Little Ted’s Pub & Grill In Nebraska City Proves Small-Town Dining Can Shine
In Nebraska City, Little Ted’s Pub & Grill has become a favorite spot for those who appreciate the heart of small-town dining.
This local gem shows how a simple pub can capture the spirit of a community while serving up memorable meals.
A Family Legacy Since 1998
Founded by Ted Johnson in 1998, this neighborhood gem started as a modest bar serving simple pub fare.
Ted, a former Nebraska football player, named the establishment after his grandfather who taught him to cook.
The Johnson family poured their heart and soul into creating a welcoming space where locals could gather.
What began as a small operation quickly expanded as word spread about their incredible homemade recipes and warm atmosphere.
Today, the second generation of Johnsons maintains the traditions while adding modern touches to keep the pub thriving in Nebraska City’s competitive dining scene.
Rustic Charm Meets Modern Comfort
Walking into Little Ted’s feels like stepping into a friend’s living room – if that friend had exceptional taste in décor.
Exposed brick walls showcase vintage Nebraska memorabilia, while polished wooden tables catch the light from custom copper fixtures overhead.
The bar area features a magnificent 100-year-old mahogany counter salvaged from an old hotel in Omaha.
Sports fans appreciate the strategically placed TVs that never dominate the ambiance but ensure you won’t miss the big game.
During summer months, the outdoor patio becomes Nebraska City’s favorite gathering spot, with string lights creating a magical atmosphere under the stars.
Legendary Burgers Worth the Drive
Ask any Nebraska City local about Little Ted’s signature dish and they’ll immediately mention the Cornhusker Burger.
This half-pound masterpiece features locally-sourced beef topped with applewood smoked bacon, homemade barbecue sauce, and crispy onion strings.
The secret behind their legendary burgers? A 70-year-old cast iron grill that Ted’s grandfather used in his own restaurant decades ago.
This well-seasoned cooking surface imparts a distinctive flavor that modern equipment simply cannot replicate.
For the truly adventurous, the Apple Harvest Burger incorporates Nebraska City’s famous crop with caramelized apple slices and apple butter aioli.
More Than Just Burgers: A Diverse Menu
While burgers might be the headliners, Little Ted’s culinary repertoire extends far beyond beef patties.
Their apple-brined pork chops have developed a cult following, especially during autumn when paired with locally-sourced apple cider reduction.
Seafood lovers rave about the Missouri River Catfish, lightly dusted with cornmeal and pan-fried to perfection.
The weekend prime rib special often sells out before 7 PM, with regulars knowing to call ahead to reserve their cut.
