Restaurant Hoppen

Bronco’s has served some of Omaha’s favorite fast food since 1959. So how did it become so beloved originally? What has allowed it to thrive when other iconic restaurants have closed? And how did Blake Barnes, the General Manager and grandson of founder Billy Barnes, get up to speed as he took over the family business? We discuss all that and much more!

Order Today: Broncos Hamburgers
https://broncoburgers.com/

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Food competition TV shows are fun, but what are they like behind the scenes? Three Omaha chefs/bakers who've competed on Food Network dish on the behind-the-scenes details that we don't see on camera for a fascinating conversation!

Episode References

Food Network — https://www.foodnetwork.com Supermarket Stakeout — https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/supermarket-stakeout Beat Bobby Flay — https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/beat-bobby-flay Christmas Cookie Challenge — https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/christmas-cookie-challenge Sauce While Alfaro — https://saucewhilealfaro.com Noble Hospitality — https://noblehospitality.com The Finicky Cookie — https://thefinickycookie.com

This is...

When Carlos decided to make tamales for his own wedding a few years ago, he had no idea he was starting down the road to a thriving restaurant. Those tamales led to a tamale delivery business, which blew up so quickly that it blossomed into a brick and mortar restaurant that is consistently packed with diners excited to try this couple's "authentic-ish" takes on tamales, tacos, tortas, and more. Hear the story of Masa Luna's rapid rise and the way Carlos and Gillian have leaned on the wonderful people around them to make it to this point.

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Ooh De Lally is a restaurant serving great food, but its mission goes much deeper. It partners with Metro CC to help formerly incarcerated individuals get jobs, skills, and training to get back in the work force. LaRue knows firsthand how difficult that life can be, and Chef Doug and the rest of the Ooh De Lally team treated him differently and embraced him. Hear LaRue's story and get an inside sense of how Ooh De Lally's program gives new life to its participants.

Ooh De Lally
https://www.oohdelally.org/

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So much of a restaurant experience is defined before a bite of food is served, as the atmosphere, vibe, and design of a restaurant set the tone for the guest. Omaha veteran restaurateurs Carlos Mendez (Au Courant; Dolomiti), Tom Allisma (Flagship Restaurant Group), and Sagar Gurung (Kathmandu Momo Station; Cattle Call) discuss the ins and outs and restaurant design and architecture and the way restaurants can set themselves up for success.

Episode References

Kathmandu – https://www.kathmandurestaurant.com Momo Station – https://www.momostationomaha.com Saffron Urban Indian Kitchen – https://www.saffronurban.com Cattle...

When Elizabeth decided to open a donut shop in Omaha, she had no idea the trials and hardships to come. But she and her son Jack fought through tremendous hardship both in and outside the business to create a donut shop that few—if any—in Omaha can rival. We talked about the science behind what makes these donuts unique, why Square Donut places such a high priority on hospitality, and how the rough road has helped form not only Square Donut, but who Elizabeth and Jack are as people and family.

Bite into Squa...

Le Quartier has become Omaha and Lincoln's go-to spot for bread and pastries, but the path that led these brothers to open their bakery nearly 20 years ago is one neither saw coming. Hear how a random interest in baking, an apartment in Montreal, and a baguette-attached resume led to a bread supplier that many Omahans (and Omaha restaurants) couldn't live without.

Check Out Le Quartier Today! Le Quartier – https://lequartierbakingco.com/

This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Om...

Tomato-free pasta sauce?! This Omaha couple never knew they'd need such a thing until they developed a heartburn-inducing sensitivity to tomatoes. Rather than swear off pizza and pasta forever, they created a carrot-based sauce and launched Carinara, a product that is taking the Midwest by storm. We discuss where the idea came from, what the R&D process was like, how they got Hy-Vee to buy in, and the future of this exploding company.

Order Carinara Pasta Sauce: https://carinara.com

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You know that good feeling you get at certain restaurants, where it just seems everyone is operating like a family? It's rare because it's a hard culture to cultivate, but it's intentional and you feel it at Good Evans, one of Nebraska's fastest growing breakfast spots. Angie Padgett (Executive Chef) and Tamra Johnston (Chief Marketing Officer) joined me to talk about how Good Evans cultivates that familial feeling, put together a menu that's comfortable for IG-loving teenagers as well as grandparents, and crafted a culture that has allowed it to expand to five locations (including two in Omaha) in...

The Haven Express food truck comes from humble beginnings, but now DeVaute and his crew are feeding Bud Crawford and the Nebraska football team! The truck's wings, Philly egg rolls, and smoked meats have massive followings now, and while the road to get here wasn't easy, DeVaute is proud of his journey. And now he's using his story (and his food) to inspire the next generation.

Find Flavor Here: Haven Express Food Truck – https://www.facebook.com/havenexpress/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/havenexpressomaha/?hl=en

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Bodegas were a part of Nate's daily life when he lived in New York, but after moving to Omaha, he wondered if the concept would work here, too. Three years and two locations in, it's safe to say Godega, Omaha's hybrid convenience store/bar/coffee shop is just what the city needed. Hear the origin story, what makes Nate so passionate about featuring local products and vendors, and the most important lessons he's learned since diving headfirst into the hospitality industry.

