Steak Lover’s Paradise: 17 Best Steakhouses In Nebraska
Nebraska knows beef like nobody’s business.
With our rich cattle-ranching heritage and Midwest values, we’ve perfected the art of cooking a mean steak.
As a Nebraska native who’s eaten more ribeyes than I care to admit, I’ve assembled this mouthwatering tour of the state’s premier steakhouses.
From Omaha’s upscale establishments to small-town gems hidden in the prairie, these spots serve up sizzling perfection on a plate.
1. The Drover: Where Whiskey Meets Meat
You haven’t lived until you’ve tried the whiskey-marinated steak at The Drover in Omaha. Last summer, I brought my steak-skeptic cousin from California here, and the transformation on his face after one bite was priceless!
Operating since 1969, this Omaha institution has perfected their signature marinade—a closely guarded secret that involves whiskey and magic (at least that’s my theory). The rustic Western atmosphere complements the menu perfectly, with wooden beams and ranch decor that transport you to old Nebraska.
Their prime rib practically melts in your mouth, but don’t skip their uniquely crispy hash browns. Pro tip: Make reservations well in advance, especially on weekends. The place fills up faster than a watering hole during a drought!
2. Mahogany Prime Steakhouse: Omaha’s Luxury Beef Experience
Walking into Mahogany feels like entering a secret club where beef is royalty. My anniversary dinner here last year nearly made me weep—the USDA Prime beef was that good!
Housed in west Omaha, Mahogany’s dark wood paneling and amber lighting create an atmosphere of understated luxury. Their steaks are aged 45 days, creating a depth of flavor that’s simply jaw-dropping. The servers know their meat like sommeliers know wine, guiding you through cuts with impressive expertise.
While pricey (expect to drop at least $60 on a steak alone), their bone-in ribeye justifies every penny. The lobster mac and cheese side will ruin all other mac and cheese for you forever. Remember to dress sharp—flip-flops and this place mix like ketchup and fine steak!
3. Steel Grill Restaurant & Bar: Gering’s Hidden Treasure
Found Steel Grill during a Scotts Bluff National Monument road trip, and holy cow—what a find! The unassuming exterior gives zero hints about the flavor explosion waiting inside.
Located in western Nebraska’s Gering, this local favorite serves up steaks that could make a vegetarian question their life choices. Their signature Blackened Ribeye has a spice crust that creates a perfect contrast to the tender, juicy interior. Family-owned and operated, you’ll likely meet the owners who treat every customer like long-lost relatives.
Don’t miss their homemade bread—warm, slightly sweet, and absolutely addictive. Steel Grill proves you don’t need fancy frills to serve a knockout steak. Just good beef, proper cooking, and a passion for making people happy through food.
4. Spencer’s For Steaks And Chops: Omaha’s Downtown Classic
Spencer’s saved me during a disastrous first date—the steak was so good we forgot how awkwardly we’d started! Tucked inside the Hilton Omaha, this downtown gem offers a sophisticated yet unstuffy atmosphere.
What sets Spencer’s apart is their commitment to Nebraska-raised corn-fed beef. Their steaks arrive with a perfect sear that gives way to a tender, pink center that’s consistently spot-on. The wine list deserves special mention—expertly curated with options that complement their magnificent meat.
Try the bone-in filet if you’re feeling fancy—it’s rare to find this cut, and Spencer’s does it justice. Their creamed corn side dish sounds simple but delivers complex flavors that’ll have you scraping the dish clean. Perfect for business dinners or impressing out-of-town guests!
5. Lazlo’s Brewery And Grill: Lincoln’s Perfect Pairing
Beer and steak form a heavenly marriage at Lazlo’s, Lincoln’s first brewpub. I once challenged my brother-in-law to their Brewhouse Steak eating contest—big mistake! My ego’s still recovering.
Founded in 1991, Lazlo’s pioneered the craft beer scene in Nebraska while serving up some seriously delicious hickory-grilled steaks. The Haymarket location oozes character with its restored warehouse vibes and exposed brick. Their sirloin, marinated in their house ale and grilled over hickory wood, offers a flavor profile you won’t find elsewhere.
Pair your steak with one of their Empyrean Brewing Co. beers—brewed right next door. The Third Stone Brown is particularly magical with their peppercorn-crusted filet. Leave room for their legendary mud pie, a mountain of coffee ice cream and chocolate that’s worth every calorie.
6. Alley Rose: Kearney’s Culinary Gem
Stumbled upon Alley Rose during a thunderstorm in Kearney, and what started as taking shelter turned into one of the best dining experiences of my life! This charming spot in downtown Kearney serves sophisticated food without a hint of pretension.
Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, Alley Rose offers an intimate dining experience with white tablecloths and local art adorning the walls. Their prime rib (Saturday special) achieves the perfect balance of seasoned crust and melt-in-your-mouth interior. The accompanying Yorkshire pudding transports you straight to Sunday dinner in the English countryside.
