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Dish Omaha

KVNO’s Dish Omaha

Sadly, the loss of federal funding has meant making some difficult choices, and this beloved program is one of them. It’s been an absolute joy sharing Diane’s passion for food and Omaha’s vibrant dining scene with our listeners. While Dish Omaha is ending, you’ll still hear food pop up on Jeff Around Town, and Diane will return occasionally as a special correspondent. You can also catch her Leftover Chef videos on YouTube!
Diane, thank you for everything you’ve brought to the table (pun intended). Bon appétit and cheers from all of us at KVNO!

Meet Diane

KVNO’s resident foodie Diane Watson is an actor and culinary artist who hosts “The Leftover Chef” series on YouTube. Conceived as an extra time project during Covid, she continues to help everyone save money and the planet by creating easy and inventive ways to repurpose leftovers.

She studied cooking at the HomeChef school in San Francisco and acting at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Pasadena.

Diane regularly appears onstage and in film, and teaches improvisation.

She’s been a member of the Omaha arts scene since returning to Omaha from California. She’s worked at the Omaha Symphony and currently serves as board president for the Great Plains Theatre Commons. Diane is working on a Leftover Chef cookbook that will bring readers delicious recipes and secondary concoctions you can make from the leftovers.

October 15th

When it’s time to celebrate, champagne is the name of the game. Toast with Diane and Jeff as they talk about sparkling spots and trends in the metro and bid au revoir to Dish Omaha.

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

October 8th

A day at one of Omaha’s popular tourist spots is special, and even more so with the amazing food being served. Tune in to get the menus at our museums, gardens, and other local landmarks.

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

September 24th

In our Remember When series, Diane will take you back to the Hilltop House, a 40+ year eatery that balanced comfort food with elegance. Tune in to hear of its humble beginnings through its heyday.

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

September 17th

The all-you-can-eat buffet may have been bigger in past years, but there are still multiple plate meals to be had.

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

September 10th

It’s literally the moment for all things food. A Food Truck Face Off and Restaurant Week at the same time! Get your appetite charged up and your credit card ready – Diane will give you the details.

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

September 3rd

As summer is winding down, look forward with Diane and she talks with Jeff about upcoming fall festivals to put on your calendar.

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

August 27th

Nothing says nostalgia like a soda fountain from the past. Or from the present! There are a handful still around, and Diane will tell you where.

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August 20th

Viola! The French Café was a staple for romantics and French class field trips alike. Take a tour down le lane de memoir as we share stories and history.

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

August 13th

We don’t have oceans, we may not have mountains, but we still have plenty of beautiful vistas. Diane gives you the lowdown on places to try for your next meal with a view.

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

August 6th

Back in the day, tuna casserole or salmon patties were about the extent of Midwest seafood. Not anymore! Diane dives into the places to go to for Omaha’s fresh seafood offerings.

Audio Transcript for this Episode.

July 30th

Diane recently took a food-centric solo trip to Venice. She recounts a couple of her favorite meals and shares her story on the kindness of some local fellow food lovers who helped her out of a jam.

July 23rd

The vegetarian movement continues to gain popularity, even in the beef belt. Diane stops by to talk with Jeff about some area places to try for your next Meatless Monday.

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

July 16th

Piccolo Pete’s hosted countless receptions, rehearsals, reunions and proms. On this episode of Dish Omaha’s Remember When series, you’ll get listeners’ stories and some great history on this Omaha icon. And if you still think fondly of your times at the longtime Omaha institution, you can replicate a few of the recipes with the help of Diane’s latest post on the KVNO blog!

July 9th

One of the most beloved pastries in the US – the donut – can be found at many area bakeries and shops in Omaha. Tune in as Diane gives you the “hole” story.

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

July 2nd

Listen to Dish Omaha tomorrow for part two of Diane’s coverage of the incredible Aspen Food and Wine Classic. Tune in for a few more stories, including how she because a guest judge in one of the festival competitions.

June 25th

Diane just returned from covering the Aspen Food and Wine Classic this past weekend. She joins Jeff to share the details on the grandaddy of all US food fests.

June 18th

Nothing helps you beat the heat like America’s favorite frozen treat! Diane Watson gives you the scoop on gelatos, custards, sorbets, and ice cream around the metro.

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

June 11th

Nothing says summer like sitting outside with a cold one. Join Jeff and Diane as they discuss top spots for a beer in the great outdoors.

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

June 4th

India is home to more than 70% of all spices in the world. That translates to tasty food that is approachable and rich in flavor. Diane and Jeff discuss the yummy offerings in the metro.

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

May 28th

Summer is here and the first food festivals are upon us! Diane previews the beloved bites at our city’s early summer food celebrations.

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

May 21st

Bishop’s Buffet holds many cherished memories for Midlanders of a certain age. This episode of Dish Omaha, Diane stops by to reminisce with Jeff and share listeners’ thoughts on that dazzling cafeteria, the service lights, and that chocolate pie!

Audio Transcript of this Episode.

May 14th

Check out this up to date scoop of the restaurant happenings in Omaha.

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May 7th

The warmer weather demands alfresco times with friends. Join us as we dish about some of the best spots for a glass of chardonnay or merlot. Wine not?

Audio Transcript of this Episode

April 30th

Cinco De Mayo is coming up and margaritas and tacos aren’t the only way to commemorate the Battle of Puebla. Listen to this episode for the dish on some flavor packed authentic options.

Audio Transcript of this Episode

April 23rd

The Kitchen Council is helping local food entrepreneurs find their footing and launch careers. Join Diane as she showcases this food focused lab.

Audio Transcript of this Episode

April 16th

Want to up your cooking game? This episode of Dish Omaha, Diane will teach you about some places around town where you can sharpen your skills, learn a new cuisine, and eat!

April 9th

A quick drive across the river, and you’re not just in another state, but a scrumptious food scene. Diane explores the delicious dishes being served by our Iowa neighbors.

April 2nd

Does dark beer scare you? No need to be chicken! It’s time for Bockfest, and Diane will give you the lay of the land. Bock bock!

March 26th

Trovatos was a Dundee staple for more than 50 years. Join Diane as she reminisces about the pizza, the bands, and that lasagna.

March 19th

Vacation’s Clark Griswald said “I’m so hungry I could eat a sandwich from a gas station.” That can be a delicious choice these days! This episode of Dish Omaha, Diane will explore some culinary gems at our area filler-ups.

March 12th

It’s a grande feat to become a sommelier. Meet some of our brightest local wine stars on this week’s episode.

March 5th

Think ramen is a packet stirred into boiling water? Not in these flavor-forward spots. This episode of Dish Omaha, Diane will noodle around all the ramen Omaha has to offer.

February 26th

Pie-ning for pizza? We’ve got down low dough on the Omaha pizza scene.

February 19th

Check out this up-to-date scoop of the restaurant happenings in Omaha.

 

February 12th

The listeners have spoken! This week, Diane is loving on the romantic spots to dine in Omaha ahead of this Valentine’s Day.

February 5th

Go west, young man! Because there’s a whole food scene that awaits you. Diane will break down the interesting and delicious chow at the city’s edge.

January 29th

Tacos are one of the most popular hand foods in town. Join Diane as she gabs about some of the innovative and traditional tacos around town.

January 22nd

Viola! The French Café was a staple for romantics and French class field trips alike. Take a tour down le lane de memoir as we share stories and history.

January 15th

Not many dishes say Omaha, quite like the famous Reuben sandwich. This episode, Diane will help you relive its local beginnings and discover some delicious Reuben offerings around town.

January 8th

It’s the New Year, and Dish Omaha is back! This week, Diane takes a look at the growing number of Food Courts and Food Halls in the metro.

December 18th

It’s the holidays, and nothing is better than holiday sweets on the table! Omaha is brimming with bakeries that feature special sweets for the holidays, and on this Dish Omaha, KVNO resident foodie Diane Watson explores several of the area bakeries’ finest confections you can indulge in for your own holiday feast!

December 11th

Blackstone has made itself a food destination seemingly overnight. There is much available in a few square blocks. From meatballs and sushi to tacos and ice cream, Diane has got the scoop.

December 4th

Have a staycation without even packing a bag. Local restaurants in our Omaha hotels are sometimes overlooked. This week, Diane will dish about some restaurants you’ve perhaps forgotten about or maybe haven’t heard of… Yet!

*Diane mentions J. Gibson’s, but it is actually J. Gilbert’s

November 27th

If you like to keep the beat while you eat, we’ve got you covered! This week on Dish Omaha, Diane discusses some local venues that are known for their menus and their live music. A one and a two…

November 20th

Does the thought of cooking a turkey ruffle your feathers? This week on Dish Omaha, Diane will share the spots that will be open for dinner next Thursday, and the places where you can pick up a whole holiday meal to go.

November 13th

When’s the last time you had a burger? If you’re like most Omahans, probably just a day or two ago! There’s a huge burger scene in the metro, and we’ve got the fixings!

November 6th

Hard to believe it’s been almost 15 years since the first restaurant opened at Midtown Crossing. This week Diane dishes about the food scene now, and some of the innovators making the area food-forward.

October 30th

It’s been more than 8 years since a devastating fire took out M’s Pub and the Market House restaurants. As the anniversary of M’s reopening approaches, Diane takes a look back to that frigid night and a community that rebuilt.

October 23rd

No More Empty Pots is a unique, grassroots organization in Omaha, addressing food insecurity and food self- sufficiency through a variety of intriguing programs. This week on Dish Omaha, you can learn more about the organization that has been supporting the community through education and collaboration.

