Where To Eat In Omaha

Lenten season means two things for Omaha-area residents – a time for personal sacrifice and reflection, as well fish fries. With more than 30 parishes and groups sponsoring fish fries in the Omaha area, you can find great food and fun times from Blair to Plattsmouth. Here’s a look at a few of the Omaha fish fries that you’re likely to enjoy a good meal and company.

Updates: This post contains updates for cancellations. Omaha Archdiocese has recommended all fish fries be canceled to avoid the spread of COVID-19, so any Catholic Church listed below will not be holding fish fries.

Why fish fries?

Catholics honor their faith for a six-week period by surrendering something special to them as a way of recognizing the sacrifices made by  Jesus Christ. Each Friday during lent, fish fries provide a sense of community and camaraderie among Catholics. But, don’t think fish fries are just for Catholics; Greek Orthodox Church followers also celebrate the season with a fish fry, as well as community groups.

A fun thing about fish fries is that everyone is invited to enjoy fish and chips…and maybe an adult beverage or two. Fish fries are always family-friendly. 

Tip: Check the organization’s website or social media to verify times and dinner prices.

2020 Omaha Fish Fry Recommendations

Holy Name Catholic Church Fish Fry

Located at 2901 Fontenelle Blvd., Holy Name hosts its 38th annual “Fryday” fish fry Feb. 21 through April 3. Dinners are served from 4:30 to 9 p.m., with the last ticket sold at 8:30. Bring your own drink if you prefer, but adult beverages will be sold inside the fish fry.

If you prefer not to wait in line, it’s recommended you arrive early. People arriving at 6 p.m. can expect a substantial wait.

Tickets typically run $12 per adult, $10 for seniors, and $7 for children under 12. Holy Name traditionally serves Alaska pollock.

Considered one of Omaha’s premier fish fries, politicians are known to frequent, looking to shake a few hands and win votes.  

St. Vincent de Paul Church Fish Fry

Call St. Vincent de Paul the Fish and more Fry. With a menu featuring fried and baked fish, macaroni and cheese, and cheese pizza, your family will be challenged not find something for dinner on which everyone will agree. Running each Friday from Feb. 28 to April 3, fish dinners also come with french fries or baked potato, and coleslaw.

The fish fry at 14330 Eagle Run Drive costs $10 per adult, $9 per senior, and $6 for children ages 4-12 (Kim’s note: Thanks to a reader for the heads up that the price increased this year!). Adult beverages and soda are available. Don’t forget to enjoy dessert while you’re there.

St. Gerald’s Knights of Columbus Fish Fry

St. Gerald Parish, near 96th and Q streets, hosts its annual fish fry from 5 to 8 p.m. on Fridays, Feb. 28 through April 3.

Offering a menu of fried cod, baked tilapia, and fried shrimp, dinners come with a side of french fries or baked potato, coleslaw or salad with bread. For non-fish diners, the parish offers cheese pizza and macaroni and cheese. 

Mary Our Queen Catholic Church Fish Fry

UPDATE: Mary Our Queen announced the fish fries planned for March 13 and 20 are canceled.

Named as one of the best fish fries in Omaha (including Best of Omaha in 2017), Mary Our Queen offers a menu of fried and baked fish, french fries or fried spudsters, coleslaw, as well as a mac and cheese option.

Serving dinner from 5 to 8 p.m. each Friday, Feb. 28 through April 3, Mary Our Queen is located at 3405 S. 118th St.

St. Patrick Catholic Church Fish Fry

The Elkhorn parish adds entertainment to its fish fry, including a magician, clowns who make balloon animals, and face painting. Families can make a night of it each Friday, Feb. 28 through April 3.

The dinner menu includes fried and baked fish, fried shrimp, French fries, mac and cheese, green beans, and coleslaw. Cheese pizza is also available. St. Patrick Catholic Church, 20500 West Maple Road, also offers drive-thru service.

Millard American Legion Post 374 Fish Fry

Update: Legion 374 now offers drive-up food service for those who do not wish to attend in person. To order food, call 402-895-0405 on Friday between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Located at 13913 S St., the Millard American Legion Post 374 will host its annual fish fry on Friday, Feb. 28, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. With a menu including a variety of fish and shrimp, the legion also offers steaks. Macaroni and cheese is available. Each meal comes with a side of french fries, coleslaw, and bread. Prices vary based on the entrée ordered.

