Grow Omaha
News Briefs
Sugared Ledge Bakery Reopens in Elkhorn Following Renovations
Sugared Ledge Bakery officially reopened on April 11 at 920 North 204th Avenue in the Elkhorn area. The local bakery temporarily closed in February to refresh its interior, expand its menu, and “enhance operations.” Temporary hours for April are Friday through Sunday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Extended hours and online ordering are set to resume in early May. – Nicole Buntgen
Pancake Café Opening Inside Agave Azteca
Pancake Café by Agave Azteca is planning to open soon at 5170 South 72nd Street in Ralston. Located inside an existing restaurant, the Pancake Cafe will allow Agave Azteca Mexican Bar & Grill to offer breakfast entrees. The family owned restaurant’s slogan is “The SHORTCUT to Mexico.”
Shadow Lake Collision Center Opening Second Location
Shadow Lake Collision Center is opening a second location at 4040 South 84th Street. That’s the former Kia auto dealership on the northwest corner of 84th & F Street. Opening is planned for this spring. Shadow Lake Collision started in 1975 as AA Collision Repair and adopted its current name in 2012. The existing location is at 1215 Applewood Drive in Papillion.
All American Burger to Open in Former Untamed Kitchen Space Downtown
All American Burger, a smash burger concept that debuted at Inner Rail Food Hall in January, will soon open in the former Untamed Kitchen space at 1421 Farnam Street, which closed in October 2024. Dubbed “an homage to the classic American hamburger,” both concepts are under the same ownership. An official opening date has yet to be announced. – Nicole Buntgen
Architecture Firm Relocates from Downtown to Regency
Emergent Architecture has moved from its downtown office at 950 South 10th Street to 10404 Essex Court inside White Lotus Group’s office. The building is southeast of Interstate 680 & West Dodge Road. A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place on June 27. The Iowa-based firm has existing offices in Cedar Falls and Cedar Rapids, Iowa as well as in Denver. – Nicole Buntgen
Harmony Med Spa Expanding to West Omaha
Harmony Med Spa will open its second location on May 1 at 16920 Wright Plaza inside the recently opened OPAL Salon Suites in the Shops of Legacy. The med spa recently celebrated its third anniversary and currently operates at 6750 Mercy Road in Aksarben. – Nicole Buntgen
Artisan Boards of Omaha Hosts Grand Opening This Week
Artisan Boards of Omaha will host a grand opening event April 23 for its new brick-and-mortar location at 16920 Wright Plaza in the Shops of Legacy. The local business launched in 2019 as a catering company and will offer grab-and-go charcuterie boards, sandwiches, wine, free samples and a selection of honey and candles for purchase at its event. – Nicole Buntgen
Non-Profit Celebrates Ribbon Cutting
Native American nonprofit, Healing Ribbons, celebrated the opening of their new home at 5017 Leavenworth Street, with a ribbon cutting ceremony last Friday. The intergenerational Indigenous women and 2-Spirit nonprofit organization promotes holistic wellbeing, healing, positive cultural identity and cultural revitalization. – Mark Champion
Bawarchi Indian Cuisine Changes Name & Remodels
Bawarchi Indian Cuisine at 17903 Pierce Plaza has changed its name to Biryaniwala. The ownership remains the same. The new name is coming with menu additions, renovated dining room and a patio add-on. The restaurant is located in the Spring Ridge Shopping Center near 180th & Pacific Street.
New Horizon Academy Breaks Ground for Omaha School
New Horizon Academy broke ground last week on a free-standing, childhood learning and daycare building in the Fountain Ridge Office Park southeast of 192nd & West Dodge Expressway. The building will go up just south of R&R Realty’s Waterford office building. Based in Plymouth, Minn., New Horizon Academy has more than 100 schools in Minnesota, Idaho, Iowa, Colorado and Kansas.
Upscale Cocktail Bar Opening in Dundee
The Hollows, an upscale wine and cocktail bar, will soon open in Dundee at 5019 Underwood Avenue next to Pitch Pizzeria in its former party room space. A tentative opening date is set for June 15, according to the City Clerk’s Office. – Nicole Buntgen
Eileen’s Cookies Replacing Former Omaha Bakery Space
Eileen’s Cookies will replace the former Omaha Bakery at 725 North 210th Street in the Elkhorn area. The space is east of UBT sports complex and south of Bowlero. Opening is planned for June 28th. The franchisees also own the Eileen’s Cookies store at 74th & Pacific Street.
