Clio is one of the best new restaurants in 2024. It's a Mediterranean dream in Omaha. Stepping into Clio, the newest gem in Omaha's historic Old Market, is like being transported to a sun-drenched Mediterranean paradise. As Flagship Restaurant Group's 46th opening, Clio promises to be one of the best new restaurants of 2024, bringing the rich flavors and traditions of the Mediterranean right here to the heart of Omaha.
A Night to Remember
The Omaha Food Magazine was on-site for opening week, and the experience was nothing short of extraordinary. The evening was a tapestry of vibrant tastes and sophisticated ambiance, setting a new standard for dining in Omaha. A prominent figure at Omaha Food Magazine shared his excitement: "Clio's ambiance and flavors capture the essence of the Mediterranean so perfectly, it feels like a mini-vacation without leaving Omaha."
"Clio's ambiance and flavors capture the essence of the Mediterranean so perfectly, it feels like a mini-vacation without leaving Omaha."
With such glowing praise and anticipation, Clio is poised to become a restaurant destination for those seeking a culinary escape.
An Atmosphere of Warmth and Elegance
The Design
Clio’s interior is a masterclass in blending Mediterranean folklore with contemporary elegance. Designed by the award-winning firm Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture in collaboration with Flagship Restaurant Group, the space features natural textures, raw finishes, and a canopy of vines and flowers creating an indoor garden oasis.
The mix of graphic tiles, roman clay, and striped textiles evokes a sense of unique style and sophistication, making every visit an aesthetic pleasure. It's a place where the traditional and the modern coexist in harmony, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels both exotic and familiar.
The Culinary Experience
Modern Mediterranean Fare
Clio's menu is a modern representation of Mediterranean cuisine, curated by Chief Culinary Officer and Co-Owner Tony Gentile and James Beard Foundation nominee Benjamin Maides. The offerings range from housemade spreads like Hummus with roasted garlic and olive oil, Muhammara with piquillo pepper and walnut, to mezze such as Merquez Sausage Stuffed Dates and Turkish Dumplings. Each dish is a celebration of vibrant, wholesome flavors meant to be shared, embodying the Mediterranean spirit of communal dining.
Must-Try Mediterranean Dishes in Omaha
For the main course, highlights include the Kefta Kabob with minced beef and lamb, Shawarma Spiced Chicken with peri peri and yogurt hot sauce, and Harissa Trout with a chili-olive condiment. Salads like Stracciatella with tomato, crouton, and arugula, and Wood Roasted Beets with whipped feta and lemon zest, add a refreshing touch to the meal. The attention to detail and the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients make each dish a culinary delight.
A Journey Through the Menu
Every dish at Clio tells a story, from the sun-drenched shores of Greece to the aromatic markets of Morocco. The menu is designed to take diners on a journey through the Mediterranean, offering a variety of flavors and textures that are both familiar and exciting. The housemade spreads are perfect for starting the meal, offering rich and complex flavors that set the tone for what’s to come. The mezze section is ideal for sharing, allowing guests to sample a variety of small dishes that highlight the best of Mediterranean cuisine.
A Toast to Mediterranean Spirits
The Wine List
Clio's wine list is a journey through the Mediterranean, featuring selections from Greece, Turkey, Armenia, and beyond. With 20 rotating wines by the glass and 30 bottle options, guests can savor unique, indigenous grape varietals that tell a story of tradition and natural winemaking. Each wine is carefully selected to complement the flavors of the food, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Signature Cocktails
The cocktail program at Clio is equally impressive. Infused with Mediterranean spirits and flavors, the drinks menu includes lemon sorbet libations, Dirty Negronis, and refreshing spritzes. Each sip transports guests to the coastal villages and fragrant herb gardens of the Mediterranean. The cocktail program is designed to offer something for everyone, from classic cocktails with a twist to innovative new creations.
Clio Wine Club
For the wine enthusiasts, Clio offers a Wine Club, providing members with three unique import wines each month, hand-picked by a Certified Sommelier. Members also enjoy early access to events, promotions, and exclusive discounts. This club is a fantastic way for wine lovers to explore new and exciting wines from the Mediterranean, while also enjoying the benefits of being part of an exclusive community.
An Unmissable Dining Destination
Clio is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience that encapsulates the warmth, flavors, and spirit of the Mediterranean. Open for lunch and dinner, with happy hours and a welcoming atmosphere, Clio is set to become a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
Clio offers an escape to the Mediterranean right here in Omaha, making it a must-visit dining destination for 2024. ~ Bailey Quarles, Omaha Food Magazine
As Bailey Quarles aptly put it, "Clio offers an escape to the Mediterranean right here in Omaha, making it a must-visit dining destination for 2024."
The Conscious Earth Mission
Flagship Restaurant Group's commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of Clio. The group partners with the prestigious Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch to ensure that all seafood is sustainably sourced. Additionally, Clio has dedicated partnerships with animal welfare organizations and farms throughout the country, ensuring that the ingredients used are not only of the highest quality but also ethically sourced. This commitment to sustainability extends beyond the food to every aspect of the restaurant's operation, making Clio a place where diners can feel good about what they’re eating.
Operational Information
Clio is open for lunch and dinner, with specific operating hours to cater to all dining preferences:
- Monday - Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday - Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Happy Hour: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM Monday through Saturday, all day on Sunday
To make a reservation, visit Clio (Omaha) on OpenTable.
Experience Clio
Clio offers a dining experience unlike any other in Omaha. With its stunning design, exquisite menu, and commitment to sustainability, it stands out as one of the best new restaurants of 2024. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Clio promises a memorable journey through the Mediterranean without leaving the city. Experience Clio, where the Mediterranean meets Omaha, and discover why it’s set to become a cornerstone of the city’s culinary scene.
Image Credits: Flagship Restaurant Group
