If you’re a steak-loving carnivore, then Nebraska is your culinary dream come true. You’ll find dozens of mouth-watering steakhouses here, but there’s one, in particular, that’s especially unique. This place not only serves up a juicy steak – the decor is definitely distinctive, too.
Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge got its start the day after Prohibition ended, in 1933. It’s located at 123 N. Oak St., Paxton, NE 69155.
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The owner of the steakhouse, Rosser “Ole” Herstedt was quite an outdoorsman and hunter. In 1938, he shot a trophy whitetail buck and hung the mounted head in his bar. That was just the beginning.
Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge/Facebook
Today, when you walk into Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse, you’ll see typical mounts on the wall, like moose, deer, and bison. But you’ll find many more exotic animals as well.
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Ole spent his life traveling all over the world, hunting exotic animals on every continent. You’ll find everything from an elephant…
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…to a water buffalo and a zebra here.
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There’s even a full-mount polar bear that Ole shot in Russia in 1969!
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The restaurant/bar has over 200 taxidermied animals on display. One thing’s for sure: Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse is definitely the most unique restaurant you’ll find in all of Nebraska.
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Once you’ve seen all the animals, you’ll want to settle down at your table and dig in. The steaks here are absolutely delicious and are locally sourced from a butcher down the street.
Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge/Facebook
Another popular item is the chicken-fried steak with mashed potatoes and country gravy. You won’t find a more flavorful comfort dish anywhere else.
Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge/Google
If your appetite is a little smaller, try a juicy burger. You’ll find eight different varieties on the menu to choose from.
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Ole’s also has a full bar with a pool table, so you can stop by just for a few beers with friends.
Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge/Google
Ole ran his restaurant and bar for 53 years and retired at age 87. It’s now owned by Tim Holzfaster, who grew up in Paxton and was determined to preserve the iconic steakhouse. You can stop by for a delicious meal and see the unique decor seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (closed at 9 p.m. on Sundays).
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Have you dined at Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse? We’d love to hear about your meal!
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Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge/Google
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While you’re in the area, pop on over to Ogallala to see one of the state’s most charming towns.
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Address: 123 N. Oak St., Paxton, NE 69155