Creighton University Report Shows Weakness in Rural Economy
For the 19th time in the past 20 months, Creighton University’s Rural Mainstreet Index sank below the 50.0 growth reading in April, according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and energy. The region’s overall reading for April fell to 40.0 from March’s 41.1. The survey also revealed that three-fourths of rural bankers support President Trump’s increase in tariffs on imports from China.
Lincoln Brewery Opening La Vista Taproom Today
Corn Coast Brewing, a Lincoln-based brewery, officially opens its Omaha taproom today – April 19 – at 10717 Virginia Plaza in La Vista next to HOTWORX and near both Kros Strain and Pint Nine breweries. The grand opening features a food truck and the release of four new beers, which will debut simultaneously in Lincoln. – Nicole Buntgen
Abandoned Convent Converting to Affordable Housing
Spark CDI, a non-profit focused on addressing housing needs and revitalizing disinvested neighborhoods, is working to turn an abandoned convent into an affordable, multi-family housing complex. Formerly Lutheran Service Corps, the building is located at 6220 N 30th St, across the street from Miller Park. The project is part of Spark’s coDA (co-Devolpment Apprenticeship) program and is led by local women. – Mark Champion
Cajun Seafood Restaurant Taking Former Outback Steakhouse
A company by the name of Unity Seafood Cajun Grill & Bar has filed for a liquor license with the City of Omaha for a new concept at 7605 Cass Street in the former Outback Steakhouse space near 76th & Cass. – Nicole Buntgen
Brazilian Steakhouse Opening May 29th
Terra Gaucha, a Florida-based Brazilian steakhouse, plans to open on May 29 in the former Charleston’s building near 137th & West Dodge Expressway north of Boys Town. The restaurant promises the “Ultimate Churrasco Experience” with fire-roasted premium cuts carved tableside, a Gourmet Hot and Cold Table, velvety desserts, and a private events space. – Nicole Buntgen
Christian Brothers Automotive Hosts West Omaha Grand Opening
Christian Brothers Automotive will hold a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on April 23 for its newest location at 20111 P Street near Ziggi’s Coffee. The west Omaha auto repair shop opened March 9 and joins three existing locations near 168th & West Maple Road, in Gretna near 180th & Highway 370, and in Papillion near 114th & Highway 370. – Nicole Buntgen
Junk King Franchise Opening in Omaha
Junk King will open its first Omaha-area franchise this spring at 24406 Highway 275 in Waterloo, according to franchisee Joe Wherry, a retired police officer, who also owns Mathnasium of Elkhorn. The targeted opening date is May 19. Junk King is a bulky item and junk removal business. The company’s signature red trucks are “specially designed to hold 20 percent more volume than the competition.” Junk King strives to donate, repurpose or recycle up to 60 percent of the items it hauls.
Nebraska Ranks as 21st Best State for Older Workers
Nebraska is a middle-of-the-road state for older workers, according to Seniorly’s analysis of the best states for workers over 65 based on six data categories. Nebraska tied with Delaware for 21st place. The best states were Washington, New Hampshire and Alaska. The worst state was Mississippi. A record 11.2 million Americans 65 and over are in the workforce. That number will climb to 14.8 million by 2033.
Sponsored by ACCESSbank:
Founded in Omaha, ACCESSbank serves individuals, families, and businesses who value trusted relationships alongside strong financial results. Our approach is built on local decision making, responsive service, and direct access to experienced professionals who take the time to understand each client’s goals.
From personal and mortgage banking to business banking, we provide clear guidance and the ability to move quickly when it matters most. Whether someone is buying a home, managing personal finances, or growing a business, our team focuses on making banking efficient, straightforward, and personal.
Rooted in Omaha, ACCESSbank is committed to supporting the communities we serve through active involvement, volunteer efforts, and long standing local partnerships. This focus on people and place is central to how we operate and why clients continue to view ACCESSbank as a trusted financial partner.
