The Oven in Haysmarket, Lincoln, Nebraska

My travels don't always take me to places that make the front cover of magazines. This does not mean, however, that these little spots do not have hidden treasures. In fact, most of the time I am pleasantly surprised. It was during one of these trips that I visited a pleasant small 'big' town (as the locals like to call it), Lincoln Nebraska.

When one thinks about Nebraska words like 'corn', or 'cows' come to mind and not necessarily authentic and state of the art cuisine. But, if you ever make it over to Lincoln you will also be pleasantly surprised. Lincoln, Nebraska, the Capital of the State and the home of the University of Nebraska has an area called "The Historical Haysmarket" that hosts an array of excellent authentic restaurants, including Indian, Italian, Mexican, Cajun, among other. One of my favorites and one that compares to the best I've had in the States, is an Indian Restaurant, called "The Oven"

The Oven serves various traditional northern Indian dishes ranging from appetizers of samosas, roti, naan, dahl, to sumptuous entrees, desserts and drinks. The menu is extensive and options exist for vegetarians and meat lovers alike.

Atmosphere:
The balmy atmosphere of The Oven is accentuated by the traditional decor and authentic background music. A large outside sitting area in the heart of the Historical Haysmarket adds a Bohemian character to this traditional feel and is a great spot for people watching.

Service/Price:
The service is excellent. Waiters have a good knowledge of the menu and clearly love working here. Prices are average and you will walk away with money still in your pocket and most likely some left overs for the following day.

Quality of Food
This is where the fun starts. The Oven serves truly traditional northern Indian cuisine ranging from the Chole (garbanzo beans in a spicy flavorful sauce), Paneer (an Indian white cheese with variety of different sauces) , Tikka and a variety of curries as well as various rice dishes. This place is truly a gem and no matter your pallet you will find something that makes the entire trip to Lincoln worth it.






If you have been here let me know what you think. If you haven't make sure to give it a try on your next trip to Lincoln!

Cool web site

how awesome is this?! Maybe you knew, but I just strolled upon this website and I will definitely have to take one of these classes!

http://www4.uwm.edu/sce/program_area.cfm?id=566

Cafe Hollander

Approximately two years ago Cafe Hollander opened its doors on Milwaukee East side to reveal a surprisingly unique and refreshing combination of flavorful food, beer and atmosphere. Initially the cuisine did not live up to the spectacular ambiance however once a new chef was hired and a new menu released the restaurant was bound to be a success.

Located on the corner of Downer Avenue and Summit, situated in the characteristic Water Tower district on Milwaukee East Side it is quite a sight to remember. The outside sitting area attract many regulars and new-comers alike during warm weather months and never disappoints. Additionally, the inside is so uniquely European with its dark wooden features and high ceilings that, for a moment you may confuse it with the real deal! This, along with an extensive beer list including unique selections from across Europe and specifically Holland and Belgium, which is complimented by a variety of Dutch appetizers such as "mussels and frites" makes it a personal favorite.

Some favorites include the mussel appetizer in the Abbey Ale Sauce, the blackberry turkey sandwhich, a combination of roasted turkey, Swiss cheese, hot giardineira, and red onions, served on a baguette and topped with blackberry jam, as well as the Ahi Tuna Sandwich. Sumptuous breakfast choices are available all day including the Beneleux omelet ( a combination of Gruyere cheese, diced tomato, sauteed mushrooms served with frites) and my personal breakfast favorite, the Ex Mrs. Hollander, consisting of smoked shaved ham, fried egg, white cheddar cheese sauce and tomato served on a croissant with frites.

Overall prices are reasonable and options are available for meat-lovers and vegetarians alike.

Next time you make it to the Milwaukee be sure to check it out and let me know what you think!