What can I say? They make a pretty good sandwich. They also have good soups, and serve them in bread bowls. I always get the 'half and half' which ends up coming with 3/4 of a sandwich and a breadbowl of soup. The soups tend to be on the salty side, but that's pretty much the norm. They also only serve potato chips, not fries, with their meals. They claim to have a 'small and efficient' kitchen, and this is where you'll hit the only downside. If you show up for lunch hours during weekdays you're never going to get a table, and your food could take upwards of an hour to make it to the table. Eat an early lunch, or a late lunch...avoid noon. If you watch drink specials, they'll have good deals on certain days. A quick note: There is no host stand, and the place is 'seat yourself.' Sign up right away on the wait list (tacked to the wall by the door) to get a place when busy. Pros: Tasty. Good price. Good portions. Cons: Wait times.
(4)
Kat R.
I've liked everything I've ever gotten to eat here. It's on my short list of recommendations for anyone who is visiting Lincoln for the first time. I like the dive bar atmosphere, but I could see how someone might not. The music is a little loud and it's been pretty dark every time I've been there. I'll be back!
(4)
Lisa P.
Bison witches... get it, buy sandwichs...Anyway, it is a great place food and I am always craving their chili!
(5)
Jules T.
I ordered the bread bowl soup. It was awful. I'm used to a real bread bowl where the bread is fresh made. This one came from a plastic bag and the soup wasn't even that hot. So based on that one dish I'm giving it Meh.
(2)
Cole F.
The best sandwiches and soup I have had. Great atmosphere! The price is amazing for the amount you get. I would recommend to anyone!
(5)
J C.
Good sandwiches, my wife and kids like the soup and not many places in lincoln you can get a Guiness for 2 bucks. I just learned they have a couple other locations in arizona and oklahoma.
(3)
Jane M.
A third rate turkey sandwich with lunchmeat a la Oscar Meyer. Lots of TVs.
(2)
Matt M.
I give this place 2 stars total - 4 for the ambiance, 5 for the service & 1 for the food. This is probably the most disappointing reuben I have ever had. It came highly recommended so I spent 25 minutes trying to park just to get this sad sandwich. The bread was not griddled, the sauerkraut was cold and the corned beef was lunch meat. I chose chips and queso as my side - this proved to be as bad as the sandwich. The chips were straight out of a bag and the queso was most likely pre made (at least I hope they didn't put any effort into it as bad as it was). Maybe the locations in other states are better - I for one will never find out.
(2)
Mary S.
Love bison witches. They have great food and great service. I recommend the chicken nachos to start out! The soup never fails me either :) one thing I would change is how loud the music is. Unless you're going there by yourself, it's kinda annoying.
(4)
Brian K.
"BRIAN DID NOT OBSERVE THE SABBATH ON 5/2/10" Part VI (Bar #6) Memoir: $1.50 for a Bud Light pint??!! What the hell? I did not believe my eyes. Yes, Bud Light is terrible beer to sip on but for $1.50, you bet I ordered it and you bet it tasted terrible. Lively place but terribly depressing especially when the bartender and a waitress admitted that they were embarrassed to work here. I thought it was funny. Anyways, the bartenders and waitresses were very friendly (college students) and the crowd was very young (I assume they were students as well). At this point, I was really hungry and looking for a meal. The guy next to me at the bar ordered a delicious looking turkey/chicken sammy and I wanted one so bad but I resisted.
(2)
Steven P.
Classic staple recommended by a former Nebraska grad - good food, kind of small - sandwich/soup combo is awesome they come in bread bowls. Surprisingly good beer selection and drink specials. I will be returning when I stop through Lincoln.
(3)
Matt K.
Bison witches I would say is probably one of my favorite places to get lunch or dinner in Lincoln. Their sandwiches and soups are great! The portabella harvest grain soup in a bread bowl with a sandwich and chips is worth the money and filling. Been there many times and I will continue to. I do admit every so often the service is a little slow but I wouldn't let that shy you away if you have never been there. The food is pretty good!
(5)
Lynn H.
Went for a group gathering. Had the 1/2 sandwich and soup (C.A.B. and cream of potato bacon) they also served chips with it (garlic parm) meal cost all of 13 bucks with tip. came in at happy hour so $2 beer on tap =] the C.A.B. (chicken, avocado, bacon) had a sauce on it that I didn't care for, also the chicken was kinda dry =T overall pretty good place for groups. They had a great system for paying as a group. will come back again
(4)
Erin R.
I try to use the following we deciding how many stars to give a place (I think I have Sarah G to thank) 5 stars - I can't wait to go back and I am going to tell everyone about it because it was that good. 4 stars - Very good. Will definitely return, but I'm not thinking about it as I go to bed at night. 3 stars - I will probably return, but only when someone else suggests it. 2 stars - Will most likely not return, and only if someone else really wants to go. I will not be happy about returning. 1 star - I'd rather tear out each and every taste bud then return to this place. So, when considering if I would return to Bison Witches I decided on the probably not. If I am forced back here I won't be pleased. The service is the best part. They are very helpful, attentive, and fast. The prices are decent too. I think it was $7.50 for their lunch special of 1/2 sandwich, soup in bread bowl, and chips. Not a bad deal. However, the food is not that good. I've been here twice now so it isn't just the one sandwich. The meat was sub-par deli meat with not a lot of flavor. The bread bowl for the soup is a white roll that is very dry. The soup was okay but overall it didn't have a lot of flavor. This place is very busy, so there must be some people that love it. I was with a work group for lunch so I wasn't drinking and can't comment on the bar or drinks. Overall I wouldn't recommend.
(2)
Zach B.
I love going to Bison Witches! I am a frequent patron. They offer a wide variety of hot sandwiches and some soups. They are vegetarian friendly too. I usually get the half sandwich half soup combo. You get your soup in a bread bowl so it is a large portion of food. Although, I've thought that the sandwich meat portions have dwindled in the past year or so. If you are looking for high class dining you might want to look around before you order cause your in a bar. The service is always good and the food is usually out on time. It is usually busy and the tables are first come first served. They have Happy Hour from 4-7pm every day (If my memory serves me right). All pints $2. *Though they don't have a ton of selection on tap. I enjoy getting a pint of Guinness for $2. They also have daily drink specials including $2 margaritas, specials on domestic and import bottles.
(5)
Barton L.
One of the best bloody Mary's I've ever had. Great college atmosphere, great sandwiches. I'd go there everyday if I could afford it. LoL
(4)
Caroline H.
Cool "bar" vibe, I guess. Awful food. Won't ever be back or recommend it...
(1)
Katina T.
Let's be honest. This place earns its stars for bread bowl soups, chili con queso and booze. The sandwiches here are really sub-par. But they are filling and relatively cheap, so you can't complain much. Also, you shouldn't come here expecting good, or even decent, service. Your food is probably going to an unreasonable amount of time to come out and there's a good chance your waitress will mess up your order. But all that aside, the Portabella Harvest Grain soup is outrageously tasty and I would willingly put Bison Witches CCQ on just about anything. And you never leave hungry. It' s really the perfect place for college kids looking for big portions on a budget.
(4)
Kelsey B.
I had my first ever experience at Bison Witches today. All I want to know is - Why hasn't this restaurant expanded into other locations?! It. Is. Bomb. It seems like most (if not all) of the employees are college students, or in that overall age range. This made the experience a ton of fun and casual, yet lively! I tried the Beef & Brie on their homemade rye with a small side of the Cream of Potato Bacon (yes, I am aware it is 90+ degrees out and really? Soup? But I had to try it since it came SO highly recommended). It was all absolutely wonderful. If you're in downtown Lincoln, just go. It's great!
(5)
Elisabeth E.
Ok so came in here for lunch a few weeks ago and was really not impressed. Atmosphere is a little dive bar-y with all sorts of random stuff on the walls, a long bar, and TVs to drown out your date's unending commentary about what this weather has been doing to her hair. We were seated pretty quick since we were just before lunch. By the time we left though there was a bit of a wait, so seems to be a rather popular place on weekends. Our server was really busy but did her best to come get orders quickly and keep drinks and things filled. Our server was very nice and without a doubt the only enjoyable part of my meal. When I asked her about gluten free options she seemed unsure and said the salads, maybe soups ( -)the gluten bowl of bread, and was really uncertain on salad dressings. So she quickly offered to ask the kitchen. Kitchen responded that soups are "probably" fine and who knows about dressing. She was really apologetic and said it was difficult getting answers. I asked for clarification on the soup, emphasized its an allergy, not dieting for me, and if I or someone could maybe read the dressing bottles or something to be sure. Came back and said the kitchen just told her to forget all soups and all I can have is salad and they think the vinaigrette is fine. So I go with the salad without croutons. Comes out, with croutons. My friend is nearly finished with his meal and she apologetically brings out the salad sans evil gluten cubes. Btw, I was seated next to the kitchen and could even hear them giving her a hard time.. Not professional guys. Oh man, so onto the food quality, cause despite everything i'm totally willing to give credit where it's due... It wasn't. Salad was terrible. Good portion, I'll admit, but tasteless. Chef salad with some store bought mix (which had arugula in it by chance so add 1 classy point by sheer luck) a few slices of avocado and about two cases of the cheapest lunch meat ever and 'garnished' with some preshredded bagged cheese...Literally reminded me of how any 15 year old boy would make a salad if forced by mom. I picked out the arugula and avocado, did my best on the rest and finally gave up. Food wasn't expensive, but more than I'm willing to pay for that stuff. Will not be returning
(1)
Kassandra M.
My first impression of Bison Witches was good, from the outside. When you walk in the atmosphere is a little dive-y which normally is okay, except the tables are all filthy and the floors look like they haven't been cleaned in more than a month. Needless to say I was concerned of the condition of the kitchen. The food is utter garbage. The chicken salad sandwich is tasteless. The toast was burnt. The chili tastes like it came straight from a Hormel Chili can. It's greasy and disgusting. There is about 1/4 cup of it in a bread bowl for $5. Very overpriced. What do people even see in this place? I wouldn't be surprised if I wind up with food poisoning. I won't be returning.
(1)
Cameron K.
An excellent spot if you're looking to get a quality sandwich and cup of soup. I highly recommend the Hawaiian and Cream of potato bacon soup in a bread bowl but you can't really go wrong. If you're looking to absolutely crush some beers in a great atmosphere, this is your spot. Brat Approved
(5)
Fati A.
If you are hanging out in Lincoln, Bison Witches is the place to be. It's right next to this awesome coffee shop called Coffee House. You have two good places in one good spot! I have always heard good stories about this place, that the food is really good, it's a fun place to bring friends, and more. The many times (2-3 times) that I have eaten at this place, have been really great. Their menu has a wide variety of options to choose from. I know my friend who is a vegetarian always orders their veggie sandwich. I usually order turkey sandwiches so like the T.A.C, California Kid, and The Angel. I have yet to venture out to try the other sandwiches but they are toooo good! Meals include kettle chips which are a perfect side! They also have a bar so you can get your drink on while you enjoy some bomb food. I think this is one of my favorite places to eat whenever I'm in Lincoln.
(5)
Brandon A.
Bison can pretty much satisfy anyone, which is why I like it. There is a sandwich for everyone so it's always a safe play. I've probably had half of the sandwiches on the menu and have enjoyed every one. My most recent trip I went with the BLT. The menu read that it had a lot of bacon (how I like my BLT's) and gosh they weren't kidding. I think it lacked some tomato though. In the winter months I always order a half sandwich and a bowl of soup, but stick to a full sandwich out of soup season. If you are there with a friend or on a date, I recommend one person ordering the chips and salsa for the side and one ordering the CCQ (chips con queso) and sharing. You can't go wrong at Bison. Brat
(4)
Nik R.
Muff dive the bison Unfortunately, no muff or bison, not even a witch to burn Guinness was flat Sandwiches were tasty Service was decent
(4)
Heather A.
Great sandwiches, wonderful soup, huge portions and reasonable prices! I recommend a half sandwhich because they are HUGE! I have heard they make their bread at another location of theirs. My favorite sandwhich is the McQuinton on Rye. Wisconsin cheese soup in the bread bowl is to die for. Con queso dip with tortilla chips is also my favorite option there. They have some good drink specials too. Half Sandwich and chips is around $5-$6 I believe.
(5)
Katy B.
My first time here wasn't bad, but it wasn't the best food ever. I went over my lunch break and it wasn't very busy. The service was good, or waitress was attentive. The food came quickly, but was just sub-par. We got two different sandwiches to split and try, the Beef and Brie and the C.A.B. The better of the two was the one with grilled chicken breast on it (C.A.B.), but I think it was s bit heavy on the 'russian dressing' or whatever topping they put on their sandwiches. It just made my sandwich a bit too sweet for me. We tried the Portabella Harvest Grain soup, I was looking forward to it. But unfortunately it was not described as a creamy soup.. which it was. I would not have have order it if I had known that. I'd give it another try, but will have to try some different for sure.
(2)
Seth M.
Best Past. Reuben I have ever had. The place is a little beat up and decor is questionable but Bison produces some great sandwiches & drinks are cheap.
(4)
Erik Y.
HOLY COW this place is good for Lunch. They have THE most amazing sandwichs in lincoln. The size of each sandwich is huge. My wife had the BLT and I swear it had 12 strips of bacon on it. Massive amount of bacon, and the full sandwich is almost to much for one normal sized person to eat. They have a half sanwich soup option that I personally prefer so you get to try their great soups and trust me, a half sandwich is like every place else's full sandwich. I like the TAC, which is Turkey, Avacado, Bacon and Cream Cheese. Yum! If I had a complaint, its that the chips are just a bag of chips. I would love some homemade sides or chips, but hey, the sandwich's are great! I have tried the chips and salsa and I swear the salsa is different every time I go. They clearly make the salsa from scratch because some days its spicy, some days thick, some thin, some not spicy etc. but, it is always very good so this is the best option in my opinion. All the sandwich's are 6.99, which is very reasonable for the amount of food you get. They make a great Bloody Mary, and have a full bar and bartenders who know how to make a good drink, which not every place has to be honest. Anyway, if you want a sandwich for lunch but something a little different then the typical, you HAVE to try this place out! Very very good, and one of my 3 favorite places in downtown Lincoln to eat hands down. The only drawbacks for me are: 1. Its loud. Can not hear yourself or others talk very well. 2. Not much seating, and between 11:45 and 1pm it is almost impossible to get in. They have 10+ people on the wait list by noon so you have to get their early. (I guess it is because it is so good) 3. No take out after 11:30. I have tried to cater by ordering to-go and they will NOT do this after 11:30. I guess they are just to busy. Above drawbacks are not a big deal if you are flexable on when you eat, like me.
(5)
Nathan F.
There are so many awesome things about this place I don't even know where to begin. All the sandwiches are good, all the bread bowls of soup are good. I eat the bowl after I'm done even, lol. Best chile soup i think I've had outside of my own family cooking it. My sami of choice is the BW Philly. I get the CCQ chips, if you haven't had them recommend trying them out. YUM! Everyone loves this place. When my friends or family come in from out of town, this is on their list of things to do when coming to town, always. We come here before some morning Husker football games to get one of the best bloody's made from scratch. Has a nice plaza outside of it for relaxing. Your meal of choice should be halve sandwich, chips, and soup. It's like 9 bucks, and plenty of food. They also do on Mondays for 3 bucks with purchase of a beer, probably the best Nacho deal in town. As you can tell we come here often to eat. Most any day of the week you and a date can get out for under 20 each with a beverage purchase.
(4)
Amanda K.
This place is close to work so I come here for lunch every once in a while. Service can be a little slow, and the food is just ok. I'm never craving it, but the sandwiches and sides are decent. I've tried the club, spinach dip, chicken nachos, and a ruben. I don't have anything to complain about, but I'm not raving either.
(3)
Keely H.
I love their food and since they've knocked out that west wall and replaced it with windows it's much nicer dining in....but I placed a to-go order today and they forgot half my order! :( I was really looking forward to that Portabella Harvest Grain soup and finding out it was missing from the bag when I got back to work (and it's a drive from downtown) was really disappointing! Bison Witches won't lose my business but maybe just be more careful about checking and rechecking to-go orders, especially during your busy lunch hour.
(3)
M M.
Great food with hearty portions. It gets incredibly busy over the lunch hour so it's important to get there early. Staff is always pleasant. A definite regular spot for meals!
(5)
Jessica H.
The best! I have eaten here so many times I don't know why I haven't reviewed it yet. I always get the 1/2 sandwich, 1/2 soup deal. Great price! And get chips and salsa. The food is always yummy. The drinks are HUGE. The bloody mary's look amazing. If you're in Lincoln, this is a great place to go. It does get busy, might have to wait for a table, but worth it. SO SO worth it!
(5)
Sarah L.
Between 4-7pm they host a perfectly priced happy hour* You can not get beer on tap at a better price point anywhere else in town* Their sandwiches are always a good choice!
(4)
Bethany W.
Bison has quality soups and sanwiches. It's a downtown Lincoln dive bar (said in the most endearing way). The service and food and beer specials makes up for the lack of decor. I recommend the CCQ, TAC, and portobello harvest grain soup!
(4)
Tom S.
I am constantly disappointed by chicken salad sandwiches at other sandwich shops due to Bisonwitchs. Every sandwich is better on a croissant IMO. Used to work there a while back. The only thing I miss are some of the familiar faces!
(4)
Alicia V.
I ordered the T.A.C. sandwich came without the bacon, after I noticed this and had to wait 15 minutes for the waitress to come back, she walked off and came back with a cup of bacon for me to put on the remainder of my sandwich. After eating our sub par food we waited another 15 minutes for the waitress to come back with our check. When she didn't come back my husband had to get up to give her our card to pay for the food. When she came back for the check we asked for a box to take home our overpriced sandwiches. When she got back she put the boxes ON TOP of the remainder of my husbands sandwich. Needless to say, we will not be returning.
(1)
Matthew O.
Got a BLT for dinner. Pretty good. Good amount of crispy bacon, shredded lettuce, fresh tomato. Didn't understand the red onions on there. And not enough mayo. I'm picky with my BLTs. Everyone else's sandwiches looked good. Happy to see chips on the menu instead of fries. And they let you place half orders. Always a plus. But a sandwich and chips for $6.99 plus an extra $1.79 for a drink seems overpriced to me...especially given the tired, dark, blah atmosphere. $12 (incl. tax & tip) seems a lot for a BLT, chips and a drink at a bar/deli. Service was friendly, quick and attentive, though. Always a good thing.
(3)
Marc P.
I went in with high expectations on a recommendation from a local. So wrong. Go in early on a Friday night and sit at an empty bar. With no idea as to what to expect, I ask if they have PBR and I'm met with an eye roll. I guess my pants weren't tight enough to know it was a beer snob bar. Service was marginal after I ordered a "better" and we actually had to flag someone else, at an empty bar, so we could tab out. I hear they make a a really good sandwich though.
(1)
Chad K.
Unfriendly staff, sandwich was ok at best, CCQ-not sure what others were talking about but it was not good. Giving 2 stars instead of 1 b/c it is cheap.
(2)
Rob K.
Meh about sums it up...The food was...Meh. Service is to be as expected for a small sandwich shop.
(2)
Dan M.
Funky place. Beers and sandwiches. Kind of a different combo, but it was good. Kind of a dump, but it is in the shadow of UNL so understandable.
(4)
Ryan C.
This is a great lunch spot on a gameday Saturday, if you're nursing a hangover from the night before, or if you just want an awesome sandwhich! Its got an upbeat downtown vibe, cool crowd, and tasty eats. I've tried almost every sandwhich on the menu, and each one is better than the last. Check it out!
(4)
Gabby A.
Bison Witches makes some tasty food. Their sandwiches are great, and very big (unless you are VERY hungry I would suggest getting a half), Their nachos are EXCELLENT, my favorite being the chicken nachos. I also highly recommend their Chili Con Queso, which you can sub in with any sandwich instead of chips for a small fee (it's well worth it). They have one of the best Bloody Mary's I've ever had, so give it a try if you are a Bloody Mary fan. I've never been a fan of their soups. You can find much better soups elsewhere in Lincoln. The reason I give it a three star is the service. They aren't very friendly or helpful. I brought my Mom here once, and she'd never been. Our waitress treated her very rudely for not knowing exactly how to order or what to order. It made for a very intimidating experience for her, which is not what you want your first time in a restaurant! It also has discouraged me from taking new or visiting people to Bison Witches, as I don't want them to feel the same way my Mom felt. The kitchen is very slow, especially if they're busy. Be prepared to wait a while for your food. This is also very much a college bar, so be prepared for that. It can be loud and crazy in there. I keep going back to Bison Witches because they have great food and excellent Bloody Mary's. It's worth it to endure the sometimes snotty staff.
(3)
Evan G.
I went to Bison Witches on a recent trip to Lincoln, and really was highly disappointed. I ordered a full sandwich, and my girlfriend ordered a half. Really I ordered a ful and she got 7/8th of a sandwich, it was such a minor difference, but it wasn't a minor difference in cost. Cost and size/portion aside I really wasn't impressed with the place at all. I thought the chicken on my sandwich was dry and really wasn't worth it. I also thought it took a while to get our food. We were the only ones in the place when we went in (it was at 2pm during the week when UNL was not in session), so I would have expected it to be very quick.
(1)
Aaron L.
Bison Witches is one of my go-to spots for casual lunch appointments and an occasional night out with the guys to grab dinner. The bottom line is the food is really good and affordable. Definitely a notch far above your regular bar food. If you want to get the full Bison Witches experience, order the half sandwich (I prefer the BLT or Rueben) and bread bowl (the Chili and Potato Soup are both excellent), and upgrade your chips and add the salsa (very good). It adds up to a whole lot of food that is very affordable. Their beer selection above average and drink specials are decent.
(4)
John R.
Great college bar and restaurant atmosphere. The food is filling, tasty, and cheap. It's basically giant sandwiches served with chips (preferably ccq, which is tortilla chips and cheese) on a lunch tray. Service is usually pretty good, unless they're packed.. Then just order another beer and chill. The only real negative can be the wait. It can be a huge pain as the customers write their name down and stand awkwardly. I've only seen it get "lord of the flies"-esque once. Otherwise, enjoy the huge sandwiches and cheap beer.
(4)
Nikki B.
Big portions, good food, but usually a long wait. Also, I'm impressed with the friendly bartenders. My fave: The TAC with parmesan chips & a breadbowl of Wisc. Cheese. Not the heathiest choice, but it's comfort food at its best!
(4)
Ben C.
Good stop-in for lunch today. A bit busy during the lunch rush, but only added about 10 min wait. I had the potato soup in a bread bowl and a half a Philly on rye. All of the food was great. The menu, and atmosphere to a certain extent, reminded me of one Quintin's in Lawrence, KS - one of my favorite places during college. Overall, it was a good experience and I will return.
(4)
Scott M.
If you're used to the Bison Witches in Norman or Tucson don't get your hopes too high. This one doesn't live up to the reputation. It has good drink specials but the food is just okay. It's also a little run down and dirty. Not a great place to watch a game (all standard def TVs). Fortunately there are lots of other places to go in the area.
(2)
Chaviva G.
I was hoping I'd be the first to review this absolute GEM, but alas, I'm not. So now I have to gather my erotic thoughts about BisonWitches and organize them into coherent, well-placed sentences. What can I say? This place has some of the most delicious sandwiches and soups I've ever eaten. I think the "deli" part is a little misleading. It's definitely not a deli. First and foremost it's an eatery, secondly a bar. I know few people who ever went here to drink, and mostly it was about the sandwiches. I mean, with a place that serves a grilled PB&J, how can you go wrong? I always get their meal special -- half a sandwich, soup in a bread bowl, and chips. It's a cheap deal, not to mention I can never manage to finish the whole thing. My regular was always the Husker, delicious chicken with provolone, tomatoes, lettuce and the house honey mustard. I'd pair this with their OMG-so-amazing Portobella Harvest Grain soup and the chips and salsa. The sandwich is fucking amazing. It just is. It's the perfect balance of meat and bread and veggies, hot and well-prepared. The soup is usually hit or miss -- by this I mean that it's ALWAYS delicious, but sometimes it would come out a little cold. And the chips and salsa? Always far more than I can eat. They home-make the salsa, so it's spicy hot and yummy. I can also vouch for the Hawaiian, for what it's worth. Listen, this place is amazing. Go there at least once. Everytime I come back to Lincoln, this is usually the first place I head to, especially since it's right next to the Coffee House ... of which, I'm off to write about. GO HUSKERS!
