Welcome to the culinary landscape of Aberdeen, South Dakota, a charming city whose food scene is as diverse and vibrant as its lush landscape. If you’re a food enthusiast like myself, you’ll appreciate the unique feel of Aberdeen’s restaurants, which boast a range of cuisines from hearty American to exotic Asia.
As a food blogger, I’ve experienced the sheer diversity of flavors Aberdeen offers. Come with me on this gastronomic journey, as I share with you some of my favorite spots, from cozy breakfast nooks to eclectic dinner destinations.
No matter what your taste buds desire, Aberdeen has something for everyone. Get ready to discover some hidden gems, classic staples, and exciting new flavors, right here in the heart of South Dakota.
Aberdeen delivers a deep sense of community that’s echoed in its food culture. Many of its local restaurants source ingredients from local farmers, thus providing a delightful farm-to-table experience that not only supports the local economy, but also assures you of fresh, delectable meals.
Your culinary adventure in Aberdeen starts now. Buckle up your taste buds, and prepare to be delighted!
Most Popular Restaurants in Aberdeen
If you are exploring the culinary delights of Aberdeen, South Dakota, our top three restaurant picks will undoubtedly provide you a truly gastronomic experience.
The first restaurant on our list is Mavericks Steak & Cocktails. Located at 720 Lamont Street S, Aberdeen, SD 57401, this fine dining establishment is a must-visit for steak lovers. The restaurant is renowned for its succulent USDA choice steaks, prepared to perfection. In addition to steaks, you can savor an extensive menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, fish, pork chops, and more. The rustic ambience, complemented by cowboy memorabilia, adds to the charm.
Moving on to pizza lovers, Thatzza Pizza at 20 6th Ave SW, Aberdeen, SD 57401 is a local favorite. Their menu is a delightful array of classic and gourmet pizzas, which are cooked to perfection in a traditional stone oven. What sets this pizza joint apart is their creative topping combinations, letting you indulge in flavors you won’t find elsewhere. From the heartiest meat lover’s pizza to the finest vegetarian options, Thatzza Pizza has something to cater to every palate.
Our final recommendation is Roma Ristorante Italiano. Situated at 104 S Main St, Aberdeen, SD 57401, this restaurant is a slice of Italy in South Dakota. The authentic Italian cuisine served at Roma, prepared using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients, is a pleasure for all senses. Be it pasta, risotto, or some scrumptious tiramisu for dessert, each dish is a testament to the culinary prowess of their chefs.
While Aberdeen has countless amazing restaurants, these three establishments stand out due to their remarkable food, warm atmosphere, and excellent service. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, make sure to explore these popular spots for a memorable dining experience.
Most Unique Restaurants in Aberdeen
Let’s begin with Maverick’s Steak & Cocktails. Located at 720 South Lamont Street, this upscale restaurant is a must-visit for steak lovers. With a wide variety of premium meat cuts cooked to perfection, Maverick’s delivers a classy and unforgettable dining experience. Their menu also includes vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences. The bar is well-stocked with a selection of wines and cocktails that perfectly complement the dishes on the menu. The plush, cozy interiors and exceptional service contribute to the warm and inviting ambiance.
Next, we have The Flame on 203 South Main Street. Arguably one of the most unique restaurants in the city, this place is famous for its steaks and seafood. Their signature dish, the Ribeye, is a local favorite. The restaurant is styled after a traditional steakhouse, with a vintage aesthetic that is both classy and comforting. The Flame’s menu also includes a selection of award-winning wines, making it the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal.
Then there’s Minervas at 1400 8th Ave NW #15 in Aberdeen. This restaurant is part of a popular regional chain known for its diverse menu that includes signature dishes from various cuisines. The distinctive factor about Minervas is its ‘build your own pasta’ option, which allows patrons to customize their dish with their preferred choice of pasta, sauce, and toppings. Apart from this, their weekend brunch is a huge hit among the locals. Minervas also has a distinctive, contemporary decor, adding to the charm of dining here.
Lastly, we have a hidden gem for sushi lovers, Mizu Japanese Steakhouse at 1010 6th Ave SE, Suite 1. This place is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its mouthwatering sushi and hibachi grills. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or trying it for the first time, Mizu promises a delightful experience. The open-concept kitchen allows diners to watch skilled chefs as they prepare sushi and hibachi dishes to order. A favorite feature among guests is the teppanyaki tables where the chefs put on a show while preparing your meal!
