Omaha Eppley Airfield - DISCUSSION

[Coyote]

Tornado touches down at Eppley Airfield; damage reported to some buildings



Omaha’s Eppley Airfield tells 6 News the airport sustained some damage after a tornado touched down during Friday’s severe weather. The Omaha Airport Authority says the tornado touched down at 5:08 p.m. Passengers waiting in the terminal were placed in shelters for safety. OAA says the passenger terminal was unaffected. The east side of the airport did sustain damage. Four hangar buildings storing 32 private aircraft were destroyed. Other buildings operated by airport tenants were also damaged. No injuries were reported, and the airport reopened for normal operations just before 6 p.m. As of midday Saturday, flights are arriving and departing as normal.

[Renovator2559]

Eppley Airfield continues cleanup, open for business ahead of Berkshire Hathaway Shareholder Meeting.

Berkshire will see no impact to arrivals or departures, an airport spokesperson said.

https://ketv.com/article/eppley-airfiel ... g/60629998

[skinzfan23]

From the Facebook page:

[Bob from Omaha]

Here's the RFP for food & beverage in the terminal. Lots of interesting things here. Better floor plans with more detail. Check it out.

F&B RFP

[Louie]

Here's the RFP for food & beverage in the terminal. Lots of interesting things here. Better floor plans with more detail. Check it out.

F&B RFP

Wow, they are really gunning for a lot of food options. Very cool.

[Mr.Nuke]

Here's the RFP for food & beverage in the terminal. Lots of interesting things here. Better floor plans with more detail. Check it out.

F&B RFP

Good find. The concepts seem decent. The list of attendees for the April meeting is slightly disappointing though.
https://www.flyoma.com/wp-content/uploa ... t-list.pdf

There are several smaller players on that list that Omaha would be a large step up for and makes you wonder if they'd be capable of pulling it off here.

HMSHost after spot checking a couple of the names on the list may be the only one that showed up that can do what Eppley is asking. I've been to several of their airport concepts with mixed results, but they'd be a huge upgrade over what we have.

[thenewguy]

Here's the RFP for food & beverage in the terminal. Lots of interesting things here. Better floor plans with more detail. Check it out.

F&B RFP

Good find. The concepts seem decent. The list of attendees for the April meeting is slightly disappointing though.
https://www.flyoma.com/wp-content/uploa ... t-list.pdf

There are several smaller players on that list that Omaha would be a large step up for and makes you wonder if they'd be capable of pulling it off here.

HMSHost after spot checking a couple of the names on the list may be the only one that showed up that can do what Eppley is asking. I've been to several of their airport concepts with mixed results, but they'd be a huge upgrade over what we have.

yeah, nothing that looks earth shattering. I'd like to see them incorporate a sort of steakhouse type concept, since that is one of our culinary claims to fame. Or do something with meat.

[Garrett]

Here's the RFP for food & beverage in the terminal. Lots of interesting things here. Better floor plans with more detail. Check it out.

F&B RFP

Good find. The concepts seem decent. The list of attendees for the April meeting is slightly disappointing though.
https://www.flyoma.com/wp-content/uploa ... t-list.pdf

There are several smaller players on that list that Omaha would be a large step up for and makes you wonder if they'd be capable of pulling it off here.

HMSHost after spot checking a couple of the names on the list may be the only one that showed up that can do what Eppley is asking. I've been to several of their airport concepts with mixed results, but they'd be a huge upgrade over what we have.

A bit surprised that Flagship isn't considering it, though I suppose the business of airport service is fairly different from a standard restaurant/food hall situation.

[FishFighter92]

Here's the RFP for food & beverage in the terminal. Lots of interesting things here. Better floor plans with more detail. Check it out.

F&B RFP

Good find. The concepts seem decent. The list of attendees for the April meeting is slightly disappointing though.
https://www.flyoma.com/wp-content/uploa ... t-list.pdf

Just for fun, here's the DFW concessions list
https://sites.dfwairport.com/concession ... 419186.pdf

[Bob from Omaha]

An interesting one is MERA. They're in 18 airports and have a lot of other operations. An example is the Cleveland airport. Go check out their restaurants.

