Part III of our small-town business series is a feature on Elkhorn Nebraska. With a small but up and coming downtown area, Elkhorn has a bit of everything from galleries to eateries to salons and more. It’s a great walking area of approximately three blocks and it’s surrounded by charming homes. Some have been preserved as they originally were, and some have been upgraded to newer styles. I absolutely love this part of town because of all the original architecture. It’s a combination of old west meets something new. Check it out when you’re in the area. I think you’ll find it’s a neat way to spend a couple of hours. Or more if you make it an evening and stop for lunch or dinner.

Bella Vita Ristorante

Now open for dine in as well as carry out, this delicious gem is a must. The Italian food served here is second to none. My favorite is the fresh Seafood Linguine. It has sauteed shrimp, scallops, clams, crushed red pepper, garlic and white wine tossed with linguine noodles and topped with parmesan cheese. So good, but not to worry if you are not a fan of seafood because they have many wonderful beef, veal, and pasta dishes plus great salads. And let’s not forget their wine selection. Particularly good. They have a cute little wine closet off the main dining area, and they hold private wine tastings and wine dinners. It’s not a large restaurant but that’s what makes it so nice. The quint comfortable feeling you get when you are there. If you want a little bit more space, there’s the patio in summertime. It’s elegant and pretty and it’s a lovely place to eat. They typically get pretty busy on the weekend so I recommend calling them beforehand. https://www.bellavitanebraska.com

The Mark

Now this one is not in downtown Elkhorn but I couldn’t skip it because it’s a great family entertainment place and we have so many wonderful young families in town. The Mark has something for everyone including those of us who like to bowl, play volleyball, arcade games and laser tag. And while the kids are playing, the adults stop in at the sports bar and grill for some delicious eats and drinks. I’ve heard their pizza is great. They also have a kid’s menu. If you like, you can host your party at The Mark as well. They have some great party specials, and they don’t just do kid’s parties. You can also host your adult party here including company parties and fundraisers. Call ahead to find out about availability. https://markomaha.com/

Fala’s Treasures & Coffee House

A downtown Elkhorn treasure in its namesake, Fala’s is one I recommend stopping into for a cup of coffee and a little shopping. FALA stands for Fun and Loving Atmosphere which is precisely what this place is. They have lots of unique gifts and treasures to choose from such as jewelry, wine glasses, holiday trinkets, clothing, bath items and toys plus much more. And don’t skip the one of their cold beverages called Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough. OMGosh! This one is a treat/dessert that will spoil your appetite. I think of this shop as a boho mixture of all things wonderful. They also have a menu of delicious foods and they offer catering. Try them out for something different and very cool. https://www.falas.net/

Little Scandinavia

This lovely little shop offers gift items from Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Iceland. They sell ornaments, socks, books, mugs, toys, handmade art pieces and tons and tons of little trinkets. When you walk in your senses are treated to a colorful sight. Take your time or you’ll miss something awesome and do make it a part of your downtown Elkhorn tour because there’s so much for everyone. If you’re in from out of town this stop is a must so that you can pick up a little something for your friends back home. Oh…don’t forget the Gnomes…they have those as well. https://www.littlescandinavia.com/

For more real estate and design information or to see all the blogs from the Priority Group and Sallie Elliott, go to www.omahaprioritygroup.com