Best Casual Restaurants in Aberdeen
When it comes to casual dining in Aberdeen, South Dakota, there are wonderful spots catering to every palate. These are some of my absolute favorites.
Maverick’s Steak & Cocktails is located at 720 Lamont Street South, Aberdeen, SD 57401. This restaurant provides a great blend of casual and classy. As the name implies, the menu at Maverick’s is centered on steak, but they also offer a range of seafood, chicken, and pasta dishes. The open-concept kitchen allows diners to watch their meals being prepared. I recommend trying their prime rib paired with a glass from their extensive wine list. Whether you’re planning a special group dinner or a low-key date night, Maverick’s is a top-notch choice.
For lovers of comforting American classics, Minervas Restaurant and Bar is located at 1400 8th Ave NW, Aberdeen, SD 57401. This restaurant has a warm, welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for casual dining. Minervas boasts an extensive menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, pasta, and steaks, with a wide range of gluten-free and vegetarian options. Their barbecue ribs are a must-try, and the house-made tiramisu is a delightful finish to any meal.
If you’re in the mood for Italian, then you must visit Thatzza Pizza at 20 6th Ave SW, Aberdeen, SD 57401. Their menu is teeming with assortment of pizzas, pasta, and sandwiches, but pizzas are their specialty. You can customise your own pizza or choose from their exotic pizza range. The Cowboy Pizza, with its blend of beef, onions, pickles, and special sauce, is a unique feast for your taste buds.
The Flame, located at 2 S. Main Street, Aberdeen, SD 57401, is an unmissable stop for steak enthusiasts. This locally owned and operated steak and seafood restaurant offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The Flame’s menu is extensive, featuring premium steaks, seafood, chicken, ribs, and more. The Pepper Steak, cooked to your liking and topped with a brandy peppercorn sauce, is a standout choice.
You can’t talk about casual dining in Aberdeen without mentioning Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant, located at 3015 6th Ave SE # 2, Aberdeen, SD 57401. This restaurant is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine. From sizzling fajitas to hearty burritos and enchiladas, Guadalajara offers a genuine taste of Mexico. The warm, lively décor goes hand in hand with the food and it’s the perfect spot for a fun, casual meal with friends or family.
Each of these eateries brings its own special flavour to the table, making them some of the best locations for casual dining in Aberdeen, South Dakota.
Best Family Restaurants in Aberdeen
If you are looking for a family-friendly restaurant with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, Maverick’s Steak & Cocktails should be your first stop. Located at 720 Lamont Street South, Aberdeen, SD, Maverick’s offers a variety of delicious dishes that cater to the palates of both adults and kids.
Known for their quality steaks, Maverick’s also provides a variety of other dishes, from seafood to salads to delectable appetizers. The Baby Back Ribs, slow-roasted and basted with their signature BBQ sauce, is one hearty dish that you wouldn’t want to miss. For the young ones, there’s an exclusive scrumptious kid’s menu that includes favourites like Mac & Cheese and Mini Corn Dogs. Diners also rave about their extensive cocktail list and exceptional customer service.
Another family-friendly gem in Aberdeen is the The Flame Restaurant. Nestled at 2 South Main Street, Aberdeen, SD, The Flame serves a legendary menu that boasts a mix of classic American comfort food and innovative culinary concoctions.
With meals like prime rib, French dip sandwiches, and a wide variety of salads, The Flame has something for everyone. Particularly noteworthy are their specialty pizzas – the Classic Sausage and Pepperoni pizza often receives high praise. The kid’s menu is equally impressive, featuring options like Chicken Strips and Grilled Cheese. To cap it off, their warm and rustic interior makes it an inviting hotspot for a family dine-out experience.
A trip to Aberdeen wouldn’t be complete without visiting the city’s longest-standing restaurant, Thatzza Pizza. Positioned at 20 6th Avenue Southwest, Aberdeen, SD, Thatzza Pizza is a hit amongst locals and visitors alike.
As the name suggests, this restaurant specialises in pizzas – known for their thin and crispy crust, and generous toppings. The Taco Pizza and the Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza are amongst the standout options. Additionally, they offer a kid’s buffet that includes pizza, pasta, and dessert, making it an ideal haunt for families. The ambiance is casual and laid-back, perfect for a comfortable, enjoyable meal.
