Unearth The Voyage
South Dakota’s Black Hills and Badlands hide some of the state’s best-kept culinary secrets. Between famous landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park, tiny towns serve up everything from bison burgers to chef-driven surprises. Whether you’re road-tripping through Custer or stopping in Wall, these small-town restaurants prove that great food doesn’t need a big city.
1. Alpine Inn (Hill City)
Step back in time at this Victorian landmark that’s been feeding hungry travelers since the late 1800s. The menu keeps things refreshingly straightforward with steaks taking center stage at dinner, while daytime visitors can explore German-influenced dishes that nod to the region’s heritage.
Located in charming Hill City, the inn sits perfectly positioned for exploring the Black Hills. After a day hiking or visiting nearby attractions, locals and tourists alike gather here for dependable, hearty meals in an atmosphere that feels genuinely historic rather than themed.
Reservations are smart during peak summer months when the Black Hills draw crowds from across the country.
2. Skogen Kitchen (Custer)
Who says you need a metropolitan zip code for world-class dining? This reservation-only gem proves that culinary ambition thrives even in towns of just a few thousand people. Chef-driven menus bring unexpected global flavors to the heart of cowboy country, creating dishes that would hold their own in any major city.
Open exclusively for dinner service, the restaurant operates on limited hours that shift seasonally. Smart diners call ahead both to book a table and confirm they’re open before making the drive.
It’s the kind of place locals brag about to out-of-town guests, and for good reason.
3. The Custer Wolf Food & Drink
Scratch-made pub fare gets elevated treatment at this relaxed neighborhood favorite where the beer and wine list actually deserves attention. Unlike tourist traps that phone it in, the kitchen takes real pride in turning out elevated versions of comfort classics. The atmosphere stays laid-back and welcoming, whether you’re a regular or just passing through town.
It’s become the go-to spot for locals who want something better than fast food but aren’t in the mood for anything too formal. The menu changes with the seasons, incorporating fresh ingredients when available.
Dinner service can get busy, so arrive early or prepare to wait a bit.
4. Lintz Brothers Pizza (Hermosa)
Worth the detour, this tiny crossroads pizzeria south of Rapid City has become a legitimate destination for serious pie lovers. Operating Thursday through Monday for dinner, they take Tuesday and Wednesday off, so plan accordingly. The limited schedule hasn’t hurt their reputation one bit; if anything, it’s added to the mystique.
Each pizza showcases quality ingredients and careful attention to crust, sauce, and topping balance. The small dining room fills quickly with folks who’ve driven from Rapid City, Custer, and beyond specifically for dinner here.
Call ahead for large orders or if you’re coming with a group bigger than four.
5. Drifters Bar & Grille (Fort Pierre)
Riverside dining takes on special meaning when that river is the mighty Missouri. The big patio offers front-row seats to spectacular sunsets over the water, making it worth timing your visit around evening hours. Menu highlights include regional staples like chislic, those addictive cubed-meat skewers that South Dakotans consider essential eating.
Fort Pierre sits across the river from Pierre, the state capital, but maintains its own distinct small-town personality. The restaurant draws both locals and travelers exploring the central part of the state.
Summer evenings on the patio are peak experience territory, so grab a spot early if weather cooperates.