St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church Fish Fry

Update: St. John announced they are canceling fish fries until further notice.

Bringing a Mediterranean flavor to the traditional fish fry, St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church features a menu of fried and baked cod, salmon, shrimp, and spanakopita (spinach pie). Don’t forget to enjoy a tasty Greek dessert.

The fish fry, 602 Park Ave., is open from 4:30 to 8 p.m. each Friday, Feb. 28 through April 3. Admission is $11 per adult and $4 for children 12 and under.

Croatian Cultural Society of Omaha Fish Fry

Update: The March 13 fish fry went on as planned. No word if future fish fries are canceled.

With a menu of fried and baked fish with fries or baked potato and coleslaw or macaroni and cheese, visitors to the Croatian Cultural Society of Omaha can also learn more about the area’s Croatian heritage.

The fish fry is known for its large portions of fried and baked fish, as well as macaroni and cheese and dessert. The fish fry also features a full bar.

Dinners are $10 per adult and $5 for elementary school students. Children under 5 eat for free. The Croatian Cultural Society does accept credit cards.

Scottish Rite Fish Fry Days

The Scottish Rite Fish Fry-Days run each Friday, March 20 through April 3. Featuring a menu of all-you-can-eat fried fish, french fries, and coleslaw, as well as a drink, dinners are $12 per person. While to-go orders are welcomed, they ask you call ahead so they can have it ready when you arrive.

The fish fry is available over lunch hours from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Scottish Rite, 202 S. 20th St.

Creighton Bluejays Baseball Fish Fry

Update: All NCAA games have been canceled so there will not be baseball fish fries in 2020.

The Creighton Bluejays host an annual fish fry as part of their Big East home baseball schedule for Friday night games at TD Ameritrade Park. Ticket prices include a meal voucher for games against Central Connecticut State (March 13), Boise State (March 27), Seton Hall (April 3), and Wichita State (April 10).  

Whether you want to support your church or local service organizations, the Omaha area offers a variety of fish fries you can attend. There’s something special about standing in line and visiting with your neighbors while you await your turn for a delicious meal and tasty drink. Either way, you’ll enjoy a true Omaha experience.

Steaks get a lot of attention in Omaha, but you’re missing out if you never order a burger every once in a while. Here are a few of my favorite restaurants and the best burgers I recommend you try there (well, one you can try if you dare).

The Midwestern favorite burger

What: Haystack Burger

Where: Dinker’s Bar & Grill, 2368 S. 29th St.

Why: Since 1965, Dinker’s has been serving hand-pressed burgers. The one that helped them make a name for themselves is the Haystack Burger, which Midwest Living ranked it as one of the best in the Midwest. The Haystack is served on a Rotella’s bun (a local bakery) and comes with American, honey smoked ham and a free-range fried egg.

This photo, by the way, is of a different Dinker’s burger. Because I was craving bacon on the day I was taking burger pictures. I’m only human.

The classic burger

What: Backyard Burger

Where: Blatt Bar + Table, 610 N. 12th St.; 2835 S. 170th Plaza; Flagship Commons, 10000 California St.

Why: If you prefer your hamburger to not stray too far from the traditional toppings, the Backyard Burger at Blatt is one to try. Served on a fresh brioche bun, the angus beef is topped with the typical lettuce, tomato, red onions and yellow mustard, with a little pepped up garlic dill pickles and smoked ketchup. It’s cooked to perfect and will not have any hidden flavor surprises.

Tip: Blatt is one of the most kid-friendly restaurants in Omaha, with a great kid’s menu.

Star-studded favorite burger

What: Croque Garcon Burger

Where: Block 16, 1611 Farnam St.

Why: You can order anything off the farm-to-table menu at Block 16 and love it, but if I had to direct you to one sandwich, it would be the Croque Garcon Burger. It’s messy, but you will not be able to stop eating it. This delectable creation is a ⅓-pound Jon’s Natural burger served on a ciabatta roll and topped with cheese, ham, a sunny-side-up farm egg, mustard and truffle mayonnaise.

I started devouring it before I remembered I had wanted to get a picture of it!

