The Old Mattress Factory Omaha: 5 Shocking Secrets Of 'The Matt' Bar & Grill's 140-Year History

Step inside The Old Mattress Factory Bar & Grill in Omaha, Nebraska, and you are not just entering a bar; you are walking into one of the city's most enduring and historically significant landmarks. As of December 2025, 'The Matt,' as it is affectionately known, stands as a vibrant anchor in the revitalized North Downtown area, a testament to Omaha's rough-and-tumble past and its ambitious future. This iconic brick building, located at 501 N 13th Street, has transformed through three distinct eras—from a humble grocery to a bustling factory to its current life as a premier entertainment venue—each phase adding a layer to its rich, nearly 140-year-old story.

The building's current status as a 'party central' for the College World Series (CWS) and a major hub for live music and events belies a fascinating and sometimes notorious past. The meticulous renovations have preserved the original character, including the exposed brick walls and wooden rafters, creating an ambiance that is truly unique to Omaha. Its location, mere steps from Charles Schwab Field Omaha and the CHI Health Center Omaha, solidifies its role as a cornerstone of the city's modern entertainment district and a crucial piece of the North Downtown Omaha redevelopment puzzle.

The Biography of a Building: From Stabrie Grocery to 'The Matt'

The structure that houses The Old Mattress Factory Bar & Grill is one of the oldest commercial buildings still standing in the area, offering a tangible link to 19th-century Omaha. Its long and varied history is a microcosm of the city's own development, spanning eras of rapid growth, industrialization, and urban renewal. The building's official address is 501 North 13th Street, Omaha, NE 68102.

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• Original Identity (1883): The building was first constructed and opened as the Stabrie Grocery. The founder, Fred Stabrie, an immigrant from Germany, established the small-scale grocer in a burgeoning, rough-and-ready part of the city.
• Notorious Location: The original location was situated within what was known as Omaha's notorious Burnt District, which was also the city's infamous Red Light District in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This initial setting gives the building a truly colorful and historic background, later seeing it converted into a saloon.
• The Factory Era (1944–1990s): In 1944, the building began its long tenure as an industrial site when the Central Mattress Factory Company moved in. This is the period that gave the building its lasting moniker. The company was successful enough to construct a two-story addition to the building in 1950, bringing the structure to its current size. The factory operated for approximately 50 years.
• Modern Transformation: Following the factory's closure, the building underwent extensive, painstaking renovations to convert it into a restaurant and bar. The developers made a major effort to maintain the building’s original character, preserving historical architectural features like the exposed brick walls, wooden rafters, and support pillars.
• Current Identity: The Old Mattress Factory Bar & Grill (or 'The Matt') opened its doors, becoming one of the first successful restaurants to open in the burgeoning North Downtown redevelopment area.

The North Downtown Anchor: A Pillar of Omaha's Urban Renewal

The history of 'The Matt' is inextricably linked to the massive urban transformation of North Downtown Omaha. For decades, the area surrounding 13th and Cass Streets was a mix of historic, often neglected industrial buildings. The decision to construct a new baseball stadium to host the CWS became the catalyst for a billion-dollar revitalization, and The Old Mattress Factory was perfectly positioned to become a key player in this new chapter.

The establishment of the bar and grill was a forward-thinking move that predated much of the major commercial development. It was a pioneering business in the area, helping to draw traffic and interest back to a once-forgotten neighborhood. Its success paved the way for other developments, including the nearby Millwork Commons district, further solidifying the area's growth.

The building itself serves as a perfect example of adaptive reuse, a core concept in modern urban planning. Instead of demolition, the structure was celebrated for its past. The interior design cleverly utilizes the industrial aesthetic of the former factory. The high ceilings, the massive support beams, and the sheer scale of the space create an ambiance that pays homage to its manufacturing roots. Patrons can enjoy a spectacular city view from the upper deck, a popular feature for private events and parties.

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This commitment to historical preservation, supported in part by organizations like the Omaha Economic Development Corporation, ensures that while the neighborhood evolves, the city's architectural heritage remains intact. The location's prominence near major transportation routes and the Gene Leahy Mall also ensures its continued relevance as a central gathering spot for both locals and visitors.

The Unofficial CWS Headquarters: Where Baseball History is Made

For many baseball fans, 'The Matt' is not just a bar; it is the essential, unofficial headquarters of the NCAA Men's College World Series (CWS). The building is centrally located within the Omaha Baseball Village, a sprawling entertainment zone that springs to life every June when the CWS takes over North Downtown.

The tradition of partying at The Matt during the CWS began in earnest in 2011, the year the tournament moved from Rosenblatt Stadium to the newly constructed TD Ameritrade Park (now Charles Schwab Field). The proximity to the stadium—a short, easy walk—made it the perfect spot for pre-game tailgates, post-game celebrations, and a place for fans from all eight competing schools to mingle and celebrate the national championship.

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During the two weeks of the tournament, the atmosphere is electric, transforming the venue into one of the highest-energy spots in the city. While the cover charge can be a topic of discussion among fans, the consensus is that the experience—the massive crowds, the shared camaraderie, and the chance to be in the heart of the action—is well worth it. It is a place where new CWS traditions are forged and long-standing rivalries are temporarily set aside in the spirit of the game.

The Entertainment Hub: Live Music and Events at The Matt

Beyond its role in the CWS, The Old Mattress Factory Bar & Grill is a year-round entertainment destination known for its spacious layout and capacity to host large-scale events. The venue regularly features live music and concerts, drawing both local and regional acts to its stage.

The Matt's versatility allows it to host a wide array of functions, from private parties and wedding receptions to corporate events and large sports shindigs. The unique ambiance—the blend of historic industrial design with modern amenities—makes it a highly sought-after location for event planners looking for a venue with character. The team at The Matt is known for hosting 'legendary events,' leveraging their prime location and ample parking to manage significant crowds.

Whether you are visiting for a weekday lunch, catching a local band on a Saturday night, or participating in the annual baseball frenzy, The Old Mattress Factory Bar & Grill remains a quintessential Omaha experience. It is a living piece of history that continues to evolve, serving as a dynamic intersection point for Omaha’s past, present, and future.