South Dakota Restaurant and Dining Guide
Hey there, travelers and food enthusiasts! Are you ready to dive into the rich and delicious world of South Dakota's culinary scene? We are here to guide you through a scrumptious journey across the state, exploring its unique dishes, must-visit establishments, and some pretty rad tourist attractions. South Dakota is a treasure trove of flavors and experiences just waiting to be discovered.
In this epicurean adventure, we'll munch our way through cities like Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Custer, Brookings, and Spearfish, tantalizing our taste buds with local favorites such as Chislic, Kuchen, Pheasant, Buffalo Burger, and Indian Tacos. And, of course, I'll share some cool stories, historical tidbits, and amusing trivia to spice up our gastronomic escapade.
So, if you're a curious soul hungry for some fantastic eats and memorable experiences in the great Mount Rushmore State, stick with us, and let's chow down on the best of South Dakota!
Chow Down in Chislic City: Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls, South Dakota's largest city, is the perfect starting point for our flavorful expedition. And let me tell you, folks, their chislic game is on point! Traditionally made with cubed red meat, deep-fried, and served on a skewer, chislic is a must-try for every food aficionado. Botski's, The Attic East Bar & Grill, and The Barrel House are all top-notch joints to get your chislic fix. And if you're a kuchen connoisseur, you won't want to miss Pietz's Kuchen Kitchen & Specs in Scotland, just an hour's drive from Sioux Falls.
Once you've had your fill, head over to Falls Park to walk off those delicious calories, or take a stroll through Downtown SculptureWalk Sioux Falls, an open-air art exhibit. Trust me, the city's mix of natural beauty and creativity is the cherry on top of a perfect day.
The Rapid Rise of Rapid City
Next up, we're making tracks to Rapid City, where the pheasant and buffalo burgers reign supreme. Dakotah Steakhouse and Pheasant Restaurant & Lounge serve up some mean pheasant dishes, a nod to South Dakota's state bird. On the other hand, if you're craving something heartier, swing by Thirsty's for a juicy buffalo burger that'll knock your socks off.
After you've chowed down, check out the colorful, ever-changing Art Alley, or get up close and personal with some scaly friends at Reptile Gardens. Rapid City doesn't skimp on fun, that's for sure!
Custer's Tasty Treasures
Now, let's mosey on over to the charming town of Custer, nestled in the picturesque Black Hills. Home to the scrumptious kuchen and mouthwatering Indian tacos, Custer's got a little something for everyone. Swing by Laughing Water Restaurant, where you can savor both dishes alongside an unforgettable view of Mount Rushmore. And if you're craving a juicy buffalo burger, don't miss out on Black Hills Burger and Bun Co or Buglin' Bull Restaurant and Sports Bar – these two joints are local legends for their top-notch grub!
Once you've had your fill, explore the breathtaking Custer State Park or descend into the depths of Jewel Cave National Monument. Custer knows how to impress, both above and below ground!
A Bounty of Flavor in Brookings
Our next stop is the delightful city of Brookings, a haven for pheasant enthusiasts and burger lovers alike. Drop by Pheasant Restaurant & Lounge for a taste of their namesake dish, or grab a heavenly buffalo burger at Nick's Hamburger Shop. Your taste buds will thank you, I promise.
Afterward, immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of McCrory Gardens or delve into the world of art at the South Dakota Art Museum. Brookings has got it going on, folks!
Spearfish: A Culinary Oasis
Last but certainly not least, we venture to the enchanting town of Spearfish, where Indian tacos take center stage. Barbacoa's and Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant and Bar serve up their own unique spin on this tasty dish, and trust me, you'll want to try them all.
As for attractions, Spearfish doesn't disappoint. Be sure to check out Bridal Veil Falls, the stunning Spearfish Canyon, and the High Plains Western Heritage Center. Can you say "picture-perfect"?
There you have it, my friends – a whirlwind tour of South Dakota's incredible cuisine and captivating attractions. From Sioux Falls to Spearfish, each city has its own flavor, history, and charm just waiting to be explored. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your fork, put on your adventure hat, and dig in! South Dakota's culinary landscape is as diverse as its natural beauty, with each city offering its own unique take on local dishes. From chislic to kuchen, pheasant to buffalo burgers, and Indian tacos to boot, there's no shortage of mouthwatering delights to satisfy your cravings. And don't forget – nothing pairs better with good food than good company, so be sure to bring your friends and family along for the ride.