It’s star-studded because my foodie hero, Alton Brown, loves it. Pretty much, he said Block 16 turned the standard burger into high art.

Related post: Block 16 is also included in the list of 33 Must Try Restaurants In Omaha.

Foodies’ favorite burger

What: Dario’s Cheeseburger

Where: Dario’s Brasserie, 4920 Underwood Ave.

Why: Dario’s is a charming bistro in Dundee, and while most people are going to go with the French cuisine served there, the cheeseburger will be one you’ll remember (and the fries. ooooh the fries). It’s topped with caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese. Foodie critics from the Thrillist to Big Seven Travel rave about it. The burger also happens to be one of the lowest priced items on the menu, and for being so darn good, I say it’s a steal.

But really, I’m just sitting over here still thinking about the fries.

Sorry, I realize this is a post about burgers.

Anyway.

Mt. Everest of burgers

What: Stellanator

Where: Stella’s Bar & Grill 106 Galvin Road S, Bellevue, Neb.

Why: Finishing the Stellanator will give you a life-time of bragging rights. What’s on this bad boy? Served on one bun, you’ve got six burger patties, six fried eggs, six pieces of cheese, 12 pieces of bacon, and then all the extra toppings like lettuce, tomato, fried onion, pickles, jalapenos, and peanut butter. Oh, and you have to eat the fries that come with it. In 45 minutes.

I’ve never attempted this, actually. Most people haven’t, actually. Since 1936, Stella’s has made a name for themselves for their burgers (their single patty burgers), and I much rather prefer those.

An under-the-radar good burger

What: Farnam House Burger

Where: Farnam House Brewing Co., 3558 Farnam St.

Why: One of the house specialties, the burger at this low-key brewery is satisfying and pairs great with their beer (take their pairing recommendation seriously). Served on a brioche bun, the meat comes from a local farm (Grass Run Farms), and is topped with Havarti, arugula, house-made pickled red onions and ketchup, as well as a whole grain keller dill mustard.

Best vegetarian burger

What: Beet burger

Where: Wilson & Washburn, 1407 Harney St

Why: Rather than create something that’s meat-like, Wilson & Washburn has created a surprisingly good beet burger that doesn’t pretend to be anything it’s not. And I’m not a fan of beets at all. AT ALL. And this is a burger I enjoy. 

Tip: If you’re looking for the Impossible Burger in Omaha, Stella’s was one of the first ones to put it on their menu. 

I’m curious about your favorite burgers in Omaha so leave a comment with your recommendations!

The Blackstone District wasn’t always the go-to spot for new restaurants and fun bars in Omaha. However, food did play a role in its early days (hint: it involves Reuben sandwiches and butter brickle ice cream).

UPDATE: This post was first published in 2019, and has been updated in July 2020 to reflect the closure of Forno.

A brief history of the Blackstone District

In its early days, the Blackstone District was better known as the southern Gold Coast, home to Omaha’s wealthiest residents. With dozens of mansions in what was then west Omaha, only the richest residents were found in the area.

Then, in the early 1900s, the Blackstone Hotel was built and things started to change. The Blackstone was home to wealthy travelers and gamblers. In fact, a poker game led to the creation of the Reuben sandwich. Later, the hotel’s chef was credited with inventing butter brickle ice cream.

Today, the Blackstone District is home to nearly two-dozen restaurants and drinking establishments, businesses and residences. 

Where is Blackstone District in Omaha?

Since 2013, the area from 36th to 42nd streets along between Farnam Street (between Dodge and Harney Streets) has been officially known as the Blackstone District.

The seven-block area is a mixture of about a dozen restaurants, bars, and apartments. It’s located immediately west of Midtown Crossing.

Where to park in Omaha’s Blackstone District

Parking is limited in the Blackstone District, so it can seem to come at a premium (unless you’re willing to walking).

Forno has a dedicated parking lot next to the restaurant. But, to park while you visit the other restaurants, you can park on the street or in parking lots throughout the area. Ample parking is available after 5 p.m. near 42nd and Farnam streets, while additional paid parking can be found between 39th and 40th streets, as well as 37th and 38th streets. 

