I hate to admit it, but often, when I’m having a busy day, I default to fast food for lunch. I know, I know… but it’s convenient. There’s a chain restaurant on every corner, and I never have to think about my order.
(Because let’s face it: Culver’s has seven burgers on the menu, and they’re all essentially the same. You literally can’t get your order wrong. Even if you’re having an otherwise terrible day, if you pull into a fast food drive-through, the odds are in your favor.)
Still, I much prefer to support our local businesses here in Lincoln — and there’s nothing like discovering a new neighborhood restaurant to love.
It usually happens by accident. I’m out and about, either alone or with family, when I spot an unfamiliar sign or billboard. As a local realtor, I’m pretty well-versed in all things Lincoln, so anything new (to me) sparks immediate intrigue. And once I’m hooked, it’s not hard to reel me in. I’ll try anything once, and if I like it, I’ll let my friends and clients know!
This is how I stumbled upon the coziest little family-owned restaurant called the Black Sheep Cafe, over on 27th and Randolph.
My son and I popped in for a bite, and let me tell you right off the bat: their grilled sandwiches are something else. HUGE portions, fresh ingredients, and bursting with flavor. I wanted to order half a dozen more and take them home as leftovers, but honestly, there’s no way I could’ve eaten them all before they went bad. There are two full meals packed into those things.
After lunch, we chatted with the cafe owner, Nora, who is an absolute delight. Her passion for food is evident in every sandwich (and waffle — my son loved them!). She also has a heart for local artists and will be displaying some of their work in her shop soon.
Honestly, it felt like we were enjoying a meal at a friend’s house. So, if you’re looking for a place with delicious food, a great atmosphere, and a true sense of community, you have to check out Black Sheep Cafe.
(Pro tip: Order the “Feel Good” sandwich. It’s about a pound of pastrami and roast beef. *chef’s kiss* Incredible.)