Subscribe
To our newsletter
Omaha-Based Company Among Most Popular Beverage Places
A study of teenagers’ restaurant preferences revealed that Omaha-based Scooter’s Coffee is the number-five most popular brand in the “coffee, tea and beverage places” category. Among 6,455 American teenagers surveyed, the top five was Starbucks (57%), Dunkin’ (11%), McDonald’s (6%), Dutch Bros (6%) and Scooter’s (3%), according to Nation’s Restaurant News.
Omaha Among Top 20 Metros for Build-to-Rent Completions
Omaha is among the top 20 metropolitan areas in the country for most “build-to-rent” completions in 2024, according a report by Point2Homes. Omaha added 554 new single-family rentals last year and has 916 additional units planned or under construction. Build-to-rent houses are built specifically for long-term renters. Omaha ranked #18. The top five metros were Phoenix, Dallas, Atlanta, Houston and Charlotte. The only other top-20 metro in our region was Minneapolis at #10.
Physical Therapy Practice opens Near 123rd & Maple
Forward Physical Therapy + Performance has moved into the former Sound Method Yoga space at 12302 Emmet Street. The physical therapy and performance company offers personalized, one-on-one coaching and rehab with an emphasis on movement and education. Their doctorate-trained physical therapists, with expertise in strength and conditioning, use “a modern approach to health and fitness to help active people move from pain to peak performance."
The Witchery Barber Opens in Blackstone
The Witchery at Blackstone, a locally owned barber shop, has opened in the Blackstone Plaza building at 3555 Farnam Street. That 15-story building recently welcomed HomeGrown, a Kansas-based, brunch restaurant. The building is most famous for housing Warren Buffett’s office. The original Witchery Barber is located at 2941 South 108th Street. Both Witchery locations are part of Omaha Barber Group, which also includes Dundee Barber and Victory Barber.
Artemis Tea Moving to Other Side of Blackstone District
Artemis Tea & Botanical Shop is making an intra-Blackstone-District move next month. The organic retailer is moving from its current shop at 4013 Farnam Street a few blocks to the east into the former Lazy Leopard cocktail lounge at 3618 Farnam Street. The existing shop will turn into production and fulfillment space. The business also operates an online store.
Bankers Trust Offers Meeting Room to Local Organizations
Bankers Trust has opened a community room at its new branch office building at 19202 Davenport Street. The room can accommodate up to 75 people and is available to non-profit organizations, small businesses, bank clients and other local groups to book for meetings, networking and workshops. The room is available Monday – Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. For reservations, contact Angie Peters at (402) 408-1880.
NU Regents Take First Steps Toward $2 Billion Hospital
The University of Nebraska Board of Regents approved the first Intermediate Design Report, or IDR, for the first phase of Project NExT known as Project Health. Project Health is the $2.19 billion healthcare facility planned for 7.5-acre site that was formally home of the Munroe-Meyer Institute. The new facility will provide modernized facilities and could potentially allow UNMC to accommodate around 200 more students per year. The IDR approves needed demolition and relocation of utilities, installation of storm water and drainage systems, excavation and reconstruction work for heavy building components, such as elevator shafts. - Isaiah Ang
Bookstore & Coffee Shop Coming to Blackstone District
The Blackstone District will have a new bookstore and coffee shop at 3925 Farnam Street next to the original Coneflower creamery location. The previous tenant was Pranam Yoga Shala. The submitted permit for bathroom and plumbing renovations for the 1,800 sq. ft. space does not indicate the name of the new business but we understand it will be "The Wandering Page." - Isaiah Ang
Kpot Taking Over Johnny’s Steakhouse in Village Pointe
Kpot Korean BBQ & Hot Pot plans to open its first Nebraska restaurant in the former Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse in Village Pointe Shopping Center. One year ago, Kpot announced it would move into the former Granite City building at the Westroads, but that deal fell through. The rapidly growing chain of all-you-can-eat restaurants now has 106 locations. Kpot started in 2018 in New Jersey. The closest existing locations are in Sioux Falls, S.D.; Des Moines, Iowa; and the Kansas City area.
Tommy’s Express Car Wash Breaks Ground in Bellevue
National car wash franchise Tommy’s Express is breaking ground in the Bellevue. Located at 11533 South 31st Street, near China Buffet Mongolian Grill, this will be the brand's first location in Bellevue and the 11th in the state of Nebraska. The car wash is expected to open late this year.