Here's a sample of MERA's restaurants & chefs & other stuff:

MERA Restaurants

[Mr.Nuke]

An interesting one is MERA. They're in 18 airports and have a lot of other operations. An example is the Cleveland airport. Go check out their restaurants.

Here's a sample of MERA's restaurants & chefs & other stuff:

MERA Restaurants

Yeah my spot check was pretty bad in hindsight. SSP America is also in 50 airports so it turns out some of the bigger players did show up, which is a good thing.
https://america.foodtravelexperts.com/locations/

The other interesting thing that may have gone overlooked otherwise is the existing concession contracts are up at the end of the year and they want the winners of the contracts to be ready to go with interim operations starting 1/1/2025.

[Mr.Nuke]

A bit surprised that Flagship isn't considering it, though I suppose the business of airport service is fairly different from a standard restaurant/food hall situation.

The RFP seemed to encourage someone like them to bid.

• Minimum of three-years of successful and relevant experience in the last six years in the
ownership, marketing, development, operation, and management of multiple restaurants or retail
locations in a shopping center, airport, transportation center, mall, street location, or other
prominent commercial setting appropriate for each concession package as follows:
• $10.0 million cumulative food service sales (Package 2)

https://www.flyoma.com/wp-content/uploa ... 9-2024.pdf

It is a little odd to me that they didn't show up either. They likely would've needed some external help for a couple of the food concepts Eppley is asking for; but the second package for food albeit, not perfect, also would've played fairly nicely for stuff they've already established elsewhere i.e. quick service Asian, burgers, local bar with food. fast casual Mexican restaurant with bar, etc.

I still think the best bet is to get one of the 3 bigger companies that showed up and knows what they're doing with airport food. It is still going to end up being airport food, but it would be a heck of a lot better than what Riegel is doing now. And hopefully Riegel has nothing to do with the airport after this year. They've had their chance to show what they could do.

yeah, nothing that looks earth shattering. I'd like to see them incorporate a sort of steakhouse type concept, since that is one of our culinary claims to fame.

I'm still of the opinion that something like this probably would fail at Eppley. Elways works at Denver because I personally may have a 2.5 hour layover to kill. Collectively it works because it is a connecting hub airport that sees more passengers in a couple of days then Omaha sees in some months.

[Bob from Omaha]

From the RFP. I highlighted part of the definition to point out whether they want local or local/regional/national. They want local candy, bar, coffee, mexican and with regard to bars they want a local and a local/regional/national brand.

I didn't see pizza. What are the unwashed masses going to do without Godfathers?

Quick Service – Deli. Local, regional, or national brand quick
service deli offering made-to-order sandwiches and wraps for
convenient takeaway. Deli should offer side dishes, salads,
desserts, and cold canned and bottled beverages, including juice
and water. Breakfast sandwiches should be offered in the morning
along with coffee and tea drinks.

Quick Service – Asian. Local, regional, or national brand quick
service restaurant specializing in Asian cuisine. Offerings should
include a variety of entrées, such as bowls, stir-fries, noodle dishes,
salads, side dishes, and dessert. Restaurant should offer cold
canned and bottled beverages, including juice and water.
Non-Permitted Items: alcoholic beverages; vending machines

Quick Service – Chicken. Local, regional, or national brand quick
service chicken restaurant offering a variety of chicken-based
entrées, sandwiches, salads, and side dishes. Restaurant should
offer cold canned and bottled beverages, including juice and water.
Restaurant must operate seven days per week under the
designated brand.

Quick Service – Healthy. Branded quick service restaurant
specializing in freshly-prepared healthy food options, including
organic, low-calorie, and energy-producing fare. Healthy options
could include smoothies and smoothie bowls, juice, and/or salads.
Restaurant should offer cold canned and bottled juice and water.
Note: This unit will not have cooking exhaust vent.
Non-Permitted Items: alcoholic beverages; vending machines

Gourmet Market with Bar and Deli. Local, regional, or national
brand established market or chef-driven market featuring high
quality, freshly-prepared gourmet food and beverage products,
including but not limited to pastas, salads, and light entrees;
cheese, olives, and bread; desserts and baked goods; fresh
produce; healthy snack items; yogurts; cereal; and other items that
can be found in distinctive gourmet markets. Prepared entrees,
either to be heated and ready to eat (such as a portion of lasagna)
or packaged for later consumption, should be available to
customers for takeout. A variety of cold canned and bottled
beverages should also be available, including popular independent
brands. Specialty local food products, such as honey or gourmet
nuts, should be offered for passengers to purchase for
consumption or as a gift.