👉 Learn more about Godega: https://godegamarket.com/ 👉 Follow Restaurant Hoppen for more inspiring culina...

Joel has cooked various cuisines all over the world. He's worked for celebrity chefs and private sports teams. He's cooked dinner for Oprah and her family in his apartment. During this episode, Joel shares those stories and explains how they influenced and formed him into the chef now, and what he's trying to express through his restaurants in Omaha now.

Taste the Elevated Experience:

Salted Edge — https://www.salted-edge.com/ Pivot Prime Steakhouse — https://www.luckyelevenhg.com/pivot-prime/

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This new food truck is bringing the unique flavors of the Phillipines  and Southeast Asia to Omaha. With a great respect for traditional dishes and an obsession with umami, Chef Gerald is using his 13+ years of cooking experience all over the world to power this food truck, all while completing nursing school. From cooking on seafaring ships to getting "murdered" during his first food truck service, Chef Gerald opens up on his food and career.

The Fifth Taste
https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Fifth-Taste-by-Chef-Gerald-61577247144496/

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 A college semester abroad in Sydney changed Eli’s life. Enthralled with the country’s creative fusion dishes, he decided to combine two of his favorite baked goods: cookies and muffin tops. The result is one of Omaha’s best cookies, and one he developed while not only going to college, but also was a student athlete. Safe to say, Eli’s story is fascinating. You have to learn about this guy and his cookies!

👉 Order online: https://www.kookaburracookies.com/#4

This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast n...

In 2016, Brian called Katie, then working as a pastry chef in California with an idea: come back to Omaha and let's open an ice cream shop. Little did either know the impact that call would have! It led to the creation of Coneflower Creamery, Omaha's beloved ice cream destination, that now has three locations, has garnered national awards, and still clings to its farm to cone ethos. Hear the story and all the magic that goes into this ice cream during this fascinating panel discussion.

✍️ Taste the Hype NOW Coneflower Creamery
https://coneflowercreamery.com...

Few food/drink establishments in Omaha can match the vibe at Cafe Postale, which mixes the space's rich history with great coffee and modern elements to create an unforgettable coffee shop/cafe. General Manager Haley Farrell explains what makes the space special and how Cafe Postale partners with local purveyors and suppliers to serve great food and drink.

✍️ Episode References: Café Postale: https://www.cafepostaleomaha.com/

This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts...

The restaurants and food at Arbor Day Farm (Nebraska City) were overdue for an upgrade, and leadership tabbed Chef Garrett Kasper to level up the cuisine. And despite some reservations from long-time guests, the move has paid off and elevated the guest experience. Chef Kasper explains what changes he made, how he implemented them, and how seeing the staff get excited has energized him. We also touched on the importance of bringing great food to small towns and where Chef draws inspiration from (hint: it's not Instagram).

Visit today! Arbor Day Farm https://www...

Nothing about SET The Bar is like what you'd expect at a normal sports bar. From the focus on women's sports to the elevated takes on bar food coming out of the kitchen, it's a completely different experience. And it's Chef Kristin's dishes that take the Benson bar to another level... something she never could have imagined considering her culinary journey just began a few years ago and she didn't even apply to be the executive chef! You have to hear Kristin's story and the techniques she employs to take humble "bar food" to a whole new level.

When this couple opened Cumbia in 2021, they brought two relatively unknown concepts to Omaha: Latin American food and tapas (small shared plates). But the intent wasn't just to feed people. They wanted to educate guests on the various histories, cultures, and dishes that exist in Latin America. And though there were bumps in the road, they're definitely accomplishing their mission and bringing something special to Omaha now.

References: Cumbia – https://www.cumbiarestaurant.com Hunger Block – https://www.hungerblock.com Grow Omaha – https://www.growomaha.com

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There's just something special about getting food from a truck, but the food truck life isn't quite as easy as it seems. The owners of 3 of Omaha's most popular food trucks (Javi's Tacos, Hyde's Slydes, and Sully's GastroBurgers) pull back the curtain and tell the good and the bad of what food truck life is really like and why we're seeing a growing trend of restaurants and concepts embracing the mobile life.

Mouth Watering Yet? Check Out the Featured Food Trucks:
Javi’s Tacos — https://javistacos.com/ Sully’s GastroBurgers — https://sullysgastroburgers.com/ Hyde’s S...

Let's pull back the curtain on Food Network cooking competitions! Michelle Alfaro, the chef/owner behind her beloved restaurant, Sauced by Alfaro, got the chance to compete on Food Network show Supermarket Stakeout. She takes us behind the wall to dish on what the experience was like, the clips that get left on the cutting room floor, and the parts of food TV that the average viewer has no idea about.

This is a Hurrdat ONE Production. Hurrdat ONE is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcast...

Outside of a high school job, Hannah had no experience in the custard/ice cream business. But her nostalgia, entrepreneurial drive, and love of frozen treats inspired her to learn the craft of custard making and opening her own business. Sprinkle Joy's story is inspiring as the custard is delicious, and you need to hear how this shop came to be!

🔗 References:
Sprinkle Joy Custard — https://www.facebook.com/p/Sprinkle-Joy-61575094022719/ 50 Mile March — https://www.50milemarch.org

This is a Hurrdat ONE Production. Hurrdat ONE is a podcast network and...