Restaurants in the Blackstone District

Ansel’s Pastrami and Bagels

Located beside its partner, Noli’s, Ansel’s Pastrami and Bagels features beer-boiled bagels, breakfast sandwiches and a variety of lunch goodies.

Using Scriptown Nut Job for a malty flavor, Ansel’s bagels offer a different experience from other bagel joints. Breakfast sandwiches include pastrami, oyster mushroom, and braised pork. The lunch menu features meatball and turkey club, as well as pastrami. 

The Blackstone Meatball

With a menu heavy on locally-sourced ingredients, The Blackstone Meatball asks you to create your own dish. Diners choose the style of meatball they prefer – traditional with a side or sandwich, the flavor of meatball (classic, chicken, pork or vegetarian) and then the sauce.

Butterfish

Butterfish offers a menu sure to satisfy the palate of Asian cuisine enthusiasts. From sushi to small plates, such as cashew chicken, Butterfish is sure to appeal to everyone in your dining party. 

Share sake and other drinks from their cocktail menu.

Coneflower

No visit to Blackstone is complete without a stop at Coneflower. Home to “Farm-to-cone” ice cream, Coneflower uses locally-sourced ingredients, such as milk and cream.

Related post: Must-Try Ice Cream Places In Omaha

Crescent Moon Alehouse

The oldest of the Blackstone District restaurants, Crescent Moon Alehouse is a mix of restaurant and bar. 

Opened since 1996, Crescent Moon is considered home to Omaha’s best Reuben sandwich. Located across the street from the Blackstone Hotel, Crescent Moon thought it made for a winning marketing idea to tie its Reuben to the hotel’s history. Made with corned beef provided by Omaha Steaks, the Reuben routinely wins “Best in Omaha” contests.

During Reubenfest, an annual weeklong celebration, Crescent Moon offers special dishes starring the Reuben.

Huber Haus – an old-fashioned German bier hall – is located in the basement, while a Beertopia is next door.

Early Bird and Bob’s

Home to possibly the most unique brunch in Omaha, Early Bird features an eclectic menu with pancakes mixed with your favorite childhood cereal, such as Fruity Pebbles and Coco Puffs, and chicken and donuts. You can order a flight of pancakes consisting of three pancakes featuring peanut butter and jelly, blueberries and more. Or, go for the more traditional omelet or chicken fried steak. 

Located down the hall from Early Bird is Bob’s, home to some of the best and strangest donuts you will ever love. Large enough to be a meal by itself, each artisan donut is a masterpiece. From the Boston crème donut and Fruity Pebbles to Peanut Butter and Jelly and Chocolate X-Treme, a trip to Bob’s is a true foodie experience.

Mula

Mula looks at its service through two eyes – the food and the drink. Its menu is based on traditional Mexican street cuisine, such as carne asada and chicken mole tacos. 

Mula has been certified as a tequileria, which means that 80 percent of the staff has learned the history and production of the drink. 

Noli’s Pizzeria

Offering fresh made-to-order pizza by the slice, Noli’s Pizzeria quickly became an Omaha favorite. Located near 40th and Farnam streets, Noli’s is located on the western end of Blackstone.

Believing water is the key to the perfect pizza dough, Noli’s uses specially-filtered water, which helps create an outstanding dough for its pizza. You can your order by name, such as the Margherita and Capricosa (made with local salami), or create your own. 

While there, try one of the dinner salads. With its house dressing, the salads are worthy of a meal of their own.

Lunchtime can be a challenge for a sitdown meal, as the small dining space is usually full. But, if you have the time, Noli’s pizza is worth waiting in line. 

Tip: Noli’s second location is at Inner Rail Food Hall

Stirnella

Working with local farms and distributors, Stirnella prides itself on a menu using locally-sourced ingredients. While its menu features American comfort food, including fried chicken, the chef puts his own twist on it with sides such as sweet potato puree and sweet and sour onion gravy. 

The restaurant’s name stems from the Meadowlark, the state bird, representing its genus and species.

With so many restaurants to choose from, Omahans may seem spoiled when it comes to selecting a place to dine. From local mom and pop eateries to national chains, Omaha’s dining scene features more than 500 restaurants. That can make choosing the perfect dining spot very difficult.

One way to explore the culinary landscape is by visiting Omaha’s oldest restaurants. Only a handful of restaurants can say they’ve served Omahans dinner for more than 50 years.