Candy. Locally branded candy shop offering bulk and boxed
confectionery products.

Quick Service – Burger. Local, regional, or national brand quick
service hamburger restaurant. Menu should include a variety of
freshly-prepared hamburgers and other hot sandwich options,
salads, fries and other side dishes, and shakes. Restaurant should
also provide cold fountain or canned and bottled beverages,
including water.

Bar with Food. Local, regional, or national brand bar with food
with a contemporary menu and dining environment. The menu
should include a variety of entrees, burgers and/or other hot
sandwiches, salads, appetizers, and desserts. Full bar service must
be available, featuring locally brewed beer, craft cocktails, and an
ample selection of quality wines. Seating must be included within
the lease lines.

Local Bar with Food and Prep Kitchen. Locally branded bar with
food with a contemporary menu and bar environment. The menu
should include a variety of light entrees, salads, appetizers, and
desserts. Full bar service must be offered, featuring locally brewed
beer, craft cocktails, and an ample selection of quality wines. Bar
seating must be included within the lease line.

Local Gourmet Coffee. Locally branded gourmet coffee concept
serving freshly brewed hot and cold coffee and tea drinks and cold
bottled beverages. A selection of pre-packaged snacks,
sandwiches, salads, branded yogurts, fruit, and baked goods
should be available for carry-out in convenient packaging.
Breakfast options, such as hot breakfast sandwiches, oatmeal,
fruit, branded yogurt, and baked goods must be provided.
Limited counter seating or bistro tables should be accommodated
within the lease lines.

Fast Casual Mexican with Bar. Local brand fast casual restaurant
with convenient counter-ordering. Menu should offer a variety of
made-to-order Mexican cuisine, including but not limited to bowls,
burritos, tacos, and salads; and serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner
items. Restaurant must offer side dishes, desserts, soft drinks, and
water. Full bar service, including locally brewed beer and an ample
selection of quality wines must be available. Seating must be
included within the lease lines.

[Mr.Nuke]

I didn't see pizza. What are the unwashed masses going to do without Godfathers?

Godfathers couldn't have been pleased about showing up to hear that either.

[Garrett]

yeah, nothing that looks earth shattering. I'd like to see them incorporate a sort of steakhouse type concept, since that is one of our culinary claims to fame.

I'm still of the opinion that something like this probably would fail at Eppley. Elways works at Denver because I personally may have a 2.5 hour layover to kill. Collectively it works because it is a connecting hub airport that sees more passengers in a couple of days then Omaha sees in some months.

Agreed. Eppley is dealing with people who are getting to the airport and might have an hour to kill, so a quick service option would work better than a full blown steakhouse. I’ve kinda hated how fancy some airports have gotten with their restaurants as it’s hard to get a decent meal for under $20, especially sit down concepts have taken over.

[ricko]

Yeah. Fast or fast casual seems to be the way to go. My experience with airports everywhere is that the familiar chains seem to dominate, and even these tend to be the weakest and least satisfying; offering reduced choices with world class price gouging. I paid $9 for a small bag of peanuts at DCA. A friend of mine paid the equivalent of $17 for one donut at the airport in Istanbul.

[Bob from Omaha]

Yeah. Fast or fast casual seems to be the way to go. My experience with airports everywhere is that the familiar chains seem to dominate, and even these tend to be the weakest and least satisfying; offering reduced choices with world class price gouging. I paid $9 for a small bag of peanuts at DCA. A friend of mine paid the equivalent of $17 for one donut at the airport in Istanbul.

Re: Pricing. Here's the Pricing Policy for the "New Eppley"

F & B Pricing Policy

[skinzfan23]

One thing I noticed and liked is target occupancy is Sept 2, 2026. Hopefully this part will be all ready to go in that phase while they continue to update the rest of the airport. Exciting to see.

[NEDodger]

yeah, nothing that looks earth shattering. I'd like to see them incorporate a sort of steakhouse type concept, since that is one of our culinary claims to fame.

