Nebraska Restaurant and Dining Guide

Welcome to the heartland of America, Nebraska, renowned for its bountiful agriculture and unique Midwest charm. We’re excited to guide you through a deep exploration of Nebraska's local cuisine, rich history, and diverse cultural experiences. This journey will take us from Omaha's bustling steakhouses to Lincoln's quaint bistros, Grand Island's beloved eateries to Kearney's culinary gems, not forgetting Scottsbluff's local delights, and finally, to the hearty offerings of Hastings. Brace yourselves for a discovery of the state's iconic dishes, legendary establishments, and the stories that make them unique. Together, we'll experience Nebraska’s local food scene, unraveling delicious surprises at every turn, peppered with intriguing local trivia and the must-visit landmarks in each city. This is not just about food; it's about the soul of Nebraska, embedded in every bite and every local experience. Join me as we explore and taste Nebraska, one city at a time.

Omaha - Steaks and Cityscapes

Omaha, Nebraska's biggest city, is famously known as the "Gateway to the West", but I like to think of it as the "Gateway to Good Eats". First stop, Johnny's Café, a spot so iconic it has a steak named after it. You can't visit Omaha without trying the Omaha Strip Steak here. And if you fancy a side of history with your meal, this place has been serving delicious cuts since 1922! In a city known for beef, Brother Sebastian's Steakhouse holds its own with a tantalizing Beef Stroganoff that will make your tastebuds do a happy dance. From Nite Hawkes Cafe's Texas style grilled ham & cheese sandwich to the Keystone Tavern's Reuben sandwich, Omaha is a sandwich lover's paradise.

After all that feasting, work it off with a stroll in the Old Market or let the kids burn energy at the Omaha Children's Museum. Don't miss the Henry Doorly Zoo, which is ranked among the world's best.

Lincoln - Unicorn City Eats

Nebraska's capital, Lincoln, or as locals affectionately call it, "Unicorn City", is next on our culinary tour. Start your culinary adventure at Red Fox Steak House & Lounge with a prime rib melt sandwich that's too good to share. The secret's in the sauce, but they're not telling! Bison Witches Bar & Deli serves up a Wisconsin Cheese soup that's the stuff of legends. You haven't truly experienced Lincoln until you've savored every spoonful. And if you're in the mood for comfort food with a twist, Toast's classic burger and toasted mac & cheese won't disappoint.

Lincoln also boasts some top-notch cultural attractions. The State Capitol building is a sight to behold, and the Lied Center for Performing Arts is a must for theatre enthusiasts. And for dinosaur lovers young and old, Morrill Hall offers a fascinating peek into the past.

Grand Island - Island Eats and Treats

Next, we mosey on over to Grand Island, smack dab in the heart of Nebraska. Don't be fooled by its name; it's a city, not an island, and its food scene is as grand as its moniker. Start off with a hearty T-Bone steak at Texas T-Bone Steakhouse, so big and juicy you might need a 'doggie bag'. Breakfast lovers, prepare to swoon! Tommy's Family Restaurant's Fruit Waffle and Sour Cream Raisin Pie are reasons enough to become a morning person. For an unforgettable burger experience, Sin City Grill's Texas Hold 'Em burger is the ace up your sleeve.

Post feast, take in the sights at Fonner Park or get a dose of history at the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer.

Kearney - Archway to Delights

Known as the Sandhill Crane Capital of the World, Kearney is our next culinary stop. Fancy Thai food in the middle of Nebraska? You betcha! Suwannee Thai Cuisine's Fresh Sparing Rolls and Beef Noodle Soup are tantalizingly exotic. Can't decide between dessert and a burger? At Angus Burgers & Shakes, you don't have to! Their Uncrustable Burger is as quirky as it sounds. For a different kind of surf and turf, try Cunningham's Journal On The Lake's Grilled Filet Skewers and Bacon Wrapped Shrimp.

After dining, explore Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park or soak in some culture at the Merryman Performing Arts Center.

Scottsbluff - Savoring Scottsbluff

Our journey westward brings us to Scottsbluff, where the food is as vibrant as its history. Start your day with The Tangled Tumbleweed's Smoked Salmon Brioche Toast, a delightful amalgamation of flavors that dances on your palate. For a hearty supper, their Meatball Skillet makes a perfect choice. Don't leave without trying El Molcajete Restaurant's Chile Relleno and Bistec Ranchero, a true testament to Scottsbluff's diverse culinary scene.

