Gella's Diner and LB Brewing

Located in the heart of the historic district of Hays, this unique venue brings a cozy American diner and an award-winning microbrewery together under one roof. Gella’s Diner & Lb. Brewing Co. is more than just a restaurant; it’s a true symbol of urban revival, occupying four meticulously restored historic buildings. Here, industrial chic made of rusted steel and weathered wood harmoniously coexists with warm brick walls and vibrant murals.

This establishment in the USA is widely known for its approach to tradition: the name “Lb.” stands for “Liquid Bread,” a nod to the heritage of the Volga Germans who founded the city. The open kitchen allows guests to watch the cooking process, while massive beer tanks right in the dining area fill the air with the subtle aroma of malt and hops.

Today, the place has earned the Travelers' Choice award and is considered one of the best craft spots in Kansas. The diner attracts both tourists traveling along I-70 and local students and families who appreciate quality food and the relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere of the Chestnut Street District.

For more information or to book a table for a large group, you can use the following contact details:

The main reason to visit is, of course, the craft beer tasting. Under the guidance of master brewer Gerald Wyman, the brewery produces varieties that have won numerous national medals. Be sure to try the famous Oatmeal Stout or choose a tasting flight to appreciate the variety of local ales and stouts brewed on a professional 10-barrel system.

As for the cuisine, the menu offers classic American dishes at their best: from juicy burgers and steaks to signature salads. The open kitchen adds a dynamic feel to your evening—you can watch the chefs at work while waiting for your order. The interior deserves special attention: look for original lighting fixtures made from egg baskets and murals like “Three Star Harvest” created by local artists.

With free Wi-Fi and a private banquet hall, the venue is suitable for both business lunches and boisterous family celebrations. In the evening, the atmosphere is lively, perfect for long conversations over a cold glass of beer. If you are traveling with children, don't worry—the casual format makes it comfortable for visitors of all ages.

The establishment is located in the heart of the historic Chestnut Street District. If you are traveling by car on I-70, this place is an ideal spot for a break and lunch, as the exit to downtown Hays is intuitive and takes only a few minutes. Convenient parking is provided near the diner.

For those already downtown, Gella’s Diner & Lb. Brewing Co. is accessible within a pleasant walk. It is located in close proximity to major cultural centers, shops, and the Fort Hays State University campus. Local taxis or car rental services are also available.

If you are arriving in the region by plane, Hays Regional Airport (HYS) is just a 10–15 minute drive away. This makes the brewery easily accessible even for those visiting Kansas briefly.

The history of this place began in 2005 when it became the engine of downtown revitalization. Four historic buildings on East 11th Street, long in disrepair under layers of cheap aluminum, were carefully restored. Thanks to the efforts of the Liberty Group and architect Chuck Comeau, the original brick walls and limestone elements were brought back to light, forming the foundation of its modern industrial style.

The name Lb. Brewing Co. stands for “Liquid Bread.” This is a direct reference to the cultural code of the local settlers—Volga Germans, for whom beer was not just a drink but an essential part of their diet. The name Gella’s, in turn, is a German dialect expression for “yes,” emphasizing the welcoming atmosphere of the establishment.

Success came quickly: just three months after opening, head brewer Gerald Wyman, a former farmer, won a silver medal at the prestigious Great American Beer Festival. Today, the establishment boasts seven medals from this festival, including gold for the Oatmeal Stout, making this modest brewery in Hays one of the most decorated in the state.

Special attention should be paid to the interior, decorated with works by local university students. The “Three Star Harvest” mural, depicting silhouettes of 1930s farmers, and recreated signs from the 1920s remind guests of Ellis County's rich agricultural past.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and cuisine without rushing, we recommend setting aside 1.5 to 3 hours for your visit. This is enough time to explore a tasting flight of several craft varieties, have lunch, and admire the historic murals on the walls.

If you are short on time and just want a quick bite while traveling along I-70, a full “express” lunch will take about 1 hour. Evenings, especially on weekends, are usually busier, so the visit may last longer due to the place's popularity with locals.

The establishment welcomes guests daily, offering a consistent schedule for lunch and dinner. From Monday to Thursday, the doors are open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. On Friday and Saturday, when the downtown area gets particularly busy, hours are extended until 10:00 PM. On Sunday, the diner operates as usual—from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Since the schedule may change on holidays, we recommend checking the brewery's official website before your visit.

Its location in the historic center makes visiting the brewery an excellent starting point for a walk around the city. The neighboring streets are filled with local galleries and parks that allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of the American Midwest.

In a radius of several kilometers, you will find both historical monuments and other popular gastronomic spots: