From the mouthwatering Chicago deep dish pizza to the hearty Massachusetts clam chowder, every state boasts its iconic dishes – and South Dakota is no different. Here are a few of our state specialties and local Rapid City restaurants where you can find them! 

*Many Rapid City restaurants rotate menus and specials seasonally so be sure to check their website first. 

 

Chislic

 

two bowls of ramen at the locally owned restaurant bokujo in rapid city
 
One of the most iconic and probably the highest recommended foods in South Dakota is Chislic. This cubed red meat, typically beef or lamb, is deep-fried or grilled and served with a tasty dipping sauce. Simple, yet utterly delicious. Here’s where you can get a taste: Dakotah Steakhouse, Murphy’s Pub & Grill, Bokujo Ramen, Thristy's, Paddy O'Neill's Irish Pub & Grill, and The Park.
 

 

Fry Bread

 

indian taco menu item on fry bread at bashful bason in downtown rapid city, sd
 
Fry Bread is a traditional Native American bread made by frying a dough mixture of flour, water, and salt until golden brown and puffy. This versatile bread can be enjoyed on its own, sprinkled with powdered sugar or honey, or used as a base for toppings like chili, beans, or cheese to create a flavorful dish known as an 'Indian taco.' You can try fry bread at Thirsty's. 

 

Walleye 

 

Plate of breaded walleye fingers with lemon juice being squeezed on them
 
 
Walleye, the official state fish of South Dakota, may not be a familiar choice for some. It's a freshwater fish known for its mild, slightly sweet flavor with low levels of fishiness. Local restaurants in South Dakota have perfected their walleye dishes to provide a unique culinary experience. Treat yourself to the best walleye around at one of these locations: Dakotah Steakhouse, The Park, Colonial House, Shipwrecks, and Paddy O'Neill's.
 

 

Bison

 

Buffalo meatloaf plate served at Murphy's Pub and Grill
 
Bison is leaner and more tender than beef with a delicious, slightly sweeter, flavor but not “gamey”. Rapid City restaurants take pride in showing off this meat, you can find it uniquely incorporated into many dishes around town: Tally’s Silver Spoon, Dakotah Steakhouse, Colonial House, Bokujo Ramen, Murphy’s Pub and Grill, Firehouse Brewing Company, Bashful Bison, Delmonico Grill, The Wine Cellar, Enigma, and Thirsty's.

 

Kuchen

 

plated kuchen dessert from Dakotah Steakhouse in Rapid City
 
Pronounced as “koo-ken”, this is actually South Dakota’s state dessert. Kuchen is German for “cake” but that’s not all it is. This heavenly mixture of cake, pie, creamy custard, and often fruit is a spoonful of melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Get your hands on it at one of these locations: Dakotah Steakhouse and Fork Real Café.

 

Local Rapid City restaurants are creatively showcasing these iconic South Dakota foods. Don't miss the opportunity to savor these delicious treats and discover new culinary experiences. Find more ways to treat your tastebuds in Rapid City in the related content below. 

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