(5)
Matthew J.
i have absolutely no clue how this place doesn't have a 4- or 5-star rating. my favorite place to eat in downtown lincoln while i was in school, my friends and i went there probably at least once a week. the bread bowl soups and the sandwiches are as good as it gets, and i'm sorry but anyone who rated this place a three or below doesn't have a clue what they're talking about.
(5)
John B.
There's always a special at Bison Witches. Whether the middle of the day on Tuesday, or Friday or even Sunday night, come here for satifsying eats and cheap pints of beer. Bring a bunch of quarters and get a booth by the foosball table in back...or, if you prefer the glow of natural light, seat yourself at the very front, and watch street passers-by from the big picture window. Be sure to try to the soup and salad special, lunch times...and don't be afraid to gobble up that bread-bowl! Last Sunday, you could get a pint of "Foggen Lager" -- an unfiltered, Belgian-tasting beer -- for a buck. I bought two at a time and gave one to a friend. This place isn't the most stylin' of haunts, but the great values make up for atmosphere...a good choice anytime.
(4)
Pedrom R.
I eat here all the time and have never had a bad experience. Sometimes there is a little bit of a wait but it's a small place for how much business they get. They also have plenty of beer and great drink specials on Tuesday nights after 10pm.
(5)
brian t.
I came here last weekend with my girlfriend, my other friend , his wife and their 2 year old son. He has been here a couple times before told me it was one of the best in town, and he was right it was delicious! Although its suppose to also be a kids friendly place as we walked in the music was blasting. The best and cheapest(if your on a budget) is to do the 1/2 sandwich and soup special for around $7 , i got the Hawaiian and cream of potato bacon soup. The hawaiian was ok, i was expecting better other then lettuce, a slice of pineapple, provolone cheese and baked chicken breast with a side of bbq sauce. The cream of potato bacon soup on the other side was amazing!! highly recommended, i forgot what sandwich my girlfriend got but she got the chili soup and said it was good.
(4)
Jake D.
Stopped here for a bite to eat and some drinks before the Nebraska/Nevada game. I was staying with family in Omaha, and we were told to get to Lincoln VERY early to avoid heavy traffic. I think would could have left a couple hours later and still have been fine, but there we were at Bison Witches at 10:30 AM killing time for the 2:30 kickoff. Kudos to them for opening early on game day! I did fight the urge to order my first beer until after 11:00, but after that and a great California Kid sandwich it was on. Come noon it was very crowded, and apparently there was a line of people out the door waiting to get a table (some friends came up to meet us around noon and passed a line of disgruntled patrons). The only other downfall was it got quite warm inside, which I am sure is welcome on a cold december day, just not a warm September one. Still not sure was a Bison Witch is, but I will be quick to check out the location in Tempe now!
(4)
Joseph D.
Slow service, plastic plates, dingy property and far and away the best sandwiches in Lincoln. Sandwiches have triple the meat of most places and its steaming hot when it hits the plate. Guinness and a pastrami = yum.
(4)
Kate M.
This is probably my favorite restaurant in Lincoln. Sandwiches are great, soup is great, chips con queso is great! Service is slow, but the food is so good, I imagine it takes awhile to prepare. My only complaint is that last time I was there (April 18th 2009), they raised the prices of menu items without reflecting it in the menu. So when we got our bill, everything was more expensive than we had anticipated. Kind of false advertising, but the food is so good, I will be back.
(5)
D F.
This place is hands down the best lunch spot in Lincoln. Whenever in Lincoln I always stop. It's a sandwich shop with a nice bar and a decent beer tap selection. The sandwiches are packed with meat and all kinds of fresh ingredients depending on the selection you choose. The service is great considering they are always slammed packed busy. Do yourself a favor and order a seasonal tap brew and a sandwich at the bar. You won't regret it. The soups are also great and the salsa is fresh and homemade. I had a McQuinten and a bloody mary for lunch today and wish it could be every day!
(5)
Jenna H.
The Place: Bison Witches Bar and Deli Lincoln NE The Feel: casual bar a street away from the Downtown bar strip, but don't get confused, its right next to Buffalo Wild Wings, just remember that buffalo only live in Africa, you will be right at home with the Bison. Welcome to Bison Witches Bar and Deli, one of my all time favorite places to eat. Notice that I didn't give it 5 stars, I'll go over why in the next few paragraphs. The Food: Extra large hot sandwiches, soups and appetizers. I usually eat the 1/2 sandwich and chips ($4.75) which will fill you up, trust me. Some reviewers claim that they feel cheated when they order the whole sandwich and chips for around 7 bucks, but lets look at this from the "glass all the way full" side: a half sandwich, buyer beware is really more like 3/4 of the sandwich, so unless you really want to eat three more bites (although I don't blame you because the sandwiches are delish!) please only order the half. My usual order includes either the 1/2 chicken salad sandwich or the 1/2 Reuben, I highly recommend any sandwich though. The Drinks: everyday is a drinking day at Bison Witches, with the full bar. I recommend going on Fridays if you like Margaritas, they are 2.00 a piece, and trust me, many a person has gotten very tipsy off of two of them. My fiance loves to go on beer special nights which happen pretty much every other day of the week. Time: if you plan on going to B*witches take in to consideration how much time you have and what time you are going, the place is always busy, but usually packed around dinner time (6-8:30). If you go during these times make sure you are able to wait for a table and wait for your sandwich. Got Kids? Yeah, its a bar, but the grilled PBJ is great and the patrons are not rowdy. Bathrooms: better than a college town bar, linoleum floors and two stalls for the ladies, the soap smells okay too. Overall Review: I give it four stars, yes it is my favorite place but sometimes they are low on staff and the wait is long for my beloved sandwich, if it were the perfect world this place would serve sandwiches in every city in the country and at every hour of the day (they only have restaurants in Tuscon AZ, Tempe AZ and somewhere in Oklahoma).
(4)
Kyla B.
The bread bowls are amazing and filling! Great bar to grab something to eat and kick back and have a few drinks with your friends.
(4)
Wystan U.
If you have some time to kill before heading down to the vast and sprawling Douglas monstrosity, grab yourself, check yourself, then get yourself over to Bison Witches for a beer and a great sandwich. I've never been to a place that is so devoted to the art of the sandwich as Bison Witches, and although it's far away from me right now, I can only hope that someone is sitting in one of those large booths that overlook the rows of parking meters on 'P' Street and enjoying their sandwich while looking up at the same sky I'm looking at. How I miss you, you crazy buffalo hag.
(4)
Matthew P.
Soup and sandwiches. I had lunch here the other day for the first time and can't really remember much about it. I met a friend right at noon on a weekday and there was a line going out the door. Odd, I thought, but decided to not fuss. We had a short wait, about ten minutes and were seated at a nice booth, which I appreciated especially considering there were only two of us and the restaurant was busy. The waitstaff was friendly, professional and unobtrusive. I had a soup that was novelly served in a bread bowl and a sandwich that was tasty, but uninspired. I didn't pay so I can't speak for the prices; if i had paid attention I imagine that would have colored my opinion. Overall, I say go enjoy a sandwich. It is a kind of generic college town restaurant and that's okay, Lincoln is kind of a generic college town.
(3)
Kristin M.
The food is amazing. But the service is extremely slow (especially over the lunch hour) and the servers are known for charging credit cards for more than you write in. It has happened twice to me and also has happened to my friends. If you want to experience the fantastic food, just be sure to keep your receipt and check it against your statement.
(2)
Glenn C.
I wandered in here while on a trip taking my son to college. It had that college dive bar look to it so I didn't expect much. I sat at the bar and ordered a beer (very good selection by the way) and the first thing the bartender says is "don't pay for this just yet, in a few minutes it's happy hour and I'll ring it up then". Wow, talk about good karma. Later the same day a friend's daughter said how good the food was at BW's. We ate there and were impressed enough we ended up going back the next day. We'll be back in Lincoln for some football games and I will definately make it back to BW's.
(5)
Jim B.
This is a great little sandwich shop, but don't go if you have less than 2 hours to eat. I know, two hours for a sandwich? It doesn't always take 2 hours, but it often does during peak times. The service is also the worst I have ever encountered consistently. So why does this place get 4 stars? Its all about the food and the atmosphere. The sandwiches are excellent as long as you know what you are getting. Their Russian dressing is really sweet, so be careful. The grilled cheese is amazing, as is the pastrami on rye. Always get the ccq (chips and con queso) to accompany a half sandwich and try the portabello harvest soup. They also have a great beer selection. I hate the wait and the service, but I can't stop going back, so that is why it gets 4 stars.
(4)
Katina T.
Let's be honest. This place earns its stars for bread bowl soups, chili con queso and booze. The sandwiches here are really sub-par. But they are filling and relatively cheap, so you can't complain much. Also, you shouldn't come here expecting good, or even decent, service. Your food is probably going to an unreasonable amount of time to come out and there's a good chance your waitress will mess up your order. But all that aside, the Portabella Harvest Grain soup is outrageously tasty and I would willingly put Bison Witches CCQ on just about anything. And you never leave hungry. It' s really the perfect place for college kids looking for big portions on a budget.
(4)
Chad K.
Unfriendly staff, sandwich was ok at best, CCQ-not sure what others were talking about but it was not good. Giving 2 stars instead of 1 b/c it is cheap.
(2)
Rob K.
Meh about sums it up...The food was...Meh. Service is to be as expected for a small sandwich shop.
(2)
Dan M.
Funky place. Beers and sandwiches. Kind of a different combo, but it was good. Kind of a dump, but it is in the shadow of UNL so understandable.
(4)
Gabby A.
Bison Witches makes some tasty food. Their sandwiches are great, and very big (unless you are VERY hungry I would suggest getting a half), Their nachos are EXCELLENT, my favorite being the chicken nachos. I also highly recommend their Chili Con Queso, which you can sub in with any sandwich instead of chips for a small fee (it's well worth it). They have one of the best Bloody Mary's I've ever had, so give it a try if you are a Bloody Mary fan. I've never been a fan of their soups. You can find much better soups elsewhere in Lincoln. The reason I give it a three star is the service. They aren't very friendly or helpful. I brought my Mom here once, and she'd never been. Our waitress treated her very rudely for not knowing exactly how to order or what to order. It made for a very intimidating experience for her, which is not what you want your first time in a restaurant! It also has discouraged me from taking new or visiting people to Bison Witches, as I don't want them to feel the same way my Mom felt. The kitchen is very slow, especially if they're busy. Be prepared to wait a while for your food. This is also very much a college bar, so be prepared for that. It can be loud and crazy in there. I keep going back to Bison Witches because they have great food and excellent Bloody Mary's. It's worth it to endure the sometimes snotty staff.
(3)
Evan G.
I went to Bison Witches on a recent trip to Lincoln, and really was highly disappointed. I ordered a full sandwich, and my girlfriend ordered a half. Really I ordered a ful and she got 7/8th of a sandwich, it was such a minor difference, but it wasn't a minor difference in cost. Cost and size/portion aside I really wasn't impressed with the place at all. I thought the chicken on my sandwich was dry and really wasn't worth it. I also thought it took a while to get our food. We were the only ones in the place when we went in (it was at 2pm during the week when UNL was not in session), so I would have expected it to be very quick.
(1)
Aaron L.
Bison Witches is one of my go-to spots for casual lunch appointments and an occasional night out with the guys to grab dinner. The bottom line is the food is really good and affordable. Definitely a notch far above your regular bar food. If you want to get the full Bison Witches experience, order the half sandwich (I prefer the BLT or Rueben) and bread bowl (the Chili and Potato Soup are both excellent), and upgrade your chips and add the salsa (very good). It adds up to a whole lot of food that is very affordable. Their beer selection above average and drink specials are decent.
(4)
John R.
Great college bar and restaurant atmosphere. The food is filling, tasty, and cheap. It's basically giant sandwiches served with chips (preferably ccq, which is tortilla chips and cheese) on a lunch tray. Service is usually pretty good, unless they're packed.. Then just order another beer and chill. The only real negative can be the wait. It can be a huge pain as the customers write their name down and stand awkwardly. I've only seen it get "lord of the flies"-esque once. Otherwise, enjoy the huge sandwiches and cheap beer.
(4)
Nikki B.
Big portions, good food, but usually a long wait. Also, I'm impressed with the friendly bartenders. My fave: The TAC with parmesan chips & a breadbowl of Wisc. Cheese. Not the heathiest choice, but it's comfort food at its best!
(4)
Lynn H.
Went for a group gathering. Had the 1/2 sandwich and soup (C.A.B. and cream of potato bacon) they also served chips with it (garlic parm) meal cost all of 13 bucks with tip. came in at happy hour so $2 beer on tap =] the C.A.B. (chicken, avocado, bacon) had a sauce on it that I didn't care for, also the chicken was kinda dry =T overall pretty good place for groups. They had a great system for paying as a group. will come back again
(4)
Ben C.
Good stop-in for lunch today. A bit busy during the lunch rush, but only added about 10 min wait. I had the potato soup in a bread bowl and a half a Philly on rye. All of the food was great. The menu, and atmosphere to a certain extent, reminded me of one Quintin's in Lawrence, KS - one of my favorite places during college. Overall, it was a good experience and I will return.
(4)
Ryan C.
This is a great lunch spot on a gameday Saturday, if you're nursing a hangover from the night before, or if you just want an awesome sandwhich! Its got an upbeat downtown vibe, cool crowd, and tasty eats. I've tried almost every sandwhich on the menu, and each one is better than the last. Check it out!
(4)
Matthew P.
Soup and sandwiches. I had lunch here the other day for the first time and can't really remember much about it. I met a friend right at noon on a weekday and there was a line going out the door. Odd, I thought, but decided to not fuss. We had a short wait, about ten minutes and were seated at a nice booth, which I appreciated especially considering there were only two of us and the restaurant was busy. The waitstaff was friendly, professional and unobtrusive. I had a soup that was novelly served in a bread bowl and a sandwich that was tasty, but uninspired. I didn't pay so I can't speak for the prices; if i had paid attention I imagine that would have colored my opinion. Overall, I say go enjoy a sandwich. It is a kind of generic college town restaurant and that's okay, Lincoln is kind of a generic college town.
(3)
Kristin M.
The food is amazing. But the service is extremely slow (especially over the lunch hour) and the servers are known for charging credit cards for more than you write in. It has happened twice to me and also has happened to my friends. If you want to experience the fantastic food, just be sure to keep your receipt and check it against your statement.
(2)
Glenn C.
I wandered in here while on a trip taking my son to college. It had that college dive bar look to it so I didn't expect much. I sat at the bar and ordered a beer (very good selection by the way) and the first thing the bartender says is "don't pay for this just yet, in a few minutes it's happy hour and I'll ring it up then". Wow, talk about good karma. Later the same day a friend's daughter said how good the food was at BW's. We ate there and were impressed enough we ended up going back the next day. We'll be back in Lincoln for some football games and I will definately make it back to BW's.
(5)
Jim B.
This is a great little sandwich shop, but don't go if you have less than 2 hours to eat. I know, two hours for a sandwich? It doesn't always take 2 hours, but it often does during peak times. The service is also the worst I have ever encountered consistently. So why does this place get 4 stars? Its all about the food and the atmosphere. The sandwiches are excellent as long as you know what you are getting. Their Russian dressing is really sweet, so be careful. The grilled cheese is amazing, as is the pastrami on rye. Always get the ccq (chips and con queso) to accompany a half sandwich and try the portabello harvest soup. They also have a great beer selection. I hate the wait and the service, but I can't stop going back, so that is why it gets 4 stars.
(4)
Jules T.
I ordered the bread bowl soup. It was awful. I'm used to a real bread bowl where the bread is fresh made. This one came from a plastic bag and the soup wasn't even that hot. So based on that one dish I'm giving it Meh.
(2)
Cole F.
The best sandwiches and soup I have had. Great atmosphere! The price is amazing for the amount you get. I would recommend to anyone!
(5)
J C.
Good sandwiches, my wife and kids like the soup and not many places in lincoln you can get a Guiness for 2 bucks. I just learned they have a couple other locations in arizona and oklahoma.
(3)
Jane M.
A third rate turkey sandwich with lunchmeat a la Oscar Meyer. Lots of TVs.
(2)
Chaviva G.
I was hoping I'd be the first to review this absolute GEM, but alas, I'm not. So now I have to gather my erotic thoughts about BisonWitches and organize them into coherent, well-placed sentences. What can I say? This place has some of the most delicious sandwiches and soups I've ever eaten. I think the "deli" part is a little misleading. It's definitely not a deli. First and foremost it's an eatery, secondly a bar. I know few people who ever went here to drink, and mostly it was about the sandwiches. I mean, with a place that serves a grilled PB&J, how can you go wrong? I always get their meal special -- half a sandwich, soup in a bread bowl, and chips. It's a cheap deal, not to mention I can never manage to finish the whole thing. My regular was always the Husker, delicious chicken with provolone, tomatoes, lettuce and the house honey mustard. I'd pair this with their OMG-so-amazing Portobella Harvest Grain soup and the chips and salsa. The sandwich is fucking amazing. It just is. It's the perfect balance of meat and bread and veggies, hot and well-prepared. The soup is usually hit or miss -- by this I mean that it's ALWAYS delicious, but sometimes it would come out a little cold. And the chips and salsa? Always far more than I can eat. They home-make the salsa, so it's spicy hot and yummy. I can also vouch for the Hawaiian, for what it's worth. Listen, this place is amazing. Go there at least once. Everytime I come back to Lincoln, this is usually the first place I head to, especially since it's right next to the Coffee House ... of which, I'm off to write about. GO HUSKERS!
(5)
Matthew J.
i have absolutely no clue how this place doesn't have a 4- or 5-star rating. my favorite place to eat in downtown lincoln while i was in school, my friends and i went there probably at least once a week. the bread bowl soups and the sandwiches are as good as it gets, and i'm sorry but anyone who rated this place a three or below doesn't have a clue what they're talking about.
(5)
John B.
There's always a special at Bison Witches. Whether the middle of the day on Tuesday, or Friday or even Sunday night, come here for satifsying eats and cheap pints of beer. Bring a bunch of quarters and get a booth by the foosball table in back...or, if you prefer the glow of natural light, seat yourself at the very front, and watch street passers-by from the big picture window. Be sure to try to the soup and salad special, lunch times...and don't be afraid to gobble up that bread-bowl! Last Sunday, you could get a pint of "Foggen Lager" -- an unfiltered, Belgian-tasting beer -- for a buck. I bought two at a time and gave one to a friend. This place isn't the most stylin' of haunts, but the great values make up for atmosphere...a good choice anytime.
(4)
Pedrom R.
I eat here all the time and have never had a bad experience. Sometimes there is a little bit of a wait but it's a small place for how much business they get. They also have plenty of beer and great drink specials on Tuesday nights after 10pm.
(5)
Joel L.
What can I say? They make a pretty good sandwich. They also have good soups, and serve them in bread bowls. I always get the 'half and half' which ends up coming with 3/4 of a sandwich and a breadbowl of soup. The soups tend to be on the salty side, but that's pretty much the norm. They also only serve potato chips, not fries, with their meals. They claim to have a 'small and efficient' kitchen, and this is where you'll hit the only downside. If you show up for lunch hours during weekdays you're never going to get a table, and your food could take upwards of an hour to make it to the table. Eat an early lunch, or a late lunch...avoid noon. If you watch drink specials, they'll have good deals on certain days. A quick note: There is no host stand, and the place is 'seat yourself.' Sign up right away on the wait list (tacked to the wall by the door) to get a place when busy. Pros: Tasty. Good price. Good portions. Cons: Wait times.
(4)
Nik R.
Muff dive the bison Unfortunately, no muff or bison, not even a witch to burn Guinness was flat Sandwiches were tasty Service was decent
(4)
Lynn H.
Went for a group gathering. Had the 1/2 sandwich and soup (C.A.B. and cream of potato bacon) they also served chips with it (garlic parm) meal cost all of 13 bucks with tip. came in at happy hour so $2 beer on tap =] the C.A.B. (chicken, avocado, bacon) had a sauce on it that I didn't care for, also the chicken was kinda dry =T overall pretty good place for groups. They had a great system for paying as a group. will come back again
(4)
Tom S.
I am constantly disappointed by chicken salad sandwiches at other sandwich shops due to Bisonwitchs. Every sandwich is better on a croissant IMO. Used to work there a while back. The only thing I miss are some of the familiar faces!
(4)
Matt K.
Bison witches I would say is probably one of my favorite places to get lunch or dinner in Lincoln. Their sandwiches and soups are great! The portabella harvest grain soup in a bread bowl with a sandwich and chips is worth the money and filling. Been there many times and I will continue to. I do admit every so often the service is a little slow but I wouldn't let that shy you away if you have never been there. The food is pretty good!
(5)
Erin R.
I try to use the following we deciding how many stars to give a place (I think I have Sarah G to thank) 5 stars - I can't wait to go back and I am going to tell everyone about it because it was that good. 4 stars - Very good. Will definitely return, but I'm not thinking about it as I go to bed at night. 3 stars - I will probably return, but only when someone else suggests it. 2 stars - Will most likely not return, and only if someone else really wants to go. I will not be happy about returning. 1 star - I'd rather tear out each and every taste bud then return to this place. So, when considering if I would return to Bison Witches I decided on the probably not. If I am forced back here I won't be pleased. The service is the best part. They are very helpful, attentive, and fast. The prices are decent too. I think it was $7.50 for their lunch special of 1/2 sandwich, soup in bread bowl, and chips. Not a bad deal. However, the food is not that good. I've been here twice now so it isn't just the one sandwich. The meat was sub-par deli meat with not a lot of flavor. The bread bowl for the soup is a white roll that is very dry. The soup was okay but overall it didn't have a lot of flavor. This place is very busy, so there must be some people that love it. I was with a work group for lunch so I wasn't drinking and can't comment on the bar or drinks. Overall I wouldn't recommend.
(2)
Zach B.
I love going to Bison Witches! I am a frequent patron. They offer a wide variety of hot sandwiches and some soups. They are vegetarian friendly too. I usually get the half sandwich half soup combo. You get your soup in a bread bowl so it is a large portion of food. Although, I've thought that the sandwich meat portions have dwindled in the past year or so. If you are looking for high class dining you might want to look around before you order cause your in a bar. The service is always good and the food is usually out on time. It is usually busy and the tables are first come first served. They have Happy Hour from 4-7pm every day (If my memory serves me right). All pints $2. *Though they don't have a ton of selection on tap. I enjoy getting a pint of Guinness for $2. They also have daily drink specials including $2 margaritas, specials on domestic and import bottles.
(5)
Barton L.
One of the best bloody Mary's I've ever had. Great college atmosphere, great sandwiches. I'd go there everyday if I could afford it. LoL
(4)
Scott M.
If you're used to the Bison Witches in Norman or Tucson don't get your hopes too high. This one doesn't live up to the reputation. It has good drink specials but the food is just okay. It's also a little run down and dirty. Not a great place to watch a game (all standard def TVs). Fortunately there are lots of other places to go in the area.
(2)
Marc P.
I went in with high expectations on a recommendation from a local. So wrong. Go in early on a Friday night and sit at an empty bar. With no idea as to what to expect, I ask if they have PBR and I'm met with an eye roll. I guess my pants weren't tight enough to know it was a beer snob bar. Service was marginal after I ordered a "better" and we actually had to flag someone else, at an empty bar, so we could tab out. I hear they make a a really good sandwich though.
(1)
Matt M.
I give this place 2 stars total - 4 for the ambiance, 5 for the service & 1 for the food. This is probably the most disappointing reuben I have ever had. It came highly recommended so I spent 25 minutes trying to park just to get this sad sandwich. The bread was not griddled, the sauerkraut was cold and the corned beef was lunch meat. I chose chips and queso as my side - this proved to be as bad as the sandwich. The chips were straight out of a bag and the queso was most likely pre made (at least I hope they didn't put any effort into it as bad as it was). Maybe the locations in other states are better - I for one will never find out.
(2)
Mary S.
Love bison witches. They have great food and great service. I recommend the chicken nachos to start out! The soup never fails me either :) one thing I would change is how loud the music is. Unless you're going there by yourself, it's kinda annoying.
(4)
Brian K.
"BRIAN DID NOT OBSERVE THE SABBATH ON 5/2/10" Part VI (Bar #6) Memoir: $1.50 for a Bud Light pint??!! What the hell? I did not believe my eyes. Yes, Bud Light is terrible beer to sip on but for $1.50, you bet I ordered it and you bet it tasted terrible. Lively place but terribly depressing especially when the bartender and a waitress admitted that they were embarrassed to work here. I thought it was funny. Anyways, the bartenders and waitresses were very friendly (college students) and the crowd was very young (I assume they were students as well). At this point, I was really hungry and looking for a meal. The guy next to me at the bar ordered a delicious looking turkey/chicken sammy and I wanted one so bad but I resisted.