Even fewer can say they’ve been around for nearly a century.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking the link, I receive a small referral stipend.

Omaha restaurant history

I consider restaurants to be a part of Omaha history, so I can be pretty passionate when recommending people eat local in order to help preserve Omaha’s history.

Why?

I wrote a book about well-known restaurants and hidden gems throughout Omaha’s history that have since closed. While writing the book, I learned about how restaurants played a role in the Civil Rights movement, Prohibition (and the repeal of it), and how the city fared during wars, recessions, and changing tastes.

Regrettably, I hadn’t been to most that were open at one point in my life. In an attempt to change that, I’ve started dining at some of the oldest restaurants in Omaha. I hope you’ll do the same!

Truth be told, the food has been hit or miss at the restaurants. But I’m glad I patronized a local restaurant each and every time. There’s no mistaking how these restaurants played a role in Omaha history.

Omaha’s Old Market is a historic neighborhood with brick streets, quirky shops, and an abundance of restaurants. If you’re new to Omaha, or rarely visit the Old Market, it’s not always the easiest decision on figuring out where to eat. Since I love food and the Old Market, I’ve made this guide to help you pick a good restaurant.

Update: This post was updated in February 2020 to reflect a restaurant closure.

Where is the Old Market in Omaha?

The Old Market is located in downtown Omaha, Neb. It runs from Farnam Street on the north side to Jones Street on the south side, and from 10th Street on the east side to 13th Street on the west side. The main intersection is 11th and Howard – head there to get an iconic photo for Instagram.

Driving & Parking in the Old Market

Old Market can be a headache for drivers, but if you go in prepared, you’ll do just fine. 

Old Market driving tips:

• – Most of the main streets of the Old Market are two-way. HOWEVER, many of the streets around those main streets are one-way…and some just stop being two-way. Pay close attention to street signs! The main drag, Howard Street, is two-way.

Old Market parking tips:

• – Just expect to pay for parking. You’ll get very frustrated trying to find that elusive free parking spot. (Tip: Head to the 10th Street bridge heading south from the Old Market toward The Durham Museum.)
• – Parking meters are everywhere. Meters run until 9 p.m. Time limits vary, but if you download the app, you should be able to add to it at least once if you’re dinner runs long. 
• – You do not need to pay meters after 9 p.m., Sundays, or federal holidays. 
• – Meter maids are quick to ticket cars. I used to live in the Old Market. They get you every time. I don’t care to share how many tickets I’ve gotten due to expired meters. Just make sure you keep track of time.  
• – Meters aren’t your only option. There are parking lots in the Old Market – some with rates as low as a $1/hour. See all the downtown parking options here. 

Guide to Old Market restaurants

I’ve made recommendations below based on living and working near the Old Market for more than 10 years. While I try to make recommendations for locally-owned restaurants, I have to sprinkle in a few chains just because. I’ll let you know which ones are chains, though. 

Also, I will admit, this is not a comprehensive list of all restaurants, cafes, and bars in the Old Market. There are some places I just won’t recommend, either because I’ve never been there and I’m unsure of its reputation for service, or I’ve been and I don’t like it.

You’ll just have to guess why I left a place off. 🙂 

Related post: 33+ Must-Try Restaurants In Omaha

Best restaurant for large groups

I’ve hosted a few gatherings for large groups in my lifetime, and they were held in the Old Market. My top recommendation is Upstream Brewing Co., which can accommodate a large group and, if you plan ahead, you can have a large part of the second floor for your group. 

I held my husband’s surprise 30th birthday party there. While it is a brewery, it’s more of a brew pub-restaurant, and it’s family-friendly.

Best restaurants for a family

It might surprise you, but Upstream Brewing Co. is a pretty family-friendly restaurant. Besides a great kid’s menu, there is weekly entertainment. We love catching the magic show on Tuesdays.

If you go for weekend brunch, though, there is no kid’s menu. If the weather’s nice, try to snag sidewalk seating to people watch.

Other options:

Plank Seafood Provisions – If your kids will eat fish, this is a good pace to go! 

Zio’s Pizzeria – Ask for some pizza dough while you wait. It’s the best make-shift playdough you can find.