I'm still of the opinion that something like this probably would fail at Eppley. Elways works at Denver because I personally may have a 2.5 hour layover to kill. Collectively it works because it is a connecting hub airport that sees more passengers in a couple of days then Omaha sees in some months.

Agreed. Eppley is dealing with people who are getting to the airport and might have an hour to kill, so a quick service option would work better than a full blown steakhouse. I’ve kinda hated how fancy some airports have gotten with their restaurants as it’s hard to get a decent meal for under $20, especially sit down concepts have taken over.

This. Even if you thought “hey, I will go in a few hours early to hit the steakhouse”….the airport restaurant price for a steak in Omaha isn’t going to be worth it. You may as well hit an actual steakhouse beforehand.

[NEDodger]

Regarding Bob’s RFP list, that really is exciting. It’s such a drag to have to eat at Eppley before your flight - this is going to be such a massive improvement. I hope they have at least one or two places open until 10pm. When you have a delay and end up landing late (and Eppley has a decent number of flights that are also scheduled late), it’d be nice to have an immediate option.

[Bob from Omaha]

yeah, nothing that looks earth shattering. I'd like to see them incorporate a sort of steakhouse type concept, since that is one of our culinary claims to fame.

I'm still of the opinion that something like this probably would fail at Eppley. Elways works at Denver because I personally may have a 2.5 hour layover to kill. Collectively it works because it is a connecting hub airport that sees more passengers in a couple of days then Omaha sees in some months.

Agreed. Eppley is dealing with people who are getting to the airport and might have an hour to kill, so a quick service option would work better than a full blown steakhouse. I’ve kinda hated how fancy some airports have gotten with their restaurants as it’s hard to get a decent meal for under $20, especially sit down concepts have taken over.

This. Even if you thought “hey, I will go in a few hours early to hit the steakhouse”….the airport restaurant price for a steak in Omaha isn’t going to be worth it. You may as well hit an actual steakhouse beforehand.

I agree with the last part of your post. However, they are actually trying to keep prices relatively in line. Take a look at the F & B pricing policy. I've seen similar in other airports. It's true prices are somewhat higher but at least they aren't stratospheric. I can't speak for Turkish donut prices.

[halgy]

yeah, nothing that looks earth shattering. I'd like to see them incorporate a sort of steakhouse type concept, since that is one of our culinary claims to fame.

I'm still of the opinion that something like this probably would fail at Eppley. Elways works at Denver because I personally may have a 2.5 hour layover to kill. Collectively it works because it is a connecting hub airport that sees more passengers in a couple of days then Omaha sees in some months.

Agreed. Eppley is dealing with people who are getting to the airport and might have an hour to kill, so a quick service option would work better than a full blown steakhouse. I’ve kinda hated how fancy some airports have gotten with their restaurants as it’s hard to get a decent meal for under $20, especially sit down concepts have taken over.

This. Even if you thought “hey, I will go in a few hours early to hit the steakhouse”….the airport restaurant price for a steak in Omaha isn’t going to be worth it. You may as well hit an actual steakhouse beforehand.

Especially considering how close the airport is to downtown. In a lot of cities, it might take upwards of a hour to get out ot the airport, and that could vary depending on traffic. That kind of situation maybe makes a fancy airport restraint more worth it. But as it is, you could take an Uber from J Gilbert's to the airport and be through TSA in less than 20 minutes.

[thenewguy]

i noticed they have 24 gates in the RFP. Wasn't it going to be 22?

[Mr.Nuke]

i noticed they have 24 gates in the RFP. Wasn't it going to be 22?

Where are you seeing 24? Both the RFP and each of the meeting power points say 22...

[thenewguy]

i noticed they have 24 gates in the RFP. Wasn't it going to be 22?

Where are you seeing 24? Both the RFP and each of the meeting power points say 22...

On page 26. I took a screen shot of it and put a yellow box around 23 and 24

[nebugeater]

i noticed they have 24 gates in the RFP. Wasn't it going to be 22?

Where are you seeing 24? Both the RFP and each of the meeting power points say 22...