(2)
Steven P.
Classic staple recommended by a former Nebraska grad - good food, kind of small - sandwich/soup combo is awesome they come in bread bowls. Surprisingly good beer selection and drink specials. I will be returning when I stop through Lincoln.
(3)
Matt K.
Bison witches I would say is probably one of my favorite places to get lunch or dinner in Lincoln. Their sandwiches and soups are great! The portabella harvest grain soup in a bread bowl with a sandwich and chips is worth the money and filling. Been there many times and I will continue to. I do admit every so often the service is a little slow but I wouldn't let that shy you away if you have never been there. The food is pretty good!
(5)
Kat R.
I've liked everything I've ever gotten to eat here. It's on my short list of recommendations for anyone who is visiting Lincoln for the first time. I like the dive bar atmosphere, but I could see how someone might not. The music is a little loud and it's been pretty dark every time I've been there. I'll be back!
(4)
Lisa P.
Bison witches... get it, buy sandwichs...Anyway, it is a great place food and I am always craving their chili!
(5)
Heather A.
Great sandwiches, wonderful soup, huge portions and reasonable prices! I recommend a half sandwhich because they are HUGE! I have heard they make their bread at another location of theirs. My favorite sandwhich is the McQuinton on Rye. Wisconsin cheese soup in the bread bowl is to die for. Con queso dip with tortilla chips is also my favorite option there. They have some good drink specials too. Half Sandwich and chips is around $5-$6 I believe.
(5)
Kelsey B.
I had my first ever experience at Bison Witches today. All I want to know is - Why hasn't this restaurant expanded into other locations?! It. Is. Bomb. It seems like most (if not all) of the employees are college students, or in that overall age range. This made the experience a ton of fun and casual, yet lively! I tried the Beef & Brie on their homemade rye with a small side of the Cream of Potato Bacon (yes, I am aware it is 90+ degrees out and really? Soup? But I had to try it since it came SO highly recommended). It was all absolutely wonderful. If you're in downtown Lincoln, just go. It's great!
(5)
Nik R.
Muff dive the bison Unfortunately, no muff or bison, not even a witch to burn Guinness was flat Sandwiches were tasty Service was decent
(4)
Seth M.
Best Past. Reuben I have ever had. The place is a little beat up and decor is questionable but Bison produces some great sandwiches & drinks are cheap.
(4)
Keely H.
I love their food and since they've knocked out that west wall and replaced it with windows it's much nicer dining in....but I placed a to-go order today and they forgot half my order! :( I was really looking forward to that Portabella Harvest Grain soup and finding out it was missing from the bag when I got back to work (and it's a drive from downtown) was really disappointing! Bison Witches won't lose my business but maybe just be more careful about checking and rechecking to-go orders, especially during your busy lunch hour.
(3)
M M.
Great food with hearty portions. It gets incredibly busy over the lunch hour so it's important to get there early. Staff is always pleasant. A definite regular spot for meals!
(5)
Erin R.
I try to use the following we deciding how many stars to give a place (I think I have Sarah G to thank) 5 stars - I can't wait to go back and I am going to tell everyone about it because it was that good. 4 stars - Very good. Will definitely return, but I'm not thinking about it as I go to bed at night. 3 stars - I will probably return, but only when someone else suggests it. 2 stars - Will most likely not return, and only if someone else really wants to go. I will not be happy about returning. 1 star - I'd rather tear out each and every taste bud then return to this place. So, when considering if I would return to Bison Witches I decided on the probably not. If I am forced back here I won't be pleased. The service is the best part. They are very helpful, attentive, and fast. The prices are decent too. I think it was $7.50 for their lunch special of 1/2 sandwich, soup in bread bowl, and chips. Not a bad deal. However, the food is not that good. I've been here twice now so it isn't just the one sandwich. The meat was sub-par deli meat with not a lot of flavor. The bread bowl for the soup is a white roll that is very dry. The soup was okay but overall it didn't have a lot of flavor. This place is very busy, so there must be some people that love it. I was with a work group for lunch so I wasn't drinking and can't comment on the bar or drinks. Overall I wouldn't recommend.
(2)
Zach B.
I love going to Bison Witches! I am a frequent patron. They offer a wide variety of hot sandwiches and some soups. They are vegetarian friendly too. I usually get the half sandwich half soup combo. You get your soup in a bread bowl so it is a large portion of food. Although, I've thought that the sandwich meat portions have dwindled in the past year or so. If you are looking for high class dining you might want to look around before you order cause your in a bar. The service is always good and the food is usually out on time. It is usually busy and the tables are first come first served. They have Happy Hour from 4-7pm every day (If my memory serves me right). All pints $2. *Though they don't have a ton of selection on tap. I enjoy getting a pint of Guinness for $2. They also have daily drink specials including $2 margaritas, specials on domestic and import bottles.
(5)
Barton L.
One of the best bloody Mary's I've ever had. Great college atmosphere, great sandwiches. I'd go there everyday if I could afford it. LoL
(4)
Caroline H.
Cool "bar" vibe, I guess. Awful food. Won't ever be back or recommend it...
(1)
Fati A.
If you are hanging out in Lincoln, Bison Witches is the place to be. It's right next to this awesome coffee shop called Coffee House. You have two good places in one good spot! I have always heard good stories about this place, that the food is really good, it's a fun place to bring friends, and more. The many times (2-3 times) that I have eaten at this place, have been really great. Their menu has a wide variety of options to choose from. I know my friend who is a vegetarian always orders their veggie sandwich. I usually order turkey sandwiches so like the T.A.C, California Kid, and The Angel. I have yet to venture out to try the other sandwiches but they are toooo good! Meals include kettle chips which are a perfect side! They also have a bar so you can get your drink on while you enjoy some bomb food. I think this is one of my favorite places to eat whenever I'm in Lincoln.
(5)
Brandon A.
Bison can pretty much satisfy anyone, which is why I like it. There is a sandwich for everyone so it's always a safe play. I've probably had half of the sandwiches on the menu and have enjoyed every one. My most recent trip I went with the BLT. The menu read that it had a lot of bacon (how I like my BLT's) and gosh they weren't kidding. I think it lacked some tomato though. In the winter months I always order a half sandwich and a bowl of soup, but stick to a full sandwich out of soup season. If you are there with a friend or on a date, I recommend one person ordering the chips and salsa for the side and one ordering the CCQ (chips con queso) and sharing. You can't go wrong at Bison. Brat
(4)
Elisabeth E.
Ok so came in here for lunch a few weeks ago and was really not impressed. Atmosphere is a little dive bar-y with all sorts of random stuff on the walls, a long bar, and TVs to drown out your date's unending commentary about what this weather has been doing to her hair. We were seated pretty quick since we were just before lunch. By the time we left though there was a bit of a wait, so seems to be a rather popular place on weekends. Our server was really busy but did her best to come get orders quickly and keep drinks and things filled. Our server was very nice and without a doubt the only enjoyable part of my meal. When I asked her about gluten free options she seemed unsure and said the salads, maybe soups ( -)the gluten bowl of bread, and was really uncertain on salad dressings. So she quickly offered to ask the kitchen. Kitchen responded that soups are "probably" fine and who knows about dressing. She was really apologetic and said it was difficult getting answers. I asked for clarification on the soup, emphasized its an allergy, not dieting for me, and if I or someone could maybe read the dressing bottles or something to be sure. Came back and said the kitchen just told her to forget all soups and all I can have is salad and they think the vinaigrette is fine. So I go with the salad without croutons. Comes out, with croutons. My friend is nearly finished with his meal and she apologetically brings out the salad sans evil gluten cubes. Btw, I was seated next to the kitchen and could even hear them giving her a hard time.. Not professional guys. Oh man, so onto the food quality, cause despite everything i'm totally willing to give credit where it's due... It wasn't. Salad was terrible. Good portion, I'll admit, but tasteless. Chef salad with some store bought mix (which had arugula in it by chance so add 1 classy point by sheer luck) a few slices of avocado and about two cases of the cheapest lunch meat ever and 'garnished' with some preshredded bagged cheese...Literally reminded me of how any 15 year old boy would make a salad if forced by mom. I picked out the arugula and avocado, did my best on the rest and finally gave up. Food wasn't expensive, but more than I'm willing to pay for that stuff. Will not be returning
(1)
Kassandra M.
My first impression of Bison Witches was good, from the outside. When you walk in the atmosphere is a little dive-y which normally is okay, except the tables are all filthy and the floors look like they haven't been cleaned in more than a month. Needless to say I was concerned of the condition of the kitchen. The food is utter garbage. The chicken salad sandwich is tasteless. The toast was burnt. The chili tastes like it came straight from a Hormel Chili can. It's greasy and disgusting. There is about 1/4 cup of it in a bread bowl for $5. Very overpriced. What do people even see in this place? I wouldn't be surprised if I wind up with food poisoning. I won't be returning.
(1)
Cameron K.
An excellent spot if you're looking to get a quality sandwich and cup of soup. I highly recommend the Hawaiian and Cream of potato bacon soup in a bread bowl but you can't really go wrong. If you're looking to absolutely crush some beers in a great atmosphere, this is your spot. Brat Approved
(5)
Katy B.
My first time here wasn't bad, but it wasn't the best food ever. I went over my lunch break and it wasn't very busy. The service was good, or waitress was attentive. The food came quickly, but was just sub-par. We got two different sandwiches to split and try, the Beef and Brie and the C.A.B. The better of the two was the one with grilled chicken breast on it (C.A.B.), but I think it was s bit heavy on the 'russian dressing' or whatever topping they put on their sandwiches. It just made my sandwich a bit too sweet for me. We tried the Portabella Harvest Grain soup, I was looking forward to it. But unfortunately it was not described as a creamy soup.. which it was. I would not have have order it if I had known that. I'd give it another try, but will have to try some different for sure.
(2)
Erik Y.
HOLY COW this place is good for Lunch. They have THE most amazing sandwichs in lincoln. The size of each sandwich is huge. My wife had the BLT and I swear it had 12 strips of bacon on it. Massive amount of bacon, and the full sandwich is almost to much for one normal sized person to eat. They have a half sanwich soup option that I personally prefer so you get to try their great soups and trust me, a half sandwich is like every place else's full sandwich. I like the TAC, which is Turkey, Avacado, Bacon and Cream Cheese. Yum! If I had a complaint, its that the chips are just a bag of chips. I would love some homemade sides or chips, but hey, the sandwich's are great! I have tried the chips and salsa and I swear the salsa is different every time I go. They clearly make the salsa from scratch because some days its spicy, some days thick, some thin, some not spicy etc. but, it is always very good so this is the best option in my opinion. All the sandwich's are 6.99, which is very reasonable for the amount of food you get. They make a great Bloody Mary, and have a full bar and bartenders who know how to make a good drink, which not every place has to be honest. Anyway, if you want a sandwich for lunch but something a little different then the typical, you HAVE to try this place out! Very very good, and one of my 3 favorite places in downtown Lincoln to eat hands down. The only drawbacks for me are: 1. Its loud. Can not hear yourself or others talk very well. 2. Not much seating, and between 11:45 and 1pm it is almost impossible to get in. They have 10+ people on the wait list by noon so you have to get their early. (I guess it is because it is so good) 3. No take out after 11:30. I have tried to cater by ordering to-go and they will NOT do this after 11:30. I guess they are just to busy. Above drawbacks are not a big deal if you are flexable on when you eat, like me.
(5)
Nathan F.
There are so many awesome things about this place I don't even know where to begin. All the sandwiches are good, all the bread bowls of soup are good. I eat the bowl after I'm done even, lol. Best chile soup i think I've had outside of my own family cooking it. My sami of choice is the BW Philly. I get the CCQ chips, if you haven't had them recommend trying them out. YUM! Everyone loves this place. When my friends or family come in from out of town, this is on their list of things to do when coming to town, always. We come here before some morning Husker football games to get one of the best bloody's made from scratch. Has a nice plaza outside of it for relaxing. Your meal of choice should be halve sandwich, chips, and soup. It's like 9 bucks, and plenty of food. They also do on Mondays for 3 bucks with purchase of a beer, probably the best Nacho deal in town. As you can tell we come here often to eat. Most any day of the week you and a date can get out for under 20 each with a beverage purchase.
(4)
Amanda K.
This place is close to work so I come here for lunch every once in a while. Service can be a little slow, and the food is just ok. I'm never craving it, but the sandwiches and sides are decent. I've tried the club, spinach dip, chicken nachos, and a ruben. I don't have anything to complain about, but I'm not raving either.
(3)
Jessica H.
The best! I have eaten here so many times I don't know why I haven't reviewed it yet. I always get the 1/2 sandwich, 1/2 soup deal. Great price! And get chips and salsa. The food is always yummy. The drinks are HUGE. The bloody mary's look amazing. If you're in Lincoln, this is a great place to go. It does get busy, might have to wait for a table, but worth it. SO SO worth it!
(5)
Sarah L.
Between 4-7pm they host a perfectly priced happy hour* You can not get beer on tap at a better price point anywhere else in town* Their sandwiches are always a good choice!
(4)
Bethany W.
Bison has quality soups and sanwiches. It's a downtown Lincoln dive bar (said in the most endearing way). The service and food and beer specials makes up for the lack of decor. I recommend the CCQ, TAC, and portobello harvest grain soup!
(4)
Tom S.
I am constantly disappointed by chicken salad sandwiches at other sandwich shops due to Bisonwitchs. Every sandwich is better on a croissant IMO. Used to work there a while back. The only thing I miss are some of the familiar faces!
(4)
Alicia V.
I ordered the T.A.C. sandwich came without the bacon, after I noticed this and had to wait 15 minutes for the waitress to come back, she walked off and came back with a cup of bacon for me to put on the remainder of my sandwich. After eating our sub par food we waited another 15 minutes for the waitress to come back with our check. When she didn't come back my husband had to get up to give her our card to pay for the food. When she came back for the check we asked for a box to take home our overpriced sandwiches. When she got back she put the boxes ON TOP of the remainder of my husbands sandwich. Needless to say, we will not be returning.
(1)
Matthew O.
Got a BLT for dinner. Pretty good. Good amount of crispy bacon, shredded lettuce, fresh tomato. Didn't understand the red onions on there. And not enough mayo. I'm picky with my BLTs. Everyone else's sandwiches looked good. Happy to see chips on the menu instead of fries. And they let you place half orders. Always a plus. But a sandwich and chips for $6.99 plus an extra $1.79 for a drink seems overpriced to me...especially given the tired, dark, blah atmosphere. $12 (incl. tax & tip) seems a lot for a BLT, chips and a drink at a bar/deli. Service was friendly, quick and attentive, though. Always a good thing.
(3)
brian t.
I came here last weekend with my girlfriend, my other friend , his wife and their 2 year old son. He has been here a couple times before told me it was one of the best in town, and he was right it was delicious! Although its suppose to also be a kids friendly place as we walked in the music was blasting. The best and cheapest(if your on a budget) is to do the 1/2 sandwich and soup special for around $7 , i got the Hawaiian and cream of potato bacon soup. The hawaiian was ok, i was expecting better other then lettuce, a slice of pineapple, provolone cheese and baked chicken breast with a side of bbq sauce. The cream of potato bacon soup on the other side was amazing!! highly recommended, i forgot what sandwich my girlfriend got but she got the chili soup and said it was good.
(4)
Jake D.
Stopped here for a bite to eat and some drinks before the Nebraska/Nevada game. I was staying with family in Omaha, and we were told to get to Lincoln VERY early to avoid heavy traffic. I think would could have left a couple hours later and still have been fine, but there we were at Bison Witches at 10:30 AM killing time for the 2:30 kickoff. Kudos to them for opening early on game day! I did fight the urge to order my first beer until after 11:00, but after that and a great California Kid sandwich it was on. Come noon it was very crowded, and apparently there was a line of people out the door waiting to get a table (some friends came up to meet us around noon and passed a line of disgruntled patrons). The only other downfall was it got quite warm inside, which I am sure is welcome on a cold december day, just not a warm September one. Still not sure was a Bison Witch is, but I will be quick to check out the location in Tempe now!
(4)
Joseph D.
Slow service, plastic plates, dingy property and far and away the best sandwiches in Lincoln. Sandwiches have triple the meat of most places and its steaming hot when it hits the plate. Guinness and a pastrami = yum.
(4)
Kate M.
This is probably my favorite restaurant in Lincoln. Sandwiches are great, soup is great, chips con queso is great! Service is slow, but the food is so good, I imagine it takes awhile to prepare. My only complaint is that last time I was there (April 18th 2009), they raised the prices of menu items without reflecting it in the menu. So when we got our bill, everything was more expensive than we had anticipated. Kind of false advertising, but the food is so good, I will be back.
(5)
D F.
This place is hands down the best lunch spot in Lincoln. Whenever in Lincoln I always stop. It's a sandwich shop with a nice bar and a decent beer tap selection. The sandwiches are packed with meat and all kinds of fresh ingredients depending on the selection you choose. The service is great considering they are always slammed packed busy. Do yourself a favor and order a seasonal tap brew and a sandwich at the bar. You won't regret it. The soups are also great and the salsa is fresh and homemade. I had a McQuinten and a bloody mary for lunch today and wish it could be every day!
(5)
Jenna H.
The Place: Bison Witches Bar and Deli Lincoln NE The Feel: casual bar a street away from the Downtown bar strip, but don't get confused, its right next to Buffalo Wild Wings, just remember that buffalo only live in Africa, you will be right at home with the Bison. Welcome to Bison Witches Bar and Deli, one of my all time favorite places to eat. Notice that I didn't give it 5 stars, I'll go over why in the next few paragraphs. The Food: Extra large hot sandwiches, soups and appetizers. I usually eat the 1/2 sandwich and chips ($4.75) which will fill you up, trust me. Some reviewers claim that they feel cheated when they order the whole sandwich and chips for around 7 bucks, but lets look at this from the "glass all the way full" side: a half sandwich, buyer beware is really more like 3/4 of the sandwich, so unless you really want to eat three more bites (although I don't blame you because the sandwiches are delish!) please only order the half. My usual order includes either the 1/2 chicken salad sandwich or the 1/2 Reuben, I highly recommend any sandwich though. The Drinks: everyday is a drinking day at Bison Witches, with the full bar. I recommend going on Fridays if you like Margaritas, they are 2.00 a piece, and trust me, many a person has gotten very tipsy off of two of them. My fiance loves to go on beer special nights which happen pretty much every other day of the week. Time: if you plan on going to B*witches take in to consideration how much time you have and what time you are going, the place is always busy, but usually packed around dinner time (6-8:30). If you go during these times make sure you are able to wait for a table and wait for your sandwich. Got Kids? Yeah, its a bar, but the grilled PBJ is great and the patrons are not rowdy. Bathrooms: better than a college town bar, linoleum floors and two stalls for the ladies, the soap smells okay too. Overall Review: I give it four stars, yes it is my favorite place but sometimes they are low on staff and the wait is long for my beloved sandwich, if it were the perfect world this place would serve sandwiches in every city in the country and at every hour of the day (they only have restaurants in Tuscon AZ, Tempe AZ and somewhere in Oklahoma).
(4)
Kyla B.
The bread bowls are amazing and filling! Great bar to grab something to eat and kick back and have a few drinks with your friends.
(4)
Wystan U.
If you have some time to kill before heading down to the vast and sprawling Douglas monstrosity, grab yourself, check yourself, then get yourself over to Bison Witches for a beer and a great sandwich. I've never been to a place that is so devoted to the art of the sandwich as Bison Witches, and although it's far away from me right now, I can only hope that someone is sitting in one of those large booths that overlook the rows of parking meters on 'P' Street and enjoying their sandwich while looking up at the same sky I'm looking at. How I miss you, you crazy buffalo hag.
(4)
Kelsey B.
I had my first ever experience at Bison Witches today. All I want to know is - Why hasn't this restaurant expanded into other locations?! It. Is. Bomb. It seems like most (if not all) of the employees are college students, or in that overall age range. This made the experience a ton of fun and casual, yet lively! I tried the Beef & Brie on their homemade rye with a small side of the Cream of Potato Bacon (yes, I am aware it is 90+ degrees out and really? Soup? But I had to try it since it came SO highly recommended). It was all absolutely wonderful. If you're in downtown Lincoln, just go. It's great!
(5)
Katy B.
My first time here wasn't bad, but it wasn't the best food ever. I went over my lunch break and it wasn't very busy. The service was good, or waitress was attentive. The food came quickly, but was just sub-par. We got two different sandwiches to split and try, the Beef and Brie and the C.A.B. The better of the two was the one with grilled chicken breast on it (C.A.B.), but I think it was s bit heavy on the 'russian dressing' or whatever topping they put on their sandwiches. It just made my sandwich a bit too sweet for me. We tried the Portabella Harvest Grain soup, I was looking forward to it. But unfortunately it was not described as a creamy soup.. which it was. I would not have have order it if I had known that. I'd give it another try, but will have to try some different for sure.
(2)
Kat R.
I've liked everything I've ever gotten to eat here. It's on my short list of recommendations for anyone who is visiting Lincoln for the first time. I like the dive bar atmosphere, but I could see how someone might not. The music is a little loud and it's been pretty dark every time I've been there. I'll be back!
(4)
Lisa P.
Bison witches... get it, buy sandwichs...Anyway, it is a great place food and I am always craving their chili!
(5)
Heather A.
Great sandwiches, wonderful soup, huge portions and reasonable prices! I recommend a half sandwhich because they are HUGE! I have heard they make their bread at another location of theirs. My favorite sandwhich is the McQuinton on Rye. Wisconsin cheese soup in the bread bowl is to die for. Con queso dip with tortilla chips is also my favorite option there. They have some good drink specials too. Half Sandwich and chips is around $5-$6 I believe.
(5)
Alicia V.
I ordered the T.A.C. sandwich came without the bacon, after I noticed this and had to wait 15 minutes for the waitress to come back, she walked off and came back with a cup of bacon for me to put on the remainder of my sandwich. After eating our sub par food we waited another 15 minutes for the waitress to come back with our check. When she didn't come back my husband had to get up to give her our card to pay for the food. When she came back for the check we asked for a box to take home our overpriced sandwiches. When she got back she put the boxes ON TOP of the remainder of my husbands sandwich. Needless to say, we will not be returning.
(1)
Seth M.
Best Past. Reuben I have ever had. The place is a little beat up and decor is questionable but Bison produces some great sandwiches & drinks are cheap.
(4)
Erik Y.
HOLY COW this place is good for Lunch. They have THE most amazing sandwichs in lincoln. The size of each sandwich is huge. My wife had the BLT and I swear it had 12 strips of bacon on it. Massive amount of bacon, and the full sandwich is almost to much for one normal sized person to eat. They have a half sanwich soup option that I personally prefer so you get to try their great soups and trust me, a half sandwich is like every place else's full sandwich. I like the TAC, which is Turkey, Avacado, Bacon and Cream Cheese. Yum! If I had a complaint, its that the chips are just a bag of chips. I would love some homemade sides or chips, but hey, the sandwich's are great! I have tried the chips and salsa and I swear the salsa is different every time I go. They clearly make the salsa from scratch because some days its spicy, some days thick, some thin, some not spicy etc. but, it is always very good so this is the best option in my opinion. All the sandwich's are 6.99, which is very reasonable for the amount of food you get. They make a great Bloody Mary, and have a full bar and bartenders who know how to make a good drink, which not every place has to be honest. Anyway, if you want a sandwich for lunch but something a little different then the typical, you HAVE to try this place out! Very very good, and one of my 3 favorite places in downtown Lincoln to eat hands down. The only drawbacks for me are: 1. Its loud. Can not hear yourself or others talk very well. 2. Not much seating, and between 11:45 and 1pm it is almost impossible to get in. They have 10+ people on the wait list by noon so you have to get their early. (I guess it is because it is so good) 3. No take out after 11:30. I have tried to cater by ordering to-go and they will NOT do this after 11:30. I guess they are just to busy. Above drawbacks are not a big deal if you are flexable on when you eat, like me.
(5)
Nathan F.
There are so many awesome things about this place I don't even know where to begin. All the sandwiches are good, all the bread bowls of soup are good. I eat the bowl after I'm done even, lol. Best chile soup i think I've had outside of my own family cooking it. My sami of choice is the BW Philly. I get the CCQ chips, if you haven't had them recommend trying them out. YUM! Everyone loves this place. When my friends or family come in from out of town, this is on their list of things to do when coming to town, always. We come here before some morning Husker football games to get one of the best bloody's made from scratch. Has a nice plaza outside of it for relaxing. Your meal of choice should be halve sandwich, chips, and soup. It's like 9 bucks, and plenty of food. They also do on Mondays for 3 bucks with purchase of a beer, probably the best Nacho deal in town. As you can tell we come here often to eat. Most any day of the week you and a date can get out for under 20 each with a beverage purchase.
(4)
Amanda K.
This place is close to work so I come here for lunch every once in a while. Service can be a little slow, and the food is just ok. I'm never craving it, but the sandwiches and sides are decent. I've tried the club, spinach dip, chicken nachos, and a ruben. I don't have anything to complain about, but I'm not raving either.
(3)
Keely H.
I love their food and since they've knocked out that west wall and replaced it with windows it's much nicer dining in....but I placed a to-go order today and they forgot half my order! :( I was really looking forward to that Portabella Harvest Grain soup and finding out it was missing from the bag when I got back to work (and it's a drive from downtown) was really disappointing! Bison Witches won't lose my business but maybe just be more careful about checking and rechecking to-go orders, especially during your busy lunch hour.
(3)
M M.
Great food with hearty portions. It gets incredibly busy over the lunch hour so it's important to get there early. Staff is always pleasant. A definite regular spot for meals!
(5)
Jessica H.
The best! I have eaten here so many times I don't know why I haven't reviewed it yet. I always get the 1/2 sandwich, 1/2 soup deal. Great price! And get chips and salsa. The food is always yummy. The drinks are HUGE. The bloody mary's look amazing. If you're in Lincoln, this is a great place to go. It does get busy, might have to wait for a table, but worth it. SO SO worth it!
(5)
Sarah L.
Between 4-7pm they host a perfectly priced happy hour* You can not get beer on tap at a better price point anywhere else in town* Their sandwiches are always a good choice!
(4)
Bethany W.
Bison has quality soups and sanwiches. It's a downtown Lincoln dive bar (said in the most endearing way). The service and food and beer specials makes up for the lack of decor. I recommend the CCQ, TAC, and portobello harvest grain soup!
(4)
Matthew O.
Got a BLT for dinner. Pretty good. Good amount of crispy bacon, shredded lettuce, fresh tomato. Didn't understand the red onions on there. And not enough mayo. I'm picky with my BLTs. Everyone else's sandwiches looked good. Happy to see chips on the menu instead of fries. And they let you place half orders. Always a plus. But a sandwich and chips for $6.99 plus an extra $1.79 for a drink seems overpriced to me...especially given the tired, dark, blah atmosphere. $12 (incl. tax & tip) seems a lot for a BLT, chips and a drink at a bar/deli. Service was friendly, quick and attentive, though. Always a good thing.
(3)
Marc P.
I went in with high expectations on a recommendation from a local. So wrong. Go in early on a Friday night and sit at an empty bar. With no idea as to what to expect, I ask if they have PBR and I'm met with an eye roll. I guess my pants weren't tight enough to know it was a beer snob bar. Service was marginal after I ordered a "better" and we actually had to flag someone else, at an empty bar, so we could tab out. I hear they make a a really good sandwich though.
(1)
Matt M.
I give this place 2 stars total - 4 for the ambiance, 5 for the service & 1 for the food. This is probably the most disappointing reuben I have ever had. It came highly recommended so I spent 25 minutes trying to park just to get this sad sandwich. The bread was not griddled, the sauerkraut was cold and the corned beef was lunch meat. I chose chips and queso as my side - this proved to be as bad as the sandwich. The chips were straight out of a bag and the queso was most likely pre made (at least I hope they didn't put any effort into it as bad as it was). Maybe the locations in other states are better - I for one will never find out.
(2)
Mary S.
Love bison witches. They have great food and great service. I recommend the chicken nachos to start out! The soup never fails me either :) one thing I would change is how loud the music is. Unless you're going there by yourself, it's kinda annoying.
(4)
Brian K.
"BRIAN DID NOT OBSERVE THE SABBATH ON 5/2/10" Part VI (Bar #6) Memoir: $1.50 for a Bud Light pint??!! What the hell? I did not believe my eyes. Yes, Bud Light is terrible beer to sip on but for $1.50, you bet I ordered it and you bet it tasted terrible. Lively place but terribly depressing especially when the bartender and a waitress admitted that they were embarrassed to work here. I thought it was funny. Anyways, the bartenders and waitresses were very friendly (college students) and the crowd was very young (I assume they were students as well). At this point, I was really hungry and looking for a meal. The guy next to me at the bar ordered a delicious looking turkey/chicken sammy and I wanted one so bad but I resisted.
(2)
Steven P.
Classic staple recommended by a former Nebraska grad - good food, kind of small - sandwich/soup combo is awesome they come in bread bowls. Surprisingly good beer selection and drink specials. I will be returning when I stop through Lincoln.
(3)
Caroline H.
Cool "bar" vibe, I guess. Awful food. Won't ever be back or recommend it...
(1)
Katina T.
Let's be honest. This place earns its stars for bread bowl soups, chili con queso and booze. The sandwiches here are really sub-par. But they are filling and relatively cheap, so you can't complain much. Also, you shouldn't come here expecting good, or even decent, service. Your food is probably going to an unreasonable amount of time to come out and there's a good chance your waitress will mess up your order. But all that aside, the Portabella Harvest Grain soup is outrageously tasty and I would willingly put Bison Witches CCQ on just about anything. And you never leave hungry. It' s really the perfect place for college kids looking for big portions on a budget.
(4)
Chad K.
Unfriendly staff, sandwich was ok at best, CCQ-not sure what others were talking about but it was not good. Giving 2 stars instead of 1 b/c it is cheap.
(2)
Rob K.
Meh about sums it up...The food was...Meh. Service is to be as expected for a small sandwich shop.
(2)
Dan M.
Funky place. Beers and sandwiches. Kind of a different combo, but it was good. Kind of a dump, but it is in the shadow of UNL so understandable.
(4)
Gabby A.
Bison Witches makes some tasty food. Their sandwiches are great, and very big (unless you are VERY hungry I would suggest getting a half), Their nachos are EXCELLENT, my favorite being the chicken nachos. I also highly recommend their Chili Con Queso, which you can sub in with any sandwich instead of chips for a small fee (it's well worth it). They have one of the best Bloody Mary's I've ever had, so give it a try if you are a Bloody Mary fan. I've never been a fan of their soups. You can find much better soups elsewhere in Lincoln. The reason I give it a three star is the service. They aren't very friendly or helpful. I brought my Mom here once, and she'd never been. Our waitress treated her very rudely for not knowing exactly how to order or what to order. It made for a very intimidating experience for her, which is not what you want your first time in a restaurant! It also has discouraged me from taking new or visiting people to Bison Witches, as I don't want them to feel the same way my Mom felt. The kitchen is very slow, especially if they're busy. Be prepared to wait a while for your food. This is also very much a college bar, so be prepared for that. It can be loud and crazy in there. I keep going back to Bison Witches because they have great food and excellent Bloody Mary's. It's worth it to endure the sometimes snotty staff.
(3)
Evan G.
I went to Bison Witches on a recent trip to Lincoln, and really was highly disappointed. I ordered a full sandwich, and my girlfriend ordered a half. Really I ordered a ful and she got 7/8th of a sandwich, it was such a minor difference, but it wasn't a minor difference in cost. Cost and size/portion aside I really wasn't impressed with the place at all. I thought the chicken on my sandwich was dry and really wasn't worth it. I also thought it took a while to get our food. We were the only ones in the place when we went in (it was at 2pm during the week when UNL was not in session), so I would have expected it to be very quick.
(1)
Aaron L.
Bison Witches is one of my go-to spots for casual lunch appointments and an occasional night out with the guys to grab dinner. The bottom line is the food is really good and affordable. Definitely a notch far above your regular bar food. If you want to get the full Bison Witches experience, order the half sandwich (I prefer the BLT or Rueben) and bread bowl (the Chili and Potato Soup are both excellent), and upgrade your chips and add the salsa (very good). It adds up to a whole lot of food that is very affordable. Their beer selection above average and drink specials are decent.
(4)
John R.
Great college bar and restaurant atmosphere. The food is filling, tasty, and cheap. It's basically giant sandwiches served with chips (preferably ccq, which is tortilla chips and cheese) on a lunch tray. Service is usually pretty good, unless they're packed.. Then just order another beer and chill. The only real negative can be the wait. It can be a huge pain as the customers write their name down and stand awkwardly. I've only seen it get "lord of the flies"-esque once. Otherwise, enjoy the huge sandwiches and cheap beer.
(4)
Nikki B.
Big portions, good food, but usually a long wait. Also, I'm impressed with the friendly bartenders. My fave: The TAC with parmesan chips & a breadbowl of Wisc. Cheese. Not the heathiest choice, but it's comfort food at its best!
(4)
Ryan C.
This is a great lunch spot on a gameday Saturday, if you're nursing a hangover from the night before, or if you just want an awesome sandwhich! Its got an upbeat downtown vibe, cool crowd, and tasty eats. I've tried almost every sandwhich on the menu, and each one is better than the last. Check it out!
(4)
Ben C.
Good stop-in for lunch today. A bit busy during the lunch rush, but only added about 10 min wait. I had the potato soup in a bread bowl and a half a Philly on rye. All of the food was great. The menu, and atmosphere to a certain extent, reminded me of one Quintin's in Lawrence, KS - one of my favorite places during college. Overall, it was a good experience and I will return.
(4)
Scott M.
If you're used to the Bison Witches in Norman or Tucson don't get your hopes too high. This one doesn't live up to the reputation. It has good drink specials but the food is just okay. It's also a little run down and dirty. Not a great place to watch a game (all standard def TVs). Fortunately there are lots of other places to go in the area.
(2)
Jane M.
A third rate turkey sandwich with lunchmeat a la Oscar Meyer. Lots of TVs.
(2)
Joel L.
What can I say? They make a pretty good sandwich. They also have good soups, and serve them in bread bowls. I always get the 'half and half' which ends up coming with 3/4 of a sandwich and a breadbowl of soup. The soups tend to be on the salty side, but that's pretty much the norm. They also only serve potato chips, not fries, with their meals. They claim to have a 'small and efficient' kitchen, and this is where you'll hit the only downside. If you show up for lunch hours during weekdays you're never going to get a table, and your food could take upwards of an hour to make it to the table. Eat an early lunch, or a late lunch...avoid noon. If you watch drink specials, they'll have good deals on certain days. A quick note: There is no host stand, and the place is 'seat yourself.' Sign up right away on the wait list (tacked to the wall by the door) to get a place when busy. Pros: Tasty. Good price. Good portions. Cons: Wait times.
(4)
Chaviva G.
I was hoping I'd be the first to review this absolute GEM, but alas, I'm not. So now I have to gather my erotic thoughts about BisonWitches and organize them into coherent, well-placed sentences. What can I say? This place has some of the most delicious sandwiches and soups I've ever eaten. I think the "deli" part is a little misleading. It's definitely not a deli. First and foremost it's an eatery, secondly a bar. I know few people who ever went here to drink, and mostly it was about the sandwiches. I mean, with a place that serves a grilled PB&J, how can you go wrong? I always get their meal special -- half a sandwich, soup in a bread bowl, and chips. It's a cheap deal, not to mention I can never manage to finish the whole thing. My regular was always the Husker, delicious chicken with provolone, tomatoes, lettuce and the house honey mustard. I'd pair this with their OMG-so-amazing Portobella Harvest Grain soup and the chips and salsa. The sandwich is fucking amazing. It just is. It's the perfect balance of meat and bread and veggies, hot and well-prepared. The soup is usually hit or miss -- by this I mean that it's ALWAYS delicious, but sometimes it would come out a little cold. And the chips and salsa? Always far more than I can eat. They home-make the salsa, so it's spicy hot and yummy. I can also vouch for the Hawaiian, for what it's worth. Listen, this place is amazing. Go there at least once. Everytime I come back to Lincoln, this is usually the first place I head to, especially since it's right next to the Coffee House ... of which, I'm off to write about. GO HUSKERS!
(5)
Matthew J.
i have absolutely no clue how this place doesn't have a 4- or 5-star rating. my favorite place to eat in downtown lincoln while i was in school, my friends and i went there probably at least once a week. the bread bowl soups and the sandwiches are as good as it gets, and i'm sorry but anyone who rated this place a three or below doesn't have a clue what they're talking about.
(5)
John B.
There's always a special at Bison Witches. Whether the middle of the day on Tuesday, or Friday or even Sunday night, come here for satifsying eats and cheap pints of beer. Bring a bunch of quarters and get a booth by the foosball table in back...or, if you prefer the glow of natural light, seat yourself at the very front, and watch street passers-by from the big picture window. Be sure to try to the soup and salad special, lunch times...and don't be afraid to gobble up that bread-bowl! Last Sunday, you could get a pint of "Foggen Lager" -- an unfiltered, Belgian-tasting beer -- for a buck. I bought two at a time and gave one to a friend. This place isn't the most stylin' of haunts, but the great values make up for atmosphere...a good choice anytime.
(4)
Pedrom R.
I eat here all the time and have never had a bad experience. Sometimes there is a little bit of a wait but it's a small place for how much business they get. They also have plenty of beer and great drink specials on Tuesday nights after 10pm.
(5)
brian t.
I came here last weekend with my girlfriend, my other friend , his wife and their 2 year old son. He has been here a couple times before told me it was one of the best in town, and he was right it was delicious! Although its suppose to also be a kids friendly place as we walked in the music was blasting. The best and cheapest(if your on a budget) is to do the 1/2 sandwich and soup special for around $7 , i got the Hawaiian and cream of potato bacon soup. The hawaiian was ok, i was expecting better other then lettuce, a slice of pineapple, provolone cheese and baked chicken breast with a side of bbq sauce. The cream of potato bacon soup on the other side was amazing!! highly recommended, i forgot what sandwich my girlfriend got but she got the chili soup and said it was good.
(4)
Jake D.
Stopped here for a bite to eat and some drinks before the Nebraska/Nevada game. I was staying with family in Omaha, and we were told to get to Lincoln VERY early to avoid heavy traffic. I think would could have left a couple hours later and still have been fine, but there we were at Bison Witches at 10:30 AM killing time for the 2:30 kickoff. Kudos to them for opening early on game day! I did fight the urge to order my first beer until after 11:00, but after that and a great California Kid sandwich it was on. Come noon it was very crowded, and apparently there was a line of people out the door waiting to get a table (some friends came up to meet us around noon and passed a line of disgruntled patrons). The only other downfall was it got quite warm inside, which I am sure is welcome on a cold december day, just not a warm September one. Still not sure was a Bison Witch is, but I will be quick to check out the location in Tempe now!
(4)
Joseph D.
Slow service, plastic plates, dingy property and far and away the best sandwiches in Lincoln. Sandwiches have triple the meat of most places and its steaming hot when it hits the plate. Guinness and a pastrami = yum.
(4)
Kate M.
This is probably my favorite restaurant in Lincoln. Sandwiches are great, soup is great, chips con queso is great! Service is slow, but the food is so good, I imagine it takes awhile to prepare. My only complaint is that last time I was there (April 18th 2009), they raised the prices of menu items without reflecting it in the menu. So when we got our bill, everything was more expensive than we had anticipated. Kind of false advertising, but the food is so good, I will be back.
(5)
D F.
This place is hands down the best lunch spot in Lincoln. Whenever in Lincoln I always stop. It's a sandwich shop with a nice bar and a decent beer tap selection. The sandwiches are packed with meat and all kinds of fresh ingredients depending on the selection you choose. The service is great considering they are always slammed packed busy. Do yourself a favor and order a seasonal tap brew and a sandwich at the bar. You won't regret it. The soups are also great and the salsa is fresh and homemade. I had a McQuinten and a bloody mary for lunch today and wish it could be every day!
(5)
Jenna H.
The Place: Bison Witches Bar and Deli Lincoln NE The Feel: casual bar a street away from the Downtown bar strip, but don't get confused, its right next to Buffalo Wild Wings, just remember that buffalo only live in Africa, you will be right at home with the Bison. Welcome to Bison Witches Bar and Deli, one of my all time favorite places to eat. Notice that I didn't give it 5 stars, I'll go over why in the next few paragraphs. The Food: Extra large hot sandwiches, soups and appetizers. I usually eat the 1/2 sandwich and chips ($4.75) which will fill you up, trust me. Some reviewers claim that they feel cheated when they order the whole sandwich and chips for around 7 bucks, but lets look at this from the "glass all the way full" side: a half sandwich, buyer beware is really more like 3/4 of the sandwich, so unless you really want to eat three more bites (although I don't blame you because the sandwiches are delish!) please only order the half. My usual order includes either the 1/2 chicken salad sandwich or the 1/2 Reuben, I highly recommend any sandwich though. The Drinks: everyday is a drinking day at Bison Witches, with the full bar. I recommend going on Fridays if you like Margaritas, they are 2.00 a piece, and trust me, many a person has gotten very tipsy off of two of them. My fiance loves to go on beer special nights which happen pretty much every other day of the week. Time: if you plan on going to B*witches take in to consideration how much time you have and what time you are going, the place is always busy, but usually packed around dinner time (6-8:30). If you go during these times make sure you are able to wait for a table and wait for your sandwich. Got Kids? Yeah, its a bar, but the grilled PBJ is great and the patrons are not rowdy. Bathrooms: better than a college town bar, linoleum floors and two stalls for the ladies, the soap smells okay too. Overall Review: I give it four stars, yes it is my favorite place but sometimes they are low on staff and the wait is long for my beloved sandwich, if it were the perfect world this place would serve sandwiches in every city in the country and at every hour of the day (they only have restaurants in Tuscon AZ, Tempe AZ and somewhere in Oklahoma).
(4)
Kyla B.
The bread bowls are amazing and filling! Great bar to grab something to eat and kick back and have a few drinks with your friends.
(4)
Wystan U.
If you have some time to kill before heading down to the vast and sprawling Douglas monstrosity, grab yourself, check yourself, then get yourself over to Bison Witches for a beer and a great sandwich. I've never been to a place that is so devoted to the art of the sandwich as Bison Witches, and although it's far away from me right now, I can only hope that someone is sitting in one of those large booths that overlook the rows of parking meters on 'P' Street and enjoying their sandwich while looking up at the same sky I'm looking at. How I miss you, you crazy buffalo hag.
(4)
Matthew P.
Soup and sandwiches. I had lunch here the other day for the first time and can't really remember much about it. I met a friend right at noon on a weekday and there was a line going out the door. Odd, I thought, but decided to not fuss. We had a short wait, about ten minutes and were seated at a nice booth, which I appreciated especially considering there were only two of us and the restaurant was busy. The waitstaff was friendly, professional and unobtrusive. I had a soup that was novelly served in a bread bowl and a sandwich that was tasty, but uninspired. I didn't pay so I can't speak for the prices; if i had paid attention I imagine that would have colored my opinion. Overall, I say go enjoy a sandwich. It is a kind of generic college town restaurant and that's okay, Lincoln is kind of a generic college town.
(3)
Kristin M.
The food is amazing. But the service is extremely slow (especially over the lunch hour) and the servers are known for charging credit cards for more than you write in. It has happened twice to me and also has happened to my friends. If you want to experience the fantastic food, just be sure to keep your receipt and check it against your statement.
(2)
Glenn C.
I wandered in here while on a trip taking my son to college. It had that college dive bar look to it so I didn't expect much. I sat at the bar and ordered a beer (very good selection by the way) and the first thing the bartender says is "don't pay for this just yet, in a few minutes it's happy hour and I'll ring it up then". Wow, talk about good karma. Later the same day a friend's daughter said how good the food was at BW's. We ate there and were impressed enough we ended up going back the next day. We'll be back in Lincoln for some football games and I will definately make it back to BW's.
(5)
Jim B.
This is a great little sandwich shop, but don't go if you have less than 2 hours to eat. I know, two hours for a sandwich? It doesn't always take 2 hours, but it often does during peak times. The service is also the worst I have ever encountered consistently. So why does this place get 4 stars? Its all about the food and the atmosphere. The sandwiches are excellent as long as you know what you are getting. Their Russian dressing is really sweet, so be careful. The grilled cheese is amazing, as is the pastrami on rye. Always get the ccq (chips and con queso) to accompany a half sandwich and try the portabello harvest soup. They also have a great beer selection. I hate the wait and the service, but I can't stop going back, so that is why it gets 4 stars.
(4)
Jules T.
I ordered the bread bowl soup. It was awful. I'm used to a real bread bowl where the bread is fresh made. This one came from a plastic bag and the soup wasn't even that hot. So based on that one dish I'm giving it Meh.
(2)
Cole F.
The best sandwiches and soup I have had. Great atmosphere! The price is amazing for the amount you get. I would recommend to anyone!
(5)
J C.
Good sandwiches, my wife and kids like the soup and not many places in lincoln you can get a Guiness for 2 bucks. I just learned they have a couple other locations in arizona and oklahoma.
(3)
Fati A.
If you are hanging out in Lincoln, Bison Witches is the place to be. It's right next to this awesome coffee shop called Coffee House. You have two good places in one good spot! I have always heard good stories about this place, that the food is really good, it's a fun place to bring friends, and more. The many times (2-3 times) that I have eaten at this place, have been really great. Their menu has a wide variety of options to choose from. I know my friend who is a vegetarian always orders their veggie sandwich. I usually order turkey sandwiches so like the T.A.C, California Kid, and The Angel. I have yet to venture out to try the other sandwiches but they are toooo good! Meals include kettle chips which are a perfect side! They also have a bar so you can get your drink on while you enjoy some bomb food. I think this is one of my favorite places to eat whenever I'm in Lincoln.
(5)
Brandon A.
Bison can pretty much satisfy anyone, which is why I like it. There is a sandwich for everyone so it's always a safe play. I've probably had half of the sandwiches on the menu and have enjoyed every one. My most recent trip I went with the BLT. The menu read that it had a lot of bacon (how I like my BLT's) and gosh they weren't kidding. I think it lacked some tomato though. In the winter months I always order a half sandwich and a bowl of soup, but stick to a full sandwich out of soup season. If you are there with a friend or on a date, I recommend one person ordering the chips and salsa for the side and one ordering the CCQ (chips con queso) and sharing. You can't go wrong at Bison. Brat
(4)
Elisabeth E.
Ok so came in here for lunch a few weeks ago and was really not impressed. Atmosphere is a little dive bar-y with all sorts of random stuff on the walls, a long bar, and TVs to drown out your date's unending commentary about what this weather has been doing to her hair. We were seated pretty quick since we were just before lunch. By the time we left though there was a bit of a wait, so seems to be a rather popular place on weekends. Our server was really busy but did her best to come get orders quickly and keep drinks and things filled. Our server was very nice and without a doubt the only enjoyable part of my meal. When I asked her about gluten free options she seemed unsure and said the salads, maybe soups ( -)the gluten bowl of bread, and was really uncertain on salad dressings. So she quickly offered to ask the kitchen. Kitchen responded that soups are "probably" fine and who knows about dressing. She was really apologetic and said it was difficult getting answers. I asked for clarification on the soup, emphasized its an allergy, not dieting for me, and if I or someone could maybe read the dressing bottles or something to be sure. Came back and said the kitchen just told her to forget all soups and all I can have is salad and they think the vinaigrette is fine. So I go with the salad without croutons. Comes out, with croutons. My friend is nearly finished with his meal and she apologetically brings out the salad sans evil gluten cubes. Btw, I was seated next to the kitchen and could even hear them giving her a hard time.. Not professional guys. Oh man, so onto the food quality, cause despite everything i'm totally willing to give credit where it's due... It wasn't. Salad was terrible. Good portion, I'll admit, but tasteless. Chef salad with some store bought mix (which had arugula in it by chance so add 1 classy point by sheer luck) a few slices of avocado and about two cases of the cheapest lunch meat ever and 'garnished' with some preshredded bagged cheese...Literally reminded me of how any 15 year old boy would make a salad if forced by mom. I picked out the arugula and avocado, did my best on the rest and finally gave up. Food wasn't expensive, but more than I'm willing to pay for that stuff. Will not be returning
(1)
Kassandra M.
My first impression of Bison Witches was good, from the outside. When you walk in the atmosphere is a little dive-y which normally is okay, except the tables are all filthy and the floors look like they haven't been cleaned in more than a month. Needless to say I was concerned of the condition of the kitchen. The food is utter garbage. The chicken salad sandwich is tasteless. The toast was burnt. The chili tastes like it came straight from a Hormel Chili can. It's greasy and disgusting. There is about 1/4 cup of it in a bread bowl for $5. Very overpriced. What do people even see in this place? I wouldn't be surprised if I wind up with food poisoning. I won't be returning.
(1)
Cameron K.