As you journey through the state, you'll also find a wealth of attractions to enjoy between meals. Whether you're marveling at the art in Sioux Falls, hiking through the Black Hills, or admiring the breathtaking waterfalls of Spearfish, South Dakota promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
So, to all you food lovers and adventure seekers out there, I wholeheartedly encourage you to embark on your own culinary quest through the heart of South Dakota. You won't be disappointed – in fact, you just might find yourself coming back for seconds!
Must-Try Restaurants in South Dakota
![Laughing Water Restaurant 12151 Ave of the Chiefs, Custer, SD 57730](https://cdn7.localdatacdn.com/sd/custer/6787778/original/jMJMtaMKGe.jpg)
Laughing Water Restaurant
12151 Ave of the Chiefs, Custer, SD 57730Very good self-service restaurant with a view of the monumental Crazy Horse.Good and generous cuisine, good place to eat.
- Take-Out
- Delivery
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Good85 Reviews4.2
![Pietz's Kuchen Kitchen & Specs 800 Fourth St, Scotland, SD 57059](https://cdn7.localdatacdn.com/sd/scotland/3889977/original/qgSGnVolAX.jpg)
Pietz's Kuchen Kitchen & Specs
800 Fourth St, Scotland, SD 57059Amazing pizza and selection, and if your grandma, family, mother, father or whoever ever made you Kuchen try Pietz's. For those who have never tried...
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Superb11 Reviews5
![Buglin' Bull Restaurant and Sports Bar 511 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/custer/3635871/original/IGHuILyP0j.jpg)
Buglin' Bull Restaurant and Sports Bar
511 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730Made our annual trip to Custer and the Buglin Bull.
As always the meal, the service and the ambiance were terrific! Highly recommend!
- Take-Out
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Good178 Reviews4.2
![Black Hills Burger and Bun Co 441 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/custer/3635869/original/hJw68OgFo0.jpg)
Black Hills Burger and Bun Co
441 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730Pizza was perfect. Had the Hot Granny and Tatanka (special of the week) and both were yummy. Don't pass this place by.
- Take-Out
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Superb114 Reviews4.6
![Pheasant Restaurant & Lounge 726 Main Ave S, Brookings, SD 57006](https://cdn10.localdatacdn.com/sd/brookings/3622117/original/yBG04K3vom.jpg)
Pheasant Restaurant & Lounge
726 Main Ave S, Brookings, SD 57006We were visiting from out of state.
We had the duck wings which everyone enjoyed. We also had chislic which was tender. My husband had the phea...
- Take-Out
- Delivery
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Superb52 Reviews4.6
![Nick's Hamburger Shop 427 Main Ave, Brookings, SD 57006](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/brookings/3622107/original/MBiiF3PPnR.jpg)
Nick's Hamburger Shop
427 Main Ave, Brookings, SD 57006One of the oldest restaurants in South Dakota. Originally opened in 1929, with friendly and exceptional customer service.
- Take-Out
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Superb84 Reviews4.5
![Dakotah Steakhouse 1325 N Elk Vale Rd, Rapid City, SD 57703](https://cdn10.localdatacdn.com/sd/rapid-city/3621760/original/BoKl16rCEY.jpg)
Dakotah Steakhouse
1325 N Elk Vale Rd, Rapid City, SD 57703As usual the service was outstanding, The food was also outstanding, I have brought a lot of people to Dakota steak house and they all say the same thing...
- Take-Out
- Delivery
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Superb367 Reviews4.3
![The Barrel House 4701 E 54th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57110](https://cdn10.localdatacdn.com/sd/sioux-falls/3621544/original/NxYcRiMXfN.jpg)
The Barrel House
4701 E 54th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57110So first off, I went here for the bourbon straight and foremost. If you love bourbon, this place is heaven for around the surrounding areas. had Elijah C...