Best Takeout Food in Aberdeen
Aberdeen has a plethora of scrumptious takeout food options to satiate your culinary cravings. One of our favorites is Mavericks Steak & Cocktails. Located at 720 Lamont Street S, Aberdeen SD 57401, this restaurant offers a diverse menu with mouth-watering steaks, seafood, and poultry dishes.
Maverick’s takeout menu is packed with succulent options. Their All-American Cheeseburger, served with crisp lettuce, onions, pickles, and your choice of American, Pepper Jack, Swiss, or Cheddar cheese, is a must-try. But if you’re in the mood for something more sophisticated, their Fire Roasted Sirloin is exquisite. This dish features fire-roasted sirloin, caramelized onions, and a red wine reduction.
Another takeout gem in Aberdeen is The Flame Restaurant. It’s conveniently located at 2 S Main St, Aberdeen, SD 57401, and is renowned for its American style food with a twist.
One bite of their Chicken Marsala, and you’ll be enchanted by the taste of sautéed chicken breast, mushrooms, and Marsala wine sauce. Their BBQ Ribs, slow-cooked in their signature smokehouse BBQ sauce, is another dish that we highly recommend. Besides these, they offer a wide range of mouth-watering burgers, sandwiches, and pizzas.
For a delightful Asian experience, you must order from Dagwood’s Subs-N-More at 18 NW 2nd Avenue, Aberdeen, SD 57401. Their take-out menu offers an eclectic mix of subs, salads, and more.
Don’t miss their classic Turkey Breast Sub or the flavorful Chicken Teriyaki Sub. And if you’re looking for lighter options, their Salad Platters – with choices of Grilled Chicken, Turkey Breast, or Roast Beef – are fresh, delicious, and fulfilling.
These culinary hotspots in Aberdeen are sure to make your takeout experience a culinary adventure. Enjoy the journey!
What Foods is Aberdeen Known For?
If you’re visiting Aberdeen, South Dakota, there’s one food you should definitely not miss out on: the chislic. This South Dakotan staple – cubed red meat, typically lamb or beef, skewered and deep-fried or grilled – is something you won’t find on most menus outside the state. But here in Aberdeen, chislic is as much a part of the local culture as cowboy boots and prairie sunsets.
Among the local restaurants serving chislic, Mavericks Steak & Cocktails at 1702 6th Avenue Southeast, Aberdeen is a must-visit. They serve their Chislic with a twist, offering their own ‘Gourmet Chislic’ which is a hand-cut sirloin, marinated, skewered, and char-grilled to perfection. It’s served alongside their signature Mavericks Brew Pub mustard. The high-quality beef used in the preparation and the char-grilled cooking method give it a unique flavor that sets it apart from other versions. It’s a true taste of South Dakota that will leave you craving for more.
Moving on to another local favorite, we have The Flame, located at 2 South Main Street, Aberdeen. The Flame serves up a traditional version of chislic which is made from prime beef tenderloin tips lightly seasoned and fried to perfection. It’s a simple, unpretentious dish that lets the high-quality meat do all the talking. The chislic is tender and flavorful, serving as a testimony to the hearty, homegrown cuisine of the region.
Aberdeen is not just about chislic. Another local speciality is the Walleye fish, caught fresh from the glacial lakes surrounding the region. One of the best places to try this local delicacy is at Minervas Restaurant & Bar located at 1400 8th Avenue Northwest, Aberdeen. Their ‘Walleye Dinner’ is absolutely delicious with the fish broiled, blackened, or deep-fried according to your preference and served with a lemon and tartar sauce. The freshness of the fish is immediately apparent, and the cooking style enhances the natural flavors rather than overwhelming them.
With such delicious local foods to try, Aberdeen is indeed a hidden food paradise in South Dakota. The mouthwatering cuisine is a reflection of the state’s rich culinary heritage and the incredible produce it has to offer.
Eating Your Way Around Aberdeen: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary
On your first day in Aberdeen, start your food journey with breakfast at Meg’s Place. Located at 1802 6th Ave, SE #1, Aberdeen, SD 57401, this local favorite is renowned for its mouth-watering breakfast wraps and homemade soups. Be sure to try their delicious muffins, which are a must-have!
