I would love to express the love I have for this restaurant! First being a family friendly atmosphere. Staff was always smiling and extremely helpful. They ran out of cinnamon rolls so to fix it they refunded AND offered us peach cobbler for the inconvenience. Second the food itself was large portions and so yummy! Third options for family/big parties was very convenient and will probably cater birthday parties/get togethers in the future!
Overview
Nestled at 37 Smokehouse on 614 W 4th Ave in Holdrege, Nebraska, the aroma hits you before you even step through the door. It’s that slow-smoked perfume of hickory and mesquite clinging to the air, promising something rustic and deeply satisfying. Inside, the dining room glows with warm wood tones and the low murmur of conversations, setting the stage for plates piled high with hearty barbecue. Regulars often know their orders by heart, but newcomers find themselves lingering over the menu, tempted by smoked brisket glistening with bark, tender pulled pork sandwiches stacked tall, and ribs so soft they slide off the bone. The kitchen takes pride in smoking their meats low and slow, sometimes for up to 16 hours, which locks in juices and creates that signature smoke ring pitmasters chase.
What makes this spot memorable isn’t just the meat, though—it’s the way each plate feels handcrafted. Sides like creamy mac and cheese, tangy coleslaw, and baked beans with bits of smoked bacon balance the richness with comfort. A small chalkboard near the counter lists rotating specials, often featuring locally sourced ingredients from nearby farms, which adds a fresh, seasonal touch to the experience. Portions are generous, enough to leave you full yet still eyeing the dessert case filled with homemade pies. The staff, many of whom have worked here for years, greet guests with the ease of old friends, offering recommendations when the menu feels overwhelming.
Locals often gather here after Friday night games, and travelers passing through Holdrege stumble upon it while searching for authentic Midwestern barbecue. Many reviews highlight not only the flavorful food but also the cozy, unhurried atmosphere that invites you to stay a while. The location itself is easy to find, tucked just off the main road, with plenty of parking out front. It’s the kind of place where each visit feels like a small celebration—no fuss, just honest smokehouse cooking served with quiet confidence and plenty of heart.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Kerbside pickup âś“ Drive-through âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-in âś“ DeliveryHighlights
âś“ Fast servicePopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car park âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entranceOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Cocktails âś“ Comfort food âś“ Private dining room âś“ Quick bite âś“ Spirits âś“ Vegetarian options âś“ WineDining options
âś“ Lunch âś“ DinnerAmenities
âś“ ToiletAtmosphere
âś“ CasualCrowd
âś“ TouristsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cardsChildren
âś“ Good for kids âś“ Kids' menuParking
âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ Free parking lotPhotos
Location
Reviews
The food was so amazing…I haven’t had BBQ like this in years!! I had the bbq pulled pork over the mac and cheese…heavenly. Staff is so nice and my kid loved it too. I’m so excited Holdrege is getting another great place to eat :,)
Barbi I want to thank you for your hospitality! This place was amazing! Food was delicious hot tender and mouth watering! You went above and beyond for us! The brisket had an amazing smokey flavor and the Mac and cheese was creamy and gooey! We will be back. This place is a new top favorite!
Entertained from the moment we entered the building by barbecue Barbie, the owner. Had a burger and potato salad. Service was friendly. Food was surprisingly good. And Barbara was a smashingly good time! Best of luck, guys! You deserve it!
When I came in, I felt the coziness and warmth. The Cashier, Sherry was kind and polite and very helpful on my decision. This was my first time, I chose the brisket burger. Man this burger was amazing, so delicious, and definitely hit the spot. The Manager, Barbi, came around making sure we were good which was nice. It was a wonderful experience. I will definitely be back.
If you're a BBQ lover, 37 Smokehouse is a must-visit! The variety of burgers here is incredible, each one packed with flavor and perfectly cooked. But the real star for me was the loaded baked potato, with a variety of meat options to choose from—it's a game-changer. The homemade mac and cheese is cheesy, creamy, and delicious, while the baked beans are the perfect side dish. What really stood out, though, was the service. The staff was so personable and made us feel right at home, especially with our young children! A truly memorable experience, and I’ll definitely be back! Highly recommend!