On page 26. I took a screen shot of it and put a yellow box around 23 and 24

I am going to assume they left some gate numbers open on the right side for the future.
The gates that are missing as you go around the Perimeter are 3,4, and 8. There is one oval that you cannot see the # on, but I counted 22 gates shown, not matching the highest number shown.

[FishFighter92]

See's Candy at 316 sq ft? Seems small.
I also count 22 gates in the provided photo.

I also hate how they say "Asian". So Afghani food or Bengali?

[nebport5]

Fast Casual Mexican with Bar. Local brand fast casual restaurant
with convenient counter-ordering. Menu should offer a variety of
made-to-order Mexican cuisine, including but not limited to bowls,
burritos, tacos, and salads; and serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner
items. Restaurant must offer side dishes, desserts, soft drinks, and
water. Full bar service, including locally brewed beer and an ample
selection of quality wines must be available. Seating must be
included within the lease lines.

Fast Casual Mexican with "an ample selection of quality wines".

Interesting. Of course you can pair wine with any cuisine but the majority of people eating at such an establishment (and likely the other quick casuals) who order alcohol will get beer.

A better idea would be a wine centric place (wine bar w/food) that serves charcuterie and small plates easily served without extensive preparation. Even a place like Pitch(al beit scaled down) might work for a local offering. They could even do pizzas(perhaps not coal fired) but since they offer take and bake and by the slice that could appease the lack of pizza option. Certainly an upgrade from Godfathers.

The steak thing would be better addressed with a local gourmet burger joint. And of course, Omaha Steaks? Do we know if they'll still have a retail kiosk?

[Mr.Nuke]

On page 26. I took a screen shot of it and put a yellow box around 23 and 24

Yeah like the others said though, count the gates in that photo. There are only 22. I don't know why things are numbered the way they are. I can guarantee you they're not going to have gates 1 and 2 between 7 and 6. Everything they've shown for the past several years including the text in the RFP here and the two solicitation presentations for the RFP state 22.

[NEDodger]

See's Candy at 316 sq ft? Seems small.

I bet it’s essentially a glorified kiosk. I’ve seen those in a few airports, where it’s barely a store you can walk into. Volume-wise, I’m not sure you’d need more than that. Kinda like the one at NFM?

[Louie]

On page 26. I took a screen shot of it and put a yellow box around 23 and 24

Yeah like the other said though, count the gates in that photo. There are only 22. I don't know why things are numbered the way they are. I can gaurentee you they're not going to have gates 1 and 2 between 7 and 6. Everything they've shown for the past several years including the text in the RFP and the two solicitation presentations state 22.

Yeah, 3 and 4 are missing from that picture lol

[joleo]

Has anybody been through the new security at DEN? It is super nice. They have individual doors and areas for each 2 lanes. It's quiet, calming and very efficient. I feel like this is the security of the future!

[thenewguy]

i noticed they have 24 gates in the RFP. Wasn't it going to be 22?

Where are you seeing 24? Both the RFP and each of the meeting power points say 22...

On page 26. I took a screen shot of it and put a yellow box around 23 and 24

I am going to assume they left some gate numbers open on the right side for the future.
The gates that are missing as you go around the Perimeter are 3,4, and 8. There is one oval that you cannot see the # on, but I counted 22 gates shown, not matching the highest number shown.

even gooder eye! I didn't pay attention to that part

[Bearcat06]

Fast Casual Mexican with Bar. Local brand fast casual restaurant
with convenient counter-ordering. Menu should offer a variety of
made-to-order Mexican cuisine, including but not limited to bowls,
burritos, tacos, and salads; and serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner
items. Restaurant must offer side dishes, desserts, soft drinks, and
water. Full bar service, including locally brewed beer and an ample
selection of quality wines must be available. Seating must be
included within the lease lines.

Fast Casual Mexican with "an ample selection of quality wines".

Interesting. Of course you can pair wine with any cuisine but the majority of people eating at such an establishment (and likely the other quick casuals) who order alcohol will get beer.

A better idea would be a wine centric place (wine bar w/food) that serves charcuterie and small plates easily served without extensive preparation. Even a place like Pitch(al beit scaled down) might work for a local offering. They could even do pizzas(perhaps not coal fired) but since they offer take and bake and by the slice that could appease the lack of pizza option. Certainly an upgrade from Godfathers.