Related post: 8 Kid-Friendly Restaurants In Downtown Omaha

Best date night restaurants

La Buvette Wine & Grocery will always have a special place in my heart. This charming French restaurant & wine shop is comfortable and cozy. You can easily pretend you’re in a small wine bar somewhere in France. It’s first come, first serve so hover by the table you want to snag.

Le Buillon is another great French restaurant, and a bit more upscale than La Buvette. They specialize in farm-to-table cuisine. 

Other options:

Jams American Grill – Contemporary American food

Monarch Prime & Bar – You can get really decadent here.

M’s Pub – This is one of the oldest and more respected restaurants in the Old Market. I haven’t been there since it reopened after a devastating fire, but I hear it’s as good as ever.

Nicola’s Italian Wine & Faire – This place has the best outdoor patio. This is a small restaurant, so make reservations.

The Boilerroom Restaurant – The creativity in the kitchen will impress you.

The Oven – Cuisine from northern India and Bhutan

V. Mertz – The romantic atmosphere at V. Mertz is second to none.

Related post: 25+ Omaha Date Night Ideas

Breakfast in the Old Market

I’m a sucker for brunch at Upstream Brewing Co. It seems at least once a year, we go there on a Saturday in the summer, right after we’ve shopped the farmer’s market. 

You bet I get a mimosa when I have brunch at Upstream.

Other options:

Billy Frogg’s Grill & Bar – I know! It’s a bar. Word is that the breakfast is pretty good, though. I’ve been here for lunch with my kids – this quirky place is pretty family-friendly in the daytime.

Scooters Coffeehouse – This is a local chain with pretty good coffee and pastries.

WheatFields Express – This is a pretty good option for breakfast, though the menu will overwhelm you.

Casual restaurants in the Old Market

Stokes Grill & Bar has never had a dud of a dish. This Tex-Mex restaurant has some scrumptious enchiladas (Sharon, what do you put in them??), filling salads (Koko’s Harvest Salad), and the best tortilla chicken soup I’ve ever had.

If the weather’s nice, be sure to ask to sit outside.

Other options:

Craft Sliders + Beer – I like the beer selection here.

Poke Boba House – Fresh, healthful food served up in a cute little restaurant.

The Monster Club – This is a horror movie-themed restaurant. I haven’t been to it yet, but it has its fans. It’s also one of Omaha’s quirkiest restaurants.

Roja Mexican Grill – The salsa is addicting at Roja.

Trini’s Mexican Restaurant – I love the atmosphere at this restaurant and the salsa is so good.

Urban Abbey – More bookstore with a cafe, this is a place to get a light snack or coffee.

Best Old Market restaurants for sushi

I’m a fan of Matsu Sushi Japanese Restaurant. The sushi is top-notch and pretty reasonable.

Other options:

Blue Sushi Old Market – Head here if you want sake bombs. Go during their Happy Hour; it’s held daily but time vary.

Hiro 88 – The Happy Hour specials on Sundays are great here.

Where to go for dessert in the Old Market

I’m a die-hard fan of Ted & Wally’s Ice Cream. It’s worth waiting in line to get a scoop. I recommend sampling a few of their creative flavors before settling on a choice. Keep in mind that a “single scoop” is actually, like, two scoops so you can request two flavors.

I usually just go for a dish or waffle cone, but this is the place where you can try a choco taco or, sometimes, get a donut sandwich with ice cream in the middle. Wear your stretchy pants.

Other options:

Brownie Bar – This is pretty new, but they dropped off some samples at my office recently and I can’t wait to visit the shop!

Chocolat Abeille – Chocolate that’s almost too pretty to eat. Almost.

Hollywood Candy – If you can make it past the candy aisles, there is an old-fashioned soda fountain in there.

Old Market Candy Shop – I go here for my truffles fix.

Best Old Market bars for drinks

I highly recommend getting a drink and sitting outdoors at Mr. Toad’s – it’s fun and a prime location for people watching. You’ll love it! They string up lights and you can people watch all day long. The interior is pretty cozy too.

Other options:

Brickway Brewery & Distillery – Another Omaha brewery you should check out.

Dubliner Pub – It always feels like St. Patrick’s Day here. There’s often live music on weekend nights.

Laka Lono Rum Club – I haven’t been to this tiki bar yet, but I’ve heard it’s a fun place to go. They have flaming drinks, y’all.

The Berry & Rye – This is the craft cocktail lounge you’ve been looking for.

Thunderhead Brewing Taproom – One more microbrewery to add to your list.

Omaha has a brag-worthy culinary scene. And now, in recent years, Omaha diners have embraced the food hall scene. Here’s what you can expect at each of the city’s food halls, including which local Omaha restaurants have a location at a food hall. Plus, I share tips on what to order and which restaurants have kid-friendly grub.

What’s a food hall

Think of a food hall as an upscale food court, typically with a focus on locally-owned restaurants with a few new-to-the-city concepts. I call them hipster food courts. And I mean that affectionately.

Where are Omaha’s food halls?

Omaha’s first food hall, Flagship Commons, opened at Westroads Mall in late 2015. Westroads is a pretty conveniently located mall near busy Dodge Street, as well as near Interstate 680.

It’s definitely not like any mall food court you may have encountered. Flagship was the first of its kind in the entire state.

Most of Flagship’s seating is in a common area, with a mix of typical table seating, bar seating, and my favorite spot, couch seating by a fireplace. Most seating is indoors, though if you dine at The Blatt, you can snag a table outside.

In 2019, Inner Rail Food Hall opened at Aksarben Village. Unlike Westroads, this isn’t a mall setting in the traditional sense. Aksarben Village is an entertainment district with a mix of shops, restaurants, apartments and businesses, as well as a large green space and playground. Inner Rail is within that development in its own space with indoor and outdoor seating.

Things to know about the Inner Rail

Inner Rail Food Hall is all quick-service restaurants with a definite world flavor appeal to it. Located at the ever-growing Aksarben Village, it’s in Midtown Omaha and not nearly as easily accessible to get to as Westroads.

(If you’ve ever driven 72nd Street during rush hour in hopes of reaching Aksarben Village, you’ll understand my rage.)

Being the new kid on the scene, you can expect a wait to order at most counters at Inner Rail. You’ll find some counter seats, and a lot of traditional table seating. 

Inner Rail has a great outdoor space with two firepits and a lot of seating. When the weather’s nice, you might see a giant Jenga and bean bag games set up.

Fun side note for all of you youngsters or out-of-towners: Inner Rail is a racing term that references the former life of the area where Aksarben Village is located. It was once Aksarben Race Track and Colosseum, a horse race track.

Restaurants at Inner Rail include:

The Bánh Mì Shop – This restaurant has a devout following at its Bellevue location, so no doubt, Midtown people love to have a close location now. The quick service restaurant here serves up the most popular sandwich in Vietnam, the Bánh Mì. It’s a baguette served with mayo, sweet carrot and daikon pickles, cucumber and cilantro. (LOCAL)

Noli’s Pizzeria – Noli’s original location is in the hip Blackstone neighborhood. These guys take their New York-style pizza seriously, even getting the water filtered to mimic the granite filtered qualities of New York’s water. (LOCAL)

Maharani Indian Kitchen – Indian cuisine with a few good options for vegetarians out there.

Sofra Creperie – This place serves savory and sweet crepes. I have one word for you all: Nutella. They have Nutella. I had the savory So Cal and it was pretty good, though maybe it’s more of a testament to my appetite, I was still hungry afterward.

ACTQ – This is the third taqueria to be opened by Brooklyn chef and restaurant Akhtar Nawab. It stands for Alta Calidad Taqueria and the food is defined as Mexican-inspired (and it’s yummy).

B Squared Burger – What could be better than burgers and tater tots?

Briggs Bean – Here’s where you go to get your caffeine fix, including nitro cold brew. They also happen to serve pastries from the local pastry shop, Sweet Magnolias.

Kathmandu Momo Station – These guys were the popular as a pop up and now they have this great little space in Inner Rail. Kathmandu serves up Nepalese street food including momos (stuffed dumplings) and Burmese ramen. (LOCAL)

Ela’s Creamery – Serves up soft-serve ice cream in two flavors that rotate each week. I had the luck of sampling Cinnamon Toast Crunch when I was there. If that’s ever an option for you, get it!

