10 TASTY NEBRASKA REUBENS
Traveling through the Corn Husker State you might not be aware of the amazing sandwich creations waiting for you. For one, the state is known for the Cheese Frenchee (a deep-fried grilled cheese sandwich!) and massive pork tenderloin sandwiches. But this article isn’t about either of those mouth-watering creations. It’s about the Reuben — layers of thinly sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, swiss cheese, and Russian dressing on toasted rye. We’ll wait while you wipe your chin and remind you that this delicacy was created in—NEBRASKA! At least, that’s what folklore tells us, or maybe it was made in New York. But, since we’re in Nebraska and there are other things we can talk about in New York, we scouted out the 10 most tasty Nebraska Reuben sandwiches so you can get to chowing down as fast as possible.
1. The Chicken Coop – Grand Island & Kearney
It shouldn’t be too surprising to find a restaurant called The Chicken Coop in the middle of farm country. Travelers along the Lincoln Highway can stop in for their delicious Reuben, pizzas, quesadillas, and various sides. The Lincoln Highway is better known as I-80 which follows the Great Platte River and the Oregon Trail. In 2000, the Great Platte River Road Archway opened, spanning the interstate and offering a historical perspective on this iconic trail.
2. Murphy’s Wagon Wheel – Hastings
Choose from a Reuben burger or sandwich (or both since you’ll be super hungry after exploring the Bigfoot Crossroads of America Museum) when you stop in at Murphy’s Wagon Wheel. Their sides include a variety of nachos and breaded jalapeno and onion spears.
3. Bullseyes – Hastings
Did you know that Hastings is the birthplace of Kool-Aid? We don’t know if that’s the drink to wash down The Running Back Reuben on Bullseye’s sports-themed dinner menu or not but you could try. Instead of rye, they use pumpernickel for a delicious variation on the Reuben. Start your meal off with some fantastic Batter Up Cauliflower.
4. Penny’s Diner – North Platte
Penny’s Diner is a classic retro diner that brings the 1950s to neon life. Their menu not only features a juicy Reuben but it also offers some sweet treats on the dessert menu. Top your pie or brownie with ice cream or order up a milkshake for a real 1950s meal. Walk off the calories of that tasty Reuben by traveling further back in time to Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park.
5. Lincoln Highway Diner – North Platte
The only highway in Nebraska that crosses the entire state from east to west is The Lincoln Highway, so discovering a diner with that name should be expected. And there is! If you have a hankering for some homestyle cooking, this is the diner for you. But we also recommend their Reuben.
6. Dusters & Gottberg Brew Pub – Columbus
After enjoying a thrilling race or two at Columbus Races Thoroughbred Track, relive some of Columbus history in the historic Gottberg Automobile Supply where Dusters & Gottberg Brew Pub is located. It features a menu of mouthwatering dishes including their Gottberg Reuben.
7. The Good Life – Omaha, Elkhorn, and Papillion
At The Good Life, they serve their Reuben with homemade dressing. And remember that pork tenderloin sandwich we mentioned before? You can order that, too! While you’re in Omaha, explore the SAC Aerospace Museum, visit Boys Town or Lauritzen Gardens.
8. Café Diem – Papillion
Serving breakfast and lunch, the Café Diem‘s menu speaks to the sandwich lover. Their Reuben is just one of their delicious choices. Get your meal to go and explore the many outdoor recreational sites in and around Papillion.
9. McKinney’s – Lincoln and Grand Island
Reubens come in many forms and at McKinney’s you can order up Reuben sliders or paninis. Take your pick or order both! While you’re there, explore the state’s capital or explore Grand Island’s Stolley Park.
10. Goonie’s Sports Bar and Grill – Scottsbluff
Scottsbluff is named after Scotts Bluff National Monument located along the Oregon Trail. It served as an important landmark to pioneers on their journey west. A fifteen-minute drive will bring you to Goonies and their homemade corned beef that makes their Reuben shine! Another tasty sandwich choice is their Cuban.