Pam didn’t just write to The Dive Bar Tourist about the regulars at this bar—she isa regular. Pam’s been going to The Windy Gap Saloon & Grill since she moved to Paxton twenty years ago, and it quickly became her favorite hangout spot.
Pam gives this place a stunning review, saying: “Come in for a good time and leave family.” This is exactly was DBT loves to see in a good dive bar.
(If you aren’t a fan of Nebraska’s beloved Huskers, you’re still invited, but maybe don’t mention that.)
The Windy Gap is theplace to go for cheap booze and delicious Nebraska beef. Pam recommends the Juicy Lucy Burger and homemade fries. Be sure to ask for Nicole, the best bartender at the Gap, and say hi to the owners, Brent and Linda Gries!
Paxton looks a bit like a ghost town, but there are a few other businesses in the area, and The Windy Gap helps lift them up by participating in joint events like the holiday open house. The bar is a community staple, not only because they feed and water folks, but also because theyget involved. They host events like a Labor Day weekend party, community jazz band shows, and karaoke.
Thanks to the down-home feel of this hidden gem, kids don’t seem out of place here. It’s one of the few dives DBT feels comfortable recommending for a family outing (at least during the day).
The Windy Gap is a roomy bar that looks like it hasn’t seen an update since the building was raised, adding to the one-horse feel of this Midwestern town. But the best bars aren’t out to impress, are they? They’re happy as long as their regulars are happy, typically holding to the motto If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
The Windy Gap is no different, and it certainly ain’t broke!
The Windy Gap may sound a bit like a diner—it looks a bit like one, too—but this is a dive bar through and through. Dine (and also drink) at one of the small tables while you watch the game on TV. Play a round of pool or try your hand at the racecar arcade game. Darts and a juke box also provide unmistakable, dive-quality entertainment.
The décor is an eclectic mix of scenic prints, neon beer signs, and…barbed wire? For a brief history of the area, just flip over the menu. It’s said the area was so windy back in the day that the gusts could take the top off a Model T! Hence, the bar’s name.
Expect the usual domestics on tap, or ask Nicole to fix you up any basic mixed drink. It’s clear from Pam and a slew of other visitors who have taken the time to review this awesome little dive that The Windy Gap really shines when it comes to food and conversation.
If you’re anything like the DBT, then you’ll start craving something delicious and all-American after sharing a few rounds with new friends. For food, fun, and a great group that feels like family, you won’t find any better pit stop than The Windy Gap.
Location: Paxton, Nebraska
Be sure to try: The Juicy Lucy burger!