Once your stomach is happily full, visit the Scotts Bluff National Monument, a significant landmark on the Oregon Trail, or the Western Heritage Center for a deeper dive into the region's history.

Hastings - Hastings' Hearty Delights

Last, but definitely not least, we find ourselves in Hastings, a charming city boasting a fusion of flavors. At Kitty's Roadhouse, pizza meets steak in a culinary union that's hard to resist. For a gourmet twist on the humble sandwich, Back Alley Bakery's Chipotle Bacon Turkey Panini and Queen City Philly Panini are must-tries. And be sure to save room for dessert!

Post-dining, walk it off along the Pioneer Spirit Trail, or visit the Hastings Museum to enrich your knowledge of local history and culture. You're sure to leave with a full belly and a fuller heart.

Nebraska is more than just rolling plains and vast cornfields. It's a state teeming with culinary experiences waiting to be discovered, from Omaha's meat lover's paradise to Lincoln's fusion of tastes, Grand Island's hearty bites, Kearney's gourmet creations, Scottsbluff's vibrant flavors, and Hastings' eclectic fusion. As you roam from city to city, indulging in the local delicacies, you'll uncover the rich and diverse fabric of Nebraska's food culture.

The story doesn't end there, though. Nebraska's tourist attractions, like Omaha's Old Market, Lincoln's State Capitol, and the Scotts Bluff National Monument, beckon visitors to explore their history, culture, and natural beauty. So next time you plan a trip, remember, Nebraska invites you to a feast of both flavor and experience. Come savor the authenticity, cherish the diversity, and celebrate the flavorsome journey that Nebraska has to offer. Dig in!

Must-Try Restaurants in Nebraska

Cunningham's Journal On The Lake

610 Talmadge St Suite A, Kearney, NE 68845

Daylan was a great server and the food was wonderful. My date and I enjoyed ourselves.

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Good111 Reviews4.1

Keystone Tavern

7821 Military Ave, Omaha, NE 68134

Me and my fiancé just moved to the area so we came by to check it out. Absolutely loved it!!!! Amanda was amazing and so was Corey. The food was great an...

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Superb34 Reviews4.3

Bison Witches Bar & Deli

1320 P St #100, Lincoln, NE 68508

Food is great. Service is mostly alright, but kind of scattered.I’ve seen servers take trash out and then run food immediately afterwards, without washin...

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Good88 Reviews4.2

Kitty's Roadhouse

1400 E South St, Hastings, NE 68901

I'm not one who likes eating in a bar. But my son kept trying to get his mom and me to go there.I have to say it was a good find food was great pric...

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Superb49 Reviews4.5

Suwannee Thai Cuisine

1420 W 24th St, Kearney, NE 68845

Evidently, answering the phone is impossible. So no idea how good the food or service is. Tried for hours to place a order, to-go, during business hours,...

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Superb79 Reviews4.6

Angus burgers & shakes

421 Talmadge St, Kearney, NE 68845

Nice and quiet on a Sunday. Hash browns are great. Cook on the eggs were all correct.

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Good108 Reviews4

Red Fox Steak House & Lounge

1339 W O St, Lincoln, NE 68528

Delicious food, but "Steak House", in my opinion, is a technically correct but overstated term in this case. Yes, there is a small steak sectio...

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Average51 Reviews3.1

Toast

570 Fallbrook Blvd #105, Lincoln, NE 68521

I really like Toast and go there often. This visit was disappointing. Food quality was not good. 4 on duty wait and bar staff eating at bar, bartender...

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Superb72 Reviews4.3

Brother Sebastian's Steakhouse

1350 S 119th St, Omaha, NE 68144

The food is always outstanding.It's a little pricy, but if you want to splurge on a good meal once in a while, you won't regret it.

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Superb150 Reviews4.5

Nite Hawkes Cafe

4825 N 16th St, Omaha, NE 68110

Laid back family restaurant where the first thing they ask is if you want the menu which means they have a lot of regulars. I would be too if I lived nea...