Mia Matlock always enjoyed baking, especially finding ways to inject her Pilipino heritage and ingredients into common desserts. But when COVID hit and she got the opportunity to turn her side hustle into a full-blown business, she took the leap. And now Oso Good Kitchen & Panaderya is thriving, introducing market customers to dishes and ingredients from the Philippines one cookie or cake at a time. Hear Mia's story and how she's using food to tell the stories of her people. 

🌐 More from Oso Good Kitchen: https://www.osogoodpan.com 👩‍🍳 Learn about Kitchen Council: https://kitchencounc...

Granola that actually tastes good?! Believe it. People are blown away by the flavor of the products that come from The Gourmet Granola, but they're even more in awe of Nicole and Glenn's story. This couple transformed one of the darkest periods of their lives into a line of granola products, farmers market sales, and a spot in Hy-Vee grocery stores. 

🔗 Featured: Gourmet Granola – https://gourmetgranola.com

This episode was sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Semo Pasta⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Homemade pasta from local ingredients and an unforgettable dining experience awaits. Buon appetito!

This episode was also sponsored...

Bread is one of mankind's most universally beloved foods, and it just brings people together. But have you ever thought about how it's made, or what it would be like to be a professional baker? Aires Reis (Reis' Bakery), Hank Shields (Omaha Bagel Co.), and Sadie Paulsen (Via Farina) didn't start their careers as bakers, but they fell for the craft and now couldn't imagine life without it. These 3 bread experts gathered to discuss all things bread and baking on this live edition of Restaurant Hoppen.

This is a Hurrdat ONE Production. Hurrdat ONE is...

John was a psychologist for much of his career, and now he operates a bakery selling some of the best bread in Nebraska. The road and experiences that led him here are winding, but they've created an extremely passionate baker obsessed with ensuring the traditions of baking aren't lost over time. John shares all kinds of bread knowledge, from hydration levels to how caring for a starter is like raising a pet, and details the lessons he learned from psychology, working in kitchens, becoming a pastry chef on the fly, and more.

🔗 Discover more:

For a decade, Clayton was the chef/owner of The Grey Plume, one of Omaha's most progressive and nationally recognized restaurants, racking up five Beard nominations during that time. But The Grey Plume closed during the pandemic... so what is one of Omaha's most decorated chefs up to now? We walk through Clayton's career from his beginnings on the sandwich line at Subway to opening The Grey Plume to where he is today, discussing what family life looks like as a chef, the difficulties and thrills of farm to table cooking, and more along the way.

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Let's talk about the universally beloved food item: pizza! Dan (Backlot Taphouse; Backlot Pizza & Kitchen), Adam (Terrible Gerald's), and Joel (Noli's Pizzeria) talk about how they fell in love with pizza, the intricacies of the craft, how delicate and finicky dough can be, the upcoming trends in the pizza industry, and more!

This episode was sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Semo Pasta⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Homemade pasta from local ingredients and an unforgettable dining experience awaits. Buon appetito!

This episode was also sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Certified Piedmontese⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Taste the difference quality beef products can make!

This is a Hurrdat ONE Production. Hurrda...

Dan gets the microphone turned on him in this one-of-a-kind live episode. Paul brings the heat, asking Dan the questions so many people ask: does he ever have a bad restaurant experience? Why is he so thin? How did he go from a lame food blogger to a podcast host? We cover all that and much, much more!

🔗 Episode Reference: Block 16 – https://www.block16omaha.com

This episode was sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Semo Pasta⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Homemade pasta from local ingredients and an unforgettable dining experience awaits. Buon appetito!

This episode was also sponsored...

Matt blew my mind in this episode. Behind the craft of creating cocktails, making drinks based off of guests' moods and memories, and the insane in-the-moment balance of making and taking orders at a bar, this conversation gave me an entirely new respect for anyone in the bar industry. But what I'll remember most is how Matt emphasizes that it's not about what's in the cup; it's how the bar (and the person serving you) make you feel.

This is one of my favorite episodes of the podcast in a long time. Whether you're...

Chef Djamil doesn't just want to serve great food; he wants to change the way Omaha's food community interacts. In our deep, wide-ranging conversation, we discuss how Djamil and his foundation, which empowers and educates immigrants and refugees in the kitchen, is trying to change the conversation around food in Omaha in a way a restaurant couldn't do. We also remark on how, while there are different cuisines and cultures, all food is more similar than we often make it out to be.

🌍 Learn more about Chef Djamil’s mission: House of Bah: https://house...

John Rea had limited experience with pizza and pasta when he took over the Via Farina kitchen nearly a decade ago. The move was a game changer for both parties: Via reignited John's passion for cooking, and John's leadership and desire for knowledge (especially about pizza) have taken Via Farina to another level with a second location. We discuss that transition for both he and the restaurant, the art of pizza making and how the 2022 Pizza Expo in Las Veags changed his life, and more!

🔗 Check out:
🍕 Via Farina: https://www.viafarina.com

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Frios pops combine the creamy consistency of ice cream with the convenience of a popsicle... but could the concept succeed in Omaha, where it's cold nearly half the year? That's the bet that local couple Chris & Liz, along with their 3 kids made, and after 1 year they're happy they did. We discuss social media strategies, the rise of mobile options in the food industry, the wild story that got this family into the food truck game, and more!

