We know that Nebraskans are always down for a good steak or hamburger, but what about when you want to shake it up a little? There are tons of restaurants with foreign and exotic cuisine to break you out of your dining rut. Whether you're craving sushi or pupusas or chicken madras, Nebraska has something for you.
These 16 restaurants are listed in random order and not ranked in any way.
1. Suwannee Thai Cuisine, Kearney
Suwannee has been serving delicious Thai cuisine to hungry fans since 2010. The menu is full of tasty classics and some interesting combinations. Everything is great, but the choo-chee shrimp is crazy delicious. 1420 W 24th, Kearney, NE 68845
2. Wasabi Bistro Asian Cuisine, Grand Island
It might be surprising to find a good sushi restaurant in the middle of landlocked Nebraska, but Wasabi delivers on fresh, tasty seafood along with a variety of other Asian cuisine. Plus they've got a full bar and some creative cocktails, which is always a good quality in a restaurant.2435 Diers Ave, Grand Island, NE 68803
3. El Rinconcito, Lexington
Authentic Salvadorian food isn't easy to find in Nebraska, but this little place nails it. The menu in this family-owned restaurant is full of hearty, inexpensive food, and you'll no doubt crave the pupusas long after your visit.105 E 4th St, Lexington, NE 68850
4. Mother India, Omaha
Craving some spicy goodness? Mother India serves unforgettable curries and other authentic Indian dishes. But beware - this place is extremely tiny and you probably won't be able to find a table. Luckily they do to-go orders so you can take your treats home.3572 Leavenworth St, Omaha, NE 68105
5. Komal Mexican Taqueria, Kearney
Located within walking distance of the UNK campus, Komal has been dishing up delicious tacos since 2015. This isn't Tex-Mex; this is authentic Mexican food, made from recipes handed down from Mexican grandmas.942 W 24th St, Kearney, NE 68845
6. La Bonita Mexican Restaurant, Scottsbluff
There are a few options for Mexican food in Scottsbluff, but La Bonita has won over the hearts of residents and visitors alike. They've even got vegetarian options!224 S Beltline Hwy W, Scottsbluff, NE 69361
7. House of Hunan, Lincoln
The name of this restaurant is a little misleading since they no longer serve Chinese food; their menu recently changed to all Vietnamese, all the time. Get the Pho and prepare to fall in love.
2401 N 48th St, Lincoln, NE 68504
8. Bella Italia, Cozad
for a while it seemed that Bella Italia was fated to close its doors forever. But new owners stepped in and are keeping the tradition of delicious, affordable Italian food going.114 W 7th St, Cozad, NE 69130
9. El Agave, Holdrege
Whether you want simple and light or hearty and memorable, El Agave is a terrific choice for authentic Mexican food. The service is excellent and your meal will be friendly to your wallet, too. 805 4th Ave, Holdrege, NE 68949
10. Daffodil Mediterranean Cuisine and Catering, Lincoln
This place is a true hidden gem in so many ways. It's small and intimate, and the menu is always changing. You can ask for samples if you're unsure about anything, and the owner will make you feel like you're dining at a friend's house. 5500 Old Cheney Rd #21, Lincoln, NE 68516
11. Lalibela Ethiopian Restaurant, Omaha
If you've ever passed by this place with its simple storefront and wondered if you should stop in, the answer is a definite "yes." Ethiopian food is hearty, simple, and so, so tasty. Lalibela has been introducing Nebraska to Ethiopian food since 2010.4422 Cass St, Omaha, NE 68131
12. Los Jalapeños, Lexington
That's right - another Mexican restaurant in Lexington. The residents of this central Nebraska town sure are lucky. Los Jalapeños is clean, inexpensive, and authentic - in short, it's the perfect place to grab a quick bite or a big dinner.2003 Plum Creek Pkwy, Lexington, NE 68850
13. Blue Orchid Restaurant, Lincoln
Blue Orchid is a classy Thai place with flavorful, aromatic dishes. It might be the only place in Nebraska that serves khao soi, a steamed noodle dish. The meals here are a little more expensive than at some of the other spots on this list, but the quality is fantastic. 129 N 10th St #111, Lincoln, NE 68508
14. Ahmad's Persian Cuisine, Omaha
This gem in Omaha's Old Market is easy to walk by if you're not looking for it - and you should definitely be looking for it. The food is always fresh, and the owner will treat you like family. Be sure to order the iced tea - it's got a little hint of mint and it's probably the most refreshing drink ever. 1006 Howard St, Omaha, NE 68102
15. Oriental House, Scottsbluff
It looks a little cutesy from the outside, but inside you'll find nothing but seriously tasty sushi along with Chinese and Thai food. The sushi master takes his time with each roll to get it perfect, so don't expect a fast-food experience.1502 E 20th St, Scottsbluff, NE 69361
16. Sisters Cafe, Plattsmouth
Who would have thought to serve Thai and German cuisine together? The smarties behind this highly-rated restaurant were really onto something when they came up with this crazy idea that's become a beloved favorite in southeast Nebraska.534 Main St, Plattsmouth, NE 68048
I could go for pretty much any of these tonight. If you're looking for something a little less adventurous, check out our lists of great burger joints here and here.
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