Backstretch Bar – The bar! What more need I say? OK, I can say more. The perk of Inner Rail is that you can order a drink at Backstretch and take it outside with you to sit by a firepit.

Best food to order at Inner Rail Food Hall

I’ve eaten at Inner Rail an impressive amount of times since it’s only been open like a month and I don’t even work near there. 

The surprise winner was the roti at ACTQ. It’s a flat bread that’s great for sharing. I had the vegetarian roti, which had queso and avocado.

I also highly recommend getting the naan with whatever entree you order at Maharani. It’s top notch.

SO MANY people told me to try the momos at Kathmandu. I tried both the fried and the traditional steamed ones. I preferred the steamed dumplings, though truth be told, good luck trying to get your kids to try one.

What’s kid-friendly at Inner Rail

Since Inner Rail is so new, we haven’t had many chances to test places out on our kids just yet. However, they are fans of the Noli pizza slice.

I didn’t notice many kid’s menu options at the restaurants, so unless your kid has a big appetite, just plan on sharing with him or her.

I’ll tell you what, my kids want nothing to do with momos. There. I said it.

Related food: Best Omaha Restaurants For Families

Things to know about Flagship Commons

Flagship has mostly quick dining restaurants, as well as a bar, coffeehouse and one full-service eatery. A few Omaha favorites have opened a location there, including my favorite, Blatt Beer & Table. 

Restaurants at Flagship Commons include:

Blatt Beer & Table – Blatt makes every “best of” restaurant list I ever write. I love the Blatt, and so does my family. It’s the only full-service restaurant at Flagship. The drink specials here are pretty good. (LOCAL)

Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob – Small menu, big tastes. I can’t get my kids to like the falafel here, but if I’m dining without them, it’s a solid choice. (LOCAL)

Aromas Coffeehouse – This is the place to go for your caffeine fix, or if you’re so inclined, dessert. I personally like the baked goods there more than the coffee.  (LOCAL)

Yum Roll – Run by Blue Sushi Sake Grill, this is your sushi joint, if that’s what you’re craving.

Yoshi-Ya Ramen – Classic ramen quick service. Some people swear this place is the best. I’ve never embraced the whole ramen scene, though, so I’ve got nothin’.

Weirdough Pizza Co. – Weirdough serves Roman-style pizza al taglio. Surprisingly, my kids won’t eat this pizza.

Juan Taco – Love fancy tacos? Juan Taco serves food-truck style tacos.

Clever Greens – This is an upscale salad quick-service restaurant.

The Bar – It’s exactly what it sounds like.

Best food to order at Flagship

There are a few places I frequent regularly at Flagship Commons. If you go to Blatt, you have to try the Dirty Bird at least once. It’s a chicken sandwich that’s absolutely horrible for you, which means it tastes delicious.

For something a little quicker, head to Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob. I absolutely love the falafel here, as well as curry fries.

What’s kid-friendly at Flagship Commons

Like I said before, we’re a Blatt family. The kid’s menu has great food, and the staff is typically pretty great with the kids.

There is also a great discount on Wednesdays at select restaurants. Family Wednesday means ½ price kids meals for ages 12 and younger at Juan Taco, Blatt Beer & Table,

Amsterdam Falafel & Kabob, Clever Greens, Weirdough Pizza Co., Yum Roll and Yoshi-Ya.

Flagship has started Family Bundles at a few restaurants, where you can get a meal for four for $30 (upgrade to feed more mouths). These bundles are offered at Juan Taco, Weirdough, Amsterdam and Yum Roll. Pre-order your bundle and they’ll be available any time from 4 to 7 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

Happy Hour at Flagship

Like your food and drinks discounted? Of course you do. Two places at Flagship Commons has happy Hour specials: 

The Bar

Fridays, 3 to 6:30 p.m.

Saturdays, 3 to 6:30 p.m.

Sundays, noon – close.

Blatt Beer & Table (dine-in only) 

Mondays through Saturdays, 3 to 6:30 p.m.

Fridays & Saturdays, 8 to 9 p.m.

Sundays, noon to 6 p.m.

Go beyond the Omaha Food Hall

Food halls are great because of the variety of food options paired with high-quality ingredients. However, if you’re looking for something with more service, check out other restaurants in Omaha. Here are a few lists to get you started: