We’re betting you’re craving something authentically American this year. The great news? Sioux Falls is serving up classics with modern flair that’ll make you forget you ever considered chain restaurants. From farm-to-table bistros to barbecue joints with lines worth waiting for, this list has everything you need to taste why South Dakota’s largest city is having a culinary moment.
SF 12th Fryn’ Pan Family Restaurant
$ | (605) 336-7159 | WEBSITE
SF 12th Fryn’ Pan Family Restaurant has a Thursday night special where kids eat free from 5pm to 7pm. It’s perfect for families of three to six and costs nothing extra for the little ones. The deal includes favorites like Cajun chicken pasta, steak, BBQ ribs, and liver and onions, all cooked to perfection, plus the salad bar with fresh veggies and daily soup selections. The restaurant also has the regular 24/7 menu available, including breakfast at any hour.
Crack’d Pot Restaurant & Bakery
$ | (605) 338-9713 | WEBSITE
This American restaurant in Sioux Falls has a half-pound burger that’s a standout favorite on their diverse menu. It’s $14, and you can choose from daily specials like the soup and salad bar, various sandwiches, and homemade baked goods. They also have a kids’ menu available for $8 per child. And if you want something for breakfast, they have an all-day menu available too.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
$ | (605) 362-9395 | WEBSITE
This year Cracker Barrel is doing a play on classic American comfort food, which are the dishes typically craved for a hearty family meal. There are numerous options to choose from, priced at either $12 or $18 per plate, with favorites like buttermilk pancakes with maple syrup and butter; country fried steak with mashed potatoes and gravy; and desserts like pecan pie and apple dumplings. Everything comes on classic ceramic plates, and there is an option to add a $5 sweet tea pairing.
Chef Lance’s on Phillips
$$$$ | (605) 271-7800 | WEBSITE
Chef Lance’s on Phillips is offering a $75 per-person special occasion “comfort box.” You can order it either ready-to-serve or to be reheated for later, and the choices are a three-course dinner (you select from dishes like beef Wellington or surf and turf, French onion soup, or wedge salad) or a pulled pork Wellington with a classic cocktail pairing for gatherings.
With its cozy atmosphere and exceptional execution, this high-end comfort food makes for a memorable experience whether for romantic dates, business dinners, or special celebrations.
Murph’s Burgers & Fries
$ | (605) 274-6050 | WEBSITE
This Sioux Falls burger joint is doing a $28 burger-and-fries combo for one. Murph’s package includes things like the Irish Hangover burger, crisped-to-perfection fries, and a vegan burger that even meat-lovers praise. There’s also an option to add a gluten-free bun starting at $2 extra.
Minervas Restaurant – Sioux Falls
$$$ | (605) 334-0386 | WEBSITE
Minervas Restaurant is offering a fine dining experience with attentive and courteous service. This means a menu featuring a variety of options, including steaks, salads, and soups. The bison steak special was out of this world delicious, and the Market Bar is loved. The atmosphere is comfortable and perfect, allowing groups to talk and hear each other. The decor and furniture could use an update, and the seating can be cramped.
Despite this, the restaurant’s excellent service, delicious drinks, and overall quality make it a great choice for a meal out. Pricing is still being determined.
ROAM Kitchen + Bar
$$ | (605) 215-0020 | WEBSITE
ROAM Kitchen + Bar is offering a $25 veterans appreciation meal that includes appetizers, entrees, and desserts. The focus will be on dishes like the Pastrami melt, pulled pork sliders, and rotisserie chicken, and you have the option to add craft cocktails from the friendly bartender. Their regular menu is available to order from, too.
Credo’s Pub
$ | (605) 275-5750 | WEBSITE
A lot of restaurants in Sioux Falls are offering family-friendly dining options. So it’s unsurprising that Credo’s Pub – a literal family-friendly pub in Sioux Empire – is as well. Along with family-friendly dining, they have a wide variety of food and drink options available, ranging in price from $12 to $25. They include things like cheese burgers, bone-in wings, mac n cheese, chicken in the aloha sandwich, buffalo wraps, and (of course) a huge list of drink options.
They also have trivia nights that add to the enjoyment.
