.
You don't become a local institution for nothing. Whatever you order, it's hard to go wrong at V. Mertz.
Looking for the perfect date-night spot? Visit one of the most romantic restaurants in Nebraska, V. Mertz, for an experience like no other. If you’re from out of town, pair your fine dining pilgrimage with a weekend getaway to explore more of charming Omaha.
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