Ideal Grocery and Market: an ideal spot, even for the experts

My claim to culinary fame is that my older sister, Katy, is a chef in Brooklyn, New York. She is a true Nebraska girl at heart and when she comes home from the big city there are two things I can guarantee. The first is that my twin sister, Anne, and I will be emailed a grocery list and sent to find a long list of fancy things that we can’t pronounce. The second is that she will be serving undoubtedly the best steak dinner imaginable.

After wasting hours of time, driving around town and walking aimlessly through Lincoln’s grocery stores, Anne and I finally discovered the ideal stop for shoppers on every level of the culinary spectrum. Thanks to Ideal Grocery and Market, we now love to run her errands (and it isn’t just because she lets us lick the spoons).

Located on 27th street between Capital Parkway and Randolph, this charming grocery store offers gourmet, ethnic and specialized items that you can’t find at most grocery stores. Relatively humble in size, their shelves still offer a variety of brands ranging from Kraft macaroni and cheese to specialty pastas straight from Italy.

Ideal Grocery and Market is known for a deli and meat department where their knowledge matches their superior quality. If you don’t believe me, ask the expert. Chef Katy won’t work with anything but the best. Any Ideal employee will be willing to offer a wine or beer suggestion to compliment your selection.

However, the staff’s friendly demeanor is the cherry on this sundae. You quickly learn that carrying your own groceries to your car is not the norm, something my grandmother and I can both appreciate. The 1960’s ambiance may take you back, but don’t be deceived, they are well-up-to date with a website that offers online shopping and helpful hints. Locally owned, Ideal Grocery and Market is a true Lincoln treasure with its small-town appeal and spectacular quality.
(Below is the final product: a beef tenderloin cut from Ideal Grocery and Market, seared on the stove-top and finished in the oven)

http://www.idealgrocery.com/