Betty Rae’s Ice Cream, the iconic Kansas City creamery, is making its way to Omaha, and the excitement is palpable. As those who have indulged in countless scoops and seen trends come and go, we at Omaha Food Magazine can confidently say this is a significant moment for our local food scene. We have been championing for this day since we first featured Betty Rae’s in May 2022, not knowing that the wheels were already in motion thanks to a local connection.
This isn’t just another ice cream shop opening; it’s a story of friendship, local pride, and the relentless pursuit of bringing exceptional flavors to our community. Zach Molacek, an Omaha native, is spearheading this venture, fulfilling a dream that ties back to his roots and a long-standing friendship with Betty Rae’s owner, Matt Shatto.
Betty Rae’s Ice Cream Omaha: A Dream Realized
When we first tasted Betty Rae’s, it was at their River Market location in Kansas City. The vibe was electric, and the ice cream was unforgettable. Little did we know, this very ice cream would soon find a home in Omaha. Zach Molacek, who moved to Kansas City in 2011, returned to Omaha with a mission. He had a promise to keep: to bring Betty Rae’s to his hometown.
As Molacek recounted, “When he was getting ready to purchase [Betty Rae’s], I said if I ever move back to Nebraska I’m going to talk to you about bringing it back to Omaha.” His favorite flavors? The Bee’s Knees and Lavender Honey, both testaments to the innovative spirit of Betty Rae’s.
Image Credit: Betty Rae’s Ice Cream
The Perfect Location
Betty Rae’s new Omaha location at 6307 Center St. places it strategically near Aksarben Village and Baxter Arena. The spot is ideal, promising ample foot traffic and a steady stream of eager customers. Molacek aims to open the doors in early September, a date many are eagerly marking on their calendars.
Handmade, Hand-Scooped, and Heartfelt
What sets Betty Rae’s apart is not just their creative flavors but the dedication to quality and community. Their 26 core flavors, including crowd favorites like Chocolate Brownie and S’mores, are all hand-made and hand-scooped. The attention to detail and commitment to using fresh, local ingredients make each scoop a taste sensation.
Molacek is planning to initially ship ice cream from Kansas City, with future plans to produce it locally in Omaha. This move ensures that Omaha gets the authentic Betty Rae’s experience from day one.
Local Collaborations: A Taste of Omaha
One exciting aspect of Betty Rae’s presence in Omaha is the potential for local collaborations. In Kansas City, Betty Rae’s is known for its inventive limited edition flavors like barbecue sauce caramel with Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que candied burnt ends. Molacek envisions similar collaborations with Omaha businesses, adding a unique local twist to their offerings.
Imagine a cinnamon roll-based ice cream featuring chunks from the Omaha Bakery or a seasonal pie flavor from the Pie Fairy. The possibilities are endless, and the anticipation is already building.
A Partnership Rooted in Friendship
The story behind this expansion is as heartwarming as the ice cream is delicious. Molacek and Shatto’s friendship dates back to when their sons played flag football together. Over the years, their bond grew stronger, leading to this collaborative venture. Shatto expressed his enthusiasm, “We’re excited about it, excited to do something a little bit different.”
What’s Next for Betty Rae’s in Omaha?
This initial location is just the beginning. Molacek has ambitions to expand further, potentially opening more locations in the Omaha/Lincoln area. While they aren’t calling it a franchise agreement, the partnership hints at a future where Betty Rae’s becomes a staple in Nebraska’s culinary landscape.
Why Omaha Needs Betty Rae’s Ice Cream
Omaha has a thriving food scene, but Betty Rae’s brings something truly special. It’s more than just ice cream; it’s an experience. Each visit to Betty Rae’s is a sensory delight, from the enticing aromas of freshly made waffle cones to the vibrant colors of their artisanal scoops.
Mary Krause of Omaha Food Magazine eloquently captured this sentiment: “Betty Rae’s is a fantastic addition to Omaha’s vibrant ice cream scene, complementing the beloved Coneflower Creamery.”
One things for sure, the opening of Betty Rae’s Ice Cream Omaha is highly anticipated!
Anticipating the Grand Opening
As we look forward to the grand opening, it’s clear that Betty Rae’s will be more than just a place to grab a cone. It will be a gathering spot, a community hub where memories are made, one scoop at a time.
So, mark your calendars, Omaha. Early September will bring a new, delicious chapter to our city’s story. Betty Rae’s Ice Cream is coming, and it’s a moment worth celebrating.
FAQs about Betty Rae’s Ice Cream
Where is Betty Rae’s Ice Cream opening in Omaha?
Betty Rae’s Ice Cream is opening at 6307 Center St., near Aksarben Village and Baxter Arena.
When will Betty Rae’s Ice Cream open in Omaha?
The opening is planned for early September.
What are some of the popular flavors at Betty Rae’s?
Some of the popular flavors include Lavender Honey, Chocolate Brownie, and S’mores.
Will Betty Rae’s collaborate with local Omaha businesses?
Yes, Zach Molacek plans to collaborate with local Omaha businesses to create unique, limited edition flavors.
Is this a franchise agreement?
No, the partnership is not being called a franchise agreement at this time.
Are there plans for more Betty Rae’s locations in Nebraska?
Yes, there are ambitions to open more locations in the Omaha/Lincoln area in the future.
Quality, Creativity, and Community Spirit
Betty Rae’s Ice Cream is set to become a beloved addition to Omaha’s food scene, bringing with it a rich history of quality, creativity, and community spirit. The partnership between Zach Molacek and Matt Shatto ensures that this venture is rooted in friendship and a shared passion for great ice cream. As we await the grand opening, the excitement is undeniable. Omaha, get ready to indulge in the magic of Betty Rae’s.
