5 Hotspots for Food and Drink in Kearney, NE

Jose Romero

Few things are better than good food, good drinks and good company. In Kearney, it’s easy to find the first two (you’re on your own for the third), thanks to restaurants and breweries that cater to every palate. Here are a handful of great places for food and drink in Kearney. 

1. Fyre Modern Grill 

Fyre Modern Grill opened its doors in July 2022 inside Kearney’s Crowne Plaza hotel. Jose Romero, director of marketing, says the sleek, airy space stands in contrast to its menu. “I wouldn’t describe it as modern American fare,” he says. “It’s comfort food in a modern space.” 

Think red wine-braised short ribs, grilled lamb chops and peach cobbler. Among the eatery’s best-selling menu items are its pasta dishes, whether it’s chicken Alfredo or beef stroganoff. 

Fyre also draws customers with a killer daily happy hour ($5 drinks from 4-5 p.m. and $6 drinks from 5-6 p.m.) plus an endless prime rib and crab legs buffet every Friday and Saturday for just $50. 

2. The Cellar Sports Bar & Grill 

The Cellar served Kearney’s favorite onion rings for 40 years, with locals lining up on weekends to enjoy the crispy appetizer with ranch dressing, before shuttering in 2020. Luckily, the business was purchased and remodeled before it was resurrected as The Cellar Sports Bar & Grill in late 2023. While the vibe is new – the space is brighter, more open and now has TVs for sports fans – the onion rings have made a triumphant return and are just as good as customers remember. 

Be sure to try the burgers, from the classic (lettuce, tomato, onion and pickles) to the unique (crab rangoon, wonton strips and chili paste). 

3. Alley Rose 

The venerable Alley Rose opened its doors over three decades ago, taking up residence in a historic building. Its dark wood paneling, vintage tin tile ceiling, imposing stone fireplace and rustic decor belie an elevated dining experience that’s been voted best atmosphere, prime rib and happy hour (among other accolades) by locals over the years. 

The menu boasts prime rib au jus, pork osso bucco and five variations of mac and cheese. Also of note is the impressive wine and beer list. Enjoy live music every weekend. 

4. Thunderhead Brewing Co. 

Thunderhead Brewing Co. opened in 1999 as the first craft brewery in the city, says owner and brewmaster Trevor Schaben. In the following 25 years, the operation added a food menu, moved production to a facility in nearby Axtell and opened a tap room in Wilcox, Nebraska. 

“Originally, we had a tiny brew pot and seating for eight people,” Schaben says. “Now, we do stone-oven pizzas, brew in a huge kettle and seat about 80.” 

5. Upper Room Brewery 

Helmed by a chaplain turned brewmaster, Upper Room leans into its Christian roots by celebrating beer as one of God’s great gifts to mankind. The spot doesn’t have a kitchen, though most nights you’ll find food trucks in attendance. Upper Room also has a strong events roster with an array of fun themed nights.