Several months ago, the City of Omaha sought to accept proposals from various restaurant owners who may be interested in building on the property that was once known as the Asarco refinery. Rick's Cafe Boatyard of Indianapolis submitted the only response.

Last week, the city and Rick Albrecht, president of Rick's, reached an agreement for building a similar restaurant that now sits on the Eagle Creek Reservoir in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Omaha restaurant will occupy a portion of the area that will soon become a city park and public plaza.

The casual dining restaurant offers an American cuisine specializing in Pasta, Seafood and Steaks. Average entree costs at the Indianapolis location ranges from $12 to $20 and is open for both lunch and dinner. They also offer other menu items such as pizza and sandwiches ranging in costs from $6 to $8.

Information as to whether or not they will offer boat docking at the restaurant has not been announced.

UPDATE: 05/02/01

On Tuesday, May 1st, the Omaha City Council approved a lease between the city and Rick's. The 30-year lease requires Rick's Café Boatyard to pay the city $60,000 per year. Their Eagle Creek location has a similar arrangement with the City of Indianapolis.

Construction is planned to start later this summer with a completion date of May 2002. The restaurant is expected to employ 260 people in the summer and 140 during the winter months. Live Jazz entertainment is planned at night.