Rapid City, South Dakota, is a culinary gem nestled in the Black Hills, and I had a blast exploring its food scene firsthand. From early-morning donut runs to laid-back burger joints and one-of-a-kind cookie shops, I personally visited each of these spots—and I can tell you, they’re absolutely worth the stop. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite or a traveler passing through, these must-visit eateries will leave you full and happy.
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Lou Lou’s Bombdiggity’s – Deadwood, SD
A short drive from Rapid City, Lou Lou’s Bombdiggity’s in Deadwood is one of those unexpected gems that food lovers dream about. They serve up homemade pasties, a full coffee bar, fresh pastries—and surprisingly, kolaches too. The fact that you can get both pasties and kolaches in the same spot is pretty wild.
The pasties aren’t quite the same as the ones you’d find in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, where they’re kind of a religion, but they’ll definitely get you by if you’re craving that kind of comfort food. I especially appreciated the kolaches—they were a nice touch you don’t see every day. They also offer homemade donuts, which makes it a great all-around stop. Just a heads up: they do occasionally run out of some items like the kolaches, so try to get there earlier in the day if you can.
Ugly Graffiti Downtown – Rapid City, SD
Located at 725 St. Joseph St., Ugly Graffiti Downtown is a vibrant eatery offering American cuisine, barbecue, and pub fare. While the name might make you raise an eyebrow, don’t let it turn you off—it’s actually a cool spot with a lively atmosphere and great food. With options for lunch, dinner, and late-night bites, it’s a perfect place to unwind.
One of the more unique items they had was nachos made with homemade potato chips, then topped with cheese, pico de gallo, and shredded chicken. It was an interesting combination I hadn’t tried before, and I really liked it, although the portion was a bit on the small side. Whether you’re grabbing a bite for lunch or winding down in the evening, this place offers a fun and tasty experience.
Mary’s Mountain Cookies – Rapid City, SD
Situated at 526 6th Street, Mary’s Mountain Cookies is a haven for cookie lovers—and let me tell you, this place is a little dangerous. It might just be one of the best cookie shops I’ve come across in the entire country. They offer a variety of large, delicious cookies, including their signature cookie sandwiches filled with ice cream.
It’s hard to pick a favorite because every cookie blew me away, but you really can’t go wrong with the cookie sandwiches, especially when they’re fresh out of the oven. Oh, and they have a rewards program that lets you rack up points for free cookies—talk about a dangerous temptation! The service here was also top-notch, making it even more of a must-visit.
Daylight Donuts – Rapid City, SD
Located at 1302 E. Saint Patrick Street, Daylight Donuts is a family-owned business known for its fresh, signature donuts. Established in 1954, they continue to brighten mornings with their delightful offerings. This was my go-to place during my visit, and I really enjoyed their biscuits and gravy. It’s a comforting, satisfying option that’s perfect for starting the day. Of course, their classic donuts are always fresh, making it easy to see why this spot has been a local favorite for so long.
The Silver Lining Creamery – Rapid City, SD
Found in Main Street Square, The Silver Lining Creamery specializes in small-batch, gourmet ice cream. They offer fresh, bold, and unique flavors, all created in-house, making each scoop a delicious experience. Their specialty Silver Lining Mason Jar Sundaes are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. The location in the Square makes it perfect for when you’re strolling around the city, especially on a warmer day. It’s an ideal stop if you’re checking out all of the different presidential statues in Rapid City. Whether you’re cooling off or just in the mood for a treat, it’s the perfect spot to indulge.
Millstone Family Restaurant – Rapid City, SD
Millstone Family Restaurant has a rich history that adds to its charm. Established in 1979, it quickly became a local favorite for its comforting, home-style American dishes and warm, friendly service. Over the years, it’s maintained a reputation for being a cozy, go-to spot where guests can enjoy generous portions of classic comfort food.
For breakfast, I went with a breakfast burrito, which they smothered with cheese—something I’d never thought of before, but it actually worked really well. The combination was surprisingly delicious and filling.
The pancakes were also delicious, light, and fluffy, making for the perfect breakfast option. It’s the kind of place you can rely on for a no-fuss, satisfying meal, whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. A perfect spot to gather with family or friends, especially if you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day.
Thai Thai Restaurant – Rapid City, SD
If you’re in the mood for bold, flavorful Thai cuisine, Thai Thai Restaurant is a must-visit spot in Rapid City. Located at 603 Main St., this charming eatery offers a variety of traditional Thai dishes, from savory curries to aromatic stir-fries, all crafted with fresh ingredients and authentic spices.
I personally loved their Pad Thai—it was a perfect balance of flavors with just the right amount of spice. But the real standout for me was the Panang curry. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor—definitely a dish I can’t get enough of. The service was friendly, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner. If you enjoy Thai food, you’ll definitely want to make Thai Thai Restaurant a part of your culinary tour in Rapid City.
Thirsty’s Burgers & Beer – Rapid City, SD
At 819 Main St., Thirsty’s is a family-friendly restaurant that serves up ½ lb hand-pattied burgers, sirloin steaks, and a variety of appetizers. The vibe inside is great, and I really liked the relaxed, fun atmosphere. They’ve got a pool table and TVs, making it an ideal spot to hang out, especially on a weekend afternoon.
I had good service, and for lunch, we grabbed wraps—one was a delicious chicken buffalo wrap, and the other was an Asian-inspired wrap. Both hit the spot and were the perfect match with crunch potato chips. It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for unwinding after a busy day, whether you’re catching up with friends or just enjoying a laid-back meal.
Jerry’s Cakes & Donuts – Rapid City, SD
Located at 109 E. Omaha St., Jerry’s Cakes & Donuts is a beloved bakery known for its fresh donuts and cakes. Their bakers start early each day to ensure every batch is as fresh as possible, offering a warm start to your morning.
Rapid City, South Dakota, is a culinary gem nestled in the Black Hills, and I had a blast exploring its food scene firsthand. From early-morning donut runs to laid-back burger joints and one-of-a-kind cookie shops, I personally visited each of these spots—and I can tell you, they’re absolutely worth the stop. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite or a traveler passing through, these must-visit eateries will leave you full and happy. Each one offers its own unique charm, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere that makes Rapid City a destination worth savoring.
Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo. He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio.
