The best restaurants in Kearney

28 restaurants we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

Browse another shelf: all of Kearney’s best · Beauty · Home & Garden · Entertainment · Health & Wellness · Shopping · Arts & Culture · Bakeries & Sweets · Parks & Outdoors · Antiques, Thrift, & Vintage · Nightlife

Pinned in Kearney today

This spot is open today.

Two pinned places a day in Kearney — $10 here, $25 adds the newsletter. List your business →

Paid placements are always marked.

Restaurants · 28 places · showing the latest additions first

Valentino's

Restaurants

Whether it’s a midweek no-cook night or a last-minute team feed, Valentino's rolls out its Grand Italian Buffet, the Nebraska original that…

5115 2nd Ave

Whether it’s a midweek no-cook night or a last-minute team feed, Valentino's rolls out its Grand Italian Buffet, the Nebraska original that basically says bring an appetite and make it a stack. Classic, familiar, and reliably tasty, it’s an easy win to put on your week’s list.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 7, 2026

Website ↗

Family-owned and all about fresh, delicious fish, Gourmet House Japanese Cuisine makes weeknights feel special with finely crafted sushi…

1325 2nd Ave

Family-owned and all about fresh, delicious fish, Gourmet House Japanese Cuisine makes weeknights feel special with finely crafted sushi and warm, friendly service. Swing by for spicy yellowtail rolls, crisp shrimp tempura, or sesame chicken when you want comfort and quality without the fuss.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 10, 2026

Website ↗

When you want a no-fuss spot to catch the game with cold beer and the kind of pizza, wings, and burgers that just hit right, Fanatics…

2021 Central Ave

When you want a no-fuss spot to catch the game with cold beer and the kind of pizza, wings, and burgers that just hit right, Fanatics Sports Bar delivers. Rally the crew, grab a table or the party room, and let the plays and conversation run.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 3, 2026

Website ↗

Coppermill Steakhouse & Lounge is dialing up the comfort food you actually want this week, with Certified Angus Beef steaks, a legit surf…

421 Talmadge St #2

Coppermill Steakhouse & Lounge is dialing up the comfort food you actually want this week, with Certified Angus Beef steaks, a legit surf n' turf, and cocktails that know their way around a Friday. Local producers, local talent, big flavors for when salad energy just isn't it.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 21, 2026

Website ↗
Run a Kearney business? Two pinned spots a day — $10 here, $25 adds the newsletter. Advertise →

If you're craving a legit local burger fix, Angus Burgers & Shakes keeps it Nebraska proud with beef from Nebraska Star Beef, non-typical…

421 Talmadge St

If you're craving a legit local burger fix, Angus Burgers & Shakes keeps it Nebraska proud with beef from Nebraska Star Beef, non-typical milkshakes, bacon jam, and truffle fries. Voted Best Hamburger since 2016, it’s the spot you suggest when friends say "someplace good".

From the Kearney newsletter, September 1, 2026

Website ↗

Whether you want a legit sit-down breakfast or to graze the weekend brunch buffet, Elevated Catering serves up benedicts, avocado toast, a…

5012 3rd Ave #178

Whether you want a legit sit-down breakfast or to graze the weekend brunch buffet, Elevated Catering serves up benedicts, avocado toast, a Swedish Monte Cristo and even breakfast nachos that actually slap. They’re the same crew trusted for weddings and events, now fueling your morning this week with plenty and flavor.

From the Kearney newsletter, August 28, 2026

Website ↗

Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.

5208 2nd Ave

Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.

Website ↗

Mom and Dad's Bar-B-Que does the kind of stick-to-your-ribs comfort Kearney runs on, from slow-smoked brisket and pork ribs to a meaty mac…

222 W 42nd St

Mom and Dad's Bar-B-Que does the kind of stick-to-your-ribs comfort Kearney runs on, from slow-smoked brisket and pork ribs to a meaty mac bowl that hits all the cozy notes. Load up on fries, onion strings, or baked beans, then finish with a homemade cookie because, well, Mom said so.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 19, 2026

Website ↗

Good Evans

Restaurants

Good Evans keeps Kearney breakfast interesting with scratch-made plates and a menu that actually surprises you, from short rib Benedict and…

