Best places to eat in Scottsbluff, Nebraska
# A Culinary Caravan Through Scottsbluff: Ten Stops for the Discerning Foodie
The vast, golden plains of the Nebraska Panhandle, where the sky stretches forever and the North Platte River carves its historic path, might not be the first place one envisions a vibrant food scene. But in Scottsbluff, a community anchored by the monumental bluff itself, lies a delicious defiance of expectation. This is a town where culinary traditions run deep, from classic American drive-ins to family-run eateries serving flavors from across the globe. For the foodie with an adventurous spirit and an appreciation for genuine, heartfelt cooking, Scottsbluff offers a surprisingly rich tapestry of tastes. Join me on a culinary caravan through ten essential stops, where every bite tells a story of family, fusion, and frontier resilience.
### **1. Rosi's Chinese Express: A Wok on the Wild Plains**
**8 E 20th St**
Tucked unassumingly on East 20th Street, Rosi’s Chinese Express is a testament to the beautiful, universal language of the wok. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by the immediate, aromatic sizzle of garlic, ginger, and soy hitting blistering hot metal—a sound that promises comfort. The ambiance is simple and functional, focused on the food that emerges from the open kitchen.
**The Experience:** This is quintessential takeout excellence, but with a charm that invites you to linger. The service is remarkably fast and friendly, often with Rosi herself ensuring your order is just right. It’s the kind of place where regulars are known by name and their usual order is already being prepped.
**What to Order:** Do not miss the **General Tso’s Chicken**. Here, it achieves a near-perfect balance: crispy, battered chicken cloaked in a sauce that masterfully walks the line between sweet, tangy, and subtly spicy. It’s a classic, executed with care. For something with a more robust, savory punch, the **Kung Pao Chicken** is loaded with crunchy peanuts, celery, and dried chilies. Vegetarians should zero in on the **Vegetable Delight**, a vibrant stir-fry of fresh broccoli, snow peas, carrots, and water chestnuts in a light, garlic-infused sauce. Always, always start with an order of the **Crab Rangoons**—their crispy, creamy pockets are a local favorite for good reason.
### **2. Scottys Drive-In: Americana on a Bun**
**618 E 27th St**
If you want to taste living history, pull into Scottys. This iconic drive-in, with its vintage signage and carhop service (available seasonally), is a portal to the 1950s. The sound of classic rock mingles with the chatter of families and the revving of engines at the curbside stalls.
**The Experience:** Order from your car via the intercom or walk up to the classic walk-up window. The best seats in the house are at the outdoor picnic tables on a warm Nebraska evening. This is unabashed, nostalgic Americana—the kind of place where a burger, fries, and a thick shake aren’t just a meal, but a ritual.
**What to Order:** The **Double Cheeseburger** is the undisputed star. It’s not fancy, just perfectly executed: two thin, griddled patties with melted American cheese, shredded lettuce, pickles, and their signature sauce on a soft, toasted bun. Pair it with the **Crinkle-Cut Fries**, hot, salty, and ideal for dipping. No visit is complete without a **Hand-Spun Shake**. The chocolate is rich and classic, but the seasonal peach shake, when available, is a taste of pure Nebraska summer. For a true local hack, ask for your fries Scottys-style – smothered in cheese and bacon.
### **3. Carmens Burritos & Restaurant: The Heart of Home Cooking**
**224 South Beltline Highway West**
Carmen’s feels like walking into a beloved aunt’s kitchen, if your aunt made some of the most soul-satisfying Mexican and Salvadoran food on the plains. The decor is warmly familial, with vibrant colors and the constant, comforting scent of simmering beans and grilling meat.
**The Experience:** The warmth here is palpable, from the staff’s greetings to the generous portions that arrive on the plate. This is a place for long, leisurely meals filled with conversation. It’s a hub for the local Latino community and in-the-know food lovers, a combination that always signals authenticity.