💡 Try Frios: https://friospops.com

This episode was sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠Sully's Gastroburgers⁠⁠⁠. Gourmet, house...

In less than 2 years, Semo Pasta + Wine has established itself as a restaurant Omahans are more than happy to drive to Fremont for. The chefs and owners describe how the restaurant came to be, the concept of serving "European-inspired Nebraska cuisine", hosting Guy Fieri and the wild experience that was, and so much more. 

This episode was sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Semo Pasta⁠⁠⁠⁠. Homemade pasta from local ingredients and an unforgettable dining experience awaits. Buon appetito!

This episode was sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠Sully's Gastroburgers⁠⁠⁠. Gourmet, house-ground Certified Piedmontese grass-fed beef burgers. Hand-cut and brined 100% beef tallow fr...

How has HomeGrown, a restaurant group with 14 locations (including one that opened in Omaha in Feb. 2025) maintained its strong culture and its love for local products as it has expanded? Omaha General Manager Paul Dullard explains how HomeGrown's team looks to highlight local products (like Archetype Coffee and FatHead Honey) and how it identifies ideal partners in each city. We also chat about the reality on pricing for restaurants, epic coffee cake, what Omaha restaurants Paul has come to love, and more!

🍳 Discover what makes HomeGrown a standout in Nebraska’s food scene.

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If you're a wine aficionado, this is the episode for you! As the General Manager at one of Omaha's classic steakhouses, Andrew has a great depth of knowledge about wine, and he shares about sommelier tests, how to pair wine and food, and more. Plus, we talk about what it's like to work for a chain restaurant and how he was involved in the design process of Omaha's new Mahogany location.

🔗 More About Mahogany Prime:
https://www.mahoganyprime.com

This episode was sponsored by ⁠Sully's Gastroburgers⁠. Gourmet, house-ground Certifi...

Why did a successful business woman leave a stable job to start a cake baking business in her home in 2019? She was tired of people saying no to her, so she said yes to her dream... and Omaha quickly developed a ravenous appetite for her cakes. We discuss Stacey's journey as a baker and entrepreneur, how she creates cakes from the base up, and why she's never looked back since starting this unique journey.

Taste the sensation for yourself by visiting Buttered Marshmallow today!

This episode was sponsored by...

Omaha has never had a greater collection of coffee knowledge in one place. Autumn Pruitt (Hardy Coffee Co.), Isaiah Sheese (Archetype Coffee), and Abby McLeay (Zen Coffee Co.) dish on all things coffee, from how and where they source their beans to the coffee trends they can't stand, the link between coffee and community, and what it's like to move from being a coffee lover to owning their own shop.

Sip for Yourself!

Archetype Coffee: https://www.archetypecoffee.com

Zen Coffee Company: https://www.zencoffeecompany.com

Hardy Coffee...

Afghan food has a rich history and a unique blend of spices that make it particularly delicious, but there aren't many places in Omaha that offer it. Thankfully we have Shaheen's Afghan Cuisine to showcase this wonderful spectrum of food. Omed and Waheed, the sons of chef/owner Shahen Shah, joined me to discuss what makes Afghan food special and how their family brought it to Omaha.

Taste the flavors of this sensational restaurant for yourself, then comment on the episode and answer Dan's question!

https://www.shaheensafghancuisine.com/

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When sisters Zarina Boardman and Debora Aguilar moved to Nebraska, they were disappointed they couldn't find any Chilean food... so they decided to make it themselves! This pair hustled like crazy to get into events, pop-ups, and other opportunities to showcase their brilliant homemade empanadas, and now they have a beautiful cafe where they get to showcase their food and culture. Hear their story and why this food is so meaningful to them on this podcast episode!

This episode was sponsored by Semo Pasta. Homemade pasta from local ingredients and an unforgettable dining experience a...

The Miranda family is passionate about bringing Salvadoran food and their culture to Omaha, but they had no idea how quickly it would all come together! Erick and Jeni discuss what makes the cuisine so meaningful to them, why they're passionate about sharing it with Omaha, and how, in a matter of months, their family went from thinking about starting a restaurant to it being opening day.

Is your mouth salivating after this episode? Check out Miranda's now for some amazing pupusas!

https://mirandarestaurant.com

This episode...

Few, if any restaurants, are as synonymous with Nebraska food than Runza. Donald (President) and Becky (Director of Marketing) take me down memory lane to the very beginning when Donald's grandmother opened the first Runza in 1949. 75 years later, the restaurant has grown to 91 locations, introduced chili & cinnamon rolls to the menu, had limited runs of breakfast Runzas, received celebrity taste tests, catered weddings, partnered with Nebraska athletics... and so much more! We talk about it all on this incredible episode that you simply can't miss!

This episode was sponsored by Semo Pasta. Homemade pasta f...

Francisca may not be a trained chef (she was a doctor in Nicaragua), but she has a deep passion for cooking and helping others experience Nicaraguan food and culture. That's why she opened QS Grill Steak in 2021, and Omaha's food scene is better for it. Francisca and her daughter explain why it was important for them to showcase Nicaraguan food to Omahans and how the restaurant (and food in general) have connected and impacted their family in incredible ways. Oh, and Rosa could basically run the restaurant already at 15 years old. This family is amazing, and you have to...

