Meet Penstemon: A New Kind of Gathering Space Coming to Dundee in Summer 2025

This summer, Dundee welcomes a brand-new addition to the neighborhood — Penstemon, an outdoor bar and community space tucked behind a 100-year-old house, complete with a backyard stage, cozy basement nook, and a name rooted in Nebraska's native landscape.

Founded by Chloe Fortina and Casey Fictum, Penstemon was born out of a shared love for creativity, small business, and the arts. Chloe, a third-generation small business owner in Omaha (from the Rockbrook Camera family), brings years of hands-on experience. Casey has a history of entrepreneurial experiments—from a tea company in his twenties to countless side projects. Together, with their longtime friend Austin, they’ve been dreaming and planning what Penstemon could be for more than a year.

But Penstemon isn’t just another bar. The team’s vision goes well beyond drinks. It’s a space intentionally designed to feel different—less concrete, more community. Their outdoor layout integrates native Nebraska plants, trees, and porous hardscaping to allow for slow, natural growth and nourishment. “We’re making choices that favor long-term experience over instant polish,” they shared. “It may take a couple of years to fully grow into itself, but that’s kind of the point.”

Inside, the basement will be home to a unique fusion of books and bottles—a quiet retreat where guests can pair a thoughtfully selected beverage with their current read. It’s a subtle nod to Dundee’s late beloved bookstore, reimagined with a cozy, adult twist.

The real heartbeat of Penstemon might just be its backyard stage, which will host a rotating series of small performances—from live music to poetry readings. The goal? Create space for creative expression without pressure to be anything more than curious. “We wanted to contribute to the arts in a small way,” says Casey. “The only reason I even made it to college was music—so this feels like giving something back.”

Even though doors haven’t opened yet, Chloe and Casey say the most rewarding part so far has been connecting with other Omaha business owners they admire. “Everyone’s been so generous with their advice and encouragement. It’s a reminder that you don’t have to have all the answers—you just have to ask the right people.”

So, why Dundee?

“The excitement you feel from residents when you say you want to build something new here—it’s unmatched,” says Chloe. “It’s a walkable, welcoming neighborhood with history and heart. People here seem ready for something a little different.”

Whether you’re sipping tea in the shade on a quiet morning or catching an unplugged set under the stars, Penstemon aims to be a new kind of community hangout—rooted in Nebraska, and growing slowly and thoughtfully into something special.

Stay tuned for opening details and programming announcements coming soon!