Carl’s at Mahoney brings food service back to park

Food and beverage service returns to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park later this month when Carl’s at Mahoney opens within Peter Kiewit Lodge.

Service will begin March 15-17 with a convenient Grab and Go format, where guests can purchase a variety of to-go food and drink items.

Carl’s also will host a St. Patrick’s Day Buffet featuring corned beef from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 17. It is the first of the weekly Sunday brunch buffets. The buffet will be $21.99 for adults and includes a drink and dessert; kids buffet is just $9.99.

A bar featuring local beers, cider and wine, and classic drinks also will open starting March 15. Hours are noon to 5 p.m., or by appointment, on Fridays and Saturdays. The bar will offer beer and wine from 10 a.m. to noon and will be full service from noon to 2 p.m. or by appointment on Sundays.

Grab and Go will be available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays for the immediate future. Offerings will include items such as hot and cold drinks, rolls, donuts, pizza, fruit, salad, wine, beer, chicken strips, and hot and cold sandwiches.

The business will continue opening in phases and expects to expand the Grab and Go section to seven days a week by peak park visitation season. It also will offer table service, with appetizers, entrees and desserts, and catering for events.

Carl’s is owned and operated by Carl and Diane Kucera, of Litchfield. The Kuceras are well-known for their catering business, Country Catering, which they have operated for 25 years, and for Carl’s Tavern in Ord, which opened in 2021. Carl’s at Mahoney will build upon those successes.

“Nebraska State Parks is very excited to collaborate with the Kuceras and Carl’s at Mahoney to provide great dining options for our park guests,” said Jeff Fields, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission parks division administrator. “The Kuceras have a great reputation for making delicious American-style food and are committed to providing great food and excellent service to the growing operation at the park.”

A vehicle park entry permit will be required to enter Mahoney State Park. Buy one in advance of your dinner out at OutdoorNebraska.gov.