In just a few years, these buddies went from line cooks at another restaurant to owning their other concept in one of Omaha's most historic buildings. How did they create the Dirty Birds empire so quickly? What about their fried chicken resonates so strongly with people? And what was it like to meet Guy Fieri and be featured on the Food Network?! Dan and Whalen answer all those questions and more in this fascinating, illuminating episode.

This episode was sponsored by Semo Pasta. Homemade pasta from local ingredients and an unforgettable dining experience awaits. B...

The stories that formed one of Omaha's most beloved breweries are priceless. The rage recipe that created NBC's flagship Cardinal Pale Ale. The lunch where Paul, then just a home brewer, quit his job to pursue brewing full time. The award ceremony where NBC won a competition over their idols. Paul & Kim share those stories and the dream that turned a home brewing passion into a full-scale brewery that has fully embraced the local community.

This episode was sponsored by Semo Pasta. Homemade pasta from local ingredients and an unforgettable dining experience awaits. Buon a...

John and Lisa Anderson had no experience in the restaurant business… so how did they create a beloved diner that’s thrilled guests for over a decade? John discusses their journey and how he got AJ’s off the ground, as well as the importance of making guests feel loved and creating a homey atmosphere.

This episode was sponsored by Semo Pasta. Homemade pasta from local ingredients and an unforgettable dining experience awaits. Buon appetito!

This episode was also sponsored by Certified Piedmontese. Taste the difference quality beef products can make...

As diners, there are just some things we don't know about what it's like to own, operate, and work in a restaurant, but if we understood the realities, we might have a more understanding view and a better relationship with the places we eat at. Three veterans of Omaha's restaurant industry unpack some of the difficulties and joys of restaurant life, offering a peak into the realities that serving great food entails. I truly believe with better understanding and communication, we can improve the relationship between restaurant and guest, and this conversation could be very helpful in that regard.<...

Baking gave Sadie’s life purpose during a dark period, and now she’s using her skills to bless Omaha with elite breads and desserts. Sadie talks about her journey from bread novice at a stage in Chicago to becoming the lead baker/pastry chef at Via Farina.

This episode was sponsored by Semo Pasta. Homemade pasta from local ingredients and an unforgettable dining experience awaits. Buon appetito!

This episode was also sponsored by Certified Piedmontese. Taste the difference quality beef products can make!

This i...

In 2020, this couple decided to not only start a farm, but one that would do things others didn't. They'd grow unique produce like rainbow beets and turmeric. They'd host Battle of the Chefs, a unique bracket style tournament for some of Omaha's best chefs. And they'd supply Omaha's restaurants with incredible produce. Hear the story and motivations behind these incredible people.

This Episode was Sponsored by:

Dave's Cakes

Certified Piedmontese

Get your tickets to see The Waitress at the Omaha Community Playhouse!

Vidlak's Cafe has stood the test of time, providing Omaha diners a great atmosphere and wide array of breakfast dishes for nearly 3 decades. Co-owner Eric Vidlak shares what's allowed them to have such sustained success, how intertwined his extended family is with the restaurant, and the story behind one of west Omaha's most beloved diners.

This Episode was Sponsored by:

Dave's Cakes

Certified Piedmontese

Get your tickets to see The Waitress at the Omaha Community Playhouse!

This is another Hurrdat...

Cooking meat over a flame is a primal feeling, but few possess the patience, talent, and potential to level up from backyard BBQ warriors to restaurant owners. My guests on this episode—the owners of J's Smokehouse, Lazy Buffalo BBQ, and Pulled BBQ—discuss the joys and challenges of transforming their hobby into their profession, the logistics of opening a BBQ restaurant, how they come up with innovativ specials, and so much more!

Looking for a night of the "Meat Sweats?" Check out the featured restaurants NOW!

J. Smokehouse Barbecue

Lazy...

Nite Hawkes Cafe has been around since 1942, thriving through four generations of the Hawkes family. But it's not just food that has made this cafe an institution; it's the way they treat and empower people, both on the staff and in the restaurant. Tracy and her son, Dan, tell stories, talk about the famous biscuits and gravy, and explain what's made Nite Hawkes Cafe such a beloved spot.

Stop by Nite Hawkes for a delicious breakfast!

This Episode was Sponsored by:

Dave's Cakes

Certified Piedmontese<...

This duo is committed to bringing vegan, gluten free, and nut free food to Omaha without sacrificing flavor. We discussed the benefits of a vegan diet, helping people with food sensitivities get to enjoy their favorite dishes again, and what makes the struggle of owning a restaurant worth it.

Check out Veg.Edible for some Delicious & Healthy Meals!

This Episode was Sponsored by:

Dave's Cakes

Certified Piedmontese

This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and...

Harold's Koffee House has been a beloved Omaha institution since the 1960s, and three generations of the restaurant joined the podcast to help tell its story. They share stories from the first days of the diner up until the current days... and there are A LOT of stories from this restaurant! From fires to failed burglaries to the "best hash browns in America", there's so much to love about Harold's, and this podcast is the place to hear all about it!

This Episode was Sponsored by:

Dave's Cakes

Certified Piedmontese<...