For lunch, head to Mavericks Steak & Cocktails. This upscale dining experience can be found at 720 Lamont St S, Aberdeen, SD 57401. Here, you’ll find the best prime rib in town, alongside a variety of steak and seafood options. Their extensive wine list is also quite impressive!
After enjoying some shopping or sightseeing, treat yourself to a refined dinner experience at Roma Ristorante Italiano, located at 104 S Main St, Aberdeen, SD 57401. Their elegant dining ambiance is perfect for indulging in traditional Italian cuisine. Don’t miss their Fettuccine Alfredo or their Chicken Parmigiana.
Start your second day in Aberdeen with a hearty breakfast at The Flame. This cozy breakfast spot at 2 S Main St, Aberdeen, SD 57401 boasts a variety of American breakfast classics such as omelets, pancakes, and waffles.
As lunchtime arrives, take a trip to the local Thatzza Pizza located at 20 6th Ave SW, Aberdeen, SD 57401. Enjoy a slice of their signature thin-crust pizza, or build your own with a multitude of toppings available.
For your final dinner in Aberdeen, visit Minervas Restaurant & Bar. This upscale casual dining restaurant is located at 1400 8th Ave NW, Aberdeen, SD 57401 and offers a range of dishes, from succulent steaks to fresh seafood. The ambiance is relaxed, yet sophisticated – the perfect way to end your food escapade in Aberdeen.
If you have a sweet tooth, don’t forget to visit Twist Cone at least once during your trip. Located at 503 N 3rd St, Aberdeen, SD 57401, this ice cream shop is famous for its soft-serve ice cream and variety of fun, innovative flavors. A perfect dessert treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What are some of the top-rated restaurants in Aberdeen, South Dakota?
A1: Aberdeen is home to many highly-rated restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Some of the top-rated ones include Mavericks Steak & Cocktails, Pounders Pub & Grub, and Roma Ristorante Italiano for those with a taste for steaks, pub food, and Italian cuisine respectively. For a taste of Asian cuisine, you may want to try the Asian Palace or the Great Dragon Chinese Restaurant.
Q2: Are there vegan or vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Aberdeen?
A2: Yes! Aberdeen offers several vegan and vegetarian-friendly dining options. Most notably, the Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian-friendly dishes. Other restaurants like the Flame Restaurant and Bar or Qdoba Mexican Eats also have vegan or vegetarian options on their menus.
Q3: I’m searching for a good coffee spot in Aberdeen. Any recommendations?
A3: Absolutely! For a great cup of coffee, The Brass Kettle is a popular choice, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious bakery items to accompany your coffee. For a quick grab-and-go coffee, try Caribou Coffee. There’s also the Red Rooster Coffee House, which is a staple in the local community and offers a variety of coffee drinks and pastries.
Q4: Are there dining options that offer delivery services in Aberdeen?
A4: Yes, many restaurants in Aberdeen offer delivery services, especially given the current situation with Covid-19. Some of these include Jimmy John’s, Dominos Pizza, and Papa John’s Pizza. Additionally, services like DoorDash and UberEats also operate in Aberdeen, making it convenient to have food deliveries from a broader range of restaurants.
Q5: What kind of international cuisine can I find in Aberdeen?
A5: Aberdeen is known for its diverse food scene. Here, you can find a selection of Asian cuisine at Asian Palace or Imperial Buffet, Mexican food at Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant or Qdoba Mexican Eats, Italian dishes at Roma Ristorante Italiano, and American dining experiences at places like Sammy’s Restaurant & Omelette Shoppe or Pounders Pub & Grub.
Q6: Are there any noteworthy dessert places in Aberdeen?
A6: Yes, there are plenty of delicious dessert spots in Aberdeen. Twist Cone is a local favorite for ice cream. For a wider selection of sweet treats, try the Cake Lady Bakery or the Palm Garden Cafe & Chocolate Shoppe. For donuts and pastries, Baker’s Bakery & Cafe is a popular spot.
Q7: Where can I get a good breakfast in Aberdeen?
A7: For a hearty start to the day, Sammy’s Restaurant & Omelette Shoppe is highly recommended. The Millstone Family Restaurant also offers a great breakfast menu. If you’re looking for coffee and pastries, try Red Rooster Coffee House or The Brass Kettle.
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