Matthew and I headed to Lincoln last weekend, post-Thanksgiving feast (which was delicious) to hang out with some family and go to the Nebraska-Iowa football game. Downer of a game but hey, the food and drinks were pretty great. 

I just love everything about Goldenrod Pastries: Its neighborhood; its absolutely scrumptious baked goods, many of which are vegan and gluten-free; its adorable atmosphere and its owner, Angela Garbacz, who has a cookbook coming soon that I can’t wait to get my hands on. We got cookies and treats for our family in Lincoln, but I snarfed down the better part of a sparkly, pink frosted sugar cookie, and I highly recommend, 

We had lunch at what I think I can safely call a lifetime favorite: Yia Yia’s. I never get tired of the funky atmosphere, the amazing variety of beer and the eclectic decor. You can’t go wrong when a slice comes served with a giant hunk of warm bread, right?

The Mill, like Yia Yia’s, has been a favorite since college. I never go to Lincoln without stopping, and their house roasted coffee beans are my perennial favorite. I mostly get their single origin Sulawesi beans, though the Mocca Java and Mill Blend (also the house coffee) are favorites, too. Be sure to check out the merchandise, too; their mugs and travel cups are some of our most-used. 

Sebastian’s Table has made a triumphant return in Lincoln, this time on the south side of town. I visited the original downtown location many times and I loved their tapas; if our experience last weekend was any indication, it’s even better now. The photo at the top of this newsletter is the excellent paella, complete with crispy bits of rice. And though I’m sort of tired of Brussels sprouts, their version, a smoked hazelnut and orange gastrique version with a lovely caramelized sauce, is great. Pro tip: Order a cocktail from the sister cocktail bar, Eleanora.