Nebraska Food Spots That Are Worth the Drive (And The Calories)
Nebraska is known for many things, but a flourishing restaurant scene isn’t one of them. Yet. I’m here to make sure that changes. Here are some of my favorite Nebraska restaurants, as well as the top recommendations from fellow travel bloggers who know and love the state.
Update: This post was published in 2019 and updated in July 2025.
Many of the restaurants on this list are in the larger cities, so if you’re interested in small town restaurants, keep reading to the end. I’ve shared a map of restaurants that were recommended by Facebook fans, and it covers the entire state.
While this is technically more coffee shop than a restaurant, Bean Broker Coffee House & Pub in Chadron impressed me the moment I walked in. It’s got a wonderful atmosphere that makes you just want to linger. The food options are what you could expect for a cafe in a bigger city.
For Chadron, it’s a pleasant surprise. And having good coffee helps, too. Bean Broker is a true hidden gem in western Nebraska.
Tip: While you’re in Chadron, plan an afternoon to explore the oldest state park in Nebraska, Chadron State Park.
Don’t let the line out the door scare you away. Block 16 in Downtown Omaha is worth the wait. I’m a creature of habit and always get the Croque garcon burger (mainly because I do anything Alton Brown tells me to do). I know I’m missing out by not trying one of their creative sandwiches of the day. I can’t help it though. It’s an amazing burger.
Anyway, Block 16 also has fantastic fries (try the rangoon fries) and my kids are partial to their fried chicken.
The Green Gateau is the must-visit brunch spot in Lincoln. It’s charming restaurant in downtown Lincoln, no matter what time of day you go, though. Their varied menu includes French cuisine and creative American standards. Order whatever entree you desire, but be sure to also get Beignets to share. Being so close to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, my tip to you is to make a reservation.
North Platte has quite a few restaurants, but if you’re in the mood for steak, I recommend going to charming The Cedar Room in the city’s Historic Canteen District. The steak medallions were perfection. For an appetizer, I recommend the crab rangoon dip.
For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Burr and seek out Adeline’s Bakery just outside of town. This bakery is run by a woman who set up shop in a cute barn behind her house. And the baked goods are very much worth the drive to seek them out! Get the cookies.
The Koffie Knechtion in South Sioux City got its name from a typo that the owners decided to just never fix. This pleasant little eatery is a breakfast stop to remember, with nice touches like adding bacon jam to staples like a breakfast sandwich. I highly recommend getting a pastry while you’re there. Everything is baked in-house each morning starting at 3 a.m. The place is also known because they have two very unique Airbnbs (a tree house and a “Hobbit”-esque house).
One of my favorite small towns to visit is Brownville. There aren’t a whole lot of dining options to choose from, but luckily, what restaurants are there are great. I recommend The Lyceum for your lunch or dinner. It’s nothing fancy, but everything hits the spot. Try the chicken salad croissant, and don’t forget to leave room for pie.
Great small town restaurants in Nebraska
In July 2025, I asked a simple question: What’s the best small town Nebraska restaurant that’s worth the drive. The post had more than 1,000 comments! I gathered all of the suggestions (all 300+ suggestions) and created a map. This will help you find a good place to eat no matter what part of the state you’re in.