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Superb70 Reviews4.8

Back Alley Bakery

609 W 2nd St, Hastings, NE 68901

Great spot for breakfast or lunch in downtown Hastings. You can get a variety of sweets or a load of fresh baked bread. Hands down one of my favorite spots!

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Superb38 Reviews4.3

Sin City Grill

410 W 3rd St, Grand Island, NE 68801

We stopped in for burgers. The waitress was wonderful! The burgers were great & inexpensive. Onion rings were the best I've ever had! Fries seem...

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Good64 Reviews3.9

Tommy's Family Restaurant

1325 S Locust St, Grand Island, NE 68801

Came in and ate 4/1/24. It has been years since my last visit. Glad I stopped in. Great food. Great service an you can't beat the nostalgia. I'...

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Superb110 Reviews4.3

Texas T-Bone Steakhouse

1600 S Locust St, Grand Island, NE 68801

I'm sorry I had a steak on the plate too but it was too good to wait to include! Amazing hot delicious food! Wonderful service even though they were...

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Good101 Reviews3.8

Johnny's Cafe

4702 S 27th St, Omaha, NE 68107

Johnny's is excellent for the state of Nebraska and the filet mignon or prime rib is most probably their best choice on the expansive menu. A great ...

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Good95 Reviews4.1

The Tangled Tumbleweed

1823 Ave A, Scottsbluff, NE 69361

We stopped through here on our way home for a late lunch. We ordered and shared fried cheese curds and a flatbread. The facility is attractive, clean, an...

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Superb77 Reviews4.8

El Molcajete Restaurant

1013 E Overland, Scottsbluff, NE 69361

I love the server. She was kind and nice about everything. This is a small yet homely place. I have high hopes for this restaurant.

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Good32 Reviews4

Recently Opened Restaurants

Sakai Sushi Train and Grill

555 Cornhusker Rd suite #204, Bellevue, NE 68005

Our new go-to sushi/sashimi place! I personally love their sashimi platter they have amazing assortment of sashimi my favorite's being toro, k...

Superb53 Reviews4.6

Happy Buddha's

3608 Twin Creek Dr #107, Bellevue, NE 68123

First the Good: probably the best Crab Rangoon in town! Perfect. I got shrimp egg fu yung, the shrimp were BIG and tasty. My wife ordered Beef&Brocco...

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Superb133 Reviews4.7

Hawaiian Bros Island Grill

16171 Stevens Pointe St, Gretna, NE 68028

Always excited when new chains come to Omaha. I looked into going in KC before but it didn't work out. I ordered the Classic size of the Honolulu Ch...

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Superb32 Reviews4.5

Shortcake's Sweets & Treats Bakery, Food Truck and Concessions

104 N Randolph St, Weeping Water, NE 68463

great food, kolache and. bbq pork. cant wait till they come back to auburn.great people

Superb3 Reviews5

Filipino Fusion Restaurant And Bar

2851 Capehart Rd Bay F, Bellevue, NE 68123

Best New addition to Bellevue.Best lumpia and pancet!Friendly and welcoming family owned business.

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Good36 Reviews4.2

MrBeast Burger

2700 N Hill Rd, Lincoln, NE 68504

I ordered the trio. Ribs shrimp was good and crunchy. The 6 oz steak was the worst part me and my husband had. The color was horrible and the taste was d...

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Poor17 Reviews2.1

Las palomas Mexican grill

10005 W Davey Rd, Raymond, NE 68428

So, I'm kind of wary about Mexican restaurants. I like Mexican food a lot but it seems like a lot of tex-mex style restaurants have food that all t...

Superb2 Reviews5

MrBeast Burger

106 Wilmar Ave, Grand Island, NE 68803

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Poor0 Reviews0

Stagecoach Bar & Grill

111 N Main St, Stuart, NE 68780

Poor0 Reviews0

Breakfast Unhinged

5310 S 56th St Suite 7, Lincoln, NE 68516

Place was really cozy. Person was nice. And I ate the best grilled cheese I've ever had here. And their open 24 hours on weekends, so it was a nice ...

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Superb32 Reviews4.3

Luna azul mexican Restaurant

202 US-6, Ashland, NE 68003

Since moving to the Midwest, we've struggled to find good, authentic Mexican food. While traveling back to Iowa, we took a small detour off the I-80...

