The Great Debate: South Dakota’s Best BBQ / Pizza / Seafood Spots Ranked
Sioux Falls, South Dakota’s largest city nestled in the southeastern corner, is a surprising hub for barbecue lovers craving a smoky, savory experience. Just a short drive from the scenic Big Sioux River Greenway, one can find the bustling downtown filled with eateries like The Smoke Shack. Known for its slow-smoked brisket and tender ribs, The Smoke Shack gives a nod to traditional Southern barbecue but with a distinctly Midwestern twist, using local wood and spice blends. Visitors can enjoy their feast on the patio overlooking Falls Park, where the roar of the 100-foot waterfalls provides a dramatic, natural soundtrack. Early summer evenings bring a perfect balance of warm air and gentle breezes, making it an ideal time to savor these smoky flavors while watching the sunset over the waterfall.
Travel westward about 50 miles from Rapid City, the small town of Hill City offers a radically different taste experience in pizza at Pizza Mill. Tucked near the southern entrance to Badlands National Park, this rustic spot uses a wood-fired oven that imparts a crispy, charred crust that pizza aficionados rave about. The restaurant’s interior evokes an old-school mining town vibe, reflecting Hill City’s roots along the historic Black Hills Gold Rush trail. Patrons often pair their pies with a stroll along the Mickelson Trail, a 109-mile converted rail path famous for sweeping views of the Black Hills’ pine-covered ridges. Autumn is the best time to visit, as the surrounding aspen trees turn golden, creating a breathtaking backdrop that heightens the enjoyment of a hearty, cheesy slice.
Down in the southeastern corner near the Missouri River, Yankton is a hidden gem when it comes to fresh seafood far from the coast. River City Brewing Company offers a surprising menu of seafood dishes infused with local flavor, such as smoked catfish and the house specialty, crab cakes made with a blend of Midwestern spices and a touch of riverine smokiness. The historic downtown district, with its preserved brick storefronts and proximity to the Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, makes for a delightful day combining outdoor exploration with culinary discovery. Autumn afternoons, when the river shimmers beneath crisp, clear skies, provide an especially pleasant dining atmosphere on the outdoor patio, where the scent of the nearby water mingles with the aroma of grilled seafood.
In the heart of the Black Hills, Rapid City is home to Firehouse Brewing Company, a place where pizza gets a bold, artisanal makeover. Located near the iconic Dinosaur Park and about 10 minutes from the downtown area, the brewery offers pizzas crafted with locally sourced ingredients and imaginative toppings that reflect the rugged spirit of the region. The wood-fired ovens and open kitchen design create a lively, communal atmosphere perfect for sharing stories after a day of hiking the Centennial Trail, which loops about 8 miles around Rapid City’s scenic outskirts. Summer nights, when the air cools after a hot day, are perfect for sitting on the patio and enjoying the lively energy mixed with the rich, smoky flavors of the pizza.
For a deep dive into South Dakota’s barbecue culture beyond the cities, the town of Deadwood, roughly 45 minutes north of Rapid City, stands out with its historic Saloon No. 10. Though better known for its Old West history, this saloon offers a surprisingly robust menu of smoked meats and hearty sides that echo frontier-style cooking. The rustic wooden interiors, filled with cowboy memorabilia, provide an immersive atmosphere that transports diners back to the gold rush days. Visitors often pair a meal with a walk along Deadwood’s historic Main Street or a visit to Mount Moriah Cemetery, where Wild Bill Hickok is buried. Late spring, when the days are longer and the town’s annual festivals begin, is an excellent time to experience the blend of history and hearty barbecue fare.
In the far northeastern plains, Aberdeen may not be the first place you think of for pizza, but the town’s Pizza Ranch has become a regional favorite for its fast, flavorful pies. Located about a two-hour northeast drive from Sioux Falls, Pizza Ranch offers a welcoming family-friendly environment with a buffet-style approach that highlights classic Midwestern toppings and crusts. After indulging, visitors can explore the nearby Storybook Land, a park filled with whimsical fairy tale sculptures and trails for a gentle hike or picnic. Warm summer afternoons here underscore the town’s community spirit, making it a perfect stop for families traveling through South Dakota’s quieter agricultural regions.
Finally, the coastal-like flavor of seafood comes alive at the Lake Area’s Big Stone Lake region near Watertown, about 90 minutes north of Sioux Falls. While not an ocean coast, the lake’s fresh-water bounty inspires local eateries like the Red Lobster in Watertown, where fresh fish is often caught from nearby lakes and rivers. After dining, a visit to the Redlin Art Center in Watertown offers a glimpse into Midwestern life through vivid paintings, connecting diners to the cultural backdrop of the region. Sunset cruises on Big Stone Lake in late summer complement the meal with serene reflections on the water and a glance at migrating birds, making it a sensory experience that blends nature and gastronomy beautifully.
Each of these places tells a distinct story of South Dakota’s diverse palate—where smoky barbecue meets rugged landscapes, wood-fired pizzas mirror historic grit, and fresh seafood adapts to freshwater lakes and river towns. Whether you’re chasing the perfect rib in Sioux Falls, savoring a slice in the Black Hills, or enjoying fish fresh from lakes near Watertown, the journey through South Dakota’s best flavors is as rich and varied as the state’s stunning geography itself.