**What to Order:** You must try the **Pupusas**, the national dish of El Salvador. The *revueltas* (mixed with cheese, pork, and beans) is a masterpiece—a thick, handmade corn masa cake griddled to a slight char, served with tangy curtido (cabbage slaw) and tomato salsa. For a burrito that truly earns its name, order the **California Burrito**, stuffed with your choice of meat (the carnitas are superb), french fries, cheese, guacamole, and sour cream. It’s a monumental, delicious creation. For a classic plate, the **Carne Asada** is tender, flavorful, and served with impeccable rice, beans, and fresh tortillas.
### **4. Backaracks Steakhouse and Grill: A Nebraska Rite of Passage**
**1402 E 20th St**
In cattle country, a great steakhouse is a point of pride. Backaracks delivers with a capital B. The atmosphere is pure, unpretentious Nebraska lodge: dark wood, cozy booths, and the scent of aged beef searing over an open flame. It’s bustling, convivial, and dedicated to the art of the grill.
**The Experience:** This is where you come for celebrations, family dinners, or when you simply need a perfect steak. The service is professional and knowledgeable, guiding you through cuts and preparations without a hint of snobbery. The vibe is high-quality comfort at its best.
**What to Order:** Start with the **Fried Mushrooms**, golden-brown and served with a zesty horseradish sauce. Then, proceed directly to the main event. The **Ribeye**, especially the bone-in cut, is a flavor powerhouse with perfect marbling. For something uniquely local, try the **Buffalo Ribeye**—it’s leaner than beef with a rich, slightly sweet flavor. All steaks come with a choice of salad (the creamy garlic is legendary) and a side; the **Loaded Baked Potato** is a meal in itself. Save room for a slice of homemade **Peach Pie** à la mode.
### **5. Antonio's Taco Shop: The Taco Temple**
**312 E Overland**
Antonio’s is a no-frills sanctuary for taco purists. The focus here is singular: incredible, authentic Mexican street-style tacos. The small, often bustling space is dominated by the grill, where you can watch your order being assembled with swift, practiced hands.
**The Experience:** Quick, efficient, and incredibly flavorful. This is counter-service at its finest. Grab a seat at one of the few tables, or take your treasure trove to go. The constant flow of customers, from construction workers to families, speaks to its beloved status.
**What to Order:** Build your own taco feast. The **Al Pastor Tacos** are a must—marinated pork carved from the trompo (vertical spit), served on double corn tortillas with onion, cilantro, and a slice of pineapple. The **Carne Asada** and **Lengua** (beef tongue) are also top-tier. Go beyond tacos and try the **Torta Ahogada**, a carnitas-filled sandwich daringly drowned in a spicy red sauce. Don’t forget a side of their fiery **Roasted Salsa Verde** and a cold bottle of Mexican Coke.
### **6. Pineapple's: A Tropical Breeze in the Heartland**
**16 E 16th St**
Pineapple’s is a burst of bright, tropical joy in downtown Scottsbluff. With its sunny yellow accents and laid-back island vibe, it feels like a mini-vacation. This is the spot for fresh, flavorful wraps, bowls, and smoothies that feel nourishing and energizing.
**The Experience:** The atmosphere is cheerful and casual, perfect for a healthy lunch break or a post-hike refreshment. The staff is always smiling, and the open kitchen lets you see the fresh ingredients being prepped.
**What to Order:** The **Aloha Bowl** is a signature masterpiece. A base of rice or greens is topped with teriyaki chicken (or tofu), fresh pineapple, cucumber, carrots, and a drizzle of creamy coconut-lime sauce. It’s a symphony of sweet, savory, and tangy. The **Mango Tango Smoothie**, blending mango, pineapple, and orange juice, is like sunshine in a cup. For a handheld option, the **Thai Peanut Wrap** with chicken, veggies, and that addictive peanut sauce is consistently satisfying.
### **7. Jax Gourmet Coffee & Snow: A Double Delight Destination**
**409 W 27th St**
Jax is the neighborhood’s versatile darling, a two-in-one wonder that caters to your caffeine needs and your inner child. By day, it’s a serene coffee shop with the rich aroma of roasted beans. By afternoon, it transforms into a hub for extravagant, whimsical shaved ice creations.
**The Experience:** The space is cozy and modern, ideal for settling in with a laptop or meeting a friend. The transition to snow mode brings a buzz of excitement, with families and groups arriving to ponder the colorful flavor board.
