The Historic Nebraska Restaurant That Only Gets Better With Age
Everyone’s got their own opinion when it comes to the best restaurant in Nebraska, and the opinions are especially impassioned when it comes to pizza. There’s one place that has been garnering consistently terrific reviews for nearly a century now, and it only seems to get better as the years go on.
Orsi's Italian Bakery is one of the last iconic spots in Omaha's Little Italy. It's tucked away in the neighborhood just a little south of the Old Market, and it's been an Omaha staple since 1919.
The eatery's long history is displayed on the walls. You'll see photos, newspaper clippings, and other various mementos of a century in business. This makes for some impressive entertainment while you wait for your order.
The whole place exudes that warm, homey atmosphere that you can only find in family-owned restaurants. You'll see handwritten signs and price tags popping out amid the selection of packaged pasta, sauces, dressings, olives, and peppers along the wall.
The deli case is always stocked with fresh, hearty meats, cheeses, salads, and various treats. Pick out your favorites and take them home for a make-your-own deli sandwich night for dinner. Trust me, it'll be a huge hit.
But what most people visit Orsi's for is the pizza. The signature rectangular pie is so heavy with cheese and toppings that you'd expect the crust to be soggy under it all. But the crust stays perfectly chewy and bready and melt-in-your-mouth amazing.
The garlic bread comes in a close second on the list of crowd favorites. It's perfectly buttery and garlicky without being overpowering, and the savory top is just the right amount of brown.
The double-crust Goudarooni pizza is a lot like a big calzone, but better. Do yourself a favor and try the spinach or broccoli varieties. Does it sound a little odd to put potatoes and broccoli in a pizza-like package? Maybe. Is it positively delicious? Yes. Big yes.
There's no permanent seating inside, but if you want to eat in there are a few benches and some folding tables. The staff will happily set up a little spot for you so you can linger a while in this cozy space and enjoy your food.
Orsi's pizza is a staple at meetings and conferences in Omaha; if you're attending an event that's serving pizza, chances are good it's coming from here. This sweet tiny place in one of Omaha's most historic neighborhoods is a throwback to a time when quality ingredients and careful preparation were the norm at restaurants.
Orsi’s Italian Bakery & Pizzeria is located at 621 Pacific St in Omaha. Find hours, a menu, and lot more information (including the restaurant’s long history) right here.
While Orsi’s has been around for a very long time, it’s not quite the oldest restaurant in Nebraska. Do you know where the oldest one is? Find out in this article from the archives.
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As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
