Mantra Bar & Grille is a hidden gem in Benson.
Nestled in the historic neighborhood of Benson, Omaha, Mantra Bar & Grille isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a gastronomic journey. Since opening its doors in 2010, Mantra has been crafting not just meals, but experiences, earning its status as a beloved local institution and was even named the best new restaurant in Omaha.
A FUSION OF FLAVORS AND CULTURES
Walking into Mantra is like stepping into a world where every sense is engaged. The ambiance blends the warmth of a neighborhood hangout with an air of understated elegance, a perfect backdrop for the culinary adventure that awaits.
CULINARY MASTERPIECES: DIVERSE AND INNOVATIVE MENU
Mantra’s menu is a testament to culinary diversity and innovation. Each dish is carefully crafted, balancing traditional flavors with creative twists. From hearty burgers to light salads, and from rich entrées to small plates, the variety caters to all tastes and dietary preferences.
FEATURED DELIGHT: TUNA NACHOS
A standout item on the menu is the Tuna Nachos. This isn’t something you can find anywhere else in the Omaha metro area. This dish is a creative marvel—a fusion of textures and flavors. The crispness of the fried wontons pairs beautifully with the tender, seared Ahi Tuna. Topped with a tangy Napa cabbage slaw and drizzled with an utterly divine peanut sauce, each bite is a burst of flavor, a blend of the familiar and the exotic.
A TOAST TO THE BAR: SIGNATURE DRINKS AND CLASSICS
Mantra’s bar is a treasure trove of liquid artistry. The drink menu features an array of choices, from classic cocktails to inventive creations unique to Mantra. Each drink is meticulously mixed, providing the perfect accompaniment to the culinary offerings.
THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY: MORE THAN A RESTAURANT
Mantra’s impact stretches beyond the culinary. It’s a venue for community events, a space that brings people together. Whether hosting a birthday bash, a corporate event, or a casual get-together, Mantra adapts to every need with its cozy and inviting atmosphere.
LEGACY AND VISION: THE PEOPLE BEHIND MANTRA
The story of Mantra is incomplete without its visionaries. Mac Thompsen’s legacy in Omaha’s culinary scene and Travis Freeman’s entrepreneurial and philanthropic efforts have shaped Mantra into more than a restaurant—it’s a symbol of passion and community.
A JOURNEY THROUGH THE MENU
Exploring Mantra’s menu is akin to a culinary expedition. Each dish, from appetizers to desserts, is prepared with utmost care, ensuring that every guest’s experience is memorable. The flavors are a blend of local produce and global culinary techniques, offering a palette of tastes and aromas.
SMALL PLATES, BIG FLAVORS
The small plates section of the menu deserves special mention. Here, the Char Buffed Wings, Crab Cakes, and the unique Mantra Lollipops shine. These dishes, perfect for sharing or as a start to a meal, set the tone for the culinary journey ahead.
MAINS: A SYMPHONY OF TASTES
The main courses at Mantra are a celebration of variety and taste. Each dish, be it the Mantra Burger, the Lamb Burger, or the elegantly prepared Seafood Enchilada, tells its own story, making every meal an exploration of flavors.
A FINAL TOAST: DESSERTS AND SIDES
No culinary journey is complete without a sweet ending. Mantra’s desserts, like the Pistachio Cake French Toast or the decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie, are the perfect finale to the dining experience.
AN ODE TO CULINARY EXCELLENCE
Mantra Bar & Grille is more than just Omaha’s best new restaurant of 2012; it’s a living, evolving testament to the beauty of food and community. It stands as a beacon of culinary excellence, inviting everyone to partake in its story—a story woven with flavors, passion, and love.
We encourage you to try Mantra Bar & Grille in Omaha.
Address: 6913 Maple St, Omaha, NE 68104
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Image Credits: Nicole Buffman