Don’t overlook their impressive wine cellar featuring over 200 selections. The staff knows the menu inside and out—ask for pairing recommendations. For a truly special Nebraska evening, finish with their homemade bread pudding drizzled with bourbon sauce.
7. Texas T-Bone Steakhouse: Grand Island’s Generous Portions
Bring your appetite—and possibly a wheelbarrow—to Texas T-Bone in Grand Island! My teenage nephew finished their 32oz challenge steak and still talks about it three years later like it was his greatest achievement.
This unpretentious steakhouse focuses on what matters: excellent beef in generous portions. The Western-themed interior features cattle brands and cowboy memorabilia that creates a fun, relaxed atmosphere perfect for family dinners. Their signature T-bone (naturally) arrives with a spectacular sizzle and aroma that turns heads throughout the dining room.
The salad bar is a meal in itself, featuring homemade potato salad that’s worth the trip alone. Budget-friendly prices make this place even more appealing—you’ll get a stellar steak dinner without breaking the bank. Come hungry and wear your stretchy pants!
8. Dude’s Steakhouse & Brandin’ Iron Bar: Sidney’s Cowboy Classic
Stepping into Dude’s is like walking onto the set of an old Western—complete with authentic cowboy clientele! Last fall, I watched a real-life rancher order his steak ‘still mooing’ and the kitchen delivered perfectly.
Operating since 1952 in Sidney, Dude’s embraces its cowboy heritage with rustic décor and a no-nonsense approach to great steak. The tin ceiling, wooden booths, and vintage ranch tools create an atmosphere that’s genuinely Nebraskan. Their specialty—the Cattleman’s Cut—is a beautifully marbled ribeye cooked exactly how you specify.
The house-made onion rings are crispy golden hoops of happiness that perfectly complement their steaks. Dude’s feels like a time capsule in the best possible way—preserving the authentic steakhouse experience that’s increasingly rare. Be sure to check out the historic bar with its original backbar from the 1880s!
9. Front Street Steakhouse & Crystal Palace Saloon: Ogallala’s Wild West Experience
Eating at Front Street feels like dining in the 1870s—minus the typhoid and with much better hygiene! During my visit, actual tumbleweeds blew past outside while I savored my buffalo sirloin indoors.
Part of Ogallala’s Front Street complex, this steakhouse recreates the town’s wild cattle drive days when it was known as the ‘Gomorrah of the Plains.’ Servers in period costumes enhance the Old West vibe, complete with gunfight reenactments during summer months. Their buffalo and beef steaks come from locally raised stock, delivering authentic Nebraska flavor.
The sarsaparilla (old-fashioned root beer) makes a surprisingly perfect accompaniment to their hearty steaks. After dinner, catch the Crystal Palace Revue next door—a family-friendly Wild West show that’s been entertaining folks for generations. History buffs and steak lovers alike will find heaven here!
10. Dusters: Columbus’ Farm-To-Table Favorite
My grandma turned 90 at Dusters, and the staff treated her like royalty—complete with a candle in her ribeye instead of cake! This family-owned gem in Columbus takes farm-to-table seriously, not as a marketing gimmick.
Housed in a converted historic building downtown, Dusters maintains a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere with exposed brick and warm lighting. Their steaks come from cattle raised within 50 miles of the restaurant, and you can taste the difference this local sourcing makes. The signature Blackened Blue Ribeye with house-made blue cheese butter creates flavor fireworks in your mouth.
Don’t skip their seasonal vegetable sides—often harvested that morning from nearby farms. The sweet corn risotto in summer is particularly memorable. Dusters proves that small-town Nebraska can deliver big-city culinary experiences while maintaining heartland hospitality.
11. Brother Sebastian’s: Omaha’s Monastery Of Meat
Monks serving prime rib? Count me in! Brother Sebastian’s monk-themed steakhouse in Omaha had me giggling at first—until I tasted their perfectly aged beef and became a true believer.
Designed to resemble a monastery, complete with servers in monk’s robes, stained glass windows, and Gregorian chants playing softly, this place delivers a dining experience unlike any other in Nebraska. Don’t let the theme fool you—they’re serious about steak. Their prime rib, roasted for hours and served with natural jus, achieves a religious level of tenderness.
The French onion soup, bubbling with Gruyère cheese, makes a heavenly starter. Brother Sebastian’s wine cellar (naturally) offers excellent selections at surprisingly reasonable prices. Been operating since 1977, proving that novelty restaurants can survive when they back up the gimmick with genuinely excellent food.
12. Misty’s Steakhouse: Lincoln’s Game Day Tradition
Husker game days at Misty’s downtown location are electric—I once high-fived three former Nebraska football legends while waiting for my ribeye! This Lincoln institution has been serving championship-caliber steaks since 1963.