Twin Peaks Restaurant Returning to West Omaha
Twin Peaks, a national sports bar chain, is returning to the Omaha market. Wichita, Kansas-based 3B Lodge has broken ground for a Twin Peaks at 313 North 179th Street in Village Pointe West, just east of Home2 Suites. The 8,000 sq. ft. building will feature a large outdoor patio and is scheduled to open this November, according to Trenton Magid of NAI NP Dodge, who represented the franchise group. The location will be a ground-up building with Twin Peaks' made-from-scratch menu and daily drink specials. Twin Peaks previously had a restaurant at 173rd & West Center Road, but it closed a few years ago. The closest existing Twin Peaks locations are in Kansas City.
Mexican Brunch Restaurant Opening Along Gene Leahy Mall
Flora Cafe, a new Mexican brunch restaurant, will soon open downtown at 1009 Farnam Street just south of Gene Leahy Mall. The space was previously occupied by Matsu Sushi. Flora Cafe is under the same ownership as Sam’s Leon Mexican Food and will feature an outdoor patio and a menu of authentic dishes. An opening date has yet to be announced. - Nicole Buntgen
Wheatfield’s Express Targets Late April for Opening
Wheatfield’s is tentatively set to open its express location at 18902 Evans Street in northwest Omaha by the end of April. This second location will feature a drive-thru lane and an extensive self-serve, grab-and-go section. The store will offer quiche, soups, sandwiches and bakery items. The existing Wheatfield’s restaurant is in One Pacific Place near 103rd & Pacific Street. - Nicole Buntgen
Omaha Contractor Bays Coming to Bennington
Omaha Contractor Bays, a business that offers commercial suites tailored to small and medium businesses, is under development northwest of 156th & Highway 36 in Bennington. Opening is scheduled for December. The 1,250 sq. ft. flex suites will have glass storefronts with 11X14 power overhead garage doors in the back. Each bay features 16-foot ceilings and clear-span space with no interior columns.
UNMC Adds Emergency Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program
The NU Board of Regents today approved the establishment of an Emergency Nurse Practitioner certificate program through the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing. The program aims to alleviate the critical shortage of emergency care providers throughout the state with a particular focus on “underserved” areas. The program combines online learning with in-person intensive training sessions, spanning 12 months and 16 credits. The inaugural class will begin in Spring 2026.
Upscale Grooming Concept to Open in July
Hammer & Nails, an upscale grooming concept, is set to open around July 4 at 14450 Eagle Run Drive near 144th & West Maple Road. The premier salon aims to redefine the traditional barbershop experience by offering haircuts, beard grooming, manicures, pedicures and a full bar —all designed with men in mind. - Nicole Buntgen
Local Burger Joint Now Open in West Omaha
Charred Burger + Bar has officially opened its west Omaha location at 18101 Chicago Street in the former Meatball space next to First Watch just west of Village Pointe. A grand opening event is scheduled for April 12. Charred has two existing Omaha locations and one in Lincoln. - Nicole Buntgen
National Dentistry Practice Coming to Oak View Area
The healthcare facility at the southeast corner of 144th & West Center Road will have a new tenant, Blue Cloud Pediatric Dentistry. A building permit is filed for $1.12 million renovations of the previous Ambulatory Surgery Suite at 2727 South 144th Street. Blue Cloud has locations in 12 other states, the nearest in Kansas City. It is the largest operator of pediatric dental ambulatory surgery centers. - Isaiah Ang
Freddy’s to Open in Coventry Development
Freddy’s will soon open in the Coventry development near 204th & Harrison Street, just south of ACX Cinema 12+ and adjacent to a recently opened Taco Bell. The Wichita, Kansas-based fast-food chain operates seven locations in the Greater Omaha area. - Nicole Buntgen
Different Party Supply Retailer Takes Over Party City Store
It turns out the party is not over at Montclair Shopping Center. The former Party City store at 12979 West Center Road has reopened as ZURCHERS Party + Costumes + Balloons. Founded in 1953, ZURCHERS is a family-owned store that now has 19 locations. All the stores had been in Utah and Idaho before ZURCHERS took over former Party City spaces in Omaha; Overland Park, Kan.; Springfield, Mo.; and Mesquite, Tex. Party City recently declared bankruptcy and closed all 800 of its stores.