October 16th

Who’s hungry? This week you can get the dish on some of the newest restaurants bringing you the latest culinary adventures here in the Omaha area.

October 9th

Nothing goes better with football than a nice slab of ribs! As KC’s cousin to the north, we have a vibrant BBQ scene of our own. (Do you think Jeff will say he’s hungry?)

 

October 2nd

With the take off of Eppley’s fresh design, Omahans and visitors alike will have lots of new food choices, most with a local flavor. We’ll preview the culinary itinerary, and plan your next vacation pre-flight bite.

September 25th

When making a meal or getting one is tough for a senior, Meals on Wheels America is there. This week, you learn more about the organization that has been bringing housebound Omahans hot, nutritious meals for 45 years.

September 18th

Sushi in the Midwest has come a long way. Once an eyebrow-raising food choice in land-locked Nebraska is now an award-winning, highly celebrated delicacy.

September 11th

It’s the foodie’s favorite time of fall – Omaha Restaurant Week! This week you can learn about the ten tastiest days of the year, and how you can devour a great deal, and maybe even free fare, thanks to KVNO.

September 4th

Did you know that a sought-after culinary education is available right here in Omaha? This week, Diane highlights Metropolitan Community College‘s Culinary Arts curriculum. They’ve been producing some amazing food professionals. And bonus, there’s a restaurant!

August 28th

It’s time for a summer fave, La Festa Italiana. This week Diane dishes about pasta, meatballs, and Omaha’s storied Italian heritage. Mangia bene!

August 21st

Where’s the beef? Here! And nowhere bigger than Nebraska. This week on Dish Omaha, it’s time for a rare look into the well-done steakhouse community that our town is known for.

August 14th

OPA! Tzatziki and gyros and ouzo, oh my! This week on Dish Omaha, Diane gives you a preview of the Omaha Greek Festival, and a slice of the local Greek food community.

August 7th

Saving Grace Perishable Food Rescue tackles three important food topics at once, food insecurity, food waste, and the environment. This week on Dish Omaha, Diane explains how it all comes together.

July 31st

Get revved up – it’s Omaha’s food truck scene! This week on Dish Omaha, Diane will take you to the inside track of this fast and furiously growing movement.

July 24th

Hungry for a trip overseas? Grab your appetite and stay in town instead! This week, Diane shares how our city, considered an international and ethnic food destination, delivers with lots of familiar and unusual fare.

 

July 17th

There are dozens of places around the Metro where you can get your caffeine on. This week on Dish Omaha, Diane will take a look inside the city’s vibrant coffee culture, including some truly unusual concoctions.

July 10th

It’s summer – time for fresh produce! And you don’t have to go to the farm to get it. This week Diane chats about local urban farms producing beautiful crops here amidst the concrete.

July 3rd

This week, Diane will discuss how Omaha’s Food Bank for the Heartland has been an important meal partner to thousands. You’ll get an inside look at the operation and mission of this critical community fixture.

June 26th

One of Omaha’s iconic restaurants is celebrating 50 years in business! Diane Watson talks about what Spaghetti Works has meant to generations of Omaha families, and of course, that train car!

June 19th

This week, Diane joins Jeff to talk about the North Omaha food scene. This region, steeped in history, has an amazing food legacy. They’ll cover the area’s food backstory and its vibrant culinary offerings.

June 12th

This week, Diane tells the hearty story of Lasagna Love, an international community-based organization that provides a free lasagna to anyone who requests one, including many families and individuals right here in the Metro. Diane has made over 70 lasagnas for metro families since she joined in 2020.

June 5th

This week Diane previews three festivals happening in Omaha over June 7-9, and all the great food you can find at Polishfest, Midwest Fest, and the Summer Arts Festival.

May 29th

Memorial Day marks the beginning of outdoor festival season in the metro, and this week Diane Watson previews Taste of Omaha! Learn about the tasty food options at this favorite annual food festival, now in its 27th year, coming to Omaha’s waterfront this weekend.

May 22nd

Diane explores an innovative rotating restaurant featuring Omaha’s culinary talent right on a street corner in the Old Market, the Dandelion Pop-Up. She’ll take a look at who they are, how it started, and how you can experience this bourgeoning summer tradition.

May 15th

This week, Diane takes look inside Omaha’s James Beard Stars. What it takes to be nominated for a James Beard Award, and our local chefs putting Omaha on the map.

May 8th

This week, Diane explores the amazing development and vibrancy of the Benson neighborhood food scene, from pubs and coffee to high end cuisine, with its musical roots at the core.

May 1st

This week, Diane previewed the upcoming Farmer’s Market season. Where you can find them, what to expect, and how to make the most of this fantastic summer tradition.

April 24th

An Overview of the show and what you can expect to hear on Dish Omaha!