An excellent spot if you're looking to get a quality sandwich and cup of soup. I highly recommend the Hawaiian and Cream of potato bacon soup in a bread bowl but you can't really go wrong. If you're looking to absolutely crush some beers in a great atmosphere, this is your spot. Brat Approved
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Music : Juke Box Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Joel L.
What can I say? They make a pretty good sandwich. They also have good soups, and serve them in bread bowls. I always get the 'half and half' which ends up coming with 3/4 of a sandwich and a breadbowl of soup. The soups tend to be on the salty side, but that's pretty much the norm. They also only serve potato chips, not fries, with their meals. They claim to have a 'small and efficient' kitchen, and this is where you'll hit the only downside. If you show up for lunch hours during weekdays you're never going to get a table, and your food could take upwards of an hour to make it to the table. Eat an early lunch, or a late lunch...avoid noon. If you watch drink specials, they'll have good deals on certain days. A quick note: There is no host stand, and the place is 'seat yourself.' Sign up right away on the wait list (tacked to the wall by the door) to get a place when busy. Pros: Tasty. Good price. Good portions. Cons: Wait times.
(4)Kat R.
I've liked everything I've ever gotten to eat here. It's on my short list of recommendations for anyone who is visiting Lincoln for the first time. I like the dive bar atmosphere, but I could see how someone might not. The music is a little loud and it's been pretty dark every time I've been there. I'll be back!
(4)Lisa P.
Bison witches... get it, buy sandwichs...Anyway, it is a great place food and I am always craving their chili!
(5)Jules T.
I ordered the bread bowl soup. It was awful. I'm used to a real bread bowl where the bread is fresh made. This one came from a plastic bag and the soup wasn't even that hot. So based on that one dish I'm giving it Meh.
(2)Cole F.
The best sandwiches and soup I have had. Great atmosphere! The price is amazing for the amount you get. I would recommend to anyone!
(5)J C.
Good sandwiches, my wife and kids like the soup and not many places in lincoln you can get a Guiness for 2 bucks. I just learned they have a couple other locations in arizona and oklahoma.
(3)Jane M.
A third rate turkey sandwich with lunchmeat a la Oscar Meyer. Lots of TVs.
(2)Matt M.
I give this place 2 stars total - 4 for the ambiance, 5 for the service & 1 for the food. This is probably the most disappointing reuben I have ever had. It came highly recommended so I spent 25 minutes trying to park just to get this sad sandwich. The bread was not griddled, the sauerkraut was cold and the corned beef was lunch meat. I chose chips and queso as my side - this proved to be as bad as the sandwich. The chips were straight out of a bag and the queso was most likely pre made (at least I hope they didn't put any effort into it as bad as it was). Maybe the locations in other states are better - I for one will never find out.
(2)Mary S.
Love bison witches. They have great food and great service. I recommend the chicken nachos to start out! The soup never fails me either :) one thing I would change is how loud the music is. Unless you're going there by yourself, it's kinda annoying.
(4)Brian K.
"BRIAN DID NOT OBSERVE THE SABBATH ON 5/2/10" Part VI (Bar #6) Memoir: $1.50 for a Bud Light pint??!! What the hell? I did not believe my eyes. Yes, Bud Light is terrible beer to sip on but for $1.50, you bet I ordered it and you bet it tasted terrible. Lively place but terribly depressing especially when the bartender and a waitress admitted that they were embarrassed to work here. I thought it was funny. Anyways, the bartenders and waitresses were very friendly (college students) and the crowd was very young (I assume they were students as well). At this point, I was really hungry and looking for a meal. The guy next to me at the bar ordered a delicious looking turkey/chicken sammy and I wanted one so bad but I resisted.
(2)Steven P.
Classic staple recommended by a former Nebraska grad - good food, kind of small - sandwich/soup combo is awesome they come in bread bowls. Surprisingly good beer selection and drink specials. I will be returning when I stop through Lincoln.
(3)Matt K.
Bison witches I would say is probably one of my favorite places to get lunch or dinner in Lincoln. Their sandwiches and soups are great! The portabella harvest grain soup in a bread bowl with a sandwich and chips is worth the money and filling. Been there many times and I will continue to. I do admit every so often the service is a little slow but I wouldn't let that shy you away if you have never been there. The food is pretty good!
(5)Lynn H.
Went for a group gathering. Had the 1/2 sandwich and soup (C.A.B. and cream of potato bacon) they also served chips with it (garlic parm) meal cost all of 13 bucks with tip. came in at happy hour so $2 beer on tap =] the C.A.B. (chicken, avocado, bacon) had a sauce on it that I didn't care for, also the chicken was kinda dry =T overall pretty good place for groups. They had a great system for paying as a group. will come back again
(4)Erin R.
I try to use the following we deciding how many stars to give a place (I think I have Sarah G to thank) 5 stars - I can't wait to go back and I am going to tell everyone about it because it was that good. 4 stars - Very good. Will definitely return, but I'm not thinking about it as I go to bed at night. 3 stars - I will probably return, but only when someone else suggests it. 2 stars - Will most likely not return, and only if someone else really wants to go. I will not be happy about returning. 1 star - I'd rather tear out each and every taste bud then return to this place. So, when considering if I would return to Bison Witches I decided on the probably not. If I am forced back here I won't be pleased. The service is the best part. They are very helpful, attentive, and fast. The prices are decent too. I think it was $7.50 for their lunch special of 1/2 sandwich, soup in bread bowl, and chips. Not a bad deal. However, the food is not that good. I've been here twice now so it isn't just the one sandwich. The meat was sub-par deli meat with not a lot of flavor. The bread bowl for the soup is a white roll that is very dry. The soup was okay but overall it didn't have a lot of flavor. This place is very busy, so there must be some people that love it. I was with a work group for lunch so I wasn't drinking and can't comment on the bar or drinks. Overall I wouldn't recommend.
(2)Zach B.
I love going to Bison Witches! I am a frequent patron. They offer a wide variety of hot sandwiches and some soups. They are vegetarian friendly too. I usually get the half sandwich half soup combo. You get your soup in a bread bowl so it is a large portion of food. Although, I've thought that the sandwich meat portions have dwindled in the past year or so. If you are looking for high class dining you might want to look around before you order cause your in a bar. The service is always good and the food is usually out on time. It is usually busy and the tables are first come first served. They have Happy Hour from 4-7pm every day (If my memory serves me right). All pints $2. *Though they don't have a ton of selection on tap. I enjoy getting a pint of Guinness for $2. They also have daily drink specials including $2 margaritas, specials on domestic and import bottles.
(5)Barton L.
One of the best bloody Mary's I've ever had. Great college atmosphere, great sandwiches. I'd go there everyday if I could afford it. LoL
(4)Caroline H.
Cool "bar" vibe, I guess. Awful food. Won't ever be back or recommend it...
(1)Katina T.
Let's be honest. This place earns its stars for bread bowl soups, chili con queso and booze. The sandwiches here are really sub-par. But they are filling and relatively cheap, so you can't complain much. Also, you shouldn't come here expecting good, or even decent, service. Your food is probably going to an unreasonable amount of time to come out and there's a good chance your waitress will mess up your order. But all that aside, the Portabella Harvest Grain soup is outrageously tasty and I would willingly put Bison Witches CCQ on just about anything. And you never leave hungry. It' s really the perfect place for college kids looking for big portions on a budget.
(4)Kelsey B.
I had my first ever experience at Bison Witches today. All I want to know is - Why hasn't this restaurant expanded into other locations?! It. Is. Bomb. It seems like most (if not all) of the employees are college students, or in that overall age range. This made the experience a ton of fun and casual, yet lively! I tried the Beef & Brie on their homemade rye with a small side of the Cream of Potato Bacon (yes, I am aware it is 90+ degrees out and really? Soup? But I had to try it since it came SO highly recommended). It was all absolutely wonderful. If you're in downtown Lincoln, just go. It's great!
(5)Elisabeth E.
Ok so came in here for lunch a few weeks ago and was really not impressed. Atmosphere is a little dive bar-y with all sorts of random stuff on the walls, a long bar, and TVs to drown out your date's unending commentary about what this weather has been doing to her hair. We were seated pretty quick since we were just before lunch. By the time we left though there was a bit of a wait, so seems to be a rather popular place on weekends. Our server was really busy but did her best to come get orders quickly and keep drinks and things filled. Our server was very nice and without a doubt the only enjoyable part of my meal. When I asked her about gluten free options she seemed unsure and said the salads, maybe soups ( -)the gluten bowl of bread, and was really uncertain on salad dressings. So she quickly offered to ask the kitchen. Kitchen responded that soups are "probably" fine and who knows about dressing. She was really apologetic and said it was difficult getting answers. I asked for clarification on the soup, emphasized its an allergy, not dieting for me, and if I or someone could maybe read the dressing bottles or something to be sure. Came back and said the kitchen just told her to forget all soups and all I can have is salad and they think the vinaigrette is fine. So I go with the salad without croutons. Comes out, with croutons. My friend is nearly finished with his meal and she apologetically brings out the salad sans evil gluten cubes. Btw, I was seated next to the kitchen and could even hear them giving her a hard time.. Not professional guys. Oh man, so onto the food quality, cause despite everything i'm totally willing to give credit where it's due... It wasn't. Salad was terrible. Good portion, I'll admit, but tasteless. Chef salad with some store bought mix (which had arugula in it by chance so add 1 classy point by sheer luck) a few slices of avocado and about two cases of the cheapest lunch meat ever and 'garnished' with some preshredded bagged cheese...Literally reminded me of how any 15 year old boy would make a salad if forced by mom. I picked out the arugula and avocado, did my best on the rest and finally gave up. Food wasn't expensive, but more than I'm willing to pay for that stuff. Will not be returning
(1)Kassandra M.
My first impression of Bison Witches was good, from the outside. When you walk in the atmosphere is a little dive-y which normally is okay, except the tables are all filthy and the floors look like they haven't been cleaned in more than a month. Needless to say I was concerned of the condition of the kitchen. The food is utter garbage. The chicken salad sandwich is tasteless. The toast was burnt. The chili tastes like it came straight from a Hormel Chili can. It's greasy and disgusting. There is about 1/4 cup of it in a bread bowl for $5. Very overpriced. What do people even see in this place? I wouldn't be surprised if I wind up with food poisoning. I won't be returning.
(1)Cameron K.
An excellent spot if you're looking to get a quality sandwich and cup of soup. I highly recommend the Hawaiian and Cream of potato bacon soup in a bread bowl but you can't really go wrong. If you're looking to absolutely crush some beers in a great atmosphere, this is your spot. Brat Approved
(5)Fati A.
If you are hanging out in Lincoln, Bison Witches is the place to be. It's right next to this awesome coffee shop called Coffee House. You have two good places in one good spot! I have always heard good stories about this place, that the food is really good, it's a fun place to bring friends, and more. The many times (2-3 times) that I have eaten at this place, have been really great. Their menu has a wide variety of options to choose from. I know my friend who is a vegetarian always orders their veggie sandwich. I usually order turkey sandwiches so like the T.A.C, California Kid, and The Angel. I have yet to venture out to try the other sandwiches but they are toooo good! Meals include kettle chips which are a perfect side! They also have a bar so you can get your drink on while you enjoy some bomb food. I think this is one of my favorite places to eat whenever I'm in Lincoln.
(5)Brandon A.
Bison can pretty much satisfy anyone, which is why I like it. There is a sandwich for everyone so it's always a safe play. I've probably had half of the sandwiches on the menu and have enjoyed every one. My most recent trip I went with the BLT. The menu read that it had a lot of bacon (how I like my BLT's) and gosh they weren't kidding. I think it lacked some tomato though. In the winter months I always order a half sandwich and a bowl of soup, but stick to a full sandwich out of soup season. If you are there with a friend or on a date, I recommend one person ordering the chips and salsa for the side and one ordering the CCQ (chips con queso) and sharing. You can't go wrong at Bison. Brat
(4)Nik R.
Muff dive the bison Unfortunately, no muff or bison, not even a witch to burn Guinness was flat Sandwiches were tasty Service was decent
(4)Heather A.
Great sandwiches, wonderful soup, huge portions and reasonable prices! I recommend a half sandwhich because they are HUGE! I have heard they make their bread at another location of theirs. My favorite sandwhich is the McQuinton on Rye. Wisconsin cheese soup in the bread bowl is to die for. Con queso dip with tortilla chips is also my favorite option there. They have some good drink specials too. Half Sandwich and chips is around $5-$6 I believe.
(5)Katy B.
My first time here wasn't bad, but it wasn't the best food ever. I went over my lunch break and it wasn't very busy. The service was good, or waitress was attentive. The food came quickly, but was just sub-par. We got two different sandwiches to split and try, the Beef and Brie and the C.A.B. The better of the two was the one with grilled chicken breast on it (C.A.B.), but I think it was s bit heavy on the 'russian dressing' or whatever topping they put on their sandwiches. It just made my sandwich a bit too sweet for me. We tried the Portabella Harvest Grain soup, I was looking forward to it. But unfortunately it was not described as a creamy soup.. which it was. I would not have have order it if I had known that. I'd give it another try, but will have to try some different for sure.
(2)Seth M.
Best Past. Reuben I have ever had. The place is a little beat up and decor is questionable but Bison produces some great sandwiches & drinks are cheap.
(4)Erik Y.
HOLY COW this place is good for Lunch. They have THE most amazing sandwichs in lincoln. The size of each sandwich is huge. My wife had the BLT and I swear it had 12 strips of bacon on it. Massive amount of bacon, and the full sandwich is almost to much for one normal sized person to eat. They have a half sanwich soup option that I personally prefer so you get to try their great soups and trust me, a half sandwich is like every place else's full sandwich. I like the TAC, which is Turkey, Avacado, Bacon and Cream Cheese. Yum! If I had a complaint, its that the chips are just a bag of chips. I would love some homemade sides or chips, but hey, the sandwich's are great! I have tried the chips and salsa and I swear the salsa is different every time I go. They clearly make the salsa from scratch because some days its spicy, some days thick, some thin, some not spicy etc. but, it is always very good so this is the best option in my opinion. All the sandwich's are 6.99, which is very reasonable for the amount of food you get. They make a great Bloody Mary, and have a full bar and bartenders who know how to make a good drink, which not every place has to be honest. Anyway, if you want a sandwich for lunch but something a little different then the typical, you HAVE to try this place out! Very very good, and one of my 3 favorite places in downtown Lincoln to eat hands down. The only drawbacks for me are: 1. Its loud. Can not hear yourself or others talk very well. 2. Not much seating, and between 11:45 and 1pm it is almost impossible to get in. They have 10+ people on the wait list by noon so you have to get their early. (I guess it is because it is so good) 3. No take out after 11:30. I have tried to cater by ordering to-go and they will NOT do this after 11:30. I guess they are just to busy. Above drawbacks are not a big deal if you are flexable on when you eat, like me.
(5)Nathan F.
There are so many awesome things about this place I don't even know where to begin. All the sandwiches are good, all the bread bowls of soup are good. I eat the bowl after I'm done even, lol. Best chile soup i think I've had outside of my own family cooking it. My sami of choice is the BW Philly. I get the CCQ chips, if you haven't had them recommend trying them out. YUM! Everyone loves this place. When my friends or family come in from out of town, this is on their list of things to do when coming to town, always. We come here before some morning Husker football games to get one of the best bloody's made from scratch. Has a nice plaza outside of it for relaxing. Your meal of choice should be halve sandwich, chips, and soup. It's like 9 bucks, and plenty of food. They also do on Mondays for 3 bucks with purchase of a beer, probably the best Nacho deal in town. As you can tell we come here often to eat. Most any day of the week you and a date can get out for under 20 each with a beverage purchase.
(4)Amanda K.
This place is close to work so I come here for lunch every once in a while. Service can be a little slow, and the food is just ok. I'm never craving it, but the sandwiches and sides are decent. I've tried the club, spinach dip, chicken nachos, and a ruben. I don't have anything to complain about, but I'm not raving either.
(3)Keely H.
I love their food and since they've knocked out that west wall and replaced it with windows it's much nicer dining in....but I placed a to-go order today and they forgot half my order! :( I was really looking forward to that Portabella Harvest Grain soup and finding out it was missing from the bag when I got back to work (and it's a drive from downtown) was really disappointing! Bison Witches won't lose my business but maybe just be more careful about checking and rechecking to-go orders, especially during your busy lunch hour.
(3)M M.
Great food with hearty portions. It gets incredibly busy over the lunch hour so it's important to get there early. Staff is always pleasant. A definite regular spot for meals!
(5)Jessica H.
The best! I have eaten here so many times I don't know why I haven't reviewed it yet. I always get the 1/2 sandwich, 1/2 soup deal. Great price! And get chips and salsa. The food is always yummy. The drinks are HUGE. The bloody mary's look amazing. If you're in Lincoln, this is a great place to go. It does get busy, might have to wait for a table, but worth it. SO SO worth it!
(5)Sarah L.
Between 4-7pm they host a perfectly priced happy hour* You can not get beer on tap at a better price point anywhere else in town* Their sandwiches are always a good choice!
(4)Bethany W.
Bison has quality soups and sanwiches. It's a downtown Lincoln dive bar (said in the most endearing way). The service and food and beer specials makes up for the lack of decor. I recommend the CCQ, TAC, and portobello harvest grain soup!
(4)Tom S.
I am constantly disappointed by chicken salad sandwiches at other sandwich shops due to Bisonwitchs. Every sandwich is better on a croissant IMO. Used to work there a while back. The only thing I miss are some of the familiar faces!
(4)Alicia V.
I ordered the T.A.C. sandwich came without the bacon, after I noticed this and had to wait 15 minutes for the waitress to come back, she walked off and came back with a cup of bacon for me to put on the remainder of my sandwich. After eating our sub par food we waited another 15 minutes for the waitress to come back with our check. When she didn't come back my husband had to get up to give her our card to pay for the food. When she came back for the check we asked for a box to take home our overpriced sandwiches. When she got back she put the boxes ON TOP of the remainder of my husbands sandwich. Needless to say, we will not be returning.
(1)Matthew O.
Got a BLT for dinner. Pretty good. Good amount of crispy bacon, shredded lettuce, fresh tomato. Didn't understand the red onions on there. And not enough mayo. I'm picky with my BLTs. Everyone else's sandwiches looked good. Happy to see chips on the menu instead of fries. And they let you place half orders. Always a plus. But a sandwich and chips for $6.99 plus an extra $1.79 for a drink seems overpriced to me...especially given the tired, dark, blah atmosphere. $12 (incl. tax & tip) seems a lot for a BLT, chips and a drink at a bar/deli. Service was friendly, quick and attentive, though. Always a good thing.
(3)Marc P.
I went in with high expectations on a recommendation from a local. So wrong. Go in early on a Friday night and sit at an empty bar. With no idea as to what to expect, I ask if they have PBR and I'm met with an eye roll. I guess my pants weren't tight enough to know it was a beer snob bar. Service was marginal after I ordered a "better" and we actually had to flag someone else, at an empty bar, so we could tab out. I hear they make a a really good sandwich though.
(1)Chad K.
Unfriendly staff, sandwich was ok at best, CCQ-not sure what others were talking about but it was not good. Giving 2 stars instead of 1 b/c it is cheap.
(2)Rob K.
Meh about sums it up...The food was...Meh. Service is to be as expected for a small sandwich shop.
(2)Dan M.
Funky place. Beers and sandwiches. Kind of a different combo, but it was good. Kind of a dump, but it is in the shadow of UNL so understandable.
(4)Ryan C.
This is a great lunch spot on a gameday Saturday, if you're nursing a hangover from the night before, or if you just want an awesome sandwhich! Its got an upbeat downtown vibe, cool crowd, and tasty eats. I've tried almost every sandwhich on the menu, and each one is better than the last. Check it out!
(4)Gabby A.
Bison Witches makes some tasty food. Their sandwiches are great, and very big (unless you are VERY hungry I would suggest getting a half), Their nachos are EXCELLENT, my favorite being the chicken nachos. I also highly recommend their Chili Con Queso, which you can sub in with any sandwich instead of chips for a small fee (it's well worth it). They have one of the best Bloody Mary's I've ever had, so give it a try if you are a Bloody Mary fan. I've never been a fan of their soups. You can find much better soups elsewhere in Lincoln. The reason I give it a three star is the service. They aren't very friendly or helpful. I brought my Mom here once, and she'd never been. Our waitress treated her very rudely for not knowing exactly how to order or what to order. It made for a very intimidating experience for her, which is not what you want your first time in a restaurant! It also has discouraged me from taking new or visiting people to Bison Witches, as I don't want them to feel the same way my Mom felt. The kitchen is very slow, especially if they're busy. Be prepared to wait a while for your food. This is also very much a college bar, so be prepared for that. It can be loud and crazy in there. I keep going back to Bison Witches because they have great food and excellent Bloody Mary's. It's worth it to endure the sometimes snotty staff.
(3)Evan G.
I went to Bison Witches on a recent trip to Lincoln, and really was highly disappointed. I ordered a full sandwich, and my girlfriend ordered a half. Really I ordered a ful and she got 7/8th of a sandwich, it was such a minor difference, but it wasn't a minor difference in cost. Cost and size/portion aside I really wasn't impressed with the place at all. I thought the chicken on my sandwich was dry and really wasn't worth it. I also thought it took a while to get our food. We were the only ones in the place when we went in (it was at 2pm during the week when UNL was not in session), so I would have expected it to be very quick.
(1)Aaron L.
Bison Witches is one of my go-to spots for casual lunch appointments and an occasional night out with the guys to grab dinner. The bottom line is the food is really good and affordable. Definitely a notch far above your regular bar food. If you want to get the full Bison Witches experience, order the half sandwich (I prefer the BLT or Rueben) and bread bowl (the Chili and Potato Soup are both excellent), and upgrade your chips and add the salsa (very good). It adds up to a whole lot of food that is very affordable. Their beer selection above average and drink specials are decent.
(4)John R.
Great college bar and restaurant atmosphere. The food is filling, tasty, and cheap. It's basically giant sandwiches served with chips (preferably ccq, which is tortilla chips and cheese) on a lunch tray. Service is usually pretty good, unless they're packed.. Then just order another beer and chill. The only real negative can be the wait. It can be a huge pain as the customers write their name down and stand awkwardly. I've only seen it get "lord of the flies"-esque once. Otherwise, enjoy the huge sandwiches and cheap beer.
(4)Nikki B.
Big portions, good food, but usually a long wait. Also, I'm impressed with the friendly bartenders. My fave: The TAC with parmesan chips & a breadbowl of Wisc. Cheese. Not the heathiest choice, but it's comfort food at its best!
(4)Ben C.
Good stop-in for lunch today. A bit busy during the lunch rush, but only added about 10 min wait. I had the potato soup in a bread bowl and a half a Philly on rye. All of the food was great. The menu, and atmosphere to a certain extent, reminded me of one Quintin's in Lawrence, KS - one of my favorite places during college. Overall, it was a good experience and I will return.
(4)Scott M.
If you're used to the Bison Witches in Norman or Tucson don't get your hopes too high. This one doesn't live up to the reputation. It has good drink specials but the food is just okay. It's also a little run down and dirty. Not a great place to watch a game (all standard def TVs). Fortunately there are lots of other places to go in the area.
(2)Chaviva G.
I was hoping I'd be the first to review this absolute GEM, but alas, I'm not. So now I have to gather my erotic thoughts about BisonWitches and organize them into coherent, well-placed sentences. What can I say? This place has some of the most delicious sandwiches and soups I've ever eaten. I think the "deli" part is a little misleading. It's definitely not a deli. First and foremost it's an eatery, secondly a bar. I know few people who ever went here to drink, and mostly it was about the sandwiches. I mean, with a place that serves a grilled PB&J, how can you go wrong? I always get their meal special -- half a sandwich, soup in a bread bowl, and chips. It's a cheap deal, not to mention I can never manage to finish the whole thing. My regular was always the Husker, delicious chicken with provolone, tomatoes, lettuce and the house honey mustard. I'd pair this with their OMG-so-amazing Portobella Harvest Grain soup and the chips and salsa. The sandwich is fucking amazing. It just is. It's the perfect balance of meat and bread and veggies, hot and well-prepared. The soup is usually hit or miss -- by this I mean that it's ALWAYS delicious, but sometimes it would come out a little cold. And the chips and salsa? Always far more than I can eat. They home-make the salsa, so it's spicy hot and yummy. I can also vouch for the Hawaiian, for what it's worth. Listen, this place is amazing. Go there at least once. Everytime I come back to Lincoln, this is usually the first place I head to, especially since it's right next to the Coffee House ... of which, I'm off to write about. GO HUSKERS!
