Omaha is home to a thriving community of Black-owned restaurants.
Each restaurant offers a unique taste of culture, history, and passion, bringing a variety of flavors to the heartland. From soulful Southern comfort food to exotic African and Caribbean dishes, these restaurants are a testament to Omaha's rich culinary landscape. This guide delves into the best Black-owned eateries in Omaha, categorized to help you find exactly what you're craving.
Despite our best efforts to curate a comprehensive list of Black-owned restaurants in Omaha, we may have missed a few gems. If you notice any omissions or inaccuracies, please know it wasn't intentional. We warmly invite you to reach out to us, and we'll be more than happy to update the list. Without further ado, here's our compilation of Black Owned Restaurants in Omaha.
Soul Food in Omaha
Soul food is more than just a cuisine; it's a heartfelt connection to African American culture and tradition. In Omaha, the soul food scene is rich and varied, with each restaurant offering its own unique take on classic dishes. One standout is Big Mama's Kitchen & Catering, located at 2112 N 30th St. Known for its fried chicken, catfish, and hearty sides like collard greens and cornbread, Big Mama's has become a beloved institution in Omaha, serving food that warms the soul.
Big Mama's Kitchen & Catering
Address: 2112 N 30th St, Omaha, NE 68111 Website: bigmamaskitchen.com
Omaha Food Magazine had the privilege of sitting down with Patricia Barron, affectionately known as "Big Mama," on two occasions for interviews before her passing in 2008. We can't think of any restaurant owner we've interviewed in the last decade who had a bigger impact on our team than Patricia Barron. The woman behind this popular North Omaha restaurant left an indelible mark on our hearts and the community. Her warmth, dedication, and love for cooking were palpable in every interaction and every dish served at Big Mama's Kitchen & Catering. Patricia Barron, better known as "Big Mama," made her restaurant a cornerstone of North Omaha. Her legacy lives on in the delicious meals and the welcoming spirit that continues to define Big Mama's Kitchen & Catering.
BigWay Chicken & Catfish
Address: 10852 Q St, Omaha, NE 68137 Website: Facebook Page
Charlene's Food for the Soul
Address: 3929 Ames Ave, Omaha, NE 68111 Website: Facebook Page
Dena's Place
Address: 2112 N. 30th St Omaha, Ne 68111 Website: denasplace.com
Lonnell's Southern Delight
Address: 3112 N 16th St, Omaha, NE 68110 Website: Facebook Page
Shugs Comfort Food
Address: 105 W Mission Ave, Bellevue, NE 68005
Website: Facebook Page
Soul Brothers Inc
Address: 4849 N 90th St, Omaha, NE 68134
Facebook Page: Facebook Page Website: soulbrothersinc.com
Time Out Foods
Address: 3518 N 30th St, Omaha, NE 68111 Website: timeoutfoods.com
Seafood in Omaha
The seafood scene in Omaha might surprise you, especially when you encounter the flavorful offerings of the city's Black-owned seafood restaurants. Boiling Claws, a food truck stationed at 5001 S 42nd St, brings a taste of the coast to the Midwest with its fresh and spicy seafood boils. Here, you can dive into a messy, delicious feast of shrimp, crab, and lobster, all seasoned to perfection.
Boiling Claws
Address: 5001 S 42nd St (Food Truck), Omaha, NE 68107 Website: boilingclaws.com
*Will be reopening soon
Get-N-Go Fish
Address: 1706 N 24th St, Omaha, NE 68110 Website: Facebook Page
Lutfis Fried Fish
Address: 2527 North 72nd Street Omaha, Nebraska 68134
Website: lutfisne.com
Caribbean Cuisine in Omaha
For a culinary escape to the tropics, Omaha's Black-owned Caribbean restaurants deliver vibrant, flavorful dishes that transport you straight to the islands. Caribbean Delights, located at 2304 N 72nd St, serves up authentic jerk chicken, curry goat, and other island favorites in a colorful and lively setting. Each dish is a celebration of Caribbean culture and cuisine.
Caribbean Delights
Address: 2304 N 72nd St, Omaha, NE 68134 Website: caribbeandelighth.com
Sapphire Grill
Address: 7204 N 30th St, Omaha, NE 68112 Website: Facebook Page
African Cuisine in Omaha
The rich, diverse flavors of Africa are well represented in Omaha's Black-owned restaurants. Chaima's African Cuisine, at 5060 S 107th St, offers a menu full of traditional dishes like jollof rice and suya, made with authentic spices and techniques. The welcoming environment and flavorful dishes make it a great place to explore African culinary heritage.
Chaima's African Cuisine
Address: 5060 S 107th St, Omaha, NE 68127 Website: Facebook Page
Lalibela Ethiopian Restaurant
Address: 4422 Cass St, Omaha, NE 68131
Okra African Grill
Address: 608 S 72nd St, Omaha, NE 68114 Website: okraafricangrill.com
Bakeries and Desserts in Omaha
Sweet tooths will find plenty to love in Omaha's Black-owned bakeries and dessert shops. Crum Cakes Bakery, located at 716 N 114th St, offers a delightful array of cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
Camille's Bakery
Address: 8717 Countryside Plaza, Omaha NE. 68114 Website: camillesbakery.com
Crum Cakes Bakery
Address: 716 N 114th St. Omaha NE. 68154
Website: Facebook Page
The Cupcake Nerds
Address: 14301 FNB Pkwy Suite 100, Omaha, NE 68154 Website: Facebook Page
Mixins Ice Cream
Address: 1405 Jackson St, Omaha, NE 68102 Website: Facebook Page
Still Poppin Gourmet Popcorn
Address: 2118 MLK 24th St, Omaha, NE 68110 Website: stillpoppin402.com
Gimme the Scoop
Website: Facebook Page
Huskerland Popcorn
Address: 2305 N 90th St, Omaha, NE 68134
Website: Facebook Page
American Cuisine in Omaha
For classic American fare with a twist, Omaha's Black-owned American restaurants deliver both comfort and innovation. Best Burger, at 2033 N 72nd St, is known for its mouthwatering burgers made with high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection. This is the place to go for a satisfying and hearty meal.
