The Great Debate: North Dakota’s Best BBQ / Pizza / Seafood Spots Ranked
In Fargo, the state’s largest city just over an hour east of the Missouri border, you’ll find Rhombus Guys, a beloved spot where pizza isn’t just a meal but an event. Their artisan pies, baked in a wood-fired oven, draw on a blend of traditional Italian techniques and Midwestern heartiness. The crust strikes a perfect balance—thin yet chewy, with a slightly charred edge. Diners rave about the inventive toppings like locally sourced bacon and wild mushrooms, showcasing North Dakota’s agricultural bounty. A visit here pairs well with a stroll through Fargo’s vibrant downtown, where public art and historic brick buildings create a lively atmosphere, especially pleasant on warm summer evenings.
Traveling about two hours west from Fargo near Bismarck, the capital city, you can savor barbecue at Alibi Bar & Grill. This spot stands out for its authentic smoked meats, particularly the brisket that’s been slow-cooked for hours over hickory wood. The rustic, lodge-style interior complements the hearty fare and gives the experience a cozy, welcoming vibe. Bismarck itself offers the scenic Missouri Riverwalk, a perfect pre- or post-meal activity where visitors can enjoy views of the river and native prairie grasses, especially stunning in the golden light of late afternoon throughout the warmer months.
Over in Grand Forks, approximately 90 minutes north of Fargo, you’ll find Pizza Village, a family-run pizzeria known for a crust that’s uniquely thick and hearty, almost a hybrid between a traditional pizza and a deep-dish style. Their signature pies often include regional ingredients like smoked sausage and local cheeses, giving a distinctly North Dakotan twist to a classic dish. The restaurant’s proximity to the University of North Dakota means it’s lively during the school year, making it a great place to soak in the local energy before heading to the Ralph Engelstad Arena to catch a University of North Dakota hockey game, where the community spirit feels as rich as the food.
The city of Minot, about three and a half hours northwest of Bismarck, offers an unexpected gem for seafood lovers at The Waterfront Bar & Grill. Situated along the Souris River, this venue combines the charm of river views with surprisingly fresh and well-prepared northern fish dishes, like Walleye caught from nearby lakes. The combination of fresh water seafood with a cozy dining room overlooking the river makes this a rare treat in the interior plains. Late spring and early fall, when the riverbanks are lush and the air is crisp, provide the best ambiance for a riverside meal here.
For barbecue aficionados willing to venture into the north-central part of the state, the small town of Rugby—known as the geographical center of North America, about 100 miles northwest of Grand Forks—hosts the famous Beaver Creek Bar & Grill. Their smoked ribs achieve a tender fall-off-the-bone texture, enhanced by a tangy homemade sauce that locals swear by. The town’s quirky monument marking the continental midpoint adds a sightseeing bonus that elevates the experience beyond just dining. Summer evenings in Rugby, with cool breezes and clear skies, are ideal for enjoying the outdoor patio and savoring slow-cooked flavors.
Heading south near the city of Jamestown, located roughly midway between Fargo and Bismarck, Piggy’s Barbecue delivers a down-home, no-frills approach celebrated for its pulled pork sandwiches and perfectly smoked sausages. The friendly diner-style atmosphere echoes the small-town warmth of Jamestown itself, which also features the National Buffalo Museum, a fitting companion stop to learn about the region’s heritage amid a meal that feels steeped in tradition. Autumn, when the museum’s bison herds are most active and the crisp air turns the leaves golden, is particularly appealing for a combined cultural and culinary outing.
Finally, in Dickinson, about three hours west of Bismarck and on the edge of the Badlands, Td’s BBQ shines as a local institution. Their smoked pork ribs and beef brisket reflect the rugged spirit of this western town, long associated with oilfields and outdoor adventure. After dining, visitors can explore Dickinson’s proximity to the scenic trails of Theodore Roosevelt National Park just over an hour away, where the dramatic badlands and roaming wildlife offer a wild contrast to the smoky warmth of Td’s barbecue. Late spring through early fall is the best time to pair these experiences, when the park’s overlooks are most accessible and the weather is welcoming for both hiking and dining al fresco.