1010 3rd Ave Ste f

Good Evans keeps Kearney breakfast interesting with scratch-made plates and a menu that actually surprises you, from short rib Benedict and shrimp and grits to house poptarts and serious bacon, plus a cocktail menu. Treat yourself this week, your coffee deserves better company.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 11, 2026

Website ↗

When the ramen craving hits, My Tokyo Ramen & Grill delivers bowls with real depth (the Snow Crab Ramen is a sleeper favorite), plus…

705 2nd Ave

When the ramen craving hits, My Tokyo Ramen & Grill delivers bowls with real depth (the Snow Crab Ramen is a sleeper favorite), plus sizzling pork belly teriyaki hot plates and legit bento boxes. It’s an easy Kearney go-to when you want big flavor without the fuss.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 1, 2026

Website ↗

Whether you're in a ramen mood or want to build the perfect stir-fry, Tasty Bowl Kearney keeps it fresh with cooked-to-order bowls, bold…

221 11th Ave suite A

Whether you're in a ramen mood or want to build the perfect stir-fry, Tasty Bowl Kearney keeps it fresh with cooked-to-order bowls, bold sauces, and lots of veggies. Finish with handcrafted bubble tea, or grab fried rice and crispy apps when you need comfort without the grease.

From the Kearney newsletter, August 31, 2026

Website ↗

Fyre Modern Grill is serving three iconic weekly buffets that hit all the cravings, from a midweek Italian spread to a prime rib and crab…

707 Talmadge St

Fyre Modern Grill is serving three iconic weekly buffets that hit all the cravings, from a midweek Italian spread to a prime rib and crab legs feast and a laid-back Sunday brunch. Scratch-made comfort, legit variety, and zero dishes for you... pretty much the Kearney trifecta.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 20, 2026

Website ↗

Pizza Hut

Restaurants

Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.

2411 G Ave

Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.

Website ↗

Sakura Teriyaki House nails the no-fuss dinner move with saucy teriyaki plates and mix-and-match chicken, beef, and shrimp combos, plus…

1010 3rd Ave C1

Sakura Teriyaki House nails the no-fuss dinner move with saucy teriyaki plates and mix-and-match chicken, beef, and shrimp combos, plus crispy gyoza, spring rolls, and slurpable soba. Finish with a taro, honeydew, or mango bubble tea and pat yourself on the back.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 18, 2026

Website ↗

Gambino's Pizza

Restaurants

Gambino's Pizza turns Kearney weeknights into wins with hot, fresh, made to order pies, plus pasta, hand stuffed calzones, sandwiches,…

2715 2nd Ave Ste A

Gambino's Pizza turns Kearney weeknights into wins with hot, fresh, made to order pies, plus pasta, hand stuffed calzones, sandwiches, crisp salads, and starters that actually start things. Keep it simple, delicious, and local this week... you bring the movie, they bring the comfort.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 14, 2026

Website ↗

When you want a no-fuss spot that still brings the wow, Nebraska Ale Works riffs on classic recipes with a modern twist, from comforting…

115 2nd Ave E

When you want a no-fuss spot that still brings the wow, Nebraska Ale Works riffs on classic recipes with a modern twist, from comforting soups to sizzling steaks and decadent desserts. Grab your crew, savor something legit, and let them handle your next private event too.

From the Kearney newsletter, August 24, 2026

Website ↗

Kid-friendly chain known for baked goods, breakfasts & other standards in dinerlike digs.

609 2nd Ave

Kid-friendly chain known for baked goods, breakfasts & other standards in dinerlike digs.

Website ↗

Kyoto

Restaurants

When you want dinner to double as entertainment, Kyoto brings the hibachi sizzle plus fresh sushi and sashimi that hits the spot, from…

404 3rd Ave

When you want dinner to double as entertainment, Kyoto brings the hibachi sizzle plus fresh sushi and sashimi that hits the spot, from classic rolls to your favorite picks. Rally the crew, sit by the grill, and let the teppan theatrics kick off your week right.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 17, 2026

Website ↗

Papa Johns Pizza

Restaurants

Pizza take-out & delivery chain offering classic & specialty pizzas, plus wings, sides & desserts.

5611 2nd Ave W

Pizza take-out & delivery chain offering classic & specialty pizzas, plus wings, sides & desserts.

