The Great Debate: Nebraska’s Best BBQ / Pizza / Seafood Spots Ranked
In Omaha, just a short drive from downtown, you’ll find the historic Old Market district, a vibrant hub that’s become synonymous with some of Nebraska’s best BBQ. One standout is Smokebox BBQ, a place where the slow-smoked meats draw crowds from across the region. Their ribs, cooked low and slow over hickory wood, embody a deep, smoky richness that sets them apart from more commercialized joints. The Old Market’s cobblestone streets and brick buildings offer a charming backdrop for an afternoon of exploring local shops before settling in for a feast. Late spring and early fall evenings here are perfect for strolling outdoors, making the BBQ experience all the more inviting as the weather cools just enough to savor the hearty flavors.
Heading southwest toward Lincoln, about 10 miles from the city center, the Haymarket District is a lively neighborhood that pulses with culinary creativity. At Pitch Pizzeria, the spotlight shines on their use of wood-fired ovens and inventive toppings that blend Midwestern ingredients with traditional Neapolitan techniques. The result is a crisp, flavorful crust topped with locally sourced cheeses and meats, offering a fresh take on pizza that feels both familiar and new. Visitors can pair their meal with a walk along the nearby Antelope Valley Parkway, enjoying the open green spaces and public art installations that define this urban park. Early evening visits during warmer months allow diners to linger at outdoor tables, soaking in the neighborhood’s energetic vibe under the soft glow of string lights.
Traveling north to Kearney, roughly 175 miles west of Omaha, the city’s riverside has quietly become a destination for those seeking quality seafood far from the coasts. The Alley Rose Restaurant & Lounge has earned a reputation for serving fresh catfish and walleye, sourced from local lakes and rivers, prepared with a touch of Southern flair. Situated near the Fort Kearny State Historical Park, after a hearty meal, visitors can explore the park’s reconstructed stockade and interpretive exhibits that chronicle Nebraska’s pioneer history along the Oregon Trail. Summer evenings here are especially pleasant, when the warm Missouri River breeze mingles with the aroma of grilled fish, making for an idyllic dining and sightseeing combination.
In the heart of Scottsbluff, about 250 miles west of Lincoln, The Oasis Bar & Grill stands out as a local treasure for BBQ lovers in the Panhandle region. Their brisket, smoked with a blend of apple and mesquite woods, carries a distinct flavor profile reflective of Nebraska’s diverse culinary influences. Just a stone’s throw from the restaurant is the Scotts Bluff National Monument, where towering bluffs offer panoramic views of the North Platte River Valley. Visitors often time their BBQ meals to coincide with late afternoon hikes on the Saddle Rock Trail, a moderate 2-mile loop that culminates in breathtaking sunset vistas. The interplay of rugged landscape and smoky barbecue creates an authentic western Nebraska experience that lingers long after the last bite.
Downtown Hastings, located roughly 70 miles south of Grand Island, has quietly fostered a community of pizza aficionados with spots like Lou’s Pizza House. Known for a classic Midwestern style crust—thick but not doughy—with generous layers of tomato sauce and mozzarella, Lou’s delivers a nostalgic taste of Nebraska’s comfort food roots. The nearby Hastings Museum invites visitors to spend a few hours exploring exhibits on local history and natural science, including the bird collection that highlights Nebraska’s migratory pathways. Fall is an ideal time to visit, as the changing colors of the surrounding countryside add a warm glow to both the museum’s displays and the cozy pizza parlor atmosphere.
On the banks of the Missouri River in Bellevue, just a few miles south of Omaha, the historic Little Blue Brewing Company has expanded its menu to include a surprisingly fresh seafood selection, including locally sourced shrimp and catfish dishes. While Nebraska isn’t coastal, the restaurant’s commitment to freshness and creative preparations brings a taste of the sea inland. After dining, visitors can take a short drive to Fontenelle Forest, a sprawling 1,400-acre nature preserve featuring miles of hiking trails, boardwalks through wetlands, and the serene Eagle Point overlook with sweeping river views. Springtime offers the added delight of migratory birds returning, making it an excellent season to combine outdoor adventure with a fulfilling seafood meal.
Farther north in the town of Norfolk, about 100 miles northwest of Omaha, The Big Orange is a beloved pizza joint known for its bright, quirky atmosphere and an eclectic menu that experiments with bold toppings. The crust is thin and crisp, baked in a high-temperature oven that gives it a characteristic char. Norfolk’s proximity to the Niobrara River Valley means visitors can easily pair a pizza night with a day hike along the nearby Cowboy Trail, one of the longest rails-to-trails conversions in the country. Stretching over 100 miles, this trail offers gentle terrain perfect for biking or walking through Nebraska’s scenic sandhills. Summer evenings under the expansive prairie sky add a magical touch to the town’s casual dining scene.
Finally, on the eastern edge of Nebraska in Plattsmouth, just about 20 minutes south of Omaha, The Boathouse Bar & Grill offers an exceptional seafood experience focused on fresh river fish and shellfish. Located near the confluence of the Platte and Missouri Rivers, this spot leverages its waterside setting to serve pan-fried perch and jumbo shrimp that taste like a salty breeze has been captured on the plate. After a meal, visitors should explore the Plattsmouth Riverfront Park with its walking paths and historic riverboat docks, which celebrate the town’s long heritage as a river port. Autumn’s crisp air and the colorful foliage along the waterway make this an enchanting place to savor seafood and soak in small-town Nebraska charm.