Jason and I visited Omaha, Nebraska a few times in the past few years for business.  Just before our first trip, a friend (an Omaha native) recommended that we visit a part of the city called the “Old Market”.  The Old Market is a lively area rich with art studios, restaurants, wine bars and loft apartments.  Back in the mid 1960’s, the Mercer family, owners of many disused warehouses decided to revive the area by turning creating an district of shops, art studios, and restaurants.  This brought a lively and creative community to the area – and the Old Market was born. Each year we look forward to visiting the Old Market and eating at La Buvette a Mercer-owned restaurant and wine store– which looks and feels like a Parisian café complete with the chalkboard menu.  With well priced wines from around the world and an ever-changing menu of seasonal foods, La Buvette is a happening spot all day and well into the night.  My idea of a perfect day in Omaha’s Old Market would be lunch at La Buvette at an outside table.  I’d choose a bottle of wine and then linger over my lunch – savoring every bite.  Then I’d head over to Jackson Street Booksellers and spend some time browsing through the amazing selection amassed by Amanda, the proprietor.  Then in the evening, I’d make sure to go to The Boiler Room restaurant.

The Boiler Room

The Boiler Room

I did just that on a recent trip to Omaha.  Thankfully, I made a reservation because all the tables were full when we arrived. The space is literally a former boiler room (hence the name) with raw brick walls and an industrial feel.   The walls are decorated with large photographs that have been modified to look like paintings.  Chef Paul Kulik, cooked in Europe for many years and also did a stint at the renowned Avec in Chicago.  After years abroad, Kulik an Omaha native, wanted to bring his culinary skills home to the Old Market and open his own restaurant.  I can attest to the fact that Kulik’s dream is a diner’s delight!  His staff is very attentive – but not overbearing – how refreshing!   The Boiler Room even has its own Master Sommelier (one of only about 120 in North America), Jesse Becker.  We enlisted Becker’s help in choosing a Prosecco that would pair well with our appetizers.   Our first course started with luscious celeriac potage with verjus and sorrel.  We also had a plate that combined lamb bacon, a poached egg, braised rhubarb, and parsley salad topped with crème fraiche.  I cannot even express how wonderful this was, the tastes and different textures made eating pure joy!  The entrees were just as impressive.   My tender veal shoulder with cippolini onions and creamy risotto was beautifully presented and tasted wonderful!  We also tried the short rib steak served with rapini – also delightful.  Becker chose a luscious Châteauneuf Du Pape a 2001 La Crau de Ma Mére (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre blend – with red berry and white pepper flavors) for our entrees.  Becker’s wine choice was spot on – and so was EVERYTHING about the Boiler Room.   Go there – it is SO worth a trip to Omaha!