The steak thing would be better addressed with a local gourmet burger joint. And of course, Omaha Steaks? Do we know if they'll still have a retail kiosk?

I'm interested to see how these all shake out. I was thinking just off the top of my head, fast causal mexican usually screams Chipolte or Qdoba, fast casual chicken is usually Chick-fil-A, Asian would likely be Panda Express, burgers...maybe Runza would go in there versus McDonald's or Wendy's, deli is usually Subway...all in my typical experience with airport vendors.

If you start talking local options for those options I think it becomes more interesting. Obviously Flagship has some experience with options who aren't nationwide chains, otherwise I don't know if many local places would want to or could feasibly expand to the airport.

[joleo]

Fast Casual Mexican with Bar. Local brand fast casual restaurant
with convenient counter-ordering. Menu should offer a variety of
made-to-order Mexican cuisine, including but not limited to bowls,
burritos, tacos, and salads; and serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner
items. Restaurant must offer side dishes, desserts, soft drinks, and
water. Full bar service, including locally brewed beer and an ample
selection of quality wines must be available. Seating must be
included within the lease lines.

Fast Casual Mexican with "an ample selection of quality wines".

Interesting. Of course you can pair wine with any cuisine but the majority of people eating at such an establishment (and likely the other quick casuals) who order alcohol will get beer.

A better idea would be a wine centric place (wine bar w/food) that serves charcuterie and small plates easily served without extensive preparation. Even a place like Pitch(al beit scaled down) might work for a local offering. They could even do pizzas(perhaps not coal fired) but since they offer take and bake and by the slice that could appease the lack of pizza option. Certainly an upgrade from Godfathers.

The steak thing would be better addressed with a local gourmet burger joint. And of course, Omaha Steaks? Do we know if they'll still have a retail kiosk?

I'm interested to see how these all shake out. I was thinking just off the top of my head, fast causal mexican usually screams Chipolte or Qdoba, fast casual chicken is usually Chick-fil-A, Asian would likely be Panda Express, burgers...maybe Runza would go in there versus McDonald's or Wendy's, deli is usually Subway...all in my typical experience with airport vendors.

If you start talking local options for those options I think it becomes more interesting. Obviously Flagship has some experience with options who aren't nationwide chains, otherwise I don't know if many local places would want to or could feasibly expand to the airport.

Gosh, I hope everything is local Omaha restaurants that really shows off the city! The only exception is maybe Starbucks knowing how much people traveling like this as a consistency at airports nationwide.

Also "vending"? I guess I have seen some fancy vending at big airports, not pop machines and candy machines but machines where you can get sandwiches, salads, ramen, etc. I wonder if that is what this is?

[skinzfan23]

I would love to see Runza there along with maybe Amigos for the mexican. That would give us some local restaurants. Also hope they keep Godfather's as well.

Maybe Scooters could be the coffee instead of Starbucks.

[Mr.Nuke]

I am going to assume they left some gate numbers open on the right side for the future.
The gates that are missing as you go around the Perimeter are 3,4, and 8. There is one oval that you cannot see the # on, but I counted 22 gates shown, not matching the highest number shown.

The problem with that theory is any future expansion is going the opposite direction on the North side.

See's Candy at 316 sq ft? Seems small.

It is pretty deliberate.

This is a freestanding Retail unit. It must have a low profile to allow
views of the Central Pavilion over and through the unit

It is also right in the middle of where everyone is entering and exiting the terminal post security so you don’t want something taking up a lot of space there. I’m kind of surprised they’re putting anything there at all to be honest.

Fast Casual Mexican with "an ample selection of quality wines".
Interesting. Of course you can pair wine with any cuisine but the majority of people eating at such an establishment (and likely the other quick casuals) who order alcohol will get beer.

Yeah I don’t think the wine requirement is there to pair with the food. It is there because it may be the only bar at that end of the terminal covering about 10 gates or nearly half of the airport (there is an optional local bar/food down there in between gates too). Anecdotally every airport/bar/airline lounge I’ve been to there is at least one person drinking wine. I think they probably know what they’re doing here.

