Restaurants in Hays

“I can't say enough good things about this restaurant. We went here for lunch after visiting the Sternberg Museum. The food was excellent and the atmosphere was fun. Staff friendly and attentitve. Make sure to fit this eatery into your schedule when you're in Hays. It is WONDERFUL!”

“A very friendly, knowledgeable staff. The food was tremendous and beautifully served. This restaurant was highly recommended to me, and I will do the same when asked!!”

“This is our stop round-trip between Illinois and Colorado every couple months. The menu of homemade comfort food at affordable prices is a gem of a place. Today I had a bowl of green bean dumpling soup and my husband had chicken noodle soup and a grilled cheese on French bread, but there are other bread choices. See you on our way back to Illinois!”

“bustling with life, they were busy, & were still able to seat tables adequately. my sevice was perfectly precise on her recommendation. The prime rib... prepared perfect & on point, & served without much of a wait. Impressive. strawberry cheesecake was indulgent & creamy. This is definitely one of the treasures of Hays, Ks. Well done. To My server Miss Ella, Thank you for the most perfect service of all dining establishments I have experienced in my 50 years. Great job! - Roy Coates Stratford, Ok.”

“It's a must go that place is the best.”

“Delicious! 🤤 😳😋 I loved the food.”

“Food, Service and Atmosphere were all incredible. First time to Hays and this was 2nd choice, so glad other place was closed. This will definitely be the go-to place.”

“This is the quintessential Burger/shake shack! Food was hot, fresh and burger was juicy. No frills no thrills just good ole fashioned burgers, fries and shakes. I would def come back and try onion rings, shake, etc.”

“The cookies 🤤 I had been told they were good so we ordered the chocolate chip, they were AMAZING! And the app makes it such a breeze to order! Thanks guys!”

“I just tried Taco Riendo and I’m still thinking about it hours later.

I ordered the beef tacos, and they were hands-down some of the most incredible bites of food I’ve ever experienced—perfectly seasoned, unbelievably tender, and packed with flavor in a way that makes you pause mid-conversation just to appreciate what you’re eating. Every detail felt intentional, from the freshness of the toppings to the balance of textures. Nothing was overdone, nothing was missing. Just absolute taco perfection.

Having just moved to Hayes, I wasn’t expecting to find a spot that would instantly become a benchmark, but this place has set the bar so high it’s going to be nearly impossible to beat. This isn’t just “good taco shop” territory—this is the kind of place you bring people to when you want to show them what great food is supposed to taste like.

What made the experience even better was the staff. They stayed late to take care of us and never made us feel rushed for a second. Instead, they were welcoming, patient, and genuinely kind—like they were happy we were there. That level of hospitality is rare and made an already amazing meal feel even more special.

If you’re anywhere nearby and haven’t been yet, you’re missing out on something truly exceptional. This is the kind of place that turns first-time visitors into regulars immediately.”

“went in there. waiter was so cute”

“My daughter and I stopped here on the way to Colorado and we did not regret!! The food was so delicious and service was perfect!! Thank you again!! We will be back!!”

“I was there on a busy night without a reservation. Wait was not long at all, staff was very attentive and even offered free dessert for my wait. To my surprise earlier a very nice gentleman had already paid for my dinner. Hays, KS has the nicest people. A big thank you to whomever paid for my meal!!!!”

“Didn't have a drink other than ice-T. The food was good. All the food was hand-made and not store bought. Yes I would stop by there again if I'm ever up in the neighborhood if you haven't tried it you need to go by”

“Osaki is centrally located in Hays, right on Vine Street. There is plenty of seating and everything is neat and clean. The service is impeccable and the sushi is the best that I've had, in Kansas, west of Kansas City. Very quaint and quiet and comfortable. Very satisfying experience! Don't forget to try the Lobster Rangoon. I know that I will be back for more!”

“Great coffee, relaxing vibes, and fantastic servers! Thank you!!”

“Great place to get a healthy refreshing ice-cream treat, I got don't cry over spilled milk with chocolate almond milk ice-cream it was excellent, customer service was also very nice and gave me a great portion size, definitely worth the price.”

“Katie was all about excellent customer service no matter what the weather was. Big smile, helpful attitude, and making this an excellent experience. Her whole team was wearing bulky equipment to protect them from the weather and they did not miss a beat. Now that is how you run a successful business with great employees.”

“I often get a smoothie with couple scoops of protein and Katie today was super friendly and helpful 👏🏼 come to think of it everytime I go there everyone is super friendly and always prompt service.”

“I have enjoyed my food every time I go. Kitchen stuff is always hot and fresh. Rolls and bowls have always been good quantity and quality. I would love to see lunch specials like Onigiri 🍙 one day.”

“Food is awesome but the two working were to busy flirting with each other to notice anyone even came in . Then they made the pizza incorrectly. The one kid didn't here anything I said.”