(5)Matthew J.
i have absolutely no clue how this place doesn't have a 4- or 5-star rating. my favorite place to eat in downtown lincoln while i was in school, my friends and i went there probably at least once a week. the bread bowl soups and the sandwiches are as good as it gets, and i'm sorry but anyone who rated this place a three or below doesn't have a clue what they're talking about.
(5)John B.
There's always a special at Bison Witches. Whether the middle of the day on Tuesday, or Friday or even Sunday night, come here for satifsying eats and cheap pints of beer. Bring a bunch of quarters and get a booth by the foosball table in back...or, if you prefer the glow of natural light, seat yourself at the very front, and watch street passers-by from the big picture window. Be sure to try to the soup and salad special, lunch times...and don't be afraid to gobble up that bread-bowl! Last Sunday, you could get a pint of "Foggen Lager" -- an unfiltered, Belgian-tasting beer -- for a buck. I bought two at a time and gave one to a friend. This place isn't the most stylin' of haunts, but the great values make up for atmosphere...a good choice anytime.
(4)Pedrom R.
I eat here all the time and have never had a bad experience. Sometimes there is a little bit of a wait but it's a small place for how much business they get. They also have plenty of beer and great drink specials on Tuesday nights after 10pm.
(5)brian t.
I came here last weekend with my girlfriend, my other friend , his wife and their 2 year old son. He has been here a couple times before told me it was one of the best in town, and he was right it was delicious! Although its suppose to also be a kids friendly place as we walked in the music was blasting. The best and cheapest(if your on a budget) is to do the 1/2 sandwich and soup special for around $7 , i got the Hawaiian and cream of potato bacon soup. The hawaiian was ok, i was expecting better other then lettuce, a slice of pineapple, provolone cheese and baked chicken breast with a side of bbq sauce. The cream of potato bacon soup on the other side was amazing!! highly recommended, i forgot what sandwich my girlfriend got but she got the chili soup and said it was good.
(4)Jake D.
Stopped here for a bite to eat and some drinks before the Nebraska/Nevada game. I was staying with family in Omaha, and we were told to get to Lincoln VERY early to avoid heavy traffic. I think would could have left a couple hours later and still have been fine, but there we were at Bison Witches at 10:30 AM killing time for the 2:30 kickoff. Kudos to them for opening early on game day! I did fight the urge to order my first beer until after 11:00, but after that and a great California Kid sandwich it was on. Come noon it was very crowded, and apparently there was a line of people out the door waiting to get a table (some friends came up to meet us around noon and passed a line of disgruntled patrons). The only other downfall was it got quite warm inside, which I am sure is welcome on a cold december day, just not a warm September one. Still not sure was a Bison Witch is, but I will be quick to check out the location in Tempe now!
(4)Joseph D.
Slow service, plastic plates, dingy property and far and away the best sandwiches in Lincoln. Sandwiches have triple the meat of most places and its steaming hot when it hits the plate. Guinness and a pastrami = yum.
(4)Kate M.
This is probably my favorite restaurant in Lincoln. Sandwiches are great, soup is great, chips con queso is great! Service is slow, but the food is so good, I imagine it takes awhile to prepare. My only complaint is that last time I was there (April 18th 2009), they raised the prices of menu items without reflecting it in the menu. So when we got our bill, everything was more expensive than we had anticipated. Kind of false advertising, but the food is so good, I will be back.
(5)D F.
This place is hands down the best lunch spot in Lincoln. Whenever in Lincoln I always stop. It's a sandwich shop with a nice bar and a decent beer tap selection. The sandwiches are packed with meat and all kinds of fresh ingredients depending on the selection you choose. The service is great considering they are always slammed packed busy. Do yourself a favor and order a seasonal tap brew and a sandwich at the bar. You won't regret it. The soups are also great and the salsa is fresh and homemade. I had a McQuinten and a bloody mary for lunch today and wish it could be every day!
(5)Jenna H.
The Place: Bison Witches Bar and Deli Lincoln NE The Feel: casual bar a street away from the Downtown bar strip, but don't get confused, its right next to Buffalo Wild Wings, just remember that buffalo only live in Africa, you will be right at home with the Bison. Welcome to Bison Witches Bar and Deli, one of my all time favorite places to eat. Notice that I didn't give it 5 stars, I'll go over why in the next few paragraphs. The Food: Extra large hot sandwiches, soups and appetizers. I usually eat the 1/2 sandwich and chips ($4.75) which will fill you up, trust me. Some reviewers claim that they feel cheated when they order the whole sandwich and chips for around 7 bucks, but lets look at this from the "glass all the way full" side: a half sandwich, buyer beware is really more like 3/4 of the sandwich, so unless you really want to eat three more bites (although I don't blame you because the sandwiches are delish!) please only order the half. My usual order includes either the 1/2 chicken salad sandwich or the 1/2 Reuben, I highly recommend any sandwich though. The Drinks: everyday is a drinking day at Bison Witches, with the full bar. I recommend going on Fridays if you like Margaritas, they are 2.00 a piece, and trust me, many a person has gotten very tipsy off of two of them. My fiance loves to go on beer special nights which happen pretty much every other day of the week. Time: if you plan on going to B*witches take in to consideration how much time you have and what time you are going, the place is always busy, but usually packed around dinner time (6-8:30). If you go during these times make sure you are able to wait for a table and wait for your sandwich. Got Kids? Yeah, its a bar, but the grilled PBJ is great and the patrons are not rowdy. Bathrooms: better than a college town bar, linoleum floors and two stalls for the ladies, the soap smells okay too. Overall Review: I give it four stars, yes it is my favorite place but sometimes they are low on staff and the wait is long for my beloved sandwich, if it were the perfect world this place would serve sandwiches in every city in the country and at every hour of the day (they only have restaurants in Tuscon AZ, Tempe AZ and somewhere in Oklahoma).
(4)Kyla B.
The bread bowls are amazing and filling! Great bar to grab something to eat and kick back and have a few drinks with your friends.
(4)Wystan U.
If you have some time to kill before heading down to the vast and sprawling Douglas monstrosity, grab yourself, check yourself, then get yourself over to Bison Witches for a beer and a great sandwich. I've never been to a place that is so devoted to the art of the sandwich as Bison Witches, and although it's far away from me right now, I can only hope that someone is sitting in one of those large booths that overlook the rows of parking meters on 'P' Street and enjoying their sandwich while looking up at the same sky I'm looking at. How I miss you, you crazy buffalo hag.
(4)Matthew P.
Soup and sandwiches. I had lunch here the other day for the first time and can't really remember much about it. I met a friend right at noon on a weekday and there was a line going out the door. Odd, I thought, but decided to not fuss. We had a short wait, about ten minutes and were seated at a nice booth, which I appreciated especially considering there were only two of us and the restaurant was busy. The waitstaff was friendly, professional and unobtrusive. I had a soup that was novelly served in a bread bowl and a sandwich that was tasty, but uninspired. I didn't pay so I can't speak for the prices; if i had paid attention I imagine that would have colored my opinion. Overall, I say go enjoy a sandwich. It is a kind of generic college town restaurant and that's okay, Lincoln is kind of a generic college town.
(3)Kristin M.
The food is amazing. But the service is extremely slow (especially over the lunch hour) and the servers are known for charging credit cards for more than you write in. It has happened twice to me and also has happened to my friends. If you want to experience the fantastic food, just be sure to keep your receipt and check it against your statement.
(2)Glenn C.
I wandered in here while on a trip taking my son to college. It had that college dive bar look to it so I didn't expect much. I sat at the bar and ordered a beer (very good selection by the way) and the first thing the bartender says is "don't pay for this just yet, in a few minutes it's happy hour and I'll ring it up then". Wow, talk about good karma. Later the same day a friend's daughter said how good the food was at BW's. We ate there and were impressed enough we ended up going back the next day. We'll be back in Lincoln for some football games and I will definately make it back to BW's.
(5)Jim B.
This is a great little sandwich shop, but don't go if you have less than 2 hours to eat. I know, two hours for a sandwich? It doesn't always take 2 hours, but it often does during peak times. The service is also the worst I have ever encountered consistently. So why does this place get 4 stars? Its all about the food and the atmosphere. The sandwiches are excellent as long as you know what you are getting. Their Russian dressing is really sweet, so be careful. The grilled cheese is amazing, as is the pastrami on rye. Always get the ccq (chips and con queso) to accompany a half sandwich and try the portabello harvest soup. They also have a great beer selection. I hate the wait and the service, but I can't stop going back, so that is why it gets 4 stars.
(4)Katina T.
Let's be honest. This place earns its stars for bread bowl soups, chili con queso and booze. The sandwiches here are really sub-par. But they are filling and relatively cheap, so you can't complain much. Also, you shouldn't come here expecting good, or even decent, service. Your food is probably going to an unreasonable amount of time to come out and there's a good chance your waitress will mess up your order. But all that aside, the Portabella Harvest Grain soup is outrageously tasty and I would willingly put Bison Witches CCQ on just about anything. And you never leave hungry. It' s really the perfect place for college kids looking for big portions on a budget.
(4)Chad K.
Unfriendly staff, sandwich was ok at best, CCQ-not sure what others were talking about but it was not good. Giving 2 stars instead of 1 b/c it is cheap.
(2)Rob K.
Meh about sums it up...The food was...Meh. Service is to be as expected for a small sandwich shop.
(2)Dan M.
Funky place. Beers and sandwiches. Kind of a different combo, but it was good. Kind of a dump, but it is in the shadow of UNL so understandable.
(4)Gabby A.
Bison Witches makes some tasty food. Their sandwiches are great, and very big (unless you are VERY hungry I would suggest getting a half), Their nachos are EXCELLENT, my favorite being the chicken nachos. I also highly recommend their Chili Con Queso, which you can sub in with any sandwich instead of chips for a small fee (it's well worth it). They have one of the best Bloody Mary's I've ever had, so give it a try if you are a Bloody Mary fan. I've never been a fan of their soups. You can find much better soups elsewhere in Lincoln. The reason I give it a three star is the service. They aren't very friendly or helpful. I brought my Mom here once, and she'd never been. Our waitress treated her very rudely for not knowing exactly how to order or what to order. It made for a very intimidating experience for her, which is not what you want your first time in a restaurant! It also has discouraged me from taking new or visiting people to Bison Witches, as I don't want them to feel the same way my Mom felt. The kitchen is very slow, especially if they're busy. Be prepared to wait a while for your food. This is also very much a college bar, so be prepared for that. It can be loud and crazy in there. I keep going back to Bison Witches because they have great food and excellent Bloody Mary's. It's worth it to endure the sometimes snotty staff.
(3)Evan G.
I went to Bison Witches on a recent trip to Lincoln, and really was highly disappointed. I ordered a full sandwich, and my girlfriend ordered a half. Really I ordered a ful and she got 7/8th of a sandwich, it was such a minor difference, but it wasn't a minor difference in cost. Cost and size/portion aside I really wasn't impressed with the place at all. I thought the chicken on my sandwich was dry and really wasn't worth it. I also thought it took a while to get our food. We were the only ones in the place when we went in (it was at 2pm during the week when UNL was not in session), so I would have expected it to be very quick.
(1)Aaron L.
Bison Witches is one of my go-to spots for casual lunch appointments and an occasional night out with the guys to grab dinner. The bottom line is the food is really good and affordable. Definitely a notch far above your regular bar food. If you want to get the full Bison Witches experience, order the half sandwich (I prefer the BLT or Rueben) and bread bowl (the Chili and Potato Soup are both excellent), and upgrade your chips and add the salsa (very good). It adds up to a whole lot of food that is very affordable. Their beer selection above average and drink specials are decent.
(4)John R.
Great college bar and restaurant atmosphere. The food is filling, tasty, and cheap. It's basically giant sandwiches served with chips (preferably ccq, which is tortilla chips and cheese) on a lunch tray. Service is usually pretty good, unless they're packed.. Then just order another beer and chill. The only real negative can be the wait. It can be a huge pain as the customers write their name down and stand awkwardly. I've only seen it get "lord of the flies"-esque once. Otherwise, enjoy the huge sandwiches and cheap beer.
(4)Nikki B.
Big portions, good food, but usually a long wait. Also, I'm impressed with the friendly bartenders. My fave: The TAC with parmesan chips & a breadbowl of Wisc. Cheese. Not the heathiest choice, but it's comfort food at its best!
(4)Lynn H.
Went for a group gathering. Had the 1/2 sandwich and soup (C.A.B. and cream of potato bacon) they also served chips with it (garlic parm) meal cost all of 13 bucks with tip. came in at happy hour so $2 beer on tap =] the C.A.B. (chicken, avocado, bacon) had a sauce on it that I didn't care for, also the chicken was kinda dry =T overall pretty good place for groups. They had a great system for paying as a group. will come back again
(4)Ben C.
Good stop-in for lunch today. A bit busy during the lunch rush, but only added about 10 min wait. I had the potato soup in a bread bowl and a half a Philly on rye. All of the food was great. The menu, and atmosphere to a certain extent, reminded me of one Quintin's in Lawrence, KS - one of my favorite places during college. Overall, it was a good experience and I will return.
(4)Ryan C.
This is a great lunch spot on a gameday Saturday, if you're nursing a hangover from the night before, or if you just want an awesome sandwhich! Its got an upbeat downtown vibe, cool crowd, and tasty eats. I've tried almost every sandwhich on the menu, and each one is better than the last. Check it out!
(4)Matthew P.
Soup and sandwiches. I had lunch here the other day for the first time and can't really remember much about it. I met a friend right at noon on a weekday and there was a line going out the door. Odd, I thought, but decided to not fuss. We had a short wait, about ten minutes and were seated at a nice booth, which I appreciated especially considering there were only two of us and the restaurant was busy. The waitstaff was friendly, professional and unobtrusive. I had a soup that was novelly served in a bread bowl and a sandwich that was tasty, but uninspired. I didn't pay so I can't speak for the prices; if i had paid attention I imagine that would have colored my opinion. Overall, I say go enjoy a sandwich. It is a kind of generic college town restaurant and that's okay, Lincoln is kind of a generic college town.
(3)Kristin M.
The food is amazing. But the service is extremely slow (especially over the lunch hour) and the servers are known for charging credit cards for more than you write in. It has happened twice to me and also has happened to my friends. If you want to experience the fantastic food, just be sure to keep your receipt and check it against your statement.
(2)Glenn C.
I wandered in here while on a trip taking my son to college. It had that college dive bar look to it so I didn't expect much. I sat at the bar and ordered a beer (very good selection by the way) and the first thing the bartender says is "don't pay for this just yet, in a few minutes it's happy hour and I'll ring it up then". Wow, talk about good karma. Later the same day a friend's daughter said how good the food was at BW's. We ate there and were impressed enough we ended up going back the next day. We'll be back in Lincoln for some football games and I will definately make it back to BW's.
(5)Jim B.
This is a great little sandwich shop, but don't go if you have less than 2 hours to eat. I know, two hours for a sandwich? It doesn't always take 2 hours, but it often does during peak times. The service is also the worst I have ever encountered consistently. So why does this place get 4 stars? Its all about the food and the atmosphere. The sandwiches are excellent as long as you know what you are getting. Their Russian dressing is really sweet, so be careful. The grilled cheese is amazing, as is the pastrami on rye. Always get the ccq (chips and con queso) to accompany a half sandwich and try the portabello harvest soup. They also have a great beer selection. I hate the wait and the service, but I can't stop going back, so that is why it gets 4 stars.
(4)Jules T.
I ordered the bread bowl soup. It was awful. I'm used to a real bread bowl where the bread is fresh made. This one came from a plastic bag and the soup wasn't even that hot. So based on that one dish I'm giving it Meh.
(2)Cole F.
The best sandwiches and soup I have had. Great atmosphere! The price is amazing for the amount you get. I would recommend to anyone!
(5)J C.
Good sandwiches, my wife and kids like the soup and not many places in lincoln you can get a Guiness for 2 bucks. I just learned they have a couple other locations in arizona and oklahoma.
(3)Jane M.
A third rate turkey sandwich with lunchmeat a la Oscar Meyer. Lots of TVs.
(2)Chaviva G.
I was hoping I'd be the first to review this absolute GEM, but alas, I'm not. So now I have to gather my erotic thoughts about BisonWitches and organize them into coherent, well-placed sentences. What can I say? This place has some of the most delicious sandwiches and soups I've ever eaten. I think the "deli" part is a little misleading. It's definitely not a deli. First and foremost it's an eatery, secondly a bar. I know few people who ever went here to drink, and mostly it was about the sandwiches. I mean, with a place that serves a grilled PB&J, how can you go wrong? I always get their meal special -- half a sandwich, soup in a bread bowl, and chips. It's a cheap deal, not to mention I can never manage to finish the whole thing. My regular was always the Husker, delicious chicken with provolone, tomatoes, lettuce and the house honey mustard. I'd pair this with their OMG-so-amazing Portobella Harvest Grain soup and the chips and salsa. The sandwich is fucking amazing. It just is. It's the perfect balance of meat and bread and veggies, hot and well-prepared. The soup is usually hit or miss -- by this I mean that it's ALWAYS delicious, but sometimes it would come out a little cold. And the chips and salsa? Always far more than I can eat. They home-make the salsa, so it's spicy hot and yummy. I can also vouch for the Hawaiian, for what it's worth. Listen, this place is amazing. Go there at least once. Everytime I come back to Lincoln, this is usually the first place I head to, especially since it's right next to the Coffee House ... of which, I'm off to write about. GO HUSKERS!
(5)Matthew J.
i have absolutely no clue how this place doesn't have a 4- or 5-star rating. my favorite place to eat in downtown lincoln while i was in school, my friends and i went there probably at least once a week. the bread bowl soups and the sandwiches are as good as it gets, and i'm sorry but anyone who rated this place a three or below doesn't have a clue what they're talking about.
(5)John B.
There's always a special at Bison Witches. Whether the middle of the day on Tuesday, or Friday or even Sunday night, come here for satifsying eats and cheap pints of beer. Bring a bunch of quarters and get a booth by the foosball table in back...or, if you prefer the glow of natural light, seat yourself at the very front, and watch street passers-by from the big picture window. Be sure to try to the soup and salad special, lunch times...and don't be afraid to gobble up that bread-bowl! Last Sunday, you could get a pint of "Foggen Lager" -- an unfiltered, Belgian-tasting beer -- for a buck. I bought two at a time and gave one to a friend. This place isn't the most stylin' of haunts, but the great values make up for atmosphere...a good choice anytime.
(4)Pedrom R.
I eat here all the time and have never had a bad experience. Sometimes there is a little bit of a wait but it's a small place for how much business they get. They also have plenty of beer and great drink specials on Tuesday nights after 10pm.
(5)Joel L.
What can I say? They make a pretty good sandwich. They also have good soups, and serve them in bread bowls. I always get the 'half and half' which ends up coming with 3/4 of a sandwich and a breadbowl of soup. The soups tend to be on the salty side, but that's pretty much the norm. They also only serve potato chips, not fries, with their meals. They claim to have a 'small and efficient' kitchen, and this is where you'll hit the only downside. If you show up for lunch hours during weekdays you're never going to get a table, and your food could take upwards of an hour to make it to the table. Eat an early lunch, or a late lunch...avoid noon. If you watch drink specials, they'll have good deals on certain days. A quick note: There is no host stand, and the place is 'seat yourself.' Sign up right away on the wait list (tacked to the wall by the door) to get a place when busy. Pros: Tasty. Good price. Good portions. Cons: Wait times.
(4)Nik R.
Muff dive the bison Unfortunately, no muff or bison, not even a witch to burn Guinness was flat Sandwiches were tasty Service was decent
(4)Lynn H.
Went for a group gathering. Had the 1/2 sandwich and soup (C.A.B. and cream of potato bacon) they also served chips with it (garlic parm) meal cost all of 13 bucks with tip. came in at happy hour so $2 beer on tap =] the C.A.B. (chicken, avocado, bacon) had a sauce on it that I didn't care for, also the chicken was kinda dry =T overall pretty good place for groups. They had a great system for paying as a group. will come back again
(4)Tom S.
I am constantly disappointed by chicken salad sandwiches at other sandwich shops due to Bisonwitchs. Every sandwich is better on a croissant IMO. Used to work there a while back. The only thing I miss are some of the familiar faces!
(4)Matt K.
Bison witches I would say is probably one of my favorite places to get lunch or dinner in Lincoln. Their sandwiches and soups are great! The portabella harvest grain soup in a bread bowl with a sandwich and chips is worth the money and filling. Been there many times and I will continue to. I do admit every so often the service is a little slow but I wouldn't let that shy you away if you have never been there. The food is pretty good!
(5)Erin R.
I try to use the following we deciding how many stars to give a place (I think I have Sarah G to thank) 5 stars - I can't wait to go back and I am going to tell everyone about it because it was that good. 4 stars - Very good. Will definitely return, but I'm not thinking about it as I go to bed at night. 3 stars - I will probably return, but only when someone else suggests it. 2 stars - Will most likely not return, and only if someone else really wants to go. I will not be happy about returning. 1 star - I'd rather tear out each and every taste bud then return to this place. So, when considering if I would return to Bison Witches I decided on the probably not. If I am forced back here I won't be pleased. The service is the best part. They are very helpful, attentive, and fast. The prices are decent too. I think it was $7.50 for their lunch special of 1/2 sandwich, soup in bread bowl, and chips. Not a bad deal. However, the food is not that good. I've been here twice now so it isn't just the one sandwich. The meat was sub-par deli meat with not a lot of flavor. The bread bowl for the soup is a white roll that is very dry. The soup was okay but overall it didn't have a lot of flavor. This place is very busy, so there must be some people that love it. I was with a work group for lunch so I wasn't drinking and can't comment on the bar or drinks. Overall I wouldn't recommend.
(2)Zach B.
I love going to Bison Witches! I am a frequent patron. They offer a wide variety of hot sandwiches and some soups. They are vegetarian friendly too. I usually get the half sandwich half soup combo. You get your soup in a bread bowl so it is a large portion of food. Although, I've thought that the sandwich meat portions have dwindled in the past year or so. If you are looking for high class dining you might want to look around before you order cause your in a bar. The service is always good and the food is usually out on time. It is usually busy and the tables are first come first served. They have Happy Hour from 4-7pm every day (If my memory serves me right). All pints $2. *Though they don't have a ton of selection on tap. I enjoy getting a pint of Guinness for $2. They also have daily drink specials including $2 margaritas, specials on domestic and import bottles.
(5)Barton L.
One of the best bloody Mary's I've ever had. Great college atmosphere, great sandwiches. I'd go there everyday if I could afford it. LoL
(4)Scott M.
If you're used to the Bison Witches in Norman or Tucson don't get your hopes too high. This one doesn't live up to the reputation. It has good drink specials but the food is just okay. It's also a little run down and dirty. Not a great place to watch a game (all standard def TVs). Fortunately there are lots of other places to go in the area.
(2)Marc P.
I went in with high expectations on a recommendation from a local. So wrong. Go in early on a Friday night and sit at an empty bar. With no idea as to what to expect, I ask if they have PBR and I'm met with an eye roll. I guess my pants weren't tight enough to know it was a beer snob bar. Service was marginal after I ordered a "better" and we actually had to flag someone else, at an empty bar, so we could tab out. I hear they make a a really good sandwich though.
(1)Matt M.
I give this place 2 stars total - 4 for the ambiance, 5 for the service & 1 for the food. This is probably the most disappointing reuben I have ever had. It came highly recommended so I spent 25 minutes trying to park just to get this sad sandwich. The bread was not griddled, the sauerkraut was cold and the corned beef was lunch meat. I chose chips and queso as my side - this proved to be as bad as the sandwich. The chips were straight out of a bag and the queso was most likely pre made (at least I hope they didn't put any effort into it as bad as it was). Maybe the locations in other states are better - I for one will never find out.
(2)Mary S.
Love bison witches. They have great food and great service. I recommend the chicken nachos to start out! The soup never fails me either :) one thing I would change is how loud the music is. Unless you're going there by yourself, it's kinda annoying.
(4)Brian K.
"BRIAN DID NOT OBSERVE THE SABBATH ON 5/2/10" Part VI (Bar #6) Memoir: $1.50 for a Bud Light pint??!! What the hell? I did not believe my eyes. Yes, Bud Light is terrible beer to sip on but for $1.50, you bet I ordered it and you bet it tasted terrible. Lively place but terribly depressing especially when the bartender and a waitress admitted that they were embarrassed to work here. I thought it was funny. Anyways, the bartenders and waitresses were very friendly (college students) and the crowd was very young (I assume they were students as well). At this point, I was really hungry and looking for a meal. The guy next to me at the bar ordered a delicious looking turkey/chicken sammy and I wanted one so bad but I resisted.
