It has often been said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. We know this to be true, as it is fuel for a successful day of exploring. Those quiet moments spent planning our upcoming adventures are some of our favorites. Besides, having the opportunity to sample a variety of restaurants gives us breakfast inspiration that we can translate to our table at home. After all, isn’t that one of the best takeaways from dining out? In Kearney, Nebraska we stopped at Good Evans for some go-go juice and morning sustenance.
Breakfast Inspiration
What started as a 2019 concept in Lincoln, blossomed into a second location here in Sandhill Crane Country. When I was researching dining options, this one stood out from the crowd as a go-to place to sample. The combination of positivity and Instagram-worthy plates certainly helped push it to the top. There are a few other things that separate Good Evans from the pack. First, they roast their coffee beans. This may not sound like a big deal, but to people who thrive off of their daily ration, it is HUGE. Second, the menu is designed by the husband and wife team, Travis and Sara Evans, who have a knack for bringing breakfast inspiration to the table. These two have successfully launched other local restaurants.
Choosing Something Sweet
Our visit fell on the morning of Labor Day, so we were happy to find Good Evans open. Since we arrived near opening time, the crowd was still pretty thin. Those that were in attendance were clearly locals, who perked their eyes up at a person with a camera. Oh well, nothing I’m not used to these days. As I captured images, Crystal perused the menu and sipped her coffee. By the time I returned, she had already made her decision, which was the Sweet Potato Pancakes. This is a dish that she first sampled at a local Kansas City restaurant, and now she is hooked on it. The Good Evans version is topped with whipped butter, and candied pecans, and drizzled with caramel sauce. What a pretty plate.
…Or Savory
I was looking for something a little more hearty to help carry us through our morning visit to The Archway Museum. It didn’t take but a moment for me to spot the benedicts section of the menu. When I spotted one named Nebraska Bene, it captured my attention. The standard beginnings of an English Muffin base get some interesting additions. They pile on the braised short rib, poached eggs, roasted tomato, wilted spinach, and a zesty herb cheese spread. Coat all of this goodness with house-crafted Hollandaise sauce and drizzle it with a balsamic glaze. It was a flavor explosion in my mouth. To make it even better, this dish comes with some of the crispest hash browns we have found. I was feeling breakfast inspiration.
Breakfast Inspiration on the Road
While the food certainly took the spotlight, we also have to give kudos for the wonderful décor at Good Evans. Throughout the space, it has an upbeat theme and a bright feel. The restaurant staff was extremely welcoming and we even had an opportunity to meet the manager, Doc Ali. As has happened on many occasions, we found some commonality. Until recently, he had been living in our hometown of Kansas City, so we were able to relate to many of the same haunts. It seems like wherever we roam, we find that people are the best reason for visiting new destinations. How many of you have had the same discovery?
Keep up you great work. Always open new places!
Thanks! We are glad you are enjoying the articles. Keep exploring!
That savory dish looks different and really colorful, I love classic food but done with a twist. The pancakes also looks quite delicious and beautiful at the same time.
As they say, you eat first with your eyes. This place definitely has visual appeal down to an art.
From the looks of your yummy images, it would be worth getting to Kearney, Nebraska just to enjoy a breakfast at Good Evans. I’d probably opt for an unusual Benedict, that short ribs one sounds quite enticing.
It would be a trip well worth the journey.
It’s always good to find new places to eat when you travel. The sweet potato pancakes sound interesting, but I don’t think I could cope with all that sweet stuff on top!
It was certainly a sugary treat. That’s why I stuck to my hearty benedict.
You two do find the most interesting of eateries!
Thanks! We enjoy searching out new destinations every time we travel.
I love going out for breakfast, but because of COVID, it’s been months since we’ve been to our favorite spots. Good Evans looks like my kind of place. Next time I’m passing through Kearney, I’ll stop in.
We are sure that you will love it as much as we did.