Best Burger
Address: 2112 N 30th , Omaha, NE 68111 Website: bestburger.com
Chicago Dog 42
Address: 5203 Leavenworth St, Omaha, NE 68106 Website: chicagodog42.com
Jackson's Fair Deal Cafe'
Address: 2118 N 24th St STE 101
Website: www.jacksonsfairdeals.com
International Cuisine in Omaha
Omaha's international dining scene is enriched by Black-owned restaurants that bring global flavors to the city. A Foreign Taste, located at 14242 Fort St #109, offers a fusion of global cuisines with an elegant twist. Each dish is a culinary journey, combining flavors and techniques from around the world. As of June 2nd, A Foreign Taste converted to an event venue featuring some of the best chefs in the Omaha area.
A Foreign Taste
Address: 14242 Fort St #109 Website: aforeigntaste.com
International Cafe
Address: 2416 Farnam St, Omaha, NE 68102 Website: Yelp Page
Le Voltaire
Address: 569 N 155th Plaza, Omaha, NE 68154 Website: levoltaireomaha.com
Vegan/Vegetarian Options in Omaha
Health-conscious diners and those with dietary restrictions will find plenty of delicious options in Omaha's Black-owned vegan and vegetarian restaurants. Ital Vital Living, at 8602 N 30th St, offers a menu inspired by Ital, a Jamaican dietary lifestyle that emphasizes natural and whole foods. The dishes are not only healthy but bursting with flavor.
Ital Vital Living
Address: 2323 North 24th Street Omaha, NE. 68110 Website: italvitalliving.com
Cajun/Creole in Omaha
For a taste of the Bayou, Omaha's Black-owned Cajun and Creole restaurants deliver big, bold flavors. A Taste of New Orleans, located at 6023 Maple St, captures the essence of Louisiana with dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and po'boys. The lively atmosphere and spicy dishes make it a go-to spot for Cajun cuisine.
A Taste of New Orleans
Address: 6023 Maple St, Omaha, NE 68104 Website: atasteofneworleansomaha.com
Cajun Kitchen
Address: 2819 N 30th St Omaha, NE 68111
Website: cajunkitchenomaha.com
BBQ in Omaha
Wayne's New Skoo BBQ, a small BBQ restaurant based at 4865 Center St, serves up some of the best-smoked meats in the city. Whether you're craving ribs, brisket, or pulled pork, Wayne's New Skoo BBQ has you covered.
Jim's Rib Haven
Address: 3801 Ames Ave, Omaha, NE 6811
Website: ribhavenomaha.com
Smoking Jay's BBQ
Address: 2524 S 13th St, Omaha, NE 68108 Website: jayssmokingbbq.com
Ribshack Smokehouse
Website: ribshshacksmokehouse.com Address: 10840 Q St, Omaha, NE 68137
Wayne's New Skoo BBQ
Address: 4865 Center St, Omaha, NE 68106 (Food Truck) Website: waynesnewskoobbq.com
FAQs
What are some of the best Black-owned restaurants in Omaha? Some of the best Black-owned restaurants in Omaha include Big Mama's Kitchen & Catering, Boiling Claws, and A Taste of New Orleans, each offering unique and flavorful dishes.
Where can I find authentic Southern food in Omaha? For authentic Southern food in Omaha, visit Big Mama's Kitchen & Catering, Time Out Foods, and Lonnell's Southern Delight, known for their delicious and comforting dishes.
Are there any Black-owned bakeries in Omaha? Yes, Omaha is home to several Black-owned bakeries, including Crum Cakes, Camille's Bakery, and Honey-N-Luv gluten-free Bakery.
Which Black-owned restaurant in Omaha serves the best seafood? Boiling Claws and Get-N-Go Fish are popular Black-owned restaurants in Omaha known for their delicious and fresh seafood offerings.
Can I find vegan and vegetarian options at Black-owned restaurants in Omaha? Yes, Ital Vital Living offers a variety of healthy and delicious vegan and vegetarian options, inspired by Ital, a Jamaican dietary lifestyle.
What Black-owned restaurant in Omaha offers a taste of New Orleans? A Taste of New Orleans is the perfect spot for experiencing the bold and spicy flavors of Louisiana, offering dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and po'boys.
Celebrating Culture, Tradition, and Community
Exploring Black-owned restaurants in Omaha is not just about enjoying great food; it's about celebrating culture, tradition, and community. These establishments offer a wide range of cuisines, from Southern comfort food to international delights, each with its unique story and flavor. By supporting these businesses, you contribute to the rich tapestry of Omaha's culinary scene and help preserve the vibrant heritage they represent.
So, next time you're in Omaha, make sure to visit these Black-owned restaurants and experience the delicious diversity they have to offer.
Featured Image Credit: A Foreign Taste
