Fast food in Sioux Falls might not be your first thought for a memorable meal. But it’s often a necessity. Whether you’re grabbing lunch between meetings at the Empire Mall, fueling up before a Washington Pavilion show, or satisfying your nephew’s chicken nugget craving during a family visit, here are the best quick-service spots in town.
Taco John’s
$ | (605) 338-8518 | WEBSITE
You’ll spot some regulars (because this place is a local chain), but Taco John’s doesn’t feel corporate. The compact space is filled with bright colors that look like they were inspired by roadside diners, and it’s a solid option for a quick lunch. If you get hungry, you can get some Tex-Mex classics, like meat and potato burritos and Super Potato Olés.
Burger Time
$ | (605) 332-1513 | WEBSITE
Burger Time is a true Sioux Falls fast food staple. Grabbing lunch on the go? Meeting up with friends after work? Treating the kids to a quick dinner? High-quality burgers and thick milkshakes in a no-fuss environment make this place exactly what you need. Factor in the tasty home style cooking, friendly service with great smiles, and efficient pickup, and you’ve got yourself a go-to.
A&W Restaurant
$ | (605) 336-1710 | WEBSITE
A&W Restaurant is a perfect place to fuel up during a road trip or grab a quick bite with friends. The burgers are satisfying, the A&W Root Beer is refreshing, and the retro dining room has a cool, recently renovated vibe that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. There’s plenty of space for families or groups, with a combined KFC offering more options.
The staff are typically friendly and provide fast service, though occasionally the counter can get a bit slow and some tables might need a wipe-down. Despite the rare order mix-up or pricing surprise, like with the 6-piece chicken tenders, the hot food and well-assembled meals—think the A1 combo with its Papa Burger or those Corn Dog nuggets—keep customers coming back for more.
Jimmy John’s
$ | (605) 275-4773 | WEBSITE
This sandwich shop occupies a compact, bustling storefront in Sioux Falls, packed with regulars. Stop by for speedy service, subs, and chips any day of the week (with $8 combos available daily)—but show up early since the lunch rush can fill the place to capacity.
B&G Milkyway Cliff
$ | (605) 271-1527 | WEBSITE
We’d come to this family-friendly spot even if it weren’t for the $4.50 Avalanche dessert. Fun music fills the air, the outdoor seating is appealing, and you can spot the kind employees delivering orders directly to cars in the unique drive-thru. And that Avalanche? A heavenly blend of creamy ice cream mixed with favorites like cookie dough and peanut butter cups.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
$ | (605) 338-2961 | WEBSITE
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill is a solid spot to grab a blizzard or burger in the area. Their menu goes beyond the typical roster of soft serve cones, so if you’re into creative frozen treats, you’ll be happy here. You can watch the painted ceiling tiles inside, and if you’re with kids, take advantage of their birthday club and free cones.
Papa Johns Pizza
$ | (605) 361-7272 | WEBSITE
If you’ve ever wondered where to get reliable pizza delivery in Sioux Falls, join the club—because we have the answer. Papa Johns Pizza is a go-to choice for families and groups, known for its consistent quality and speedy service, especially the crust. There’s a solid chance you’ll appreciate their attention to dietary needs and allergies, with staff taking extra care to avoid cross-contamination.
Shawana stands out as the best team member for her excellent service and knack for resolving issues promptly, like fixing a pizza mix-up from another location quickly. With vegetarian options and a kid-friendly vibe, it caters to various tastes, making it a recommended spot for easy dining.
McDonald’s
$ | (605) 332-1211 | WEBSITE
Yes, it’s the same McDonald’s known for making fast food classics and yes, there are more than a few colorful play structures in this place. It’s a great spot to grab a quick meal in this part of Sioux Falls, especially if you’re with kids. The cheapest burgers are around $3, but they come with generous servings of salty fries and ketchup.
Arby’s
$ | (605) 275-4010 | WEBSITE
Arby’s is essentially a clean, family-friendly fast-food spot, with a straightforward menu of reliable roast beef sandwiches that are all about $8. Up front, there’s a counter and a few booths as well as open space for families when they’re not using the drive-through. There’s also enough parking for groups coming in from their errands.
Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop
$ | (605) 271-9891 | WEBSITE
Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop feels like a straightforward spot for a quick bite in Sioux Falls. It’s a solid choice for a casual sandwich, though the biggest draw is the efficient and friendly service from the hardworking staff.
Burger King
$ | (605) 215-5597 | WEBSITE
Want to see what kind of fast food you could get if you threw a few bucks at a reliable spot in Sioux Falls? Head to this Burger King location. Besides the Whopper, you’ll find consistently hot fries and friendly service that brings your order right to your table. It’s one of your better options in the area for a $5 meal and some fresh, hot food like the Whopper Jr. or those standout fries.
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
$ | (605) 910-4383 | WEBSITE
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is the fast food spot from the people who know how to do burgers right, just off the main drag. It feels like grabbing a bite in the lobby of a really busy mall, and the extremely friendly staff at the counter and drive-through will gladly help you pick a combo from the satisfying menu.
There’s also a selection of late-night snacks and generous portions like the original cheeseburger meal and patty melt with cheese curds (which you will definitely not find at fancier places).
Five Guys
$ | (605) 271-7579 | WEBSITE
This essential Sioux Falls burger joint gives you a free topping bar with every burger purchase. (We’re not entirely sure how they’ve stayed so popular since 1986.) With plenty of burger-and-fry combos, most of which are $15 or less, you’ll be well fed and satisfied for less than $25. Look for the retro-modern decor inside, welcoming you to indulge.
QDOBA Mexican Eats
$ | (605) 332-2434 | WEBSITE
QDOBA Mexican Eats has the best burrito bowls this side of Sioux Falls. The clean dining room is nice to sit in, and there are some good spots for whiling away a lunch break. But most importantly, the service from Sisco and his team—always super quick and nice about getting more fresh food—is a pretty fun experience, and a decent deal for about $12.
Jersey Mike’s Subs
$ | (605) 275-6453 | WEBSITE
You’re never too hungry to grab a satisfying sub at Jersey Mike’s—just decide whether you want the turkey that’s absolute fire or another flavor-packed sandwich on their light, delightful bread. The welcoming restaurant also offers kid-friendly dining, plenty of parking, and options like Gatorade, with staff including a dedicated manager who ensures excellent service.
One reviewer highlighted their commitment to safety for dietary restrictions, as they went the extra mile to prepare a gluten-free sandwich correctly. Overall, Jersey Mike’s is becoming a go-to place for many, with a focus on quality and customer care.