15 Best Restaurants in Grand Island, NE

Remi Barrett

Aug 6, 2023 • 13 min read

Jacob Boomsma / shutterstock.com

Welcome to my ultimate guide to the culinary landscape of Grand Island, Nebraska.

Over the years, I've had the pleasure of sampling a plethora of delicious dishes across our city, delighting in everything from classic comfort food to intricate gourmet fare.

Embark with me on a gastronomic journey as we explore the best restaurants in Grand Island, Nebraska, which makes it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

Get ready to whet your appetite and discover the vibrant flavors that our local restaurants have to offer.

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About this article: This article was written by a local contributor based on their own experiences and those around them. While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note that this is an opinion piece, and there are many other exceptional dining establishments that are not featured here.
Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself

Restaurante El Marinero

Every city has its hidden gems, and for us, it's undoubtedly the Restaurante El Marinero.

Picture this, a long day of work or perhaps a day out exploring, and you're looking for that perfect spot to unwind and satisfy your cravings.

Look no further!

From the moment I walked into Restaurante El Marinero, I knew I was in for a treat.

The tantalizing aroma of spices wafting through the air, the bustling atmosphere, everything about this place screams authenticity.

I must say, their food is nothing short of extraordinary.

The Cuban cuisine they serve is an explosion of flavors that leaves you wanting more.

Their pizzas, oh, their pizzas!

The thin crust, the perfect blend of cheese and toppings, it's a pizza lover's paradise; trust me, you'd want to recommend these to everyone you know.

Grand Island Saddle Club

There's something uniquely comforting about enjoying a perfectly cooked prime rib, especially when it comes from the best dinner club in the city, the Grand Island Saddle Club.

The mouthwatering prime rib here is arguably the most exquisite you'll ever taste, and the way it melts in your mouth is simply divine.

Located right on the lake, the Grand Island Saddle Club offers a breathtaking view that adds a touch of serenity to every dining experience.

Just imagine indulging in a delicious meal while overlooking the calm and captivating lake.

It's a sight you certainly wouldn't want to miss.

The bar area is a splendid spot to relax and unwind.

It's the perfect place to enjoy a drink or two while waiting for your food.

You can feel the inviting ambiance enveloping the area, making the waiting time an enjoyable experience in itself.

The service at this club is impeccable.

And if you're a lover of fillet, then you're in for a real treat.

Cooked to perfection, it's tender and bursting with flavor.

It's one of those dishes that make you say, "OMG, this is so good!"

Sluggers Bar & Grill

You know that feeling when you've found your perfect spot?

Where the atmosphere, the food, the beer, and the people all come together to create an experience that's just right!

That's what it's like for me at Sluggers Bar & Grill.

After a long day, there's nothing I enjoy more than hopping over to my favorite neighborhood joint for a quick drink and a bite.

Let me paint a picture of the atmosphere.

Walking into Sluggers, there's always a welcoming vibe.

And let's not forget about the prices - they are fair and affordable, making it a place where you can stop by regularly without breaking the bank.

But the real stars of the show are the food and the beer.

The burgers are juicy and flavorful, the perfect comfort food after a tiring day.

Pair it with one of their great beers, and you've got a winning combo that never fails to hit the spot.

So it's no wonder the food at Sluggers is always consistently good.

My evenings at Sluggers are just easy.

Good food, good beer, good service, and good company.

What more could you ask for?

Bite at Bunkhouse

The moment you step into Bunkhouse, your senses are greeted with a symphony of sizzling sounds and tantalizing aromas.

Getting a taste of the locally beloved pizza here is a treat.

With a perfectly crisp crust and toppings aplenty, every slice of their Supreme Pizza is a bite into an explosion of flavors, though it is a bit on the pricier side.

Their Barbecue Chicken pizza, another local favorite, won't disappoint either.

The service is always accompanied by a warm smile, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.

But what really stands out here are the burgers.

They're charbroiled, giving them a unique flavor; fresh, juicy, and big enough to require both hands, they are a must-try.

Enjoy your meal in a comfortable, smoke-free environment with plenty of seating.

Riverfront Grille & Lounge

I still remember the first time I stepped into the Riverfront Grille & Lounge.