[Mr.Nuke]

I'm interested to see how these all shake out. I was thinking just off the top of my head, fast causal mexican usually screams Chipolte or Qdoba, fast casual chicken is usually Chick-fil-A, Asian would likely be Panda Express, burgers...maybe Runza would go in there versus McDonald's or Wendy's, deli is usually Subway...all in my typical experience with airport vendors.

This is all dependent on who wins the contract. If it someone like Riegel that has it currently? Yeah your list looks likely. If it is one of the bigger three that bid, I’d doubt it. They've got partnerships with some national chains looking at HMSHost for example, but those companies are more likely to have their own concepts to plug and play. I can guarantee you though the chicken isn’t going to be Chick-fil-A because the RFP specifically states in needs to be open 7 days a week i.e. the airport is saying don’t propose a Chick-fil-A to us.

If you start talking local options for those options I think it becomes more interesting. Obviously Flagship has some experience with options who aren't nationwide chains, otherwise I don't know if many local places would want to or could feasibly expand to the airport.

I think this is a common misnomer in “local” at an airport. Anything “local” would likely be one of the bigger three potential bidders licensing someone local’s name. I don’t have any high hopes that Wolfgang Puck is hugely involved in his airport restaurants, etc. and there in lies another risk for “local” restaurants potentially getting involved (in addition to the other stuff you mentioned like feasibility).

Gosh, I hope everything is local Omaha restaurants that really shows off the city! The only exception is maybe Starbucks knowing how much people traveling like this as a consistency at airports nationwide.

Going to be lazy and quote our exchange on the subject from a year ago, because it largely covers this. One thing I didn’t add there is I have a feeling the number of people actually eating at Eppley tends to skew higher out of town. See the out of town comment below regarding that.

Gosh, I just hope they really showcase the local restaurant scene after the remodel! And most airports have Starbucks now so I guess you have to go there too. Please, no KFC, Burger King, Godfathers etc etc.

Airport food is tricky. I think there is a place for the McDonald's, Burger Kings, et al. of the world. If you go 100% local or vague conceptual restaurants like some airports, if you are traveling through from out of town, figuring out where to eat can become a chore. There is also something to be said for familiarity. It is largely the same reason said restaurants tend to be at various interstate exits. I know what I'm getting from McDonald's I know it isn't going to be great, but I know it is going to come out fairly soon; something for a person like me at Eppley is pretty important.

The other hard part of the local restaurant scene in general is getting some of the concepts to translate over. O'Hare has an outpost of the city's famous Mexican cuisine chef Rick Bayless. The O'Hare restaurant (awesome for airport food by the way) only serves variations of the Mexican torta sandwich and chips and salsa/guac. The tortas come out within minutes.

Something like your favorite Omaha pizza place isn't going to work unless they are either a) selling pre made slices or b) coming up with some kind of frozen offshoot that cooks in 2 minutes in an oven i.e. an airport Wolfgang Puck restaurant that probably is going to do a disservice to said place's original location. Whatever it is needs to be able to get food out within 5 minutes especially at a place like Eppley..

Also "vending"? I guess I have seen some fancy vending at big airports, not pop machines and candy machines but machines where you can get sandwiches, salads, ramen, etc. I wonder if that is what this is?

Presumably the latter.

I would love to see Runza there along with maybe Amigos for the mexican. That would give us some local restaurants. Also hope they keep Godfather's as well.

Maybe Scooters could be the coffee instead of Starbucks.

Root for Riegel! I personally think and hope Omaha can/will do better.

[JDJase]

Photo update from Eppley's Facebook page

[djc311]

Photo update from Eppley's Facebook page

I'm excited for the airport updates and growth. Regardless of how minimal the international flights are going to be (ie, Mexico, Jamaica, etc) I think it's great news for Omaha and our state.

My 2 cents on food is a mixed bag - I love supporting local, but incoming passengers, especially those with layovers, aren't going to be familiar with a lot of the local eateries. It sounds silly but I've always thought that because our airport lacks the chain concepts that it feels small (which of course it is). But those that travel regularly are accustomed to places they know and some probably like routine. Ultimately it would be nice if they could have a mix, but based upon the initial map it's hard to tell if the terminal will be able to support several concepts (such as Runza and a burger chain, for example).

Regardless, it's going to be a night and day improvement over what's there today and the cavernous walk from terminal A to B that basically takes you past absolutely nothing.