Jessica Howell Named Omaha’s Best Server of 2023 by Omaha Food Magazine
Omaha, NE –In a city brimming with culinary excellence, where every dining experience is a unique adventure, one name stands out in the Omaha metro area: Jessica Howell. Crowned as the 2023 Best Server by Omaha Food Magazine, Jessica's journey at Brother Sebastian’s Steakhouse and Winery is a testament to her unparalleled dedication, warm hospitality, and exceptional service that have won the hearts of many.
The Legacy of Brother Sebastian’s
Brother Sebastian’s Steakhouse and Winery is more than just a dining establishment—it’s a cornerstone of Omaha’s rich culinary tapestry. For over four decades, this iconic restaurant, founded by the late Loren Koch, has been a beacon of excellence and tradition. Inspired by Spanish monasteries, Brother Sebastian’s transports its patrons to a bygone era of rustic charm and timeless elegance. Loren’s vision of creating a unique dining experience, coupled with his commitment to serving the finest cuts of Nebraska Angus beef, has cemented the restaurant’s place in Omaha’s heart.
A Tribute to Loren Koch
Loren Koch, the mastermind behind Brother Sebastian’s, left an indelible mark on Omaha’s culinary scene. His dedication to excellence and his ability to create a warm, inviting atmosphere made Brother Sebastian’s a beloved institution. Loren’s passing was a great loss to the community, but his legacy lives on through the restaurant and the people who continue to uphold his standards of service and quality.
The Heart of Brother Sebastian’s

Jessica Howell embodies the spirit and values that Loren Koch instilled in Brother Sebastian’s. Her friendly demeanor, sharp memory, and impeccable attention to detail make her a standout server. Patrons often request Jessica by name, drawn to her ability to make every dining experience memorable. Whether it’s her knowledge of the menu, her skill at handling complex orders, or her genuine warmth, Jessica exemplifies what it means to be a top-notch server.
Jessica’s excellence in service is rooted in several key qualities:
- Active Listening: Jessica’s ability to attentively listen to her customers ensures that every order is accurate and every need is met. Her habit of repeating orders back to customers not only shows her attentiveness but also builds trust and rapport.
- Sharp Memory: Handling multiple tables with grace, Jessica remembers specific details about her patrons, making each one feel valued and special. Her sharp memory allows her to manage numerous requests efficiently, ensuring a smooth dining experience.
- Friendly Demeanor: Jessica’s positivity and proactive mindset create a welcoming atmosphere for diners. Her ability to engage in meaningful small talk and her warm greetings make every visit to Brother Sebastian’s a delightful experience.
- Efficiency and Multitasking: Balancing the needs of multiple tables, Jessica moves seamlessly between tasks, ensuring quick and efficient service without making guests feel rushed.
- Professionalism in Handling Complaints: Jessica’s calm and composed demeanor when addressing customer concerns highlights her professionalism. She listens, empathizes, and takes swift action to resolve issues, ensuring customer satisfaction.
- Upselling Skills: With a keen understanding of the menu and a knack for suggesting complementary items, Jessica subtly enhances the dining experience while boosting the restaurant’s profits.
- Teamwork: Jessica’s ability to collaborate effectively with her colleagues, from the kitchen staff to the hosts, ensures a cohesive and smooth operation at Brother Sebastian’s.
Celebrating an Incredible Achievement

Winning the Best Server Award is a significant milestone for Jessica Howell, and it’s a moment of pride for Brother Sebastian’s. Loren Koch would undoubtedly be proud of Jessica’s accomplishment and the continued excellence of the restaurant he founded. As we celebrate Jessica’s achievement, we also honor Loren’s legacy and the enduring impact he had on Omaha’s dining scene.
Jessica Howell’s recognition is not just a personal triumph; it’s a testament to the high standards and unwavering commitment to excellence that define Brother Sebastian’s. Her story inspires not only her colleagues but also aspiring servers who aim to make a mark in the hospitality industry. The Brother Sebastian's team was on hand to celebrate this incredible achievement with Jessica.
In addition to Jessica’s win, Brother Sebastian’s had multiple servers nominated for this prestigious award, highlighting the restaurant’s overall commitment to exceptional service. Omaha Food Magazine presented Jessica with a $500.00 check in recognition of her outstanding service.
Kinarra, an Indian restaurant located in the popular Regency neighborhood, also had a strong showing in this year’s Best Server contest, receiving hundreds of entries on behalf of their talented servers. This demonstrates the vibrant and competitive spirit within Omaha’s restaurant community, where excellent service is celebrated and rewarded.
Visit Brother Sebastian’s
For those who haven’t yet experienced the magic of Brother Sebastian’s, now is the perfect time to visit. Enjoy the warm ambiance, savor the exquisite menu, and, if you’re lucky, be served by Omaha’s best server, Jessica Howell. Loren Koch’s legacy lives on through the exceptional dining experiences at Brother Sebastian’s, where every meal is a celebration of quality, tradition, and heartfelt service.
Watch for next year's Omaha's Best Server competition.