- Take-Out
- Delivery
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Good114 Reviews4.1
![Barbacoa's 305 W Jackson Blvd, Spearfish, SD 57783](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/spearfish/3605802/original/tU7t7Q2Dvj.jpg)
Barbacoa's
305 W Jackson Blvd, Spearfish, SD 57783The food here is good. I just have had different experiences with how it’s been prepared(portion wise) depending on who makes it. There hasn’t been consi...
- Take-Out
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Good73 Reviews3.6
![Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant and Bar 83 US-14, Spearfish, SD 57783](https://cdn7.localdatacdn.com/sd/spearfish/3605771/original/Xof1Hatg2w.jpg)
Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant and Bar
83 US-14, Spearfish, SD 57783Can't decide what I like best; the food, the atmosphere or the service! It's all top notch
- Take-Out
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Superb131 Reviews4.3
![The Attic East Bar and Grill 4601 E 41st St, Sioux Falls, SD 57110](https://cdn10.localdatacdn.com/sd/sioux-falls/3415251/original/s6AFO2csla.jpg)
The Attic East Bar and Grill
4601 E 41st St, Sioux Falls, SD 57110Great food and service.
Wheelchair accessibility: Wheelchair accessible tables.
- Take-Out
- Delivery
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Superb68 Reviews4.4
Recently Opened Restaurants
![Krave Cafe 1801 Eisenhower Cir, Aberdeen, SD 57401](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/aberdeen/9381081/original/cV8yUQTzcu.jpg)
Krave Cafe
1801 Eisenhower Cir, Aberdeen, SD 57401I had the biscone yesterday it was amazing!! Looking forward to more goodies soon❤️
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Superb1 Reviews5
![The Hangar Pub of Box Elder 114 Box Elder Rd W, Box Elder, SD 57719](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/box-elder/9353190/original/0Hgko0UY2L.jpg)
The Hangar Pub of Box Elder
114 Box Elder Rd W, Box Elder, SD 57719Was passing by and decided to stop in for look around. It was great to see a healthy change to the area. The owners were very nice and they have a great ...
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Superb3 Reviews5
![Freckled Cow BBQ 102 E 4th St, White Lake, SD 57383](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/white-lake/9348740/original/AESod9cgxY.jpg)
Freckled Cow BBQ
102 E 4th St, White Lake, SD 57383Had them cater our company Christmas party. The only complaint was from a coworkers wife because her husband ate about 2lbs of beans. lol. Adam was very ...
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Superb2 Reviews5
![Ludlow Bar and Grill Ludlow, SD 57755](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/ludlow/9345631/original/dxe57uxvv4.jpg)
Ludlow Bar and Grill
Ludlow, SD 57755Amazing experience! I’m from Maryland and came out to the Dakotas for a road trip, stopping at this food spot was truly a highlight of my trip. Great at...
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Superb2 Reviews5
![MrBeast Burger 2301 E Colorado Blvd, Spearfish, SD 57783](/images/no.jpg)
MrBeast Burger
2301 E Colorado Blvd, Spearfish, SD 57783- Delivery
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Poor1 Reviews1
![Ziggi's Coffee 4410 E 57th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57103](https://cdn10.localdatacdn.com/sd/sioux-falls/9329122/original/2DqDEOhViY.jpg)
Ziggi's Coffee
4410 E 57th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57103Have to give them some credit for carrying gluten free options, a couple pastries and a breakfast sandwich, but the coffee was terrible. Super watery, I’...
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Good26 Reviews4.2
![NASCAR Refuel Tenders & Burgers 4510 W 41st St, Sioux Falls, SD 57106](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/sioux-falls/9329120/original/ghB6dnsO3J.jpg)
NASCAR Refuel Tenders & Burgers
4510 W 41st St, Sioux Falls, SD 57106ordered twice, both orders were completely wrong they don't read the order to make sure its correct and the portion size of the fries vs the contain...
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Poor0 Reviews0
![Hacienda Jalisco 1309 E Benson Rd, Sioux Falls, SD 57104](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/sioux-falls/9329119/original/OrzZaAu6P7.jpg)
Hacienda Jalisco
1309 E Benson Rd, Sioux Falls, SD 57104Gotta change my review. Today they enforced me to pay 10% more because I paid with credit card. They said: the system authomatically charges that. My las...