(2)Steven P.
Classic staple recommended by a former Nebraska grad - good food, kind of small - sandwich/soup combo is awesome they come in bread bowls. Surprisingly good beer selection and drink specials. I will be returning when I stop through Lincoln.
(3)Matt K.
Bison witches I would say is probably one of my favorite places to get lunch or dinner in Lincoln. Their sandwiches and soups are great! The portabella harvest grain soup in a bread bowl with a sandwich and chips is worth the money and filling. Been there many times and I will continue to. I do admit every so often the service is a little slow but I wouldn't let that shy you away if you have never been there. The food is pretty good!
(5)Kat R.
I've liked everything I've ever gotten to eat here. It's on my short list of recommendations for anyone who is visiting Lincoln for the first time. I like the dive bar atmosphere, but I could see how someone might not. The music is a little loud and it's been pretty dark every time I've been there. I'll be back!
(4)Lisa P.
Bison witches... get it, buy sandwichs...Anyway, it is a great place food and I am always craving their chili!
(5)Heather A.
Great sandwiches, wonderful soup, huge portions and reasonable prices! I recommend a half sandwhich because they are HUGE! I have heard they make their bread at another location of theirs. My favorite sandwhich is the McQuinton on Rye. Wisconsin cheese soup in the bread bowl is to die for. Con queso dip with tortilla chips is also my favorite option there. They have some good drink specials too. Half Sandwich and chips is around $5-$6 I believe.
(5)Kelsey B.
I had my first ever experience at Bison Witches today. All I want to know is - Why hasn't this restaurant expanded into other locations?! It. Is. Bomb. It seems like most (if not all) of the employees are college students, or in that overall age range. This made the experience a ton of fun and casual, yet lively! I tried the Beef & Brie on their homemade rye with a small side of the Cream of Potato Bacon (yes, I am aware it is 90+ degrees out and really? Soup? But I had to try it since it came SO highly recommended). It was all absolutely wonderful. If you're in downtown Lincoln, just go. It's great!
(5)Nik R.
Muff dive the bison Unfortunately, no muff or bison, not even a witch to burn Guinness was flat Sandwiches were tasty Service was decent
(4)Seth M.
Best Past. Reuben I have ever had. The place is a little beat up and decor is questionable but Bison produces some great sandwiches & drinks are cheap.
(4)Keely H.
I love their food and since they've knocked out that west wall and replaced it with windows it's much nicer dining in....but I placed a to-go order today and they forgot half my order! :( I was really looking forward to that Portabella Harvest Grain soup and finding out it was missing from the bag when I got back to work (and it's a drive from downtown) was really disappointing! Bison Witches won't lose my business but maybe just be more careful about checking and rechecking to-go orders, especially during your busy lunch hour.
(3)M M.
Great food with hearty portions. It gets incredibly busy over the lunch hour so it's important to get there early. Staff is always pleasant. A definite regular spot for meals!
(5)Erin R.
I try to use the following we deciding how many stars to give a place (I think I have Sarah G to thank) 5 stars - I can't wait to go back and I am going to tell everyone about it because it was that good. 4 stars - Very good. Will definitely return, but I'm not thinking about it as I go to bed at night. 3 stars - I will probably return, but only when someone else suggests it. 2 stars - Will most likely not return, and only if someone else really wants to go. I will not be happy about returning. 1 star - I'd rather tear out each and every taste bud then return to this place. So, when considering if I would return to Bison Witches I decided on the probably not. If I am forced back here I won't be pleased. The service is the best part. They are very helpful, attentive, and fast. The prices are decent too. I think it was $7.50 for their lunch special of 1/2 sandwich, soup in bread bowl, and chips. Not a bad deal. However, the food is not that good. I've been here twice now so it isn't just the one sandwich. The meat was sub-par deli meat with not a lot of flavor. The bread bowl for the soup is a white roll that is very dry. The soup was okay but overall it didn't have a lot of flavor. This place is very busy, so there must be some people that love it. I was with a work group for lunch so I wasn't drinking and can't comment on the bar or drinks. Overall I wouldn't recommend.
(2)Zach B.
I love going to Bison Witches! I am a frequent patron. They offer a wide variety of hot sandwiches and some soups. They are vegetarian friendly too. I usually get the half sandwich half soup combo. You get your soup in a bread bowl so it is a large portion of food. Although, I've thought that the sandwich meat portions have dwindled in the past year or so. If you are looking for high class dining you might want to look around before you order cause your in a bar. The service is always good and the food is usually out on time. It is usually busy and the tables are first come first served. They have Happy Hour from 4-7pm every day (If my memory serves me right). All pints $2. *Though they don't have a ton of selection on tap. I enjoy getting a pint of Guinness for $2. They also have daily drink specials including $2 margaritas, specials on domestic and import bottles.
(5)Barton L.
One of the best bloody Mary's I've ever had. Great college atmosphere, great sandwiches. I'd go there everyday if I could afford it. LoL
(4)Caroline H.
Cool "bar" vibe, I guess. Awful food. Won't ever be back or recommend it...
(1)Fati A.
If you are hanging out in Lincoln, Bison Witches is the place to be. It's right next to this awesome coffee shop called Coffee House. You have two good places in one good spot! I have always heard good stories about this place, that the food is really good, it's a fun place to bring friends, and more. The many times (2-3 times) that I have eaten at this place, have been really great. Their menu has a wide variety of options to choose from. I know my friend who is a vegetarian always orders their veggie sandwich. I usually order turkey sandwiches so like the T.A.C, California Kid, and The Angel. I have yet to venture out to try the other sandwiches but they are toooo good! Meals include kettle chips which are a perfect side! They also have a bar so you can get your drink on while you enjoy some bomb food. I think this is one of my favorite places to eat whenever I'm in Lincoln.
(5)Brandon A.
Bison can pretty much satisfy anyone, which is why I like it. There is a sandwich for everyone so it's always a safe play. I've probably had half of the sandwiches on the menu and have enjoyed every one. My most recent trip I went with the BLT. The menu read that it had a lot of bacon (how I like my BLT's) and gosh they weren't kidding. I think it lacked some tomato though. In the winter months I always order a half sandwich and a bowl of soup, but stick to a full sandwich out of soup season. If you are there with a friend or on a date, I recommend one person ordering the chips and salsa for the side and one ordering the CCQ (chips con queso) and sharing. You can't go wrong at Bison. Brat
(4)Elisabeth E.
Ok so came in here for lunch a few weeks ago and was really not impressed. Atmosphere is a little dive bar-y with all sorts of random stuff on the walls, a long bar, and TVs to drown out your date's unending commentary about what this weather has been doing to her hair. We were seated pretty quick since we were just before lunch. By the time we left though there was a bit of a wait, so seems to be a rather popular place on weekends. Our server was really busy but did her best to come get orders quickly and keep drinks and things filled. Our server was very nice and without a doubt the only enjoyable part of my meal. When I asked her about gluten free options she seemed unsure and said the salads, maybe soups ( -)the gluten bowl of bread, and was really uncertain on salad dressings. So she quickly offered to ask the kitchen. Kitchen responded that soups are "probably" fine and who knows about dressing. She was really apologetic and said it was difficult getting answers. I asked for clarification on the soup, emphasized its an allergy, not dieting for me, and if I or someone could maybe read the dressing bottles or something to be sure. Came back and said the kitchen just told her to forget all soups and all I can have is salad and they think the vinaigrette is fine. So I go with the salad without croutons. Comes out, with croutons. My friend is nearly finished with his meal and she apologetically brings out the salad sans evil gluten cubes. Btw, I was seated next to the kitchen and could even hear them giving her a hard time.. Not professional guys. Oh man, so onto the food quality, cause despite everything i'm totally willing to give credit where it's due... It wasn't. Salad was terrible. Good portion, I'll admit, but tasteless. Chef salad with some store bought mix (which had arugula in it by chance so add 1 classy point by sheer luck) a few slices of avocado and about two cases of the cheapest lunch meat ever and 'garnished' with some preshredded bagged cheese...Literally reminded me of how any 15 year old boy would make a salad if forced by mom. I picked out the arugula and avocado, did my best on the rest and finally gave up. Food wasn't expensive, but more than I'm willing to pay for that stuff. Will not be returning
(1)Kassandra M.
My first impression of Bison Witches was good, from the outside. When you walk in the atmosphere is a little dive-y which normally is okay, except the tables are all filthy and the floors look like they haven't been cleaned in more than a month. Needless to say I was concerned of the condition of the kitchen. The food is utter garbage. The chicken salad sandwich is tasteless. The toast was burnt. The chili tastes like it came straight from a Hormel Chili can. It's greasy and disgusting. There is about 1/4 cup of it in a bread bowl for $5. Very overpriced. What do people even see in this place? I wouldn't be surprised if I wind up with food poisoning. I won't be returning.
(1)Cameron K.
An excellent spot if you're looking to get a quality sandwich and cup of soup. I highly recommend the Hawaiian and Cream of potato bacon soup in a bread bowl but you can't really go wrong. If you're looking to absolutely crush some beers in a great atmosphere, this is your spot. Brat Approved
(5)Katy B.
My first time here wasn't bad, but it wasn't the best food ever. I went over my lunch break and it wasn't very busy. The service was good, or waitress was attentive. The food came quickly, but was just sub-par. We got two different sandwiches to split and try, the Beef and Brie and the C.A.B. The better of the two was the one with grilled chicken breast on it (C.A.B.), but I think it was s bit heavy on the 'russian dressing' or whatever topping they put on their sandwiches. It just made my sandwich a bit too sweet for me. We tried the Portabella Harvest Grain soup, I was looking forward to it. But unfortunately it was not described as a creamy soup.. which it was. I would not have have order it if I had known that. I'd give it another try, but will have to try some different for sure.
(2)Erik Y.
HOLY COW this place is good for Lunch. They have THE most amazing sandwichs in lincoln. The size of each sandwich is huge. My wife had the BLT and I swear it had 12 strips of bacon on it. Massive amount of bacon, and the full sandwich is almost to much for one normal sized person to eat. They have a half sanwich soup option that I personally prefer so you get to try their great soups and trust me, a half sandwich is like every place else's full sandwich. I like the TAC, which is Turkey, Avacado, Bacon and Cream Cheese. Yum! If I had a complaint, its that the chips are just a bag of chips. I would love some homemade sides or chips, but hey, the sandwich's are great! I have tried the chips and salsa and I swear the salsa is different every time I go. They clearly make the salsa from scratch because some days its spicy, some days thick, some thin, some not spicy etc. but, it is always very good so this is the best option in my opinion. All the sandwich's are 6.99, which is very reasonable for the amount of food you get. They make a great Bloody Mary, and have a full bar and bartenders who know how to make a good drink, which not every place has to be honest. Anyway, if you want a sandwich for lunch but something a little different then the typical, you HAVE to try this place out! Very very good, and one of my 3 favorite places in downtown Lincoln to eat hands down. The only drawbacks for me are: 1. Its loud. Can not hear yourself or others talk very well. 2. Not much seating, and between 11:45 and 1pm it is almost impossible to get in. They have 10+ people on the wait list by noon so you have to get their early. (I guess it is because it is so good) 3. No take out after 11:30. I have tried to cater by ordering to-go and they will NOT do this after 11:30. I guess they are just to busy. Above drawbacks are not a big deal if you are flexable on when you eat, like me.
(5)Nathan F.
There are so many awesome things about this place I don't even know where to begin. All the sandwiches are good, all the bread bowls of soup are good. I eat the bowl after I'm done even, lol. Best chile soup i think I've had outside of my own family cooking it. My sami of choice is the BW Philly. I get the CCQ chips, if you haven't had them recommend trying them out. YUM! Everyone loves this place. When my friends or family come in from out of town, this is on their list of things to do when coming to town, always. We come here before some morning Husker football games to get one of the best bloody's made from scratch. Has a nice plaza outside of it for relaxing. Your meal of choice should be halve sandwich, chips, and soup. It's like 9 bucks, and plenty of food. They also do on Mondays for 3 bucks with purchase of a beer, probably the best Nacho deal in town. As you can tell we come here often to eat. Most any day of the week you and a date can get out for under 20 each with a beverage purchase.
(4)Amanda K.
This place is close to work so I come here for lunch every once in a while. Service can be a little slow, and the food is just ok. I'm never craving it, but the sandwiches and sides are decent. I've tried the club, spinach dip, chicken nachos, and a ruben. I don't have anything to complain about, but I'm not raving either.
(3)Jessica H.
The best! I have eaten here so many times I don't know why I haven't reviewed it yet. I always get the 1/2 sandwich, 1/2 soup deal. Great price! And get chips and salsa. The food is always yummy. The drinks are HUGE. The bloody mary's look amazing. If you're in Lincoln, this is a great place to go. It does get busy, might have to wait for a table, but worth it. SO SO worth it!
(5)Sarah L.
Between 4-7pm they host a perfectly priced happy hour* You can not get beer on tap at a better price point anywhere else in town* Their sandwiches are always a good choice!
(4)Bethany W.
Bison has quality soups and sanwiches. It's a downtown Lincoln dive bar (said in the most endearing way). The service and food and beer specials makes up for the lack of decor. I recommend the CCQ, TAC, and portobello harvest grain soup!
(4)Tom S.
I am constantly disappointed by chicken salad sandwiches at other sandwich shops due to Bisonwitchs. Every sandwich is better on a croissant IMO. Used to work there a while back. The only thing I miss are some of the familiar faces!
(4)Alicia V.
I ordered the T.A.C. sandwich came without the bacon, after I noticed this and had to wait 15 minutes for the waitress to come back, she walked off and came back with a cup of bacon for me to put on the remainder of my sandwich. After eating our sub par food we waited another 15 minutes for the waitress to come back with our check. When she didn't come back my husband had to get up to give her our card to pay for the food. When she came back for the check we asked for a box to take home our overpriced sandwiches. When she got back she put the boxes ON TOP of the remainder of my husbands sandwich. Needless to say, we will not be returning.
(1)Matthew O.
Got a BLT for dinner. Pretty good. Good amount of crispy bacon, shredded lettuce, fresh tomato. Didn't understand the red onions on there. And not enough mayo. I'm picky with my BLTs. Everyone else's sandwiches looked good. Happy to see chips on the menu instead of fries. And they let you place half orders. Always a plus. But a sandwich and chips for $6.99 plus an extra $1.79 for a drink seems overpriced to me...especially given the tired, dark, blah atmosphere. $12 (incl. tax & tip) seems a lot for a BLT, chips and a drink at a bar/deli. Service was friendly, quick and attentive, though. Always a good thing.
(3)brian t.
I came here last weekend with my girlfriend, my other friend , his wife and their 2 year old son. He has been here a couple times before told me it was one of the best in town, and he was right it was delicious! Although its suppose to also be a kids friendly place as we walked in the music was blasting. The best and cheapest(if your on a budget) is to do the 1/2 sandwich and soup special for around $7 , i got the Hawaiian and cream of potato bacon soup. The hawaiian was ok, i was expecting better other then lettuce, a slice of pineapple, provolone cheese and baked chicken breast with a side of bbq sauce. The cream of potato bacon soup on the other side was amazing!! highly recommended, i forgot what sandwich my girlfriend got but she got the chili soup and said it was good.
(4)Jake D.
Stopped here for a bite to eat and some drinks before the Nebraska/Nevada game. I was staying with family in Omaha, and we were told to get to Lincoln VERY early to avoid heavy traffic. I think would could have left a couple hours later and still have been fine, but there we were at Bison Witches at 10:30 AM killing time for the 2:30 kickoff. Kudos to them for opening early on game day! I did fight the urge to order my first beer until after 11:00, but after that and a great California Kid sandwich it was on. Come noon it was very crowded, and apparently there was a line of people out the door waiting to get a table (some friends came up to meet us around noon and passed a line of disgruntled patrons). The only other downfall was it got quite warm inside, which I am sure is welcome on a cold december day, just not a warm September one. Still not sure was a Bison Witch is, but I will be quick to check out the location in Tempe now!
(4)Joseph D.
Slow service, plastic plates, dingy property and far and away the best sandwiches in Lincoln. Sandwiches have triple the meat of most places and its steaming hot when it hits the plate. Guinness and a pastrami = yum.
(4)Kate M.
This is probably my favorite restaurant in Lincoln. Sandwiches are great, soup is great, chips con queso is great! Service is slow, but the food is so good, I imagine it takes awhile to prepare. My only complaint is that last time I was there (April 18th 2009), they raised the prices of menu items without reflecting it in the menu. So when we got our bill, everything was more expensive than we had anticipated. Kind of false advertising, but the food is so good, I will be back.
(5)D F.
This place is hands down the best lunch spot in Lincoln. Whenever in Lincoln I always stop. It's a sandwich shop with a nice bar and a decent beer tap selection. The sandwiches are packed with meat and all kinds of fresh ingredients depending on the selection you choose. The service is great considering they are always slammed packed busy. Do yourself a favor and order a seasonal tap brew and a sandwich at the bar. You won't regret it. The soups are also great and the salsa is fresh and homemade. I had a McQuinten and a bloody mary for lunch today and wish it could be every day!
(5)Jenna H.
The Place: Bison Witches Bar and Deli Lincoln NE The Feel: casual bar a street away from the Downtown bar strip, but don't get confused, its right next to Buffalo Wild Wings, just remember that buffalo only live in Africa, you will be right at home with the Bison. Welcome to Bison Witches Bar and Deli, one of my all time favorite places to eat. Notice that I didn't give it 5 stars, I'll go over why in the next few paragraphs. The Food: Extra large hot sandwiches, soups and appetizers. I usually eat the 1/2 sandwich and chips ($4.75) which will fill you up, trust me. Some reviewers claim that they feel cheated when they order the whole sandwich and chips for around 7 bucks, but lets look at this from the "glass all the way full" side: a half sandwich, buyer beware is really more like 3/4 of the sandwich, so unless you really want to eat three more bites (although I don't blame you because the sandwiches are delish!) please only order the half. My usual order includes either the 1/2 chicken salad sandwich or the 1/2 Reuben, I highly recommend any sandwich though. The Drinks: everyday is a drinking day at Bison Witches, with the full bar. I recommend going on Fridays if you like Margaritas, they are 2.00 a piece, and trust me, many a person has gotten very tipsy off of two of them. My fiance loves to go on beer special nights which happen pretty much every other day of the week. Time: if you plan on going to B*witches take in to consideration how much time you have and what time you are going, the place is always busy, but usually packed around dinner time (6-8:30). If you go during these times make sure you are able to wait for a table and wait for your sandwich. Got Kids? Yeah, its a bar, but the grilled PBJ is great and the patrons are not rowdy. Bathrooms: better than a college town bar, linoleum floors and two stalls for the ladies, the soap smells okay too. Overall Review: I give it four stars, yes it is my favorite place but sometimes they are low on staff and the wait is long for my beloved sandwich, if it were the perfect world this place would serve sandwiches in every city in the country and at every hour of the day (they only have restaurants in Tuscon AZ, Tempe AZ and somewhere in Oklahoma).
(4)Kyla B.
The bread bowls are amazing and filling! Great bar to grab something to eat and kick back and have a few drinks with your friends.
(4)Wystan U.
If you have some time to kill before heading down to the vast and sprawling Douglas monstrosity, grab yourself, check yourself, then get yourself over to Bison Witches for a beer and a great sandwich. I've never been to a place that is so devoted to the art of the sandwich as Bison Witches, and although it's far away from me right now, I can only hope that someone is sitting in one of those large booths that overlook the rows of parking meters on 'P' Street and enjoying their sandwich while looking up at the same sky I'm looking at. How I miss you, you crazy buffalo hag.
(4)Kelsey B.
I had my first ever experience at Bison Witches today. All I want to know is - Why hasn't this restaurant expanded into other locations?! It. Is. Bomb. It seems like most (if not all) of the employees are college students, or in that overall age range. This made the experience a ton of fun and casual, yet lively! I tried the Beef & Brie on their homemade rye with a small side of the Cream of Potato Bacon (yes, I am aware it is 90+ degrees out and really? Soup? But I had to try it since it came SO highly recommended). It was all absolutely wonderful. If you're in downtown Lincoln, just go. It's great!
(5)Katy B.
My first time here wasn't bad, but it wasn't the best food ever. I went over my lunch break and it wasn't very busy. The service was good, or waitress was attentive. The food came quickly, but was just sub-par. We got two different sandwiches to split and try, the Beef and Brie and the C.A.B. The better of the two was the one with grilled chicken breast on it (C.A.B.), but I think it was s bit heavy on the 'russian dressing' or whatever topping they put on their sandwiches. It just made my sandwich a bit too sweet for me. We tried the Portabella Harvest Grain soup, I was looking forward to it. But unfortunately it was not described as a creamy soup.. which it was. I would not have have order it if I had known that. I'd give it another try, but will have to try some different for sure.
(2)Kat R.
I've liked everything I've ever gotten to eat here. It's on my short list of recommendations for anyone who is visiting Lincoln for the first time. I like the dive bar atmosphere, but I could see how someone might not. The music is a little loud and it's been pretty dark every time I've been there. I'll be back!
(4)Lisa P.
Bison witches... get it, buy sandwichs...Anyway, it is a great place food and I am always craving their chili!
(5)Heather A.
Great sandwiches, wonderful soup, huge portions and reasonable prices! I recommend a half sandwhich because they are HUGE! I have heard they make their bread at another location of theirs. My favorite sandwhich is the McQuinton on Rye. Wisconsin cheese soup in the bread bowl is to die for. Con queso dip with tortilla chips is also my favorite option there. They have some good drink specials too. Half Sandwich and chips is around $5-$6 I believe.
(5)Alicia V.
I ordered the T.A.C. sandwich came without the bacon, after I noticed this and had to wait 15 minutes for the waitress to come back, she walked off and came back with a cup of bacon for me to put on the remainder of my sandwich. After eating our sub par food we waited another 15 minutes for the waitress to come back with our check. When she didn't come back my husband had to get up to give her our card to pay for the food. When she came back for the check we asked for a box to take home our overpriced sandwiches. When she got back she put the boxes ON TOP of the remainder of my husbands sandwich. Needless to say, we will not be returning.
(1)Seth M.
Best Past. Reuben I have ever had. The place is a little beat up and decor is questionable but Bison produces some great sandwiches & drinks are cheap.
(4)Erik Y.
HOLY COW this place is good for Lunch. They have THE most amazing sandwichs in lincoln. The size of each sandwich is huge. My wife had the BLT and I swear it had 12 strips of bacon on it. Massive amount of bacon, and the full sandwich is almost to much for one normal sized person to eat. They have a half sanwich soup option that I personally prefer so you get to try their great soups and trust me, a half sandwich is like every place else's full sandwich. I like the TAC, which is Turkey, Avacado, Bacon and Cream Cheese. Yum! If I had a complaint, its that the chips are just a bag of chips. I would love some homemade sides or chips, but hey, the sandwich's are great! I have tried the chips and salsa and I swear the salsa is different every time I go. They clearly make the salsa from scratch because some days its spicy, some days thick, some thin, some not spicy etc. but, it is always very good so this is the best option in my opinion. All the sandwich's are 6.99, which is very reasonable for the amount of food you get. They make a great Bloody Mary, and have a full bar and bartenders who know how to make a good drink, which not every place has to be honest. Anyway, if you want a sandwich for lunch but something a little different then the typical, you HAVE to try this place out! Very very good, and one of my 3 favorite places in downtown Lincoln to eat hands down. The only drawbacks for me are: 1. Its loud. Can not hear yourself or others talk very well. 2. Not much seating, and between 11:45 and 1pm it is almost impossible to get in. They have 10+ people on the wait list by noon so you have to get their early. (I guess it is because it is so good) 3. No take out after 11:30. I have tried to cater by ordering to-go and they will NOT do this after 11:30. I guess they are just to busy. Above drawbacks are not a big deal if you are flexable on when you eat, like me.
(5)Nathan F.
There are so many awesome things about this place I don't even know where to begin. All the sandwiches are good, all the bread bowls of soup are good. I eat the bowl after I'm done even, lol. Best chile soup i think I've had outside of my own family cooking it. My sami of choice is the BW Philly. I get the CCQ chips, if you haven't had them recommend trying them out. YUM! Everyone loves this place. When my friends or family come in from out of town, this is on their list of things to do when coming to town, always. We come here before some morning Husker football games to get one of the best bloody's made from scratch. Has a nice plaza outside of it for relaxing. Your meal of choice should be halve sandwich, chips, and soup. It's like 9 bucks, and plenty of food. They also do on Mondays for 3 bucks with purchase of a beer, probably the best Nacho deal in town. As you can tell we come here often to eat. Most any day of the week you and a date can get out for under 20 each with a beverage purchase.