Ross had no interest originally in getting into the restaurant industry, but the DiPrima family is very present in Omaha. And after 8 years of working at his brother's restaurant, he decided it was time to own his own place. Hear the story about how he decided to purchase Jackson Street Tavern, how he prioritized people during the transition to his ownership, and what keeps him passionate while working in such a demanding industry.

This episode was sponsored by Semo Pasta. Homemade pasta from local ingredients and an unforgettable dining experience awaits. Buon appetito!

Pasta is one of the world's most beloved foods, but it's far more technical and involved than most understand. Three of Omaha's pasta experts dish some serious pasta knowledge and unearth some truths about this wonderful cuisine.

This episode was sponsored by Semo Pasta. Homemade pasta from local ingredients and an unforgettable dining experience awaits. Buon appetito!

This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to Hu...

The path that led to the opening of this delightful cafe in 2024 was 20+ years in the making and includes so many twists and turns that you simply have to hear it! From meeting at Red Robin to marrying and opening a restaurant 6 months later to multiple food trucks and establishing a reputation as serving the best breakfast burritos around, For the Love of Food Cafe's tale is a story of love, persistence, and a pull back to food that this couple just can't resist.

This episode was sponsored by Semo Pasta. Homemade pasta from l...

A beloved Omaha institution for more than 60 years, Dylan and his brother long talked about owning Tracks... and when the opportunity came to buy it, they jumped at it. Hear the story of how that purchase came to be, how they balanced updating the menu versus sticking with what people loved, the secrets behind their "world famous" chicken, and more in this conversation!

📍 Visit Tracks Lounge: Tracks Lounge

This episode was sponsored by Semo Pasta. Homemade pasta from local ingredients and an unforgettable dining experience awaits. Buon appetito!

Duration: 01:00:49

Taking over any kitchen is a big job, but it's especially daunting when the building is as historic and important as the Hotel Deco is to Omaha. But this a role that new Executive Chef Matthew Sheehan and his team are taking on head-on, keeping the staples that made Monarch Restaurant beloved with new dishes and twists. Hear Matthew's story and his plans for the future of this historic restaurant.

This episode was sponsored by Semo Pasta. Homemade pasta from local ingredients and an unforgettable dining experience awaits. Buon appetito!

How does a food hall work? Do the vendors cooperate or compete? How are the various vendors selected? And how did Sam's two concepts—Tiny's Pizza Joint and Sammy's Sub Shop—fill necessary holes in the Inner Rail's lineup? The VP and Executive Chef of the Inner Rail, Omaha's premier food hall, answer those questions and much, much more!

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This episode w...

That's right—Dan gets the tables turned on him! To celebrate five years of the podcast, Brian Sullivan (Sully's GastroBurgers & Fries) asks Dan all the questions you ask: about the Restaurant Hoppen origin story, why Dan is so positive in his reviews, how he stays so thin, and more! If you've ever wanted to get to know Dan, this is an episode you can't miss.

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Duration: 00:55:41

Neapolitan style pizza on a food trailer? An owner who got his start by building a pizza oven in his backyard? Nothing about Terrible Gerald’s is conventional or by the book, but the pizzas coming out of this trailer have Omaha coming out in swarms. Hear the science behind these delicious pies and the unique story that got Maggie & Adam to create a funky pizza sensation.

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Tamales are a very important dish for Carlos Cuevas; so much so that he cooked over 600 of them to serve at his own wedding! And that sparked an idea in Carlos and Gillian's minds—could this be a business? The couple tells the tale of how they created Masa Luna Tamales, what makes a great tamale, and how they come up with the unique, creative flavors each week.

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Dave's Cakes of Omaha has taken Omaha by storm from the moment it opened, from selling over 1,000 cupcakes on its first day to making Nick Jonas' birthday cake to selling over 100,000 cupcakes in one year. Owner Dave Barry discusses what's made the company a success, the career path he stumbled into, how he and his team come up with wild new cupcake flavors, and more!

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Brian brings science to the food truck scene, creating a burger unlike any other in Omaha. The chef talks about the science behind his unique burger and how he created it, his process of building a new burger from the ground up, the adjustments he had to make to cooking on a food truck and more. Sully's may be a new food truck, but it's already taking Omaha by storm. Listen to this podcast and you'll understand why!

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The chefs and creators behind Ooh De Lally and Ybor don't see their food concepts as ways to simply feed people, but also to help them. These concepts provide jobs, training, and life coaching to help formerly incarcerated individuals reacclimate to society and find their footing. They share stories of success, the value of providing hope, and the wonderful potential that this part of the population has to offer.

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After training for 15 years at one of New York's best sushi restaurants, Keen brought his talents to Bellevue in 2017, and the sushi scene here changed forever. And now he's hoping to do the same by introducing Omahans to bingsu and bubble tea at Snowy Sundaes. Hear chef Keen's story, the hours of dedicated work he put in to master sushi, and more!

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Paddy McGown's is not your average bar. With family history in the Omaha restaurant scene and a desire to go to the next level, Paddy McGown's is serving food that would make any restaurant proud—including one of the best Reubens in Omaha. Hear how Dan's dream of someday owning at bar turned into an Omaha institution beloved for its beers, burgers, and TikTok family dances.

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A small oasis exists in downtown Omaha, where a seasoned chef brings flavors from all over the world together in a thoughtfully composed 4-course dinner each Thursday. Listen to hear all about the origins and beauty of Boho Supper Club, chef Chris’ eye-opening philosophy on melding different cuisines, what a newcomer to Omaha thinks of the food scene, and more!