SF 41st Fryn’ Pan Family Restaurant
$ | (605) 361-6230 | WEBSITE
We think this is pretty great: SF 41st Fryn’ Pan is doing “kids eat free” Thursdays. It’s completely free for kids, and includes things like the Panhandlers Combo Burger, all-you-can-eat spaghetti special, and access to the well-stocked salad bar. They also have a family dinner special for $15 per person, with dishes like the Rosey Special, fresh sides, and that delicious sour cream raisin pie.
Culver’s
$ | (605) 339-6984 | WEBSITE
Another solid pick if you’re not looking for a full meal but still want something that feels a bit indulgent, Culver’s in Sioux Falls is serving up a range of quick-service favorites – like their famous Double Deluxe Butter Burger, creamy frozen custard, and burgers with gluten-free buns. If you do want something more complete, they have everything packaged with care and drinks securely covered so you can enjoy burgers assembled with attention to detail or custard treats for any day of the week.
Marlin’s Express
$ | WEBSITE
Airport dining is a travel necessity, and that’s what you’ll find at Marlin’s Express. They have a breakfast special that includes pancakes, bacon, scrambled eggs, hash browns, and orange juice. It costs $14.95 and comes with quick preparation. The menu offers plenty of options for lunch and dinner too, like the Taco Salad, nachos, and Philly Steak & Cheese sandwich. Service is attentive and responsive, making it ideal for travelers with limited time.
The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and kid-friendly, an unexpected gem in the airport scene.
Perkins American Food Co.
$ | (605) 339-1310 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for a reliable, no-fuss breakfast, head straight to Perkins American Food Co. It’s about $12 for their classic two-egg omelet with your choice of add-ins, served with pancakes or muffins, and it arrives consistently fresh, hot, and delicious. The cranberry orange muffin, especially when warmed up, is a standout, and the coconut cream pie makes for a sweet finish.
Because honestly, in a busy world, Perkins offers that welcoming atmosphere with attentive, friendly service that handles the rush with ease, making it a go-to spot for a satisfying meal.
All Day Café
$ | (605) 274-7711 | WEBSITE
All Day Café’s breakfast lineup features standout dishes like the Benny with hashbrowns, the Banana Bread French Toast with candied walnuts, and the must-try Am Nachos. It costs about $18 per person for a full meal, and you can add on an upgrade to chicken apple sausage for just $2 or a coffee from the bar. It also includes daily specials and tasty berry jam, which just sounds delightful.
The Dive
$ | (605) 275-3717 | WEBSITE
Consider this your go-to spot for a satisfying American meal in Sioux Falls. And of course, the restaurant with a standout Mushroom and Swiss burger has perfected its onion rings, which come with homemade ketchup and ranch. The offerings range in order of heartiness and flavor – from the Philly cheesesteak that’s the best in years to the surprisingly good mashed potatoes with a pumpkin-y aftertaste.
You can also enjoy the friendly, efficient service that makes the whole experience worth the price, which feels justified given the fantastic, filling food.
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
$ | (605) 271-4896 | WEBSITE
One of our favorite reasons to visit this American restaurant is for their breakfast (which is decidedly classic). Luckily, Perkins is open for breakfast on January 5th. So, if you couldn’t care less about fancy brunch spots, or are someone who prefers hearty comfort food to start the day, come here for combo meals with potato pancakes, fresh bakery items, or their signature pancakes.
Just don’t forget the friendly service from staff like Jule and Lauri, and you can call it a morning – or better yet, a perfect start.
Tavern 180
$$ | (605) 271-3782 | WEBSITE
If you want to celebrate but deep down know you shouldn’t because you’re kind of tired of the usual spots, get the French Dip from Tavern 180. It’s a classic sandwich with au jus, and includes parmesan truffle fries, fried mushrooms, and a local IPA. If you want to make it a little more indulgent, you can order the wagyu burger with all the fixings, lobster campanelle with cream sauce, or salmon and risotto with pine nuts.
The atmosphere is fun with unique touches like pinecone lights over the booths, and the service is excellent—friendly and attentive, making it a perfect spot for casual visits or special occasions. Even during busy times, the wait is manageable, and the restaurant is worth a return visit for the designer drinks like old fashioned and mojito. Overall, Tavern 180 has established itself as a great place for amazing food and service, easily competing with other local favorites.