**What to Order:** In the morning, opt for a **Caramel Bliss Latte**—perfectly balanced and not overly sweet. Their cold brew is also exceptionally smooth. When the snow counter opens, embrace the creativity. Order a **Snow Cream** base (creamy, ice-milk-like shaved ice) and add flavors like Wedding Cake or Georgia Peach. Then, go wild with toppings: sweetened condensed milk, fresh fruit, and **popping boba** are local favorites. The Tiger’s Blood (watermelon-strawberry) with cream and gummy bears is a classic for a reason.
### **8. The Green Plate: Farm-Fresh Elegance**
**3609 US-26**
Perched on the highway leading to the iconic Scotts Bluff National Monument, The Green Plate offers a more refined, contemporary dining experience. The ambiance is upscale-casual, with clean lines, warm lighting, and a focus on locally sourced ingredients. It’s a celebration of Nebraska’s agricultural bounty.
**The Experience:** This is your destination for a special night out. The service is attentive, the wine list is thoughtful, and the menu changes seasonally, reflecting what’s fresh and local. It’s a culinary conversation between the chef and the Panhandle’s producers.
**What to Order:** Start with the **Beet and Goat Cheese Salad**, a beautiful plate of roasted local beets, candied pecans, and vibrant greens. For the main course, the **Pan-Seared Walleye** is often on the menu and is a standout—flaky, mild fish with a perfect crust, served with seasonal vegetables. Their **Braised Short Rib**, falling-off-the-bone tender and served over creamy parmesan polenta, is comfort food elevated to an art form. Check the board for daily dessert specials, often featuring local fruits.
### **9. Las VII Americas: A Culinary Continent**
**1619 E Overland**
True to its name (The Seven Americas), this restaurant is an ambitious and thrilling journey through Latin American cuisine, with a strong emphasis on Peruvian flavors. The space is vibrant, adorned with art and maps, inviting you on an expedition.
**The Experience:** Dining here is an adventure. The menu is extensive and fascinating, encouraging exploration and questions. The staff is passionate and happy to explain dishes, from Peruvian classics to Mexican favorites and beyond. It’s educational and delicious.
**What to Order:** You cannot leave without trying a Peruvian classic. The **Lomo Saltado** is a showstopper: strips of marinated sirloin stir-fried with tomatoes, onions, and french fries, served over rice—a brilliant fusion of Chinese wok technique and Peruvian ingredients. The **Ceviche Mixto**, if available, is a bracing, citrus-marinated masterpiece of fresh fish and seafood. For a hearty, unique soup, the **Caldo de Gallina** (hen soup) is deeply restorative and flavorful.
### **10. Wonderful House Restaurant: The Grand Dame of Chinese Dining**
**829 Ferdinand Plz**
Wonderful House has been a Scottsbluff institution for decades, representing the classic, American-style Chinese restaurant experience. With its spacious dining rooms, elegant dark wood, and serene fish tanks, it feels like a occasion.
**The Experience:** This is where generations of families have come for birthday dinners and graduation celebrations. The service is formal and polished, and the pace is leisurely. It’s the antithesis of fast-food Chinese; here, the meal is an event to be savored.
**What to Order:** Embrace the classics. The **House Special Chow Mein** is a marvel—crispy pan-fried noodles topped with a savory gravy and a mountain of tender meat and vegetables. The **Sweet and Sour Pork** is done the traditional way, with large pieces of battered pork in a bright, balanced sauce. For a table-sharing feast, order the **Pu Pu Platter**, a delightful array of appetizers including egg rolls, barbecued ribs, and rumaki (bacon-wrapped water chestnuts), all served over a flaming grill.
### **The Flavor of the Plains**
From the sizzle of a wok at Rosi’s to the historic griddle at Scottys, from the handmade pupusas at Carmen’s to the seasonal artistry at The Green Plate, Scottsbluff proves that great food isn’t about zip codes—it’s about passion, tradition, and community. This culinary caravan reveals a town deeply connected to its agricultural roots while embracing a world of flavors. Each restaurant is a chapter in Scottsbluff’s story, waiting to be tasted. So come with an appetite, a sense of adventure, and leave with a full heart—and a very happy stomach.
