OMAHAFOOD
Story by: Mystery Reviewer Photo by minorwhitestudios.com
Sports memorabilia and flat-screen TVs dot the walls of the formal dining room, creating an upscale sports bar atmosphere unlike any other.
94/95 Sports Grille In a League of its Own
For Just
about a year, a small strip mall at the southeast corner of 180th & Pacific has been home to the 94/95 Sports Grill. 94/95 is noticeably more upscale and inviting than your typical sports-themed restaurant and bar. It features a luxurious sports lounge, a cozy patio area, a posh yet casual dining room, and a private dining room for special events and caterings. The name 94/95 commemorates the Huskers' 1994 and 1995 back-to-back championship teams, of which 94/95 partner Clester Johnson was on the roster. The sports memorabilia displayed at 94/95 all comes from various football, baseball, basketball, and hockey teams that share the distinction of having won back-to-back championships at the college and professional levels. As you enter the main entrance you find yourself staring at the impressive high-ceiling sports lounge. Rich, dark wood, a well-stocked bar, flat screens, and sports memorabilia surround you. You are then escorted up the stairs into the dining room though a very large frosted glass door. Once in the dining room you are seated in a comfortable booth featuring a table draped with a black linen. Like the lounge, the dining room is also decorated with sports memorabilia and flat screens, but also has a lovely fireplace and some very interesting sports art. I feel that 94/95 did a very nice job of creating an ambiance that seems high end but keeps an unpretentious feel to it. Executive Chef and 94/95 partner Chris Morgan's menu features USDA Choice Angus steaks, seafood, and pasta dishes, and puts a gourmet spin on some sports bar favorites like burgers, pizzas and sandwiches. The menu is also home to a good variety of homestyle side dishes and gourmet appetizers. On a recent visit my dining partner and I tried the Mini Steak Sandwiches appetizer ($10). These were delicious little pieces of steak cooked to perfection and served open faced on toasted garlic ciabatta bread, topped with provolone cheese and sauteed bourbon onions. We also
118
january/february | 2010
94/95 Sports Grille
17857 Pierce Plaza Omaha, NE 68130 402-504-9853 9495sportsgrille.com
Ratings: (out of 5*) Food
***
Service
****
Ambiance Price: Overall
***
Moderate ***1/2
www.omahapublications.com