BLAIR, NEBRASKA (2024 November 10, Sunday)
Don Harrold, Writer / Editor
blairtoday@mail.com – Facebook
In a decisive show of community support, El Vallarta emerged as Blair’s favorite restaurant in 2024, capturing 35% of all votes in a recent survey of 173 residents. The Blair Marina secured second place (15%) with its renowned steaks, while The Lighthouse Bar and Grill’s diverse menu earned it third position (12%) in a field of more than dozen local restaurants.
El Vallarta’s victory wasn’t just about numbers – it was about consistency, service, and creating a welcoming atmosphere that keeps Blair residents coming back. “Excellent, consistent food. Lots of menu options and each one is perfectly executed. Family-friendly with the bar never being rowdy. Clean and well-decorated. Service is FAST and the waiters/waitresses are all very kind,” wrote Alexis Crittenden, who notes she’s visited more than any other restaurant in Blair “and yet to have a bad experience.”
The theme of consistency appeared repeatedly in El Vallarta’s reviews. “Always consistent with their friendly service, awesome fresh food. Their portions are very well worth the price. They do great job making everyone feel comfortable,” noted Heather L. Joshua Schank, comparing local options, put it simply: “It really comes down to consistency, you get the same thing, same quality and same taste at elvarata.”
Second-place finisher The Blair Marina earned passionate praise for its steakhouse expertise. “Been part of this community for many years. Always a friendly face to be seen and the most delicious steaks anywhere!” says Shellie Pratt. Kathy Brechbill was even more emphatic: “They have the most delicious steaks cooked just the way you want them. SCOTT IS THE BEST COOK AROUND & the best Onion Rings IN NEB. HANDS DOWN.” Joan Martens appreciated the value: “Consistent good food and service at a reasonable price.”
The Lighthouse Bar and Grill secured third place by offering something different. “The food is absolutely amazing. They have pretty much whatever you are craving on the menu. It is a great addition to our small town,” says Monique Dugan. Pam Wulf, a weekly customer, elaborated: “You have a selection of food…. burgers, tacos, pizza, wings salads and more! We go there once a week and it’s always very good. The staff is great as well!”
What makes El Vallarta’s dominant showing particularly impressive is the strength of its competition. Yet even with quality alternatives, El Vallarta’s combination of speed, consistency, and atmosphere keeps it firmly at number one. Amy Bjelland explains why: “They have terrific Mexican food. It’s always done right to your specifications, it’s tasty, plentiful and reasonably priced.”
The restaurant’s attention to service sets it apart. “The service is always phenomenal, the food never disappoints, and the environment is perfect! Overall the best restaurant in Blair,” says Kyleigh Jewell. Virginia Reeh adds, “The staff is very kind and caring, the margaritas are AMAZING. It’s always my first pick when going out to eat.”
Juli Wagner captures what makes El Vallarta special: “Consistently good and they always have great service! Margs are delicious and food is fast and you always know exactly what you’re getting. Fun, casual vibe.”
For many Blair families, El Vallarta has become more than just a restaurant – it’s a reliable favorite for everything from quick lunches to family celebrations. As Jessica Johnson puts it: “Customer Service hands-down. Also, the food is always good, fast service, and never have any issues.”
While Blair boasts numerous quality dining options, El Vallarta’s victory reflects its success in delivering what the community values most: consistent quality, friendly service, fair prices, and a welcoming atmosphere. Roxann Kurtz sums it up: “The food is always amazing. We have great service every time we go in to eat. Place is clean. I’ve been to all of them and the same at each of them.”
Joshua Schank captured the competitive spirit perfectly in his survey response: “It’s definitely a hard choice between Elvarata and Lighthouse. It really comes down to consistency.” He then added what might be the most prophetic words in the survey: “Only time will tell with Lighthouse.” Well, the votes are in, Mr. Schank, and it seems consistency wins the day – for now.
Editor’s Note: While El Vallarta, The Blair Marina, and The Lighthouse Bar and Grill topped the survey, Blair’s diverse dining scene includes many other beloved restaurants that help make our community a great place to live and dine.
Congratulations to Our Restaurant Survey Winners!
We’re excited to announce the winners of our recent Blair restaurant survey drawing. Each winner will receive a $25 gift certificate to their chosen favorite restaurant:
- Deb Bentley – Mandarin House
- Allison Eisenmann – The Lighthouse Bar and Grill
- Kim Hamke – The Blair Marina
Congratulations to our winners! You will receive an email shortly with details about claiming your $25 gift certificate. Thank you to everyone who participated in our survey and shared their thoughts about Blair’s dining scene.
Winners, please check your email inbox (and spam folder) for instructions on how to claim your prize. If you don’t receive an email within 24 hours, please contact us.
Note: Winners were randomly selected from survey participants who opted into the drawing.