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Superb50 Reviews4.9
![Goodies Gluten Free Bakery 6801 Black Hawk Rd Ste 1, Black Hawk, SD 57718](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/black-hawk/9328569/original/YRWlhafAVQ.jpg)
Goodies Gluten Free Bakery
6801 Black Hawk Rd Ste 1, Black Hawk, SD 57718Goodies bakery is the best gluten free bakery around! Brooke is so kind, and you always get the highest quality products. We have pretty much tried every...
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Superb4 Reviews5
![NASCAR Refuel Tenders & Burgers 550 Disk Dr, Rapid City, SD 57701](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/rapid-city/9328568/original/wK3h2fKiO1.jpg)
NASCAR Refuel Tenders & Burgers
550 Disk Dr, Rapid City, SD 57701Where to start? Salty, overcooked, nowhere near made the way it was advertised. This was not "crispy tenders tossed in Buffalo sauce, drizzled with ...
- Delivery
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Poor1 Reviews2
![Half Iron Grill 306 Hickory Street East Off Hwy 10, Sisseton, SD 57262](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/sisseton/9327663/original/dxoM0o0guQ.jpg)
Half Iron Grill
306 Hickory Street East Off Hwy 10, Sisseton, SD 57262Stopped by here for a quick lunch on a road trip and the burgers were GREAT! I love a good smash burger. Adding a photo of the food truck because we almo...
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Superb4 Reviews5
Recent Reviews
![The Back 40 Taphouse Grill 511 N Main St, Mitchell, SD 57301](https://cdn10.localdatacdn.com/sd/mitchell/4959164/original/MWSO9kZwV3.jpg)
The Back 40 Taphouse Grill
511 N Main St, Mitchell, SD 57301Placed a to go order using the online menu. Food was hot and ready to go when requested it. Tried the updated pizza smash burger and was still a healthy ...
- Take-Out
- Delivery
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Good255 Reviews4.1
![Toronto Cafe & Lounge 485 Main Ave, Toronto, SD 57268](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/toronto/3419752/original/9I0EZQlFZg.jpg)
Toronto Cafe & Lounge
485 Main Ave, Toronto, SD 57268New owners trashed what was a good place, ran out all the original employees, raised prices far past inflation rates, brought food quality down, and can ...
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Good13 Reviews4
![The Frontier Bar & Grill 680 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730](https://cdn7.localdatacdn.com/sd/custer/3664810/original/zayiaYp7dc.jpg)
The Frontier Bar & Grill
680 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730Well, I have read a lot of great reviews. Our first visit was great, service, atmosphere, etc. BUT, today was different. Food & drinks were great. Se...
- Take-Out
- Delivery
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Good229 Reviews3.8
![Taqueria Los Dos Hermanos Uptown Rapid, 2200 N Maple Ave Suite 607, Rapid City, SD 57701](https://cdn10.localdatacdn.com/sd/rapid-city/6810062/original/wB5nasN9OL.jpg)
Taqueria Los Dos Hermanos
Uptown Rapid, 2200 N Maple Ave Suite 607, Rapid City, SD 57701Super good! Got the carne fries and it was amazing. Wish more fries for all the toppings!
- Delivery
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Superb47 Reviews4.6
![Marlin's Restaurant 605 US-281, Aberdeen, SD 57401](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/aberdeen/3621904/original/irtK2Ywfis.jpg)
Marlin's Restaurant
605 US-281, Aberdeen, SD 57401Service and atmosphere were amazing as always. However, I got food poisoning from the chili.
- Take-Out
- Delivery
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Good175 Reviews3.5
![Sky Dine Restaurant and Bar 4550 Terminal Rd, Rapid City, SD 57703](https://cdn10.localdatacdn.com/sd/rapid-city/7499342/original/rn2GHtOBVu.jpg)
Sky Dine Restaurant and Bar
4550 Terminal Rd, Rapid City, SD 57703Brianna was amazing tonight!! Our flight was supposed to take off at 850 pm but got delayed due to weather. She was very accommodating and kept us enter...
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Good40 Reviews3.4
![Buzzards Bar 103 3rd St, Pukwana, SD 57370](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/pukwana/7274730/original/i6QuzHv2UP.jpg)
Buzzards Bar
103 3rd St, Pukwana, SD 57370Small town feel with big time flavor. Reminds you of home cooking with family. To be honest, the home town atmosphere is #1. Food is #2.
