What's New In South Dakota

The cuisine in South Dakota has slowly been creeping beyond American comfort food, allowing international and local flavors to shine through. Already we've seen places like chef Justin Warner's  Bokujo Ramen in Rapid City, and chef Joseph Raney’s Skogen Kitchen in Custard, which have both garnered a buzz.

However, growth in the restaurant industry here had been slow. Based on the 2022 census, the whole state of South Dakota had just under 910,000 people. It's home to large attractions such a Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and the Badlands. The landscape ranges from rolling prairies to the stunning Black Hills National Forest. 

Weather is tough, especially during the cold and stormy winters, but despite the lull of visitors during the colder months, more people are visiting the state, and therefore dining out. Here are four new independent restaurants that have opened in the past few months, showcasing a shift in both cuisine and restaurant style.