January 16, 2024
Here in Lincoln, we’re lucky to have a range of restaurants featuring food from all around the world. You’re bound to find something new to try — and just a short distance from campus. Read through some local spots for your next night out. ⬇️
Fortune
A half block from the admissions office is Fortune, a Chinese restaurant serving many dishes you may be familiar with but also offering a separate menu featuring a variety of authentic Chinese foods like Chinese greens or crispy fried pork. Just ask your server for both menus!
Pita & Naan
Pita & Naan is the newest Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurant in the downtown Lincoln area. Head over for lunch or later at night for shawarma, gyros, falafel or curries. If you love a sweet treat, make sure you order yourself some baklava. You won’t regret it!
Tia Lety’s
If you’ve never tried Salvadorian food, you can’t miss with the authetnic dishes at Tia Lety’s, a local restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. They’re known for their pupusas — the national dish of El Salvador—but have a range of dishes from tamales to desserts. If you don’t have a car to get here, no fear. Just hop on the North 27th city bus line.
Pho Nguyenn
Few things are more comforting than a bowl of hot noodles and soup and Pho Nguyenn is the spot to go if you’re looking for some of the best pho in town. Explore Vietnamese cuisine more by trying appetizers like spring rolls or grilled meat bowls. If you’re in the mood to try a new drink, try out bubble tea, a new soda or a Vietnamese iced coffee.
Rodizio Grill
Located in the Haymarket, Rodizio Grill is the perfect location for anyone who’s hungry. Pick from a range of sides at their buffet and enjoy the experience of a Brazilian steakhouse with unlimited grilled meats served right from the skewer at your table. Pro tip: try their grilled pineapple and budget time for a nap afterward.
The Oven
If you’re looking for some meatless options, head across the street from Rodizio to The Oven. Serving North Indian cuisine, you’ll find a vegetarian and vegan menu, in addition to dozens of options for meat lovers and a variety of fresh breads — plain, stuffed and fried. The owners are from Bhutan, so you’ll even find a couple of Bhutanese dishes.
Tiru
Tucked off 27th Street, Tiru serves Ethiopian food filled with flavor. You’ll find a menu featuring multiple curries and protein options but also several options for vegans and vegetarians. Go hungry; you’ll be full after.
Itsumo Ramen
Itsumo Ramen is located on the corner of Centennial Mall and O Streets and is totally worth the quick trip from campus. You’ll find big bowls of ramen — as the name suggests—alongside other dishes like kimchi fried rice and takoyaki.
El Chaparro
A staple of the late-night scene in Lincoln: El Chaparro. Whether you’re having breakfast or need to feed a craving at 2am, this spot has you covered. Get a taste of all your Mexican food favorites, from tacos and burritos to a bunch of other fun items like sizzling hot fajitas or a glass of horchata.
Hiro 88
Head over to the Railyard to get your Japanese fix at Hiro 88. One of two locations in Lincoln, they’re serving a full menu of entrees and a sushi, nigiri and small plate menu. Bonus: if you go with a group large enough or order enough sushi, you’ll get it on a boat— and everybody loves sushi boats!