Lincolnite: Lincoln's Online Community

I was wondering if people could share restaurants they find enjoyable for Valentine’s Day or an anniversary dinner.  We’ve been to Fireworks and Misty’s, but might there be other hidden gems around town?

In my opinion, that’s a tough one. Besides the usual places in the Haymarket, there are only a few other really nice places out there. I’ve heard good things about that Tandoor Indian place in Williamburg and that Italian place near Leon’s, but have not been to either one.

SpillZone - 12 January 2009 10:17 PM

I was wondering if people could share restaurants they find enjoyable for Valentine’s Day or an anniversary dinner.  We’ve been to Fireworks and Misty’s, but might there be other hidden gems around town?

Some ideas off the top of my head:

I think Vincenzo’s is pretty popular for a holiday like Valentine’s Day. I suspect Bread & Cup will be a top pick this year. The Lodge at Wilderness Ridge is a good one to think about.

If you want to get out of town, the Lied Lodge in Nebraska City is nice for an evening getaway.

Mr. Wilson nailed it with his suggestions. Magnolia’s in the Haymarket would have great atmosphere too, plus it’s a locally owned restaurant. If I have a choice, Vincenzo’s is my favorite.

Every time we want to go somewhere fancy we hit up The Dish downtown and have never been disappointed.  You could always do a mini tour of places.  Start off with appetisers at Marz bar, split a meal or grab a sammich at one of the many shops downtown, then head over to Ivana Cone or another spot for a great desert.  The green Gateau has rocking deserts.

The life partner and I avoid VD eaiting out though.  It is nice that many places will have a special menu on VD, but it is one of the big eat out nights so you have to deal with places being really busy.  Since we both worked in the food service industry VD pretty much stunk for us.

Just gonna put in my requisite recommendation for JTK in the Haymarket.  Nicest restaurant in town, folks.

If you don’t mind a little drive, the Black Crow in Beatrice is worth the trip.

And how expensive are these places?  Atmosphere is important, but so is affordability.  I like Fireworks because their prices seem reasonable to me.

Seems most mentioned so far are in the same $15 - $25 per entree range.

Are there any places that feature entrees in the $8 to $12 range (or thereabouts)?

SpillZone - 13 January 2009 03:21 PM

Are there any places that feature entrees in the $8 to $12 range (or thereabouts)?

If looking for something local and not your standard chain, 9 south chargrill is decently priced.  http://www.9southgrill.com/ They have a nice selection too.  Yaiyais pizza might work too.  Spaghetti works is not to pricey either.  Bison witches and duggans pub have decent food on the cheap.

Beerorkid speaks wisely when he mentions 9 South. That’s good stuff. Even great places like The Oven and Blue Orchid come pretty close to the $8 to $12 range for many (but not all of) of their entrees.

Basically, you’ve got lots of options in that price range. If your dining companion knows the cost-per-person target, you’ll have an even easier time. If cost is really a big deal I recommend picking a couple possible restaurants and checking out their menus. Look at the prices of the items you and your companion are likely to order. If they average out ok, you’re set.

I checked out out 9 South’s menu and it does look very promising.  I hope we can try it soon, even if not on the 14th.  Thanks for all the excellent recommendations!

The Black Crow in Beatrice is nice place I’ve been there couple times with my wife, she love it..