The vast, golden plains of the Nebraska Panhandle, where the sky stretches forever and the North Platte River carves its historic path, might not be the first place one envisions a vibrant food scene. But in Scottsbluff, a community anchored by the monumental bluff itself, lies a delicious defiance of expectation. This is a town where culinary traditions run deep, from classic American drive-ins to family-run eateries serving flavors from across the globe. For the foodie with an adventurous spirit and an appreciation for genuine, heartfelt cooking, Scottsbluff offers a surprisingly rich tapestry of tastes. Join me on a culinary caravan through ten essential stops, where every bite tells a story of family, fusion, and frontier resilience.
### **1. Rosi's Chinese Express: A Wok on the Wild Plains**
**8 E 20th St**
Tucked unassumingly on East 20th Street, Rosi’s Chinese Express is a testament to the beautiful, universal language of the wok. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by the immediate, aromatic sizzle of garlic, ginger, and soy hitting blistering hot metal—a sound that promises comfort. The ambiance is simple and functional, focused on the food that emerges from the open kitchen.
**The Experience:** This is quintessential takeout excellence, but with a charm that invites you to linger. The service is remarkably fast and friendly, often with Rosi herself ensuring your order is just right. It’s the kind of place where regulars are known by name and their usual order is already being prepped.
**What to Order:** Do not miss the **General Tso’s Chicken**. Here, it achieves a near-perfect balance: crispy, battered chicken cloaked in a sauce that masterfully walks the line between sweet, tangy, and subtly spicy. It’s a classic, executed with care. For something with a more robust, savory punch, the **Kung Pao Chicken** is loaded with crunchy peanuts, celery, and dried chilies. Vegetarians should zero in on the **Vegetable Delight**, a vibrant stir-fry of fresh broccoli, snow peas, carrots, and water chestnuts in a light, garlic-infused sauce. Always, always start with an order of the **Crab Rangoons**—their crispy, creamy pockets are a local favorite for good reason.
### **2. Scottys Drive-In: Americana on a Bun**
**618 E 27th St**
If you want to taste living history, pull into Scottys. This iconic drive-in, with its vintage signage and carhop service (available seasonally), is a portal to the 1950s. The sound of classic rock mingles with the chatter of families and the revving of engines at the curbside stalls.
**The Experience:** Order from your car via the intercom or walk up to the classic walk-up window. The best seats in the house are at the outdoor picnic tables on a warm Nebraska evening. This is unabashed, nostalgic Americana—the kind of place where a burger, fries, and a thick shake aren’t just a meal, but a ritual.
**What to Order:** The **Double Cheeseburger** is the undisputed star. It’s not fancy, just perfectly executed: two thin, griddled patties with melted American cheese, shredded lettuce, pickles, and their signature sauce on a soft, toasted bun. Pair it with the **Crinkle-Cut Fries**, hot, salty, and ideal for dipping. No visit is complete without a **Hand-Spun Shake**. The chocolate is rich and classic, but the seasonal peach shake, when available, is a taste of pure Nebraska summer. For a true local hack, ask for your fries Scottys-style – smothered in cheese and bacon.
### **3. Carmens Burritos & Restaurant: The Heart of Home Cooking**
**224 South Beltline Highway West**
Carmen’s feels like walking into a beloved aunt’s kitchen, if your aunt made some of the most soul-satisfying Mexican and Salvadoran food on the plains. The decor is warmly familial, with vibrant colors and the constant, comforting scent of simmering beans and grilling meat.
**The Experience:** The warmth here is palpable, from the staff’s greetings to the generous portions that arrive on the plate. This is a place for long, leisurely meals filled with conversation. It’s a hub for the local Latino community and in-the-know food lovers, a combination that always signals authenticity.
**What to Order:** You must try the **Pupusas**, the national dish of El Salvador. The *revueltas* (mixed with cheese, pork, and beans) is a masterpiece—a thick, handmade corn masa cake griddled to a slight char, served with tangy curtido (cabbage slaw) and tomato salsa. For a burrito that truly earns its name, order the **California Burrito**, stuffed with your choice of meat (the carnitas are superb), french fries, cheese, guacamole, and sour cream. It’s a monumental, delicious creation. For a classic plate, the **Carne Asada** is tender, flavorful, and served with impeccable rice, beans, and fresh tortillas.