(4)Amanda K.
This place is close to work so I come here for lunch every once in a while. Service can be a little slow, and the food is just ok. I'm never craving it, but the sandwiches and sides are decent. I've tried the club, spinach dip, chicken nachos, and a ruben. I don't have anything to complain about, but I'm not raving either.
(3)Keely H.
I love their food and since they've knocked out that west wall and replaced it with windows it's much nicer dining in....but I placed a to-go order today and they forgot half my order! :( I was really looking forward to that Portabella Harvest Grain soup and finding out it was missing from the bag when I got back to work (and it's a drive from downtown) was really disappointing! Bison Witches won't lose my business but maybe just be more careful about checking and rechecking to-go orders, especially during your busy lunch hour.
(3)M M.
Great food with hearty portions. It gets incredibly busy over the lunch hour so it's important to get there early. Staff is always pleasant. A definite regular spot for meals!
(5)Jessica H.
The best! I have eaten here so many times I don't know why I haven't reviewed it yet. I always get the 1/2 sandwich, 1/2 soup deal. Great price! And get chips and salsa. The food is always yummy. The drinks are HUGE. The bloody mary's look amazing. If you're in Lincoln, this is a great place to go. It does get busy, might have to wait for a table, but worth it. SO SO worth it!
(5)Sarah L.
Between 4-7pm they host a perfectly priced happy hour* You can not get beer on tap at a better price point anywhere else in town* Their sandwiches are always a good choice!
(4)Bethany W.
Bison has quality soups and sanwiches. It's a downtown Lincoln dive bar (said in the most endearing way). The service and food and beer specials makes up for the lack of decor. I recommend the CCQ, TAC, and portobello harvest grain soup!
(4)Matthew O.
Got a BLT for dinner. Pretty good. Good amount of crispy bacon, shredded lettuce, fresh tomato. Didn't understand the red onions on there. And not enough mayo. I'm picky with my BLTs. Everyone else's sandwiches looked good. Happy to see chips on the menu instead of fries. And they let you place half orders. Always a plus. But a sandwich and chips for $6.99 plus an extra $1.79 for a drink seems overpriced to me...especially given the tired, dark, blah atmosphere. $12 (incl. tax & tip) seems a lot for a BLT, chips and a drink at a bar/deli. Service was friendly, quick and attentive, though. Always a good thing.
(3)Marc P.
I went in with high expectations on a recommendation from a local. So wrong. Go in early on a Friday night and sit at an empty bar. With no idea as to what to expect, I ask if they have PBR and I'm met with an eye roll. I guess my pants weren't tight enough to know it was a beer snob bar. Service was marginal after I ordered a "better" and we actually had to flag someone else, at an empty bar, so we could tab out. I hear they make a a really good sandwich though.
(1)Matt M.
I give this place 2 stars total - 4 for the ambiance, 5 for the service & 1 for the food. This is probably the most disappointing reuben I have ever had. It came highly recommended so I spent 25 minutes trying to park just to get this sad sandwich. The bread was not griddled, the sauerkraut was cold and the corned beef was lunch meat. I chose chips and queso as my side - this proved to be as bad as the sandwich. The chips were straight out of a bag and the queso was most likely pre made (at least I hope they didn't put any effort into it as bad as it was). Maybe the locations in other states are better - I for one will never find out.
(2)Mary S.
Love bison witches. They have great food and great service. I recommend the chicken nachos to start out! The soup never fails me either :) one thing I would change is how loud the music is. Unless you're going there by yourself, it's kinda annoying.
(4)Brian K.
"BRIAN DID NOT OBSERVE THE SABBATH ON 5/2/10" Part VI (Bar #6) Memoir: $1.50 for a Bud Light pint??!! What the hell? I did not believe my eyes. Yes, Bud Light is terrible beer to sip on but for $1.50, you bet I ordered it and you bet it tasted terrible. Lively place but terribly depressing especially when the bartender and a waitress admitted that they were embarrassed to work here. I thought it was funny. Anyways, the bartenders and waitresses were very friendly (college students) and the crowd was very young (I assume they were students as well). At this point, I was really hungry and looking for a meal. The guy next to me at the bar ordered a delicious looking turkey/chicken sammy and I wanted one so bad but I resisted.
(2)Steven P.
Classic staple recommended by a former Nebraska grad - good food, kind of small - sandwich/soup combo is awesome they come in bread bowls. Surprisingly good beer selection and drink specials. I will be returning when I stop through Lincoln.
(3)Caroline H.
Cool "bar" vibe, I guess. Awful food. Won't ever be back or recommend it...
(1)Katina T.
Let's be honest. This place earns its stars for bread bowl soups, chili con queso and booze. The sandwiches here are really sub-par. But they are filling and relatively cheap, so you can't complain much. Also, you shouldn't come here expecting good, or even decent, service. Your food is probably going to an unreasonable amount of time to come out and there's a good chance your waitress will mess up your order. But all that aside, the Portabella Harvest Grain soup is outrageously tasty and I would willingly put Bison Witches CCQ on just about anything. And you never leave hungry. It' s really the perfect place for college kids looking for big portions on a budget.
(4)Chad K.
Unfriendly staff, sandwich was ok at best, CCQ-not sure what others were talking about but it was not good. Giving 2 stars instead of 1 b/c it is cheap.
(2)Rob K.
Meh about sums it up...The food was...Meh. Service is to be as expected for a small sandwich shop.
(2)Dan M.
Funky place. Beers and sandwiches. Kind of a different combo, but it was good. Kind of a dump, but it is in the shadow of UNL so understandable.
(4)Gabby A.
Bison Witches makes some tasty food. Their sandwiches are great, and very big (unless you are VERY hungry I would suggest getting a half), Their nachos are EXCELLENT, my favorite being the chicken nachos. I also highly recommend their Chili Con Queso, which you can sub in with any sandwich instead of chips for a small fee (it's well worth it). They have one of the best Bloody Mary's I've ever had, so give it a try if you are a Bloody Mary fan. I've never been a fan of their soups. You can find much better soups elsewhere in Lincoln. The reason I give it a three star is the service. They aren't very friendly or helpful. I brought my Mom here once, and she'd never been. Our waitress treated her very rudely for not knowing exactly how to order or what to order. It made for a very intimidating experience for her, which is not what you want your first time in a restaurant! It also has discouraged me from taking new or visiting people to Bison Witches, as I don't want them to feel the same way my Mom felt. The kitchen is very slow, especially if they're busy. Be prepared to wait a while for your food. This is also very much a college bar, so be prepared for that. It can be loud and crazy in there. I keep going back to Bison Witches because they have great food and excellent Bloody Mary's. It's worth it to endure the sometimes snotty staff.
(3)Evan G.
I went to Bison Witches on a recent trip to Lincoln, and really was highly disappointed. I ordered a full sandwich, and my girlfriend ordered a half. Really I ordered a ful and she got 7/8th of a sandwich, it was such a minor difference, but it wasn't a minor difference in cost. Cost and size/portion aside I really wasn't impressed with the place at all. I thought the chicken on my sandwich was dry and really wasn't worth it. I also thought it took a while to get our food. We were the only ones in the place when we went in (it was at 2pm during the week when UNL was not in session), so I would have expected it to be very quick.
(1)Aaron L.
Bison Witches is one of my go-to spots for casual lunch appointments and an occasional night out with the guys to grab dinner. The bottom line is the food is really good and affordable. Definitely a notch far above your regular bar food. If you want to get the full Bison Witches experience, order the half sandwich (I prefer the BLT or Rueben) and bread bowl (the Chili and Potato Soup are both excellent), and upgrade your chips and add the salsa (very good). It adds up to a whole lot of food that is very affordable. Their beer selection above average and drink specials are decent.
(4)John R.
Great college bar and restaurant atmosphere. The food is filling, tasty, and cheap. It's basically giant sandwiches served with chips (preferably ccq, which is tortilla chips and cheese) on a lunch tray. Service is usually pretty good, unless they're packed.. Then just order another beer and chill. The only real negative can be the wait. It can be a huge pain as the customers write their name down and stand awkwardly. I've only seen it get "lord of the flies"-esque once. Otherwise, enjoy the huge sandwiches and cheap beer.
(4)Nikki B.
Big portions, good food, but usually a long wait. Also, I'm impressed with the friendly bartenders. My fave: The TAC with parmesan chips & a breadbowl of Wisc. Cheese. Not the heathiest choice, but it's comfort food at its best!
(4)Ryan C.
This is a great lunch spot on a gameday Saturday, if you're nursing a hangover from the night before, or if you just want an awesome sandwhich! Its got an upbeat downtown vibe, cool crowd, and tasty eats. I've tried almost every sandwhich on the menu, and each one is better than the last. Check it out!
(4)Ben C.
Good stop-in for lunch today. A bit busy during the lunch rush, but only added about 10 min wait. I had the potato soup in a bread bowl and a half a Philly on rye. All of the food was great. The menu, and atmosphere to a certain extent, reminded me of one Quintin's in Lawrence, KS - one of my favorite places during college. Overall, it was a good experience and I will return.
(4)Scott M.
If you're used to the Bison Witches in Norman or Tucson don't get your hopes too high. This one doesn't live up to the reputation. It has good drink specials but the food is just okay. It's also a little run down and dirty. Not a great place to watch a game (all standard def TVs). Fortunately there are lots of other places to go in the area.
(2)Jane M.
A third rate turkey sandwich with lunchmeat a la Oscar Meyer. Lots of TVs.
(2)Joel L.
What can I say? They make a pretty good sandwich. They also have good soups, and serve them in bread bowls. I always get the 'half and half' which ends up coming with 3/4 of a sandwich and a breadbowl of soup. The soups tend to be on the salty side, but that's pretty much the norm. They also only serve potato chips, not fries, with their meals. They claim to have a 'small and efficient' kitchen, and this is where you'll hit the only downside. If you show up for lunch hours during weekdays you're never going to get a table, and your food could take upwards of an hour to make it to the table. Eat an early lunch, or a late lunch...avoid noon. If you watch drink specials, they'll have good deals on certain days. A quick note: There is no host stand, and the place is 'seat yourself.' Sign up right away on the wait list (tacked to the wall by the door) to get a place when busy. Pros: Tasty. Good price. Good portions. Cons: Wait times.
(4)Chaviva G.
I was hoping I'd be the first to review this absolute GEM, but alas, I'm not. So now I have to gather my erotic thoughts about BisonWitches and organize them into coherent, well-placed sentences. What can I say? This place has some of the most delicious sandwiches and soups I've ever eaten. I think the "deli" part is a little misleading. It's definitely not a deli. First and foremost it's an eatery, secondly a bar. I know few people who ever went here to drink, and mostly it was about the sandwiches. I mean, with a place that serves a grilled PB&J, how can you go wrong? I always get their meal special -- half a sandwich, soup in a bread bowl, and chips. It's a cheap deal, not to mention I can never manage to finish the whole thing. My regular was always the Husker, delicious chicken with provolone, tomatoes, lettuce and the house honey mustard. I'd pair this with their OMG-so-amazing Portobella Harvest Grain soup and the chips and salsa. The sandwich is fucking amazing. It just is. It's the perfect balance of meat and bread and veggies, hot and well-prepared. The soup is usually hit or miss -- by this I mean that it's ALWAYS delicious, but sometimes it would come out a little cold. And the chips and salsa? Always far more than I can eat. They home-make the salsa, so it's spicy hot and yummy. I can also vouch for the Hawaiian, for what it's worth. Listen, this place is amazing. Go there at least once. Everytime I come back to Lincoln, this is usually the first place I head to, especially since it's right next to the Coffee House ... of which, I'm off to write about. GO HUSKERS!
(5)Matthew J.
i have absolutely no clue how this place doesn't have a 4- or 5-star rating. my favorite place to eat in downtown lincoln while i was in school, my friends and i went there probably at least once a week. the bread bowl soups and the sandwiches are as good as it gets, and i'm sorry but anyone who rated this place a three or below doesn't have a clue what they're talking about.
(5)John B.
There's always a special at Bison Witches. Whether the middle of the day on Tuesday, or Friday or even Sunday night, come here for satifsying eats and cheap pints of beer. Bring a bunch of quarters and get a booth by the foosball table in back...or, if you prefer the glow of natural light, seat yourself at the very front, and watch street passers-by from the big picture window. Be sure to try to the soup and salad special, lunch times...and don't be afraid to gobble up that bread-bowl! Last Sunday, you could get a pint of "Foggen Lager" -- an unfiltered, Belgian-tasting beer -- for a buck. I bought two at a time and gave one to a friend. This place isn't the most stylin' of haunts, but the great values make up for atmosphere...a good choice anytime.
(4)Pedrom R.
I eat here all the time and have never had a bad experience. Sometimes there is a little bit of a wait but it's a small place for how much business they get. They also have plenty of beer and great drink specials on Tuesday nights after 10pm.
(5)brian t.
I came here last weekend with my girlfriend, my other friend , his wife and their 2 year old son. He has been here a couple times before told me it was one of the best in town, and he was right it was delicious! Although its suppose to also be a kids friendly place as we walked in the music was blasting. The best and cheapest(if your on a budget) is to do the 1/2 sandwich and soup special for around $7 , i got the Hawaiian and cream of potato bacon soup. The hawaiian was ok, i was expecting better other then lettuce, a slice of pineapple, provolone cheese and baked chicken breast with a side of bbq sauce. The cream of potato bacon soup on the other side was amazing!! highly recommended, i forgot what sandwich my girlfriend got but she got the chili soup and said it was good.
(4)Jake D.
Stopped here for a bite to eat and some drinks before the Nebraska/Nevada game. I was staying with family in Omaha, and we were told to get to Lincoln VERY early to avoid heavy traffic. I think would could have left a couple hours later and still have been fine, but there we were at Bison Witches at 10:30 AM killing time for the 2:30 kickoff. Kudos to them for opening early on game day! I did fight the urge to order my first beer until after 11:00, but after that and a great California Kid sandwich it was on. Come noon it was very crowded, and apparently there was a line of people out the door waiting to get a table (some friends came up to meet us around noon and passed a line of disgruntled patrons). The only other downfall was it got quite warm inside, which I am sure is welcome on a cold december day, just not a warm September one. Still not sure was a Bison Witch is, but I will be quick to check out the location in Tempe now!
(4)Joseph D.
Slow service, plastic plates, dingy property and far and away the best sandwiches in Lincoln. Sandwiches have triple the meat of most places and its steaming hot when it hits the plate. Guinness and a pastrami = yum.
(4)Kate M.
This is probably my favorite restaurant in Lincoln. Sandwiches are great, soup is great, chips con queso is great! Service is slow, but the food is so good, I imagine it takes awhile to prepare. My only complaint is that last time I was there (April 18th 2009), they raised the prices of menu items without reflecting it in the menu. So when we got our bill, everything was more expensive than we had anticipated. Kind of false advertising, but the food is so good, I will be back.
(5)D F.
This place is hands down the best lunch spot in Lincoln. Whenever in Lincoln I always stop. It's a sandwich shop with a nice bar and a decent beer tap selection. The sandwiches are packed with meat and all kinds of fresh ingredients depending on the selection you choose. The service is great considering they are always slammed packed busy. Do yourself a favor and order a seasonal tap brew and a sandwich at the bar. You won't regret it. The soups are also great and the salsa is fresh and homemade. I had a McQuinten and a bloody mary for lunch today and wish it could be every day!
(5)Jenna H.
The Place: Bison Witches Bar and Deli Lincoln NE The Feel: casual bar a street away from the Downtown bar strip, but don't get confused, its right next to Buffalo Wild Wings, just remember that buffalo only live in Africa, you will be right at home with the Bison. Welcome to Bison Witches Bar and Deli, one of my all time favorite places to eat. Notice that I didn't give it 5 stars, I'll go over why in the next few paragraphs. The Food: Extra large hot sandwiches, soups and appetizers. I usually eat the 1/2 sandwich and chips ($4.75) which will fill you up, trust me. Some reviewers claim that they feel cheated when they order the whole sandwich and chips for around 7 bucks, but lets look at this from the "glass all the way full" side: a half sandwich, buyer beware is really more like 3/4 of the sandwich, so unless you really want to eat three more bites (although I don't blame you because the sandwiches are delish!) please only order the half. My usual order includes either the 1/2 chicken salad sandwich or the 1/2 Reuben, I highly recommend any sandwich though. The Drinks: everyday is a drinking day at Bison Witches, with the full bar. I recommend going on Fridays if you like Margaritas, they are 2.00 a piece, and trust me, many a person has gotten very tipsy off of two of them. My fiance loves to go on beer special nights which happen pretty much every other day of the week. Time: if you plan on going to B*witches take in to consideration how much time you have and what time you are going, the place is always busy, but usually packed around dinner time (6-8:30). If you go during these times make sure you are able to wait for a table and wait for your sandwich. Got Kids? Yeah, its a bar, but the grilled PBJ is great and the patrons are not rowdy. Bathrooms: better than a college town bar, linoleum floors and two stalls for the ladies, the soap smells okay too. Overall Review: I give it four stars, yes it is my favorite place but sometimes they are low on staff and the wait is long for my beloved sandwich, if it were the perfect world this place would serve sandwiches in every city in the country and at every hour of the day (they only have restaurants in Tuscon AZ, Tempe AZ and somewhere in Oklahoma).
(4)Kyla B.
The bread bowls are amazing and filling! Great bar to grab something to eat and kick back and have a few drinks with your friends.
(4)Wystan U.
If you have some time to kill before heading down to the vast and sprawling Douglas monstrosity, grab yourself, check yourself, then get yourself over to Bison Witches for a beer and a great sandwich. I've never been to a place that is so devoted to the art of the sandwich as Bison Witches, and although it's far away from me right now, I can only hope that someone is sitting in one of those large booths that overlook the rows of parking meters on 'P' Street and enjoying their sandwich while looking up at the same sky I'm looking at. How I miss you, you crazy buffalo hag.
(4)Matthew P.
Soup and sandwiches. I had lunch here the other day for the first time and can't really remember much about it. I met a friend right at noon on a weekday and there was a line going out the door. Odd, I thought, but decided to not fuss. We had a short wait, about ten minutes and were seated at a nice booth, which I appreciated especially considering there were only two of us and the restaurant was busy. The waitstaff was friendly, professional and unobtrusive. I had a soup that was novelly served in a bread bowl and a sandwich that was tasty, but uninspired. I didn't pay so I can't speak for the prices; if i had paid attention I imagine that would have colored my opinion. Overall, I say go enjoy a sandwich. It is a kind of generic college town restaurant and that's okay, Lincoln is kind of a generic college town.
(3)Kristin M.
The food is amazing. But the service is extremely slow (especially over the lunch hour) and the servers are known for charging credit cards for more than you write in. It has happened twice to me and also has happened to my friends. If you want to experience the fantastic food, just be sure to keep your receipt and check it against your statement.
(2)Glenn C.
I wandered in here while on a trip taking my son to college. It had that college dive bar look to it so I didn't expect much. I sat at the bar and ordered a beer (very good selection by the way) and the first thing the bartender says is "don't pay for this just yet, in a few minutes it's happy hour and I'll ring it up then". Wow, talk about good karma. Later the same day a friend's daughter said how good the food was at BW's. We ate there and were impressed enough we ended up going back the next day. We'll be back in Lincoln for some football games and I will definately make it back to BW's.
(5)Jim B.
This is a great little sandwich shop, but don't go if you have less than 2 hours to eat. I know, two hours for a sandwich? It doesn't always take 2 hours, but it often does during peak times. The service is also the worst I have ever encountered consistently. So why does this place get 4 stars? Its all about the food and the atmosphere. The sandwiches are excellent as long as you know what you are getting. Their Russian dressing is really sweet, so be careful. The grilled cheese is amazing, as is the pastrami on rye. Always get the ccq (chips and con queso) to accompany a half sandwich and try the portabello harvest soup. They also have a great beer selection. I hate the wait and the service, but I can't stop going back, so that is why it gets 4 stars.
(4)Jules T.
I ordered the bread bowl soup. It was awful. I'm used to a real bread bowl where the bread is fresh made. This one came from a plastic bag and the soup wasn't even that hot. So based on that one dish I'm giving it Meh.
(2)Cole F.
The best sandwiches and soup I have had. Great atmosphere! The price is amazing for the amount you get. I would recommend to anyone!
(5)J C.
Good sandwiches, my wife and kids like the soup and not many places in lincoln you can get a Guiness for 2 bucks. I just learned they have a couple other locations in arizona and oklahoma.
(3)Fati A.
If you are hanging out in Lincoln, Bison Witches is the place to be. It's right next to this awesome coffee shop called Coffee House. You have two good places in one good spot! I have always heard good stories about this place, that the food is really good, it's a fun place to bring friends, and more. The many times (2-3 times) that I have eaten at this place, have been really great. Their menu has a wide variety of options to choose from. I know my friend who is a vegetarian always orders their veggie sandwich. I usually order turkey sandwiches so like the T.A.C, California Kid, and The Angel. I have yet to venture out to try the other sandwiches but they are toooo good! Meals include kettle chips which are a perfect side! They also have a bar so you can get your drink on while you enjoy some bomb food. I think this is one of my favorite places to eat whenever I'm in Lincoln.
(5)Brandon A.
Bison can pretty much satisfy anyone, which is why I like it. There is a sandwich for everyone so it's always a safe play. I've probably had half of the sandwiches on the menu and have enjoyed every one. My most recent trip I went with the BLT. The menu read that it had a lot of bacon (how I like my BLT's) and gosh they weren't kidding. I think it lacked some tomato though. In the winter months I always order a half sandwich and a bowl of soup, but stick to a full sandwich out of soup season. If you are there with a friend or on a date, I recommend one person ordering the chips and salsa for the side and one ordering the CCQ (chips con queso) and sharing. You can't go wrong at Bison. Brat
(4)Elisabeth E.
Ok so came in here for lunch a few weeks ago and was really not impressed. Atmosphere is a little dive bar-y with all sorts of random stuff on the walls, a long bar, and TVs to drown out your date's unending commentary about what this weather has been doing to her hair. We were seated pretty quick since we were just before lunch. By the time we left though there was a bit of a wait, so seems to be a rather popular place on weekends. Our server was really busy but did her best to come get orders quickly and keep drinks and things filled. Our server was very nice and without a doubt the only enjoyable part of my meal. When I asked her about gluten free options she seemed unsure and said the salads, maybe soups ( -)the gluten bowl of bread, and was really uncertain on salad dressings. So she quickly offered to ask the kitchen. Kitchen responded that soups are "probably" fine and who knows about dressing. She was really apologetic and said it was difficult getting answers. I asked for clarification on the soup, emphasized its an allergy, not dieting for me, and if I or someone could maybe read the dressing bottles or something to be sure. Came back and said the kitchen just told her to forget all soups and all I can have is salad and they think the vinaigrette is fine. So I go with the salad without croutons. Comes out, with croutons. My friend is nearly finished with his meal and she apologetically brings out the salad sans evil gluten cubes. Btw, I was seated next to the kitchen and could even hear them giving her a hard time.. Not professional guys. Oh man, so onto the food quality, cause despite everything i'm totally willing to give credit where it's due... It wasn't. Salad was terrible. Good portion, I'll admit, but tasteless. Chef salad with some store bought mix (which had arugula in it by chance so add 1 classy point by sheer luck) a few slices of avocado and about two cases of the cheapest lunch meat ever and 'garnished' with some preshredded bagged cheese...Literally reminded me of how any 15 year old boy would make a salad if forced by mom. I picked out the arugula and avocado, did my best on the rest and finally gave up. Food wasn't expensive, but more than I'm willing to pay for that stuff. Will not be returning
(1)Kassandra M.
My first impression of Bison Witches was good, from the outside. When you walk in the atmosphere is a little dive-y which normally is okay, except the tables are all filthy and the floors look like they haven't been cleaned in more than a month. Needless to say I was concerned of the condition of the kitchen. The food is utter garbage. The chicken salad sandwich is tasteless. The toast was burnt. The chili tastes like it came straight from a Hormel Chili can. It's greasy and disgusting. There is about 1/4 cup of it in a bread bowl for $5. Very overpriced. What do people even see in this place? I wouldn't be surprised if I wind up with food poisoning. I won't be returning.
(1)Cameron K.
An excellent spot if you're looking to get a quality sandwich and cup of soup. I highly recommend the Hawaiian and Cream of potato bacon soup in a bread bowl but you can't really go wrong. If you're looking to absolutely crush some beers in a great atmosphere, this is your spot. Brat Approved
(5)