The Inner Rail Food Hall tantalizes the taste buds of locals in Omaha and visitors alike: a gem in Aksarben Village.
Named in homage to its historical predecessor, the Ak-sar-ben horse racing track, this food haven delivers an unparalleled dining experience. Here, we embark on a culinary journey, inspired by the spirit of exploration akin to the legendary Anthony Bourdain, to savor the diverse flavors housed within.
Omaha Food Mecca
Stepping into the Inner Rail Food Hall, one is immediately struck by its thoughtfully curated ambiance. Designed by Eimer Design of Philadelphia, this 7,000-square-foot space is a mosaic of culinary stalls, each offering a unique gastronomic adventure.
At the heart of it all is the Backstretch Bar, a vibrant focal point offering a wide array of beverages. The outdoor and indoor seating areas, adorned with colorful leaf sculptures by local artist Therman Statom, provide a welcoming space for up to 350 patrons.
Entertainment District
Nestled behind the HDR building in Aksarben Village, the Inner Rail Food Hall forms part of a certified entertainment district. This means guests can freely roam with their drinks, immersed in an atmosphere filled with outdoor games, fire pits, and comfortable lounge furniture.
A Noddle Companies Development
The vision of Noddle Companies, master developer of Aksarben Village, has been brought to life in this unique Omaha space, inviting visitors to a world of diverse culinary delights.
Backstretch Bar
The Heartbeat of Inner Rail Food Hall’s Beverage Scene.
In the midst of the culturally rich and diverse Inner Rail Food Hall lies Backstretch Bar, a cornerstone of the Omaha beverage scene, reminiscent of the kind of place Anthony Bourdain would have appreciated in his global escapades. This bar stands as the central hub for thirsty patrons, offering a meticulously curated selection of both classic and innovative cocktails, alongside a comprehensive range of domestic and imported wines and beers.
It’s more than just a bar; it’s a social gathering spot, seamlessly integrating with the array of internationally inspired culinary offerings around it. Whether guests choose to pair their drinks with a meal or wander with a drink in hand, Backstretch Bar offers a dynamic, immersive experience. It’s a place where stories are shared over drinks, and the spirit of Omaha’s premier entertainment district is vivaciously celebrated.
Katmando MoMo Station
A Taste of Nepal and Burma in Omaha
At Katmando MoMo Station, led by Aagya Subedi, Rocky Shrestha, and Sagar Gurung, the journey from Nepal and Burma to Omaha unfolds with each dish. Renowned for their momo and savory Burmese ramen, their Inner Rail outlet represents an expansion of their culinary repertoire, introducing unique Nepalese and Burmese flavors.
It’s worth noting the special connection Omaha Food Magazine has with this venture. We had the distinct pleasure of working closely with Sagar, assisting him during the initial stages before the opening of their first location in the Blackstone District. This collaboration signifies our commitment to fostering culinary talent and celebrating the diverse food culture in Omaha.
Noname Café + Marketplace
A Toast to the Best Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup in Town
Have you caught wind of the latest buzz stirring in Omaha’s culinary scene? Noname Café + Marketplace has boldly claimed the title for serving THE BEST grilled cheese and tomato soup in town, reminiscent of the kind of discovery Anthony Bourdain would revel in. This isn’t just food; it’s a comforting embrace in the form of a classic duo, masterfully crafted to tantalize your taste buds. Each bite of the grilled cheese offers a blissful melt of flavors, perfectly complemented by the rich, heartwarming tomato soup. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that resonates with the soulful essence of Omaha’s food culture.
Nori
Sushi Craftsmanship
At Nori, co-owners and chefs Diwesh and Bishal, showcase their culinary expertise with a menu rich in sushi rolls, rice bowls, salads, and sides. This marks their maiden voyage into the world of sushi in Omaha.
Smash City Omaha
Burgers and Chicken Sandwiches Redefined
Smash City Omaha stands as a testament to the classic American fare, serving up smash burgers and chicken sandwiches that redefine comfort food.
Sweet Treats Mini Donuts
Where Mini Donuts Steal the Show
Since late 2020, Sweet Treats Mini Donuts has been delighting patrons with made-to-order mini donuts, now expanded to include a variety of sugar flavors and toppings.
Willie Dogs
The Art of the Hot Dog
Willie Dogs offers a unique take on the hot dog, combining premium beef with a custom seasoning blend, encapsulated in a natural casing and cold-smoked to perfection.
Pop’s Pizza + Experiments
A Bold Culinary Adventure in Pizza Innovation
At Pop’s Pizza + Experiments, a thrilling culinary adventure awaits pizza enthusiasts. Embracing the spirit of innovation akin to Anthony Bourdain’s exploratory zest, Pop’s has recently unveiled an exciting new menu, a bold foray into uncharted pizza territory.
This menu expansion introduces over 10 new items, including the fresh Caprese Salad, tantalizing Spicy Fried Mozzarella, and irresistibly Cheesy Bread. Each dish is a testament to Pop’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional pizza fare, inviting patrons to embark on a gastronomic journey filled with new flavors and unexpected delights. This is not just a menu; it’s a culinary experiment, daringly executed to enhance the pizza experience in Omaha.
Zaytuna
A Mediterranean Haven
Zaytuna presents a menu that transports you to the Mediterranean shores, with dishes like Chicken Shawarma, Gyro, and a variety of vegetarian delights.
A Story of Flavors and Cultures
In the spirit of Anthony Bourdain, we invite you to join us on this culinary quest through Inner Rail Food Hall. Each stall not only offers a meal but an experience, a story of flavors and cultures converging in the heart of Omaha. This is more than a food hall; it’s a journey across continents and cuisines, all under one roof.
And be sure to check out our recent article about the best new restaurants in Omaha!
Image Credits: Inner Rail Food Hall in Aksarben Village