“I had six teeth removed Monday and wanted egg drop soup. None in Salina. I had some last Thursday and took the chance by calling Melanie’s Kitchen. Melanie answered and told me she was closed on Monday’s. I told her my quandary. She told me to call her tomorrow and she would fix me the soup. I did and she did!! It is always the best ever.

Melanie, you are truly a caring, loving person. I wish others will follow in your footsteps!!!
Thank you for making delicious soup and making my wants become reality!!”

“Best Mexican in Hays! Fantastic service! I always get the California Burrito.”

“I love the Brass Rail Salon! My hair is gorgeous, love the color, cut and style my beautician was awesome. Your salon meets all my expectations. Everyone there goes above and beyond in the services they offer. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I looking forward to my next appointment.”

“I had a cake and sugar cookies made for my husbands 30th birthday. Absolutely loved them! They were so delicious! Great to work with! Definitely will be getting my future cakes from here! Thank you!”

“Good pricing, large taste portions, quick and friendly service. I did not see the bottom of my coffee cup ... nice!!!”

“Real authentic Mexican food. Friendly service, push out orders in a timely fashion, food and taste are NEVER lacking! Call in orders quick and efficient in Spanish AND English! Salsas are flavor packed and with just the right amount of heat! Locally owned business, these owners should be extremely proud of this food truck!”

“Always a great experience! Jocelyn is wonderful! Always remembers my family and me! Great environment! Great variety of food — boscoes and ranch are my FAV!!!”

“Food was phenomenal and service was amazing. Wonderful, small restaurant with a great atmosphere.”

“Love having choices! Cathy’s Bread never disappoints everything from the fresh, hearty breads to the sweet desserts is absolutely delicious. Thank you for bringing so much variety and flavor to our community!”

“I'd give this place 100☆ if I could! Best Mexican trailer ever! We had them at the local car show in a Hays & had heard great things. Got the pork quesadillo and queso and chips. My kids couldn't get enough of it and us parents wanted to get way more because it was unbelievable! The best food truck hands down! Will definitely be stopping by any chance we get!”

“love there pizza and you cant get unlimited toppings”

“Their food is usually pretty good. One complaint I do have is that I witnessed the cook touched my burger with his bare hands, no gloves. He placed it in the microwave and pulled it out with his bare hands. I find that unsanitary and unprofessional.”

“The best hamburgers and chicken in town, sooo good! Highly recommend trying if you haven’t already!”

“Great place to watch sports, play pool or work remotely. Best food and drinks in Hays by far! Luke and his staff are on point and friendly every visit.”

“Pretty good food, I had a taco salad without dairy and it was good. Definitely recommend.”

“The steamer I had was amazing! I asked for whipped cream on it after I got it, but it came out like liquid. The lady working there was really nice and remade the whole thing for me!”

“The food had gotten to where I didt find it that great, and I stopped giving after being a frequent customer. I decided to give them another try a couple of months ago and the burger and home cut fries were delicious. The burger was seasoned well and the home c cut fries were crunchy on the outside and there was no fryer oil. On the post these fries were often soggy with cooking oil and that is partly why I quit going. I went again just recently and again had a cheeseburger, home cut fries, and s side of fried mushroom. The mushrooms were nicely fried, light batter and no cooking oil mess. The food was great. I spoke with the cook and praised him for the great food. He told me that he was able to make some changes in the kitchen and it really shows. It was obvious to me that the cook is passionate about turning out high quality, flavorful food. I now recommend Sip n Spin, the food is even better than it was at its best. The interior leaves a little to be desired and it could use an update as could the booths. The atmosphere was fine for a lunch crowd.”

“I love this place. Their tacos are absolutely delicious. Queso and chips and their wings were really good as well. this is my go to place when I need tacos though.”

“Taco Tuesday, tried the tacos and nachos they are fantastic”

“Great burgers! Just the right seasoning!”

“These guys came through in thre heat of the moment. I had a project due and was running out of time and they absolutely rocked in helping me get everything done just in the knick of time.”

“Nice place. Haven’t been in this bar since the 80s. Don’t remember what it was called then, but it’s specialty then was it’s hot sausages and they still have them. Kinda cool.”

“went in for lunch today. very good bbq! clean environment and friendly staff. may be my new go to lunch spot 👌”

“Very good service the are very nice people and kindly”

“Wwow!! Cervs is very clean, a friendly staff and above all... the gas pump area was large and easily accessible. Thank you!!”

“I was Happy to try the Flamethrower Burger w/Fries,along with a Medium drink/Flurry(Awesome service worthy of 10,000/10,000 of awesomeness)”

“I was in town for work and got a craving for fried rice. I checked around different places and reviews. Tryyaki jumped out to me so I gave it a try...so glad I did!! HUGE to go portion. I ordered the combo fried rice and ended up with 2 and half meals out of the bowl. Rice was perfect, chicken/beef/shrimp were tender and delicious. Will definitely be back next time I'm in town. Highly recommend!!!”