Superb56 Reviews4.6

Runza Restaurant

5345 S 204th Ave, Elkhorn, NE 68022

This location in elkhorn gave me TWO RANCHES so they’re in my Will now. Thank you. Pleasant surprise.

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Superb12 Reviews4.3

Memoir

930 Harney St, Omaha, NE 68102

What a fun addition to Downtown Omaha! Memoir is hip, modern, and swanky all wrapped into one gorgeous restaurant. Even better than the design and decora...

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Superb153 Reviews4.7

Roxxy

1150 Capitol Ave, Omaha, NE 68102

WE LIVED FOR THIS PLACE!! The DJ, I cannot believe how superb his music choice was. My group was 60s to 21 and we all danced for hours. Melanie and Amber...

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Superb70 Reviews4.7

Culver’s

11070 S 191st St, Gretna, NE 68136

It's excellent, the fish and chips are great and the slaw is good too. Service is good too.

Superb33 Reviews4.5

Recent Reviews

Lil’ Risky

4620 Bair Ave, Lincoln, NE 68504

We’ve been here several times always a great time but tonight there was a woman at the end of the bar, she’s always there sitting in...

Good65 Reviews4.2

Godfather's Pizza

3301 O St, Lincoln, NE 68510

They made my pizza wrong. It was a delivery. I called them to have them remake. The person on the phone told me he would credit me and I could reorder...

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Good41 Reviews3.6

Sinful Burger

14612 W Center Rd, Omaha, NE 68144

Placed an order online. Most of the items were okay. Patty Melt was dry, not very melty (if you know what I mean) Ordered two sides of Honey Mustard, t...

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Good87 Reviews4

McDonald's

1180 US-20, Chadron, NE 69337

Stopped yesterday total came to 7.02 on drive threw board, then they told me 8.28 when I got to window, gave manager 9 bucks and didn't get any chan...

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Average61 Reviews2.7

Tiki Time Bar

9661 Renee Ave, Plattsmouth, NE 68048

Such a great bar! Food is delicious.. owners are AMAZING! Workers.. AMAZING. Best place to go!

Superb33 Reviews4.6

Blue Hill Tavern

521 W Gage St, Blue Hill, NE 68930

Cory and staff transformed this establishment into a wonderful hometown bar Great pizza and activities What a blessing for the town

Superb5 Reviews5

The Omaha Bakery

10503 S 15th St Suite 109, Bellevue, NE 68123

Visited the Bellevue location for the first time this past Saturday. I had visited the old 72nd street location years ago. Both times I've definitel...

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Good53 Reviews4.2

Jc’s Steakhouse

127 E 6th St #2, Wahoo, NE 68066

Best chicken philly I’ve had in a long time. Great service. I’ll come back next time I come through Wahoo from Lincoln.

Superb54 Reviews4.4

Calabria Italian Restaurant

725 S 6th St, Nebraska City, NE 68410

I love this restaurant so very much! Delicious lasagna and their rolls are so delicious!!

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Good82 Reviews4

Royal Bar & Grill

3040 US-20, Royal, NE 68773

Stopped in to hang up a poster on a Saturday and was greeted with a smile. Quaint, clean local pub atmosphere. Food served in a timely manner and cooked...

Superb27 Reviews5

The Downtowner

715 1st Corso, Nebraska City, NE 68410

Great second and really, really good did. We got breakfast and the biscuit and gravy were excellent.

Superb63 Reviews4.6

IHOP

7201 S 84th St, La Vista, NE 68128

We arrived at 5:50 PM on Sunday night and were seated right away. Ordered omelets and water. Got water after 10 min. At 6:40 still no food. We heard the ...

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Average97 Reviews3.1

Barrel Bar

1200 E South St, Hastings, NE 68901

If you are in Hastings, you have to stop by and have one of their Famous Charburgers!

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Good43 Reviews4

Pardon My Cheesesteak

2801 Pine Lake Rd, Lincoln, NE 68516

I can't say how the food is because they let me order pick up but unbeknownst to me, its a ghost kitchen and the "restaurant" has no signa...

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Poor2 Reviews1

El Toro Mexican Restaurant

3425 W State St, Grand Island, NE 68803

Service was mediocre we had to ask someone to find our waiter because we needed refills. The food was okay but let's just say it caused some upset ...

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