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Superb6 Reviews4.7
![McDonald's 131 Ryan Rd, Spearfish, SD 57783](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/spearfish/350179/original/7bxISFriI5.jpg)
McDonald's
131 Ryan Rd, Spearfish, SD 57783Was great the first time I went second time I got attitude and food made wrong yelled at by a manager for asking a girl to get the manager I can't b...
- Take-Out
- Drive-Through
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Good71 Reviews3.4
![Big Dummy's 112 N Main St, Mitchell, SD 57301](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/mitchell/3708694/original/aI4GfTWTtV.jpg)
Big Dummy's
112 N Main St, Mitchell, SD 57301Friendly people and fire chislic, 10/10 stopping here made Mitchell memorable for me!
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Superb21 Reviews4.5
![Camille's Sidewalk Cafe 1216 W 41st St, Sioux Falls, SD 57105](https://cdn10.localdatacdn.com/sd/sioux-falls/3621515/original/ogHGl19jIW.jpg)
Camille's Sidewalk Cafe
1216 W 41st St, Sioux Falls, SD 57105Was very impressed by everything! The staff was amazing and the food! Delish it was!!
Kid-friendliness: Have a kids menu!!
- Take-Out
- Delivery
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Good45 Reviews3.5
![Blue Tequila 105 W Main St, Elk Point, SD 57025](https://cdn10.localdatacdn.com/sd/elk-point/7298403/original/TEYiFn3US9.jpg)
Blue Tequila
105 W Main St, Elk Point, SD 57025Food was great, flavors were unbelievably good,the chips they brought were a little stale
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Superb57 Reviews4.8
![Mya's Teriyaki 316 W 5th Ave, Mitchell, SD 57301](https://cdn9.localdatacdn.com/sd/mitchell/8937675/original/F3be6aOFVn.jpg)
Mya's Teriyaki
316 W 5th Ave, Mitchell, SD 57301It has the best Chinese food in the entire town. Order a very delicious Spicy Asada. The meat was very soft and warm! I miss it fresh. Fried rice with ch...
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Superb44 Reviews4.3
Recently Updated Menus
![Marina Bar & Grill 43497 Shore Dr, Yankton, SD 57078](https://cdn6.localdatacdn.com/sd/yankton/3605758/original/CACJ9GTv6G.jpg)
Marina Bar & Grill
43497 Shore Dr, Yankton, SD 57078Nice atmosphere. Threw $16 at a "prime rib" sandwich and barely a handful of fries. Fries were great. Sandwich was made from 3 thin slices o...
- Take-Out
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Good52 Reviews4
![The Custer Beacon 351 Washington St, Custer, SD 57730](https://cdn5.localdatacdn.com/sd/custer/5808514/original/BSpZb9MBFC.jpg)
The Custer Beacon
351 Washington St, Custer, SD 57730Great food! Great beer! Had a great time playing bingo! Only disappointing thing was we didn't win. Oh well! The food and drink made up for it! The ...
- Delivery
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Superb74 Reviews4.7
![Rapid Energy Nutrition Herbalife 420 East Saint Patrick StSuite 110, Rapid City, SD 57701](https://cdn5.localdatacdn.com/sd/rapid-city/7036104/original/QYNaRqrhLU.jpg)
Rapid Energy Nutrition Herbalife
420 East Saint Patrick StSuite 110, Rapid City, SD 57701Brenda is a fount of knowledge and enjoys helping on the decision amongst her offerings.The smoothie I had was not gritty, which I expected from a powder...
- Take-Out
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Superb18 Reviews4.8
![Big Time Pizza 310 S Chicago St, Hot Springs, SD 57747](https://cdn5.localdatacdn.com/sd/hot-springs/3635881/original/hBbnFS2kyS.jpg)
Big Time Pizza
310 S Chicago St, Hot Springs, SD 57747Great home made pizza with unusual toppings! Fluffy crust and yummy sauce! More of a takeout place than sit-down restaurant, at least for lunch. I got ...
- Take-Out
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Superb102 Reviews4.3