Video + Blog = Vlog

This video features several interviews with current Omaha residents. I had to follow up on a previous blog post about restaurant tax in Omaha. I chose to ask different yet similar questions pertaining to the topic. The four individuals that were interviewed are not actors. They chose to use different names in order to protect their identities.

Stokes Mexican Grill

There are two locations.  Both similar atmospheres and great staff.  You are welcomed by the friendly hostesses as you walk into the restaurant.  They invite you to follow them as they lead you to your cozy little area for the evening.  You can sit back and relax as you rest your head on the pillows located next to your seat.  The booths are plenty big so that you can enjoy your meal with all of your family and/or friends.    Your server does not waste any time getting over to you table to greet you.  They go over the specials of the night and offer you one of their famous margaritas.  Do yourself a favor and say yes, I like the strawberry one.  The menu may not have a large selection, but they perfect each dish to the extreme.  I no longer look at the menu because I order the same things everytime I come.  The nachos with cowboy beans, chicken and exrta cheese for me!  Then followed by "Sharon's Almost Famous Chicken Enchilladas", I highly recommend to try them.  I've never saved enough room for dessert, but I would suggest the flourless chocolate cake.  It looks divine.  Enjoy your evening.

A Visual Experience

With any dining experience there is a lot that can impact your opinion. From the time that you pull into the parking lot and see the restaurant from the outside you've have already judged the establishment.

As you begin walking towards the restaurant you evaluate everything on a level based on personal standards. You may ask yourself things like, "Am I going to like the menu?" or maybe "Is this a fancy place?"
Also be aware of the hours. Make sure you will have plenty of time to stay for a relaxed dinner. You don't want to be rushed through your meal. By the time you walk through that door you will have decided whether this will be a pleasant evening or not.

The first impression is usually made by the friendliness of the staff. Did they greet you in a professional manner? Did you feel welcomed to be there? As you view your surroundings you can decide whether or not you should call the health inspector or not. As you are lead to your table you should pay attention to your surroundings. How do you view them? Is it a modern, upbeat big-city feeling? Or is it a more relaxed, down-to-earth place?

The staff also has a big potential to sway the impact of your time spent there. Are they friendly and informative? Do they offer suggestions and answer your questions? Don't be afraid to try new things. Be adventurous and try somethings new and fun that you normally would not choose. Order everything that looks good. It doesn't matter if you can't finish because there will always be to-go boxes.

Make sure to check out the bathrooms also. Not only should you wash your hands, but it's another good chance to check the cleanliness of the restaurant. If you're not pleased with what you see then maybe it's a clear sign not to get dessert. But as you return to your table look around to see if the other guests seem pleased. This can really help you decide if you should refer the place to friends.

Remember to enjoy your experience and take advantage of all the special offers. Every restaurant is different and you should expect something special from each place you visit. Have fun!

The initial reaction begins with the outside.

It is very important to pay attention to the hours.  You want to receive the best possible service, and this won't happen ten minutes before the restaurant closes.

As you walk in decide what kind of feeling you receive from the atmosphere.  

The hostess should be warm and friendly as she greets you.

Make sure you look at all of the menus.  You don't want to miss out on any specials!

Look around the dining room.  Is should be clean and organized.

Remember to wash your hands.  

Take a look at the bar too.  It should have at minimum the basics.  A bigger selection is always better.

It's helpful to the guests to see the different selections of liquors and wines available.

Ask for a specialty drink.  Like Hiro Sushi's "Purple Kimono"

Find out who is making your food.  Say hi!

If you have the chance you should go take a look at the ingredients.

If salad comes with it then say yes!

Try the appetizers.  More than one.  I love gyoza.

If they are homemade, like the avocado eggrolls, order them.

Try the delicacies.  Seared tuna sashimi is delicious.

The sushi chefs create a handcrafted design with every order.

Always order the popular rolls, like the Wasabi Stinger.  They're popular for a reason.

If you close enough then you can notice the scenery on your plate.

If the service was good, let your server know about it.  Give a gracious tip and take a picture.  You might just make their day!