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Harold's Koffee House in Florence Nebraska

Homemade Pies Best on the Menu

Jan 3, 2009 Melissa Kucirek

Harold's Koffee House in Florence, Neb., a community northeast of Omaha, has been owned by the Halstead family for over 45 years. It's a must stop.

Harold’s Koffee House is a bit stuck in time. Its sea-foam green interior and 50’s style dining sets show wear and tear. The walls have photos from the good old days, and the menu shows some signs of many patrons thumbing through the daily specials. But, the pie and the hot meatloaf sandwich show no signs of losing taste.

Mighty good.

It’s like a trip back in time, or the scene with Marty McFly from “Back to the Future” stops in the diner for Tab. Surreal, but fun. Looking across the room, seeing folks sitting in booths and some at the counter stools, it’s refreshing to see patrons supporting a local Mom and Pop establishment. On one wall is a shadow box of Harold's military service photos and a few medals; on another wall is a framed menu, plate and utensils.

Florence Roots

According to the Historic Florence Website, “Florence has more historic sites and historical markers per square mile than any other part of the state. Florence was land of the Omaha & Otoe/Missouria Tribes; on routes of international exploration up the Missouri River, Fort Lisa, Crossroads of the Trails: Lewis & Clark Trail, Alternate Oregon Trail, Mormon Trail, Winter Quarters site, and the California Gold Rush Trail; Territorial Boom-town, Outfitting-town, and Capitol of Nebraska for one glorious week.”

Harold’s Koffee House is located at 30th and State Street—deep in the heart of Florence. Other small shops and restaurants are sprinkled along the block, as are churches and parks. The beeping and honking traffic rolls along outside, just as the bell rings every time a new order is ready for the gregarious waitresses to serve.

Menu Full of Taste and Variety

Harold’s serves up a wide selection of French toast, pancakes, omelets, cold sandwiches, pasta, hot sandwiches and salad items, but its desserts are the most memorable.

Homemade cinnamon rolls and other pastries—including banana cream and coconut pies are fluffy and like biting into a cloud of sugar and fresh fruit. Very tasty.

Reasonably Priced

Daily specials range from $6 to about $8 and some change. The side items tend to be higher priced—like a side salad. The service is excellent—friendly and speedy, so do expect to give a 20% tip.

Worth the Drive to Florence

As more chain restaurants clutter neighborhood's, it's refreshing to see a family-owned business still thriving in a tiny part of a large city. It's worth the short drive out of Omaha to Harold's Koffee House for a nice hot meal, friendly service and slice of pie.

Harold's Koffee House is located at 8327 North 30th Street, Florence (Omaha), and can be reached at 402-451-9776.

The copyright of the article Harold's Koffee House in Florence Nebraska in Baking & Desserts is owned by Melissa Kucirek. Permission to republish Harold's Koffee House in Florence Nebraska in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Harold's Koffee House makes fresh cinnamon rolls.