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This is...

What started as a single sushi restaurant (Blue) in Omaha has expanded to 13 concepts and 46 locations across 13 states, and Flagship's growth isn't slowing down anytime soon. Two of the 4 founders joined me to talk about how the first restaurant got off the ground, the mistakes it's learned from over the years, creating a cohesive dining experience in addition to serving great food, and where this rocketship of a company is headed next.

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One of the nation's best sushi chefs, Dave talks about his uncommon path to becoming a sushi chef, how his style of mashing sushi styles together has created something new altogether, his humbling introduction to omakase and what made him want to bring it to Omaha, and more!

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When Wayne opened his food truck in 2014, he helped usher in a new era of Omaha to BBQ, introducing legit brisket and simplistic methods that introduced incredible meat. We discuss why he loves Central Texas BBQ and the importance of hospitality and loving people in BBQ.

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What if I told you Omaha's best Reuben sandwiches was one you order online and cook yourself after it's delivered to your front door? It may sound wild, but Beth Stratton is carrying on her grandfather's legacy through Omaha Gourmet Reuben, the Reuben delivery company that has fans making mad dashes to order every time the opportunity arises. Hear the history behind this unique company and what gives Beth the drive to keep this tradition alive!

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These talented chefs blend modern techniques and ingredients with classic steakhouse dishes to create a whole new steakhouse experience. We discussed highlighting different breeds of beef from local farmers, how to create individual, special experiences tailored to each diner, Reubens (of course), and more!

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"The neighbor that throws weird parties with great food and drink." That's how the owners describe Cattle Call, the new downtown Omaha bar that's also delivering chef-curated dishes bringing multiple parts of the world together. Hear owner Sagar and chef Dom talk about how the menu and concept came together and their passion about creating a place for their fellow industry workers to gather and have a good time.

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Few new restaurants have hit the ground with as much positive buzz as Clio, Omaha’s first restaurant dedicated to Mediterranean food. But that wasn’t by mistake. Hear the story of the restaurant’s opening weeks as the chefs worked around the clock to develop recipes, research the cuisine, build a team, and master the finicky but absolutely delicious pita. Anyone curious about how restaurants move from concept to reality can’t miss this episode!

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What started as a holiday passion project during COVID has transformed into a full-time job and wonderful business for Bri, who thrills the masses with her delightful cheesecakes and other confections. Hear her story, the R&D process behind her wildly creative flavors, and how she made the tough decision to quit her job and run Breeze full time.

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This is an...

Wilson & Washburn is a bar first and foremost, but traditional bar food, this is not. Owner Jeff Luby explains the elevated twists W&W puts on bar food, how a former bartender became a restaurant owner, and the impact former brothel owners had on bringing this historic restaurant to life.

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There’s nothing more American than eating a hot dog or a brat while rooting on your favorite team on a summer day. But today, ballpark eats are far more sophisticated than peanuts and Cracker Jacks, and that’s what we’re here to talk about today. The chefs from Werner Park join me to discuss the evolution of ballpark food and the ways in which they're incorporating family recipes and ideas to take things to the next level.

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Herbe Sainte was never supposed to be a restaurant. It was intended to be a New Orleans cocktail bar with a few bites. So how has it grown into Omaha's most beloved destination for Cajun food? Justin tells that story, the insane pivots he and his family had to make, and the wisdom of knowing when a restaurant should bend and adjust in this fantastic conversation.

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After years of working in other bars and restaurants around Omaha, Brady and Evan finally got to open their concept in April 2024—and it was going to be BBQ, their way. But as great as the 'que is at Lazy Buffalo BBQ, it's this duo's attention to the customer experience and making a comfortable gathering space that takes it to the next level. We discuss all that and more in this great conversation!

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Being a restaurant owner and chef is all about adaptability, and we use Sauced's story to highlight chefs' ability to pivot. From learning how to adjust the Sauced by Alfaro menu after moving to a new location to her stories of cooking for hundreds of people on a farm for Battle of the Chefs, Michelle's career has been all about pivots, and it's turned her restaurant into a beloved institution.

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Katina Talley (Sweet Magnolias Bake Shop), Stacey Leick (Buttered Marshmallow), and Kathy Silvey (A Catered Affair) discuss the complex realities of operating a bakery, the science behind baking, and so much more! If you've ever wanted to learn more about baking, this conversation with Omaha's best bakers is perfect for you!

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This year, Tim Nicholson became just the second Omaha chef to be named a finalist for a James Beard Award. The genius chef behind The Boiler Room details those emotions and that experience, the importance he places on mentoring his cooks, what's kept him at The Boiler Room for 14+ years, and more in this fantastic conversation.

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After working in a variety of restaurants around Omaha, Sam finally got a chance to open his own place, and Tiny's Pizza Joint is slinging some of the best NY-style slices in the city. Hear the story of how his concept took life, what made him know he wanted to be a chef by age 5, and how community and bringing people together drives him.