### **4. Backaracks Steakhouse and Grill: A Nebraska Rite of Passage**
**1402 E 20th St**
In cattle country, a great steakhouse is a point of pride. Backaracks delivers with a capital B. The atmosphere is pure, unpretentious Nebraska lodge: dark wood, cozy booths, and the scent of aged beef searing over an open flame. It’s bustling, convivial, and dedicated to the art of the grill.
**The Experience:** This is where you come for celebrations, family dinners, or when you simply need a perfect steak. The service is professional and knowledgeable, guiding you through cuts and preparations without a hint of snobbery. The vibe is high-quality comfort at its best.
**What to Order:** Start with the **Fried Mushrooms**, golden-brown and served with a zesty horseradish sauce. Then, proceed directly to the main event. The **Ribeye**, especially the bone-in cut, is a flavor powerhouse with perfect marbling. For something uniquely local, try the **Buffalo Ribeye**—it’s leaner than beef with a rich, slightly sweet flavor. All steaks come with a choice of salad (the creamy garlic is legendary) and a side; the **Loaded Baked Potato** is a meal in itself. Save room for a slice of homemade **Peach Pie** à la mode.
### **5. Antonio's Taco Shop: The Taco Temple**
**312 E Overland**
Antonio’s is a no-frills sanctuary for taco purists. The focus here is singular: incredible, authentic Mexican street-style tacos. The small, often bustling space is dominated by the grill, where you can watch your order being assembled with swift, practiced hands.
**The Experience:** Quick, efficient, and incredibly flavorful. This is counter-service at its finest. Grab a seat at one of the few tables, or take your treasure trove to go. The constant flow of customers, from construction workers to families, speaks to its beloved status.
**What to Order:** Build your own taco feast. The **Al Pastor Tacos** are a must—marinated pork carved from the trompo (vertical spit), served on double corn tortillas with onion, cilantro, and a slice of pineapple. The **Carne Asada** and **Lengua** (beef tongue) are also top-tier. Go beyond tacos and try the **Torta Ahogada**, a carnitas-filled sandwich daringly drowned in a spicy red sauce. Don’t forget a side of their fiery **Roasted Salsa Verde** and a cold bottle of Mexican Coke.
### **6. Pineapple's: A Tropical Breeze in the Heartland**
**16 E 16th St**
Pineapple’s is a burst of bright, tropical joy in downtown Scottsbluff. With its sunny yellow accents and laid-back island vibe, it feels like a mini-vacation. This is the spot for fresh, flavorful wraps, bowls, and smoothies that feel nourishing and energizing.
**The Experience:** The atmosphere is cheerful and casual, perfect for a healthy lunch break or a post-hike refreshment. The staff is always smiling, and the open kitchen lets you see the fresh ingredients being prepped.
**What to Order:** The **Aloha Bowl** is a signature masterpiece. A base of rice or greens is topped with teriyaki chicken (or tofu), fresh pineapple, cucumber, carrots, and a drizzle of creamy coconut-lime sauce. It’s a symphony of sweet, savory, and tangy. The **Mango Tango Smoothie**, blending mango, pineapple, and orange juice, is like sunshine in a cup. For a handheld option, the **Thai Peanut Wrap** with chicken, veggies, and that addictive peanut sauce is consistently satisfying.
### **7. Jax Gourmet Coffee & Snow: A Double Delight Destination**
**409 W 27th St**
Jax is the neighborhood’s versatile darling, a two-in-one wonder that caters to your caffeine needs and your inner child. By day, it’s a serene coffee shop with the rich aroma of roasted beans. By afternoon, it transforms into a hub for extravagant, whimsical shaved ice creations.
**The Experience:** The space is cozy and modern, ideal for settling in with a laptop or meeting a friend. The transition to snow mode brings a buzz of excitement, with families and groups arriving to ponder the colorful flavor board.
