An arguably troubled bar in one of the state’s largest tourist attractions is staying open, and the bar’s biggest critic, namely the City of Omaha, isn’t happy.

Once again, the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission has turned its back on the city’s shut-it-down recommendation.

[View our full video report above]

Literally sitting in the shadow of Omaha police headquarters this Old Market Bar has seen its share of problems.

Ryan Wiesen, Omaha Assistant City Attorney: “Large disturbance and fight; one security guard forcefully body slammed a patron to the ground; theft of property.”

All those and more noted in one police report after another.

Ryan Wiesen: “On February 28, 2021 officers were dispatched for a large disturbance consisting of approximately 30 to 40 people; one woman was punched in the face and observed by officers to be bleeding; and again they encountered a delayed entry and interference into the establishment by the establishment staff and security.”

Councilman Danny Begley, Omaha (D): When people's physical being is threatened because of this establishment there is a problem. I wouldn't want to go into that establishment right now because of that. And I hate to say that about anywhere in the city of Omaha, I wouldn't feel safe.

Months after that hearing the bar insisted things had changed.

June 27, 2023

Breanna Pham-Carr, Owner (Throwback Lounge): “We have been working with the City of Omaha since early 2021. We did have a strong learning curve at the beginning of November 2020. And we took a lot of advice.  We’ve been working with the city hand-in-hand, hired off-duty officers. We have more security, we hear from our patrons, than anywhere they’ve been before. They wear bright colored shirts, so people know who they are. People feel safe.”

And this week the Nebraska Liquor Commission, going against the City of Omaha, approved the Throwback’s license renewal. One stipulation, no alcohol sales after 1 a.m.

Joe Jordan, NCN: “Disappointing?”

Pete Festersen, Omaha City Council President (D): "Yeah, I think it's very concerning. The City Council has had frustration over the years with our recommendations not being followed up on, or not given what we think is enough attention, by the Liquor Commission. I think this is a good example. We worked very hard to address this particular entity and felt it should lose its liquor license and that didn't happen yesterday. I have one in my district that's been a long-time problem, too and was supposed to have been shut down and has now reopened. Things like that are very concerning to us."