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The best part of a food truck is its adaptability, as a truck allows for an ever-changing menu, hours, location, etc. Nocturnal Eats, the food truck sensation taking over Omaha, takes full advantage of that freedom, as Preston and Sarah share their creativity and culinary prowess through burgers, wings, and a Philly cheesesteak that pays homage to the place they met. You have to hear their story and learn what makes this truck's burgers the stuff of legend!

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This...

As the owner of a burgeoning hot sauce company, few in Omaha know peppers and spice like Timothy. But as our discussion unveils, Volcanic Peppers is about far more than heat. We discuss balancing flavor and flames, how different peppers create canvases for hot sauces, one of VC's sauces appearing on the hit show Hot Ones, and more!

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There are few things more quintessentially American than burgers, so why not bring in 3 of Omaha's burger experts to talk about them? Chefs from Nomadic Jack's, Good Lookin', and Block 16 discuss proper burger cookery, bun toasting, untouchable ingredients, and more in this fantastic live episode!

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This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hu...

Is it possible for a meal out to be both healthy and delicious? That was the question Alex Harrington set out to answer, and Untamed Kitchen delivers on both counts. Hear what made Alex passionate about this project and the food that comes out of this kitchen as health-conscious as it is tasty.

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Bill Radtke has two great passions: Cuban sandwiches and helping formerly incarcerated individuals rediscover their value and get back into society. With the help of longtime chef Kevin Shinn, Bill is combining those two loves in Ybor, a Cuban sandwich pop-up with a mission as great as its food. You CANNOT miss their story!

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Sponsored by Certified Piedmontese. Visit their website, use Promo Code: HOPPEN, and receive 25% off your order!

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The restaurant industry is really rough, and making it 3-5 years is an achievement. And then there's Dante, entering year 15 in business with no signs of slowing down. I chat with Owner/Executive Chef Nick and Head Chef Seth about what's led to Dante's sustained success, the trends it has helped set in Omaha, and more.

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Sponsored by Certified Piedmontese. Visit their website, use Promo Code: HOPPEN, and receive 25% off your order!

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There's a lot of great Mexican food, but nothing like La Sierra. This restaurant brings a taste of Durango and its unique gorditas and burritos to Omaha, all with the love and intention one would expect from a family who grew up in the Mexican state. Hear what makes La Sierra different and what makes the Cazares family so passionate about showcasing this food to Omaha!

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Sponsored by Certified Piedmontese. Visit their website, use Promo Code: HOPPEN, and receive 25% off your order...

Ooh de Lally would be an excellent restaurant if all it did was serve excellent food. But on top of thrilling diners with delicious plates, this Dundee restaurant has a higher cause behind it. We chat about Ooh de Lally's partnership with Metro CC to help incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society and find stability, the secret behind the legendary mac & cheese, why Gordon Ramsey's screaming doesn't actually work in a kitchen, and more!

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Nick has had the concept of and the passion for his own burger joint since high school, but some detours took him out of the restaurant industry. But once he found his way back into the kitchen, he knew it was home, and it shows in his food. We discuss the science behind smash burgers, the key to creating the perfectly fluffy french fry, and the journey that's led to his burger concept that's taking Omaha by storm.

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What if I told you that you could get restaurant-quality meals delivered to your doorstep, ready after only a few minutes in the microwave? Crazy as it sounds, the crew at Mealbox has cracked the code to make it happen. Hear the science behind these magical meals, how they come up with 10 new meals each week, and the wild story of how the concept came to life.

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Sponsored by Certified Piedmontese. Visit their website, use Promo Code: HOPPEN, and receive 25% off your o...

What goes into the creation of a high-end whiskey bar? What's the R&D process to make craft cocktails? And how do bartenders express themselves through the drinks they create? The owner and head bartender of Proof open up on those topics and more in our fascinating conversation!

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This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digi...

Though they grew up in different countries on different continents, rotisserie chicken was an important food to both Carlos and Palmyra growing up. And after a life-changing meal in Miami, they decided to open a concept centered around rotisserie chickens together. Hear their story and what makes this poultry a cut above what you'll find at other chicken concepts.

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Sponsored by Certified Piedmontese. Visit their website, use Promo Code: HOPPEN, and receive 25% off your order!

This is ano...

Arthur had almost no restaurant experience before moving to Omaha and opening his restaurant in 2021, but he just had to share his Armenian food and culture with the masses. Learn what defines Armenian food, what makes his kebabs different from any you’ve had before, and how Arthur successfully jumped into the restaurant industry in the midst of a pandemic.

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Sponsored by Certified Piedmontese. Visit their website, use Promo Code: HOPPEN, and receive 25% off your order!

This is a...

Omaha can't get enough of the newest addition to Omaha's pizza scene. This unique Neapolitan/New York combo dough is bringing customers like few restaurants experience right off the bat, but it's not all fun and games for this crew. Hear the hard work that went into developing the dough, perfecting the cook, and managing the hungry crowds. These veterans of the restaurant industry have a lot of experience, and the success of this new venture proves it.

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Tired of having to drive to South Omaha to get great Latin food and groceries, this long-time of the restaurant industry opened his own place! Hear Jose's story, how he created his life-altering (not an exaggeration) Cubano, the evolution of his market into offering more hot food, and the joy he gets from having freedom to run his business the way he wants.

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Sponsored by Certified Piedmontese. Visit their website, use Promo Code: HOPPEN, and receive 25% off your order!

Duration: 01:09:33