“horrible food greasy trash. I contacted them after spending over $ 45 dollars on food . told them about my order. they said you can have one free small ice-cream. ! o wow thanks guys thats so lame .”

“My only real concern was the restaurant being very cold. Our server was knowledgeable and friendly. The food was good with the steaks cooked as requested! My asparagus was stringy and disappointing, but my steak and lobster was fine! My friends were pleased with their steaks as well.”

“Fantastic experience. Space was neat, clean with a super cool vibe. Service was great: they checked on us several times but always at the right times, they were welcoming, and friendly. The signature BBQ sauce was spot on, not too sweet, not to tangy, and simply deliciously balanced. We tried several meats inc ribs and chopped brisket and I 100% recommend!”

“Went and grabbed a quick bit to eat . Our waitress was a young girl name Alexis she was a amazing like she need to be on the floor al the time instead n the kitchen cause there not a lot of great help there since Daniel left. She was a great at her costumer service. KUDOS TO ALEXIS”

“Ordering on mobile app was easy, received notification when they started making our sandwiches and 5 minutes later they were ready for pickup! Awesome service!!”

“Usual experience at a subway. We stopped in to get some foot long churros. They were tasty, and my kids were thrilled. The service was excellent. Clean bathrooms too. All in all, a good place to stop.”

“Supremely excellent American/Mexican Fast Food. Possibly one of the best representations of this style I have had to date. Fresh ingredients coupled with great recipes yields, awesome tasting tacos and burritos. The tacos come with a good portion of ground beef that has great flavor and you can tell this is superior in quality to the sad greasy mush that some places like Taco Bell use. The Sanchez, a little pocket of happiness stuffed with their ground beef and topped with a yellow cheese sauce that tastes so much better than the normal yellow canned cheese we see so often in Americanized fast food taco/burrito restaurants. This cheese sauce feels home made and is addictive in nature. So pleasant to consume. The California chicken burrito is stuffed full of fresh chicken, lettuce, and is a favorite as well. Available sauces and toppings don’t disappoint either. No sad plastic packages of sauce here dosing microplastics when opened. But instead a full fresh salsa bar with so many options for sauce including, mild, hot, extra hot, salsa with green chillies, fresco salsa, (pico de gallo,) pickled jalepenos, as well as chopped green onions. You can really go to town decorating your food with a little of everything sauce wise. This is a local favorite and it shows. If you come here on a Friday at lunch time you can expect a wait as it can draw quite a crowd. This crowd comes for a good reason, the food calls you back once you have had it. With their delivery service this is a favorite of the college crowd as well. It is a really great place. A prime example of a clean establishment, excellent service, with an emphasis on doing the best tasting food. While not authentic Mexican, this is authentically awesome. I would place this in the same category as Taco Bell and Taco John’s both price and food style wise, but it is there the similarities end. Taco Shop is miles above the others in terms of flavor and overall ingredient quality. It shows what can be achieved when you really care about more than just profit. To care about not just flavor, but the ingredients used as well. 10/10 and this comes with my highest recommendation for fast food American/Mexican.”

“We purchased a very large order. The gentleman who served us was named bond. He was very professional, friendly and helped us a lot. The service was great.The prices were fair and it was a clean place.Thank you bond”

“Excellent food and friendly service!! I highly recommend!”

“Delicious pizza and excellent service!! Stopped here last night all the way from Virginia while on the way to Denver. It was amazing!”

“This is my second time coming during lunch and won't be coming back. Both times when going with my partner we were treated unkindly by the server. The first time I chalked it up to the server having an off day, but after eating a second time and reading other reviews, I think otherwise. She was very rude, short, and acted as if we were inconveniencing her. It was also hard to get her attention if we needed anything because she was on her phone a lot. Both times we didn't order anything complicated and were very respectful. I don't expect servers to plaster a smile on their face or act sugary sweet but she would roll her eyes at us and huff a bit. Something else I noted was she seated everyone else (about 6 groups of people - some only being two people) in booths and both times we were seated at a table; Doing this drew a lot of attention to us and made me feel uncomfortable. When we asked if we could be moved she rolled her eyes and said that we were fine where we were. The food was decent but it's not good enough to keep me coming back with the service provided.”

“Love the lattes. Great staff.”

“Like many others I have been coming here since the 1970s. That used to bottle their sauce and sell it. it’s the best. They also used to have shaved ice.”

“I was exhausted, driving from Ohio to Colorado, and the barista made my day with this message on my cup:”

“I’ve never met friendlier car hops! Each time I’ve visited over the last couple of days I’ve been impressed. Way to go!”

“They forgot 2 sandwiches and gave us a hot coffee instead of iced. Had to drive back and go in to get the sandwiches. I would’ve appreciated a free item or some other compensation but none was offered. We used the bathroom, which was out of paper towels and it wasn’t even 8am.

But the food was good and the staff was nice.”