Website ↗

Joy's Table Pasta & Steak nails the upscale-casual vibe with tender Angus steaks, twirl-worthy pastas with half-portion options, and…

110 2nd Ave

Joy's Table Pasta & Steak nails the upscale-casual vibe with tender Angus steaks, twirl-worthy pastas with half-portion options, and risotto that actually steals the spotlight. Bring a friend to tackle the Chateaubriand, then see why locals keep signing up for those wine dinners.

From the Kearney newsletter, August 27, 2026

Website ↗

On game nights or random Tuesdays, The Crafty Dog Sports Bar nails the trifecta of craft beer, cocktails, and comfort food... think buffalo…

1325 2nd Ave Ste A

On game nights or random Tuesdays, The Crafty Dog Sports Bar nails the trifecta of craft beer, cocktails, and comfort food... think buffalo chicken or jalapeño popper mac, crispy onion straws, big burgers, and wings. Hosting something soon?

From the Kearney newsletter, September 2, 2026

Website ↗

VietKearney Taste brings Vietnamese comfort to the weekly dinner rotation with bright, herb-forward dishes and clean, satisfying flavors.…

5106 E Avenue

VietKearney Taste brings Vietnamese comfort to the weekly dinner rotation with bright, herb-forward dishes and clean, satisfying flavors. When you’re over burgers and back-to-back casseroles, this spot delivers fresh, punchy bites that wake up your taste buds and make leftovers feel exciting.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 2, 2026

Website ↗

The Knot Shop

Restaurants

When the craving for soft pretzels hits, The Knot Shop serves up the simple, salty joy you want without fuss. Perfect for mid-errand fuel,…

9 N Railroad St

When the craving for soft pretzels hits, The Knot Shop serves up the simple, salty joy you want without fuss. Perfect for mid-errand fuel, post-practice treats, or a low-key hang with friends... just good pretzels from a local spot that gets the twist right.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 1, 2026

Website ↗

Kitt's Kitchen and Coffee keeps Kearney caffeinated and happily full with handcrafted coffee, comforting breakfasts, and savory flatbreads…

2001 A Avenue

Kitt's Kitchen and Coffee keeps Kearney caffeinated and happily full with handcrafted coffee, comforting breakfasts, and savory flatbreads and sandwiches. It has a cozy, historic vibe, a human-connection story behind it, and baked goods that make quick meetings feel like real catch-ups.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 2, 2026

Website ↗

Pasta Madre

Restaurants

Twirl into Pasta Madre for fresh pasta made daily, fun bold sauces, and a vibe that feels more friends-at-dinner than fancy-night-out. If…

2706 2nd Ave A

Twirl into Pasta Madre for fresh pasta made daily, fun bold sauces, and a vibe that feels more friends-at-dinner than fancy-night-out. If you’re feeding a crew, their catering brings those comforting classics and playful flavors to you, which is basically happiness in bulk.

From the Kearney newsletter, August 30, 2026

Website ↗

When your weekday needs a lift this week, Lina's Mexican Restaurant has you covered with a hash brown breakfast burrito, sizzling steak…

112 W 4th St

When your weekday needs a lift this week, Lina's Mexican Restaurant has you covered with a hash brown breakfast burrito, sizzling steak fajitas with rice and beans, and churros you pretend are for the kids but definitely are not.

From the Kearney newsletter, August 29, 2026

Website ↗

Pizza Ranch

Restaurants

Buffet chain offering pizza, fried chicken & classic American sides in an Old West-themed setting.

123 3rd Ave

Buffet chain offering pizza, fried chicken & classic American sides in an Old West-themed setting.

Website ↗

Whether you're building your own omelet with four fillers, grabbing the Eggcellant Sandwich, or chasing their weekend-only cheesy hash…

2524 1st Ave #6

Whether you're building your own omelet with four fillers, grabbing the Eggcellant Sandwich, or chasing their weekend-only cheesy hash brown casserole, The Breakfast Cart nails that cozy grandma's kitchen vibe. Toss in cinnamon monkey bread or a Belgium Waffle and suddenly mornings feel like a good idea.

From the Kearney newsletter, September 13, 2026

Website ↗

Listed here?

You’ve earned the mark — get the BaseLocal’s Best badge for your site →. Want in? List your business →