Sometimes things happen in our city that make me feel like I’m somewhere else. Somewhere cooler, more adventurous, probably on the coast. But last night was one of those nights in Omaha that makes me remember that I live in an incredibly cool city.
Hear Nebraska, the brainchild of friends Andy and Angie Norman, had an intimate benefit dinner for about 20 people in DP Muller Photography’s Benson studio last night. Well known Omaha transplant and vegan chef Isa Chandra Moskowitz fed us dinner. Respected Omaha musician Simon Joyner played us some songs. Friend and graphic designer Quentin Lueninghoener made souvenir tickets for everyone who attended.
I think every single person in the room realized before the night was over that something very special was happening. I feel lucky to have been a part of it.
Angie Norman scouted all the china, silverware and glasses at local thrift stores.
I’d met Isa once before, at the Omaha Public Library’s culinary conference. I was most excited about eating her food, because as a regular reader of her blog, I know that she cooks some beautiful stuff. She didn’t disappoint us.
Salsa studded with fresh pineapple chunks
Vegan enchiladas topped with a delicious, rich mole sauce, avocado crema and pepitas.
Quinoa kale salad (Isa plucked the kale from her own garden earlier in the day.)
The first of a few helpings I took.
Isa is known for her vegan baking — pies, cupcakes, cookies — and so when she announced before dinner that we’d have cupcakes for dessert, well, I made sure to save room.
Isa’s “Fauxtess” cupcake tasted better than the real thing.
Creamy center.
Isa told me later the secret to making the cupcakes so delicious is an ingredient called black cocoa powder. I’m not great at baking, but I really, really want to eat another one of these, maybe bad enough to try making them on my own.
After dinner, Joyner played a short set of songs. The setting could not have been better: a dimly lit room, an intimate atmosphere, an audience sated by delicious food, sweets and glasses of wine.
Hear Nebraska has more plans for these dinners, which I guarantee will become a hot ticket. Follow them on Facebook for updates on future events, local music and upcoming concerts.
And the next time someone tells you that Omaha’s not cool (or vegan friendly!) tell them to think again.