The walls covered in Cornhusker memorabilia tell the story of this restaurant’s deep connection to University of Nebraska traditions. Their steaks arrive with their famous seasoning crust that’s so good they now sell it by the bottle. The Pepper Steak, encrusted with cracked peppercorns and topped with brandy cream sauce, deserves its legendary status.
Arrive early on football Saturdays or make reservations well in advance. Their cheese fritters make a uniquely delicious starter you won’t find elsewhere. Whether celebrating a Husker victory or consoling yourself after a loss, Misty’s perfectly charred steaks always score a touchdown for your taste buds.
13. Johnny’s Cafe: Omaha’s Historic Stockyards Steakhouse
Johnny’s isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a piece of Omaha history! My grandfather told stories of cattlemen sealing deals over steaks here when the stockyards were booming. Established in 1922, it’s Omaha’s oldest steakhouse still in its original location.
The vintage Vegas-meets-Western décor remains largely unchanged since the 1960s, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that transports you back in time. Their wet-aged steaks come from the same family sources they’ve used for generations. The 16oz Whiskey Ribeye deserves special mention—marinated in bourbon and brown sugar for a caramelized crust that’ll make you close your eyes in bliss.
Movie buffs might recognize Johnny’s from Alexander Payne’s film “About Schmidt.” Don’t miss the historic photos displaying the restaurant’s connections to Omaha’s stockyard past. Their relish tray starter—a steakhouse tradition rarely seen nowadays—is a delightful throwback.
14. Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse: Paxton’s Safari Adventure
Eating a buffalo steak under the watchful eyes of mounted exotic animals isn’t something you do every day! My first visit to Ole’s left me speechless—both from the incredible steak and the elephant head on the wall.
Founded in 1933 by big game hunter Ole Herstedt, this Paxton landmark showcases over 200 trophy mounts from his worldwide safaris. The decor is certainly the main attraction, but the steaks hold their own. Their buffalo ribeye, sourced from Nebraska ranches, offers a leaner alternative to beef with a slightly sweeter flavor profile.
Located right off I-80, Ole’s makes a perfect road trip stop that’s anything but ordinary. The bar area features the original back bar where Hemingway allegedly once had a drink. Even if hunting trophies aren’t your thing, the quality of their hand-cut steaks and small-town hospitality make this quirky spot worth the detour.
15. Round The Bend Steakhouse: Home Of The Testicle Festival
Yes, you read that right—testicle festival! While their regular steaks are outstanding, I gathered my courage and tried their famous “Rocky Mountain oysters” last summer. Surprisingly tasty when you don’t overthink what you’re eating!
Located near Ashland, Round the Bend is famous for their annual Testicle Festival celebrating, well, bull testicles (aka prairie oysters). But don’t let that overshadow their excellent traditional steaks. Their cowboy-cut ribeye, bone-in and charbroiled to perfection, rivals any upscale steakhouse in the state.
The rustic roadhouse atmosphere adds to the authentic experience—picnic tables, country music, and friendly servers who treat you like neighbors. Their twice-baked potatoes are legendary—massive spuds stuffed with cheese, bacon, and sour cream. A true Nebraska experience combining excellent beef, quirky traditions, and zero pretension.
16. Gorat’s Steakhouse: Warren Buffett’s Favorite
Sharing a dining room with billionaire Warren Buffett isn’t something I expected—but there he was, enjoying the same T-bone I ordered! Gorat’s has been an Omaha institution since 1944, and remains Buffett’s go-to spot when hosting his famous annual shareholder meetings.
This family-owned Italian steakhouse maintains its old-school charm with red leather booths and veteran servers who’ve been there for decades. Their steaks are wet-aged and hand-cut daily. The T-bone—Buffett’s personal favorite—arrives with a perfect sear and that distinctive flavor only properly aged beef delivers.
Don’t skip their iconic Italian salad dressing or the hash browns, which Buffett reportedly orders every time. Recently renovated but still maintaining its classic character, Gorat’s proves that some investment strategies—like perfectly cooked Nebraska beef—never go out of style.
17. Farmer Brown’s Steak House: North Platte’s Family Tradition
Farmer Brown’s feels like Sunday dinner at grandma’s—if grandma could grill a steak better than anyone in three counties! My family has celebrated birthdays here for three generations, and the steaks are as consistent as the warm welcome.
This North Platte mainstay has been family-owned since 1974, with a homey atmosphere featuring checkered tablecloths and farming implements as decor. Their specialty is the “Farmer’s Cut”—a 24oz porterhouse that hangs off the plate. Each steak comes with their signature seasoning blend that enhances rather than masks the beef’s natural flavor.
The complimentary cinnamon rolls that arrive before your meal should be illegal—they’re that addictive. Farmer Brown’s salad bar features vegetables from local gardens during summer months. No frills, no fuss, just excellent Nebraska beef served by people who remember your name and how you like your steak cooked.