Dining and Shopping in the Black Hills
Juniper
Located in downtown Rapid City, Juniper Restaurant serves up some of the best food I’ve ever had outside of a five-star establishment. The menu is full of locally sourced ingredients and creative combinations that will tantalize your taste buds. Juniper Restaurant is a must-visit for foodies, offering handcrafted cocktails to unique entrees.
If you’re staying at one of the downtown Hotels there’s nothing better and more convenient than
Tally’s Silver Spoon. It stands out from other Rapid City eateries by offering gourmet dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Everything from grilled pork chops to herb-crusted salmon can be found here, and the wine list is extensive. The eatery appears like a diner, serves like a 5-star, and the atmosphere encourages conversation and relaxation.
Murphy’s Pub and Grill is a local favorite. Offering American-inspired choices, Murphy’s also has a secret Speak Easy in the restaurant’s basement. Craft cocktails and a great atmosphere can be found here. To locate the speak-easy, ask one of the friendly staff, and they’ll point you in the right direction. If you’d like a more international flair, head down to one of my favorites,
Kathmandu Bistro. Tandoori, Curry, and fresh vegetable plates are fantastic. Don’t worry about spice; you can customize the heat according to your palate.
Keystone tends to be a favorite for visitors due to its proximity to Mt Rushmore, and there are more than a few places to enjoy. First off, there’s the
Carvers Market at Mount Rushmore. Its offerings are sustainable, green, and tasty. It just so happens to be the only four-star Certified Green Restaurant® in South Dakota. That’s pretty amazing. Just next door you can indulge in Thomas Jeffersons French Ice Cream. He was a Francophile and the recipe is very good.
In downtown Keystone, I recommend the
Powder House Restaurant. It’s a little up the hill, but worth it. The restaurant is classic and serves up anything from Crab Cakes to Buffalo Medallions. For some great coffee and dessert, head on down to
Grapes and Grinds. There’s indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for a sunny South Dakota day.
The little town of Hill City is in the Center of the Black Hills. It’s charming and set up to enjoy a lovely walk up and down its main street. I have a few recommendations that I frequent often. The first is
Chute Rooster, a Western Style restaurant and bar with live music. Billiards are upstairs, and it’s family-friendly.
The ultimate classic restaurant, the
Alpine Inn is just down the road from here. It serves European Cuisine with a focus on Germany. The building was built in 1886 and has been family owned and operated for over 3 decades. The Alpine in is cash only, and an ATM is available near the bar. A great surprise to me is
Mangiamo Pizzeria! They have the most wonderful Italian food that rivals anything on the east coast.
Custer Dining
A few of my favorite restaurants are in Custer, along with some great entertainment. Whenever I crave an incredible burger, look no further than the
Burger and Bun. It’s a local delight. Often there’s a wait, but fortunately, an authentic Rock Shop is right next door to pass the time. For a slightly upscale experience with indoor/outdoor dining, try out the
Custer Wolf. It has a wide variety of choices, and the servers are great. We stop here all the time.
The finest dining in all the Black Hills goes to
Skogen Kitchen. Its innovative cuisine changes throughout the year based on local ingredients. The word Skogen means “The Forest” in Norwegian, but in my mind, it translates into DELICIOUS.
Shopping in the Black Hills
The Black Hills sometimes hide its most interesting places. We strive to buy locally and believe that’s how it should be. We hope to bring these places to your attention because they’re interesting and because we hope you spend a little time and money here! In Rapid City and the surrounding towns of the Black Hills, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit abound.
Discovering Prairie Edge Trading Company: A Gem in the Black Hills
When exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Black Hills and Rapid City, don’t miss a stop at the Prairie Edge Trading Company. Nestled in the heart of this vibrant area, Prairie Edge serves as a cultural hub, showcasing the rich artistic traditions of both Native and Non-Native American creators. This two-story haven invites you to immerse yourself in a world where art and heritage blend seamlessly, making it a must-visit destination for locals and travelers alike.
A Celebration of Culture and Craftsmanship
As you step into Prairie Edge, you’re greeted by an inviting atmosphere that speaks to the soul of the Black Hills. The first floor serves as a gateway to a diverse array of artworks and crafts. Here, you’ll find beautifully decorated buffalo hides, intricately designed beadwork and captivating porcupine quillwork. Each piece tells a story, reflecting the deep connection between the artists and the land.
One of Prairie Edge’s standout features is its commitment to supporting artists of all kinds. The Sioux Trading Post, located downstairs, provides essential supplies for local creators, ensuring that the spirit of artistry thrives. This space encourages collaboration and innovation, allowing both seasoned artists and budding talents to access the materials they need to bring their visions to life.
Books, History, and the Spirit of Learning
In the back of the store, the bookstore beckons with a treasure trove of knowledge. Here, you can browse an impressive collection of historical accounts, novels, and reference materials, all focused on the Black Hills and Badlands. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the region’s rich past, you’ll find books that pique your interest and deepen your understanding of this captivating area.
A Journey Upstairs: The Bead Library and Art Gallery
Venturing upstairs reveals even more wonders. The Bead Library is a visual feast showcasing a stunning variety of trade beads. Wooden display cases wrap around the room. Each is illuminated to highlight the beauty of these authentic, rare treasures. Beads of every size and color catch the light, inviting you to appreciate the craftsmanship endured through generations. This unique collection serves as a resource for artists and an educational experience for anyone interested in the history of trade and artistic expression.
Adjacent to the Bead Library, a contemporary art gallery showcases Native American-themed artwork. The pieces here blend traditional techniques with modern interpretations, offering a fresh perspective on age-old narratives. It’s a space that fosters appreciation for both the past and the present, highlighting the dynamic evolution of Native American art.
A Visit You Won’t Forget
As you explore Prairie Edge Trading Company, you’ll find yourself immersed in the vibrant tapestry of the Black Hills’ artistic landscape. It’s a place where the past and present converge, offering a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the area. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift, a new book, or simply a moment of inspiration, Prairie Edge invites you to discover the beauty and stories that lie within its walls.
So, as you plan your adventure in the Black Hills, make sure to carve out time for a visit to Prairie Edge. It’s not just a shopping destination; it’s a celebration of art, culture, and community that you’ll carry with you long after you leave.
More Dining and Shopping in the Black Hills Coming Soon