It was a chilly winter evening, and the warmth of the place was just what I needed.

The lounge was comfortable and inviting, with a menu that instantly caught my attention.

The cold drinks were refreshing and perfectly chilled, just the way I liked them.

And let me tell you about the food - it was simply wonderful.

The dishes were well-prepared and served hot, adding an extra layer of comfort to the chilly winter nights.

The menu offered a nice variety, catering to different tastes and preferences.

The best part?

The prices were reasonable and definitely worth the quality of food and service provided.

Fonner Park

Every year, I mark my calendar for the most exciting event in my hometown - the state fair at Fonner Park.

You can feel the buzz and excitement in the air as people from all corners of Nebraska gather here for fun and entertainment.

The fair is an explosion of colors and sounds, with food vendors setting up stalls selling a variety of mouthwatering delicacies.

There's always something new to try.

And it's not just about the food.

The exhibits are a wonder to behold, showcasing a diverse range of talents and creativity.

But the most thrilling part for me is the livestock competition.

Watching cows and sheep competing for ribbons is not something you see every day.

The way each animal is rated and ranked is fascinating.

The Red Power Roundup, held over the weekend, is a sight for sore eyes.

The parade of beautifully restored tractors and machinery is like stepping back in time.

Every year, as the fair ends, the anticipation for next year's fair begins.

Franco's Wings N More

It's been a long day, and all you want is a comforting meal that hits just the right spot.

Well, look no further.

Tucked in the heart of our beautiful city is Franco's Wings N More, a gem that truly lives up to its hype.

Trust me; the flavors are equally diverse and definitely worth a try!

What initially lured me in was their new street tacos.

They are generously stuffed and taste absolutely delicious!

It's hard to find a place that does their tacos so well, but Franco's has got it down.

But let's talk about what they're known for – their wings.

I tried the mango habanero wings, and they were a revelation!

Just the right amount of heat without overpowering the dish.

It's clear they are perfecting their wing game.

While their wings are their obvious showstopper, Franco's also offers a variety of other options.

On my next visit, I plan on trying their burgers, which I've heard great things about.

Also, don’t forget to sample their mozzarella sticks and mac and cheese bites; they’re delightful.

Another major plus point is their customer service - it's top-notch.

Oh, and they have weekly specials, too, making the decision process a little easier if you're overwhelmed by their extensive menu.

Bandits Sports Bar

It was an ordinary weeknight when I decided to drop by Bandits Sports Bar for a drink and a change of scenery.

As I walked in, I was greeted with a lively atmosphere, the soft hum of chatter, and the clinking of glasses.

The bar was busy, with two bartenders scurrying around serving customers, but they managed to keep pace.

Their unflagging enthusiasm was apparent even in the midst of the rush.

My eyes were drawn to the constant stream of pizza boxes and plates of wings carried past me.

Their popularity among the patrons was evident, and I made a mental note to try them the next time.

The tantalizing smell of the pizza wafting from the kitchen was enough to whet my appetite.

Thunder Road Grill

A roar of engines, the smell of seared steaks, and the hum of friendly chatter.

That's what hits you when you step into Thunder Road Grill.

Picture an oasis in the midst of your average day - a place where everyone knows your name and your preferred drink.

Well, that's my life in this grill, and no, I'm not exaggerating.

The moment you walk in, the décor leaves you in awe.

It's like a shrine for the Motorsports enthusiast, with memorabilia littered about the place.

Imagine dining amidst all that adrenaline-charged paraphernalia; it's a high of its own.

Don't get me started on the large dining area and the full bar; just what you need for that mid-week unwind or a fun weekend evening.

Food?

Oh, that's a journey in itself, no matter what time of the day you walk in.

My favorite is the wings and fries, a classic!

QDOBA Mexican Eats in Grand Island

Let's talk about a place I stumbled upon during one of my weekend outings.

It's this neat little place called QDOBA Mexican Eats tucked away in Grand Island.

The first thing that caught my attention about QDOBA was its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

But what made me stay was their array of Mexican food, which is, quite simply, divine.

I can't help but rave about their health-oriented options.

I've tried many dishes from their menu, but my absolute favorite has to be the rice bowl.

