N※N

New Restaurant 'The Garden' to Bloom in Benson, NE

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/20 .. restaurant-the-garden-to-bloom-in-benson-ne.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, February 20th 2026 at 11:03 GMT by Omaha.com
      Locales: Nebraska, Iowa, UNITED STATES

Benson, NE - February 20th, 2026 - The Benson neighborhood is poised to experience a fresh bloom of culinary and community spirit with the announcement of "The Garden," a new restaurant and cafe concept spearheaded by local entrepreneurs Zach Thomas and Laura Miller. The ambitious project, set to take root at 6420 Benson High Road - the location formerly occupied by the beloved Benson Theatre Guild - promises to be more than just a place to eat; it aims to be a vibrant hub fostering connection, sustainability, and a love for locally sourced ingredients.

The announcement, made earlier today, details a vision for a space heavily influenced by biophilic design, integrating lush plant life throughout the interior to create a calming and inviting atmosphere. This move towards incorporating nature into the dining experience aligns with a growing trend in restaurant design, demonstrating a heightened awareness of the positive effects of natural environments on wellbeing. Studies have shown that indoor plants can reduce stress, improve air quality, and boost creativity - all elements The Garden appears keen to cultivate for its patrons.

While the specific menu is still under development, The Garden intends to offer a comprehensive dining experience, encompassing everything from morning coffee and freshly baked pastries to a full, thoughtfully curated restaurant menu. This broad approach suggests a desire to appeal to a wide demographic, becoming a go-to destination for everything from a quick caffeine fix to a leisurely brunch or a full evening meal. The emphasis on locally sourced ingredients is a critical component of their philosophy, promising to support area farmers and producers and ensuring the freshest possible fare.

"We're so excited to bring this concept to life and share our passion for plants and good food with the community," explained Zach Thomas, one of the co-founders of The Garden. His enthusiasm underscores a commitment to creating a restaurant that reflects not just a business venture, but a genuine passion project. This personal connection is increasingly valued by consumers, who are seeking authenticity and purpose in the businesses they support.

Laura Miller echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of community engagement. "We want to create a space where people can come together and enjoy delicious food and drinks while supporting our community," she stated. This commitment extends beyond simply sourcing local ingredients. Miller and Thomas are reportedly exploring partnerships with other Benson businesses and organizations to further integrate The Garden into the existing fabric of the neighborhood. This collaborative approach could include hosting local artist showcases, offering workshop space for community groups, or even sourcing artwork and decor from Benson-based artisans.

The location itself, previously home to the Benson Theatre Guild, carries a significant weight within the community. The Guild was a cultural cornerstone for decades, providing a platform for local talent and fostering a strong sense of artistic expression. Thomas and Miller are keenly aware of this legacy and have expressed their intention to honor it. While the space will be undergoing a transformation to reflect The Garden's aesthetic, they plan to incorporate elements that pay homage to the Theatre Guild's history, potentially through artwork or curated displays. This demonstrates a sensitivity to the neighborhood's past and a commitment to preserving its unique character.

The success of similar concepts across the country suggests a strong potential for The Garden. Restaurants that prioritize sustainability, local sourcing, and community engagement are increasingly attracting a loyal customer base. The growing demand for experiential dining - where the atmosphere and overall experience are as important as the food itself - further positions The Garden for success.

However, challenges remain. The restaurant industry is notoriously competitive, and establishing a successful business requires careful planning, effective marketing, and consistent execution. The current economic climate also presents uncertainties, with inflation and supply chain disruptions impacting food costs and availability. Despite these hurdles, the passion and dedication of Thomas and Miller, combined with the strong community support already evident in Benson, suggest that The Garden has the potential to flourish.

As of today, an official opening timeline has not been released. Thomas and Miller are currently finalizing the design plans, securing necessary permits, and establishing relationships with local suppliers. Benson residents are eagerly anticipating the arrival of The Garden and the fresh, locally-rooted experience it promises to bring.