**What to Order:** In the morning, opt for a **Caramel Bliss Latte**—perfectly balanced and not overly sweet. Their cold brew is also exceptionally smooth. When the snow counter opens, embrace the creativity. Order a **Snow Cream** base (creamy, ice-milk-like shaved ice) and add flavors like Wedding Cake or Georgia Peach. Then, go wild with toppings: sweetened condensed milk, fresh fruit, and **popping boba** are local favorites. The Tiger’s Blood (watermelon-strawberry) with cream and gummy bears is a classic for a reason.
### **8. The Green Plate: Farm-Fresh Elegance**
**3609 US-26**
Perched on the highway leading to the iconic Scotts Bluff National Monument, The Green Plate offers a more refined, contemporary dining experience. The ambiance is upscale-casual, with clean lines, warm lighting, and a focus on locally sourced ingredients. It’s a celebration of Nebraska’s agricultural bounty.
**The Experience:** This is your destination for a special night out. The service is attentive, the wine list is thoughtful, and the menu changes seasonally, reflecting what’s fresh and local. It’s a culinary conversation between the chef and the Panhandle’s producers.
**What to Order:** Start with the **Beet and Goat Cheese Salad**, a beautiful plate of roasted local beets, candied pecans, and vibrant greens. For the main course, the **Pan-Seared Walleye** is often on the menu and is a standout—flaky, mild fish with a perfect crust, served with seasonal vegetables. Their **Braised Short Rib**, falling-off-the-bone tender and served over creamy parmesan polenta, is comfort food elevated to an art form. Check the board for daily dessert specials, often featuring local fruits.
### **9. Las VII Americas: A Culinary Continent**
**1619 E Overland**
True to its name (The Seven Americas), this restaurant is an ambitious and thrilling journey through Latin American cuisine, with a strong emphasis on Peruvian flavors. The space is vibrant, adorned with art and maps, inviting you on an expedition.
**The Experience:** Dining here is an adventure. The menu is extensive and fascinating, encouraging exploration and questions. The staff is passionate and happy to explain dishes, from Peruvian classics to Mexican favorites and beyond. It’s educational and delicious.
**What to Order:** You cannot leave without trying a Peruvian classic. The **Lomo Saltado** is a showstopper: strips of marinated sirloin stir-fried with tomatoes, onions, and french fries, served over rice—a brilliant fusion of Chinese wok technique and Peruvian ingredients. The **Ceviche Mixto**, if available, is a bracing, citrus-marinated masterpiece of fresh fish and seafood. For a hearty, unique soup, the **Caldo de Gallina** (hen soup) is deeply restorative and flavorful.
### **10. Wonderful House Restaurant: The Grand Dame of Chinese Dining**
**829 Ferdinand Plz**
Wonderful House has been a Scottsbluff institution for decades, representing the classic, American-style Chinese restaurant experience. With its spacious dining rooms, elegant dark wood, and serene fish tanks, it feels like a occasion.
**The Experience:** This is where generations of families have come for birthday dinners and graduation celebrations. The service is formal and polished, and the pace is leisurely. It’s the antithesis of fast-food Chinese; here, the meal is an event to be savored.
**What to Order:** Embrace the classics. The **House Special Chow Mein** is a marvel—crispy pan-fried noodles topped with a savory gravy and a mountain of tender meat and vegetables. The **Sweet and Sour Pork** is done the traditional way, with large pieces of battered pork in a bright, balanced sauce. For a table-sharing feast, order the **Pu Pu Platter**, a delightful array of appetizers including egg rolls, barbecued ribs, and rumaki (bacon-wrapped water chestnuts), all served over a flaming grill.
### **The Flavor of the Plains**
From the sizzle of a wok at Rosi’s to the historic griddle at Scottys, from the handmade pupusas at Carmen’s to the seasonal artistry at The Green Plate, Scottsbluff proves that great food isn’t about zip codes—it’s about passion, tradition, and community. This culinary caravan reveals a town deeply connected to its agricultural roots while embracing a world of flavors. Each restaurant is a chapter in Scottsbluff’s story, waiting to be tasted. So come with an appetite, a sense of adventure, and leave with a full heart—and a very happy stomach.
Comments
Post a Comment