Nebraska may not be known worldwide as a center of haute cuisine, but we sure do know how to make some amazing down-home dishes. These iconic Nebraska foods were all either invented or perfected in the Cornhusker State (because we improve everything we try our hands at, of course). Looking to give your friends or family an authentic Nebraska dining experience? These foods are your answer.

1. Pork tenderloin sandwich
flickr/Benjamin Lipsman
This wasn't invented here, but DANG it tastes amazing at all of our local hole-in-the-wall restaurants.
2. Rocky Mountain oysters
flickr/jan go
We may not be in the Rocky Mountains, but thanks to all of Nebraska's ranches, we have an abundance of raw materials for making these.
3. Dorothy Lynch dressing
Facebook/Dorothy Lynch
Try it on fries, chicken, fish, steak, sandwiches, vegetables ... maybe just stick a straw right into the bottle. It's that tasty.
4. Kool-Aid
flickr/Al Pavangkanan
This is technically a beverage and not a food, obviously, but it's a Nebraska invention and it's a vital part of any Nebraska foods feast.
5. Raisin pie
flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
When I was a kid, I worked at the church food stand at the county fair every year with my grandma. Raisin pie was one of the most popular sellers — and chances are that if you live outside of the Midwest, you've never heard of it.
6. RIBS!
flickr/Mike
Nebraska doesn't have a signature barbecue style like Kansas City, Memphis, or the Carolinas, but that doesn't mean we can't cook up a mean rack of ribs that'll make your mouth water.
7. Steak
flickr/Shelby Bell
Huge, juicy, tasty steaks from happy cows raised right here in Nebraska. There's no tastier beef!
8. Cheese frenchees
flickr/Neil Conway
Or frenchies, or frenchys, or however you like to spell them. They're basically deep-fried grilled cheese sandwiches and they will rock your world. This is one of our favorite Nebraska foods.
9. Reuben sandwiches
flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
Another Nebraska invention, the Reuben has gained nationwide popularity. Some other states have tried to claim it as their own iconic dish (we're looking at you, New York), but we know the truth.
10. Cheeseburger pizza
flickr/BXGD
It took a Nebraskan to come up with the brilliant idea to combine two of the best fast foods in the world: pizza and cheeseburgers. The result is crazy delicious.
11. Butter brickle ice cream
flickr/theimpulsivebuy
Did you know this was a Nebraska invention as well? You can get butter brickle ice cream all over the country now, but it was invented at the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha — the same birthplace as the Reuben.
12. Runzas
flickr/Michael McLean
How could we leave out Runza? If you're in a pinch for time, go to the restaurant. If you've got time to spare, make your own homemade cabbage and beef bierocks — the German meat dish Runzas were based on.

Well, there you have them: some of the most Nebraskan foods you’ll ever find. What do you consider to be the most iconic Nebraska dishes? What do you think should be the Nebraska state food? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

If you love great Nebraska food, then you definitely need to check out the best restaurants in the state. Check out our list featuring 20 of the best restaurants in Nebraska. Are there any restaurants you think are missing?

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Courtnie Erickson | September 29, 2022

What are some bucket-list-worthy restaurants in Nebraska I should visit?

While we have listed several Nebraska foods that you definitely need to try in the article above, there are also many restaurants throughout the state that deserve your attention as well. For example, one restaurant in Omaha that definitely deserves a spot on your bucket list is Block 16. This is a unique farm-to-table street food establishment. While there are many delicious foods served here, you’ll want to try a sandwich. These sandwiches feature some unusual flavors and ingredients but they are masterpieces and may just be some of the best sandwiches in the Cornhusker State.

And, when you have a major sweet tooth, head to Grand Island. Here, you’ll find The Chocolate Bar. This unique café and bakery serves some of the most delicious desserts and cocktails around. Open for all three meals, you will easily find something to satisfy your every craving. Just make sure you don’t leave without something chocolate and sweet for later!

What are some other must-visit destinations in Nebraska I should check out?

It is hard to narrow down just one must-visit attraction in Nebraska that you’ll want to add to your bucket list. There are all types of locations that are perfect for a day trip or even a weekend escape. For example, if you want the ideal destination where you can bring the entire family, check out Holmes Lake Park, located in Lincoln. This park is an impressive 110 acres and features all types of amenities like a lake, ball field, sand volleyball court, and more. However, it is the sunsets that will truly impress you. They are breathtaking regardless of the time of year!

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