Every time I order it, it's like taking a little trip to Mexico without ever leaving Grand Island.

There is something about the flavors, the spices, and the freshness of the ingredients; it just hits all the right spots.

Barwaqo Somali Restaurant

Imagine my surprise and delight when I discovered Barwaqo Somali restaurant, a hidden gem tucked away in an old dance club on Grand Island.

It's not the fancy décor that draws me in, but rather the exotic taste of the Somali cuisine that's hard to come by in these parts.

This delightful little spot, which you can locate here, offers a wonderful change of pace from the usual dining options.

I remember my first visit there like it was yesterday.

It was Labor Day, 2022, and I had almost forgotten to take a photo of the food. I was so eager to dig in.

My daughter and I had chosen from the day's two offerings, and we were certainly not disappointed.

The tender, flavorful meat, and fragrant, tasty rice, topped with three distinct and appealing sauces, offered a nice variety in our meal.

Tso's Asian Buffet

I like to think of myself as a food connoisseur, especially when it comes to Asian cuisine.

So, when I had the chance to dine at Tso's Asian Buffet, I couldn't resist.

Upon entering, I was greeted with a warm, friendly atmosphere.

I found myself impressed with the cleanliness of the place.

Even the women's bathroom, often a point of contention in many establishments, was spotless.

I meandered over to the buffet area, which was also well-maintained and clean.

One could see the pride they take in their food and presentation.

From neatly arranged sushi to a delightful dessert selection, there was an option for every palate.

The pico salsa, in particular, was a revelation – it was simply delicious!

The restaurant also catered to the younger guests with chicken nuggets and steak fries on the buffet.

This attention to detail showed their consideration for family dining experiences.

Valentino's Grand Italian Buffet

Oh, the memories that flood back from stepping through the doors at Valentino's.

The pasta at this place is like no other, prepared in a way that elevates it to the star of the buffet.

It just melts in your mouth, leaving you craving more.

And trust me, you will want to indulge in every bite, as the buffet is a means to savor each delicious dish.

Inviting your family to join you is a must, as the communal dining experience is part of the charm.

Nothing beats the sight of loved ones gathered around a table, laughing and enjoying mealtime together.

It's an age-old Nebraska tradition that is kept alive in the heart of Valentino's Grand Italian Buffet.

El Tucanazo Restaurant

Whisk yourself away on a culinary journey in Mexico without ever leaving the city.

I remember the first time I walked into El Tucanazo Restaurant; the air was rich with the aromas of traditional Mexican cuisine, and the laughter and chatter around me only added to the welcoming atmosphere.

It was a cold December evening when I placed a large order for our annual Christmas Eve celebration.

They prepared boxes of tacos, enchiladas, and tamales, each packed to the brim with flavor and authenticity.

The memories of unwrapping those taco boxes and digging into the delicious food are still fresh in my mind.

They were just as authentic as the ones I've had during my travels to Southern California.

Eating at El Tucanazo has become a tradition for me.

I regularly find myself savoring their tantalizing menudo after a long week.

There's something about their menudo; it's been a while since I had one, but the taste still lingers on my palate.

Hunan

Whenever I crave an authentic Chinese meal, Hunan is always my first choice.

This long-standing eatery, situated right here in our city, has been serving us delectable Chinese dishes for many years.

Hunan is not just another Chinese restaurant; it's our very own Chinese food haven in the city.

I have been a patron of Hunan for years now, and it never fails to amaze me with the consistency in the quality of its food and service.

The cleanliness of the restaurant is noteworthy too.

The white-tablecloth space is always well-maintained, making it a perfect spot for family dinners or casual meetups with friends.

What's more?

They also offer delivery services, allowing us to savor their delicious offerings in the comfort of our homes.

Final Thoughts

I can honestly say that Grand Island, Nebraska, has something for everyone when it comes to dining.

Whether you're craving authentic Mexican cuisine at Restaurante El Marinero, looking for a taste of the sea at Riverfront Grille & Lounge, or indulging in Asian flavors at Tso's Asian Buffet, the list of options is diverse and delectable.

Grand Island is indeed a place that food lovers can happily call home.

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