As a home-grown, Sioux Falls native, I have figured out my way around the food map of the city. And let me tell ya, the food culture here is high folks. From coffee shops to late night burritos, there are a few key establishments that immediately come to mind when your tummy is rumbling in SuFu. Find out my top 10 Sioux Falls food gems below:
1. Bagel Boy
Ask any Sioux Falls high school graduate who left the city for college what the number one thing they miss from home is? Bagel Boy. This local bagel shop is the glue that holds Sioux Falls together. Located in two convenient spots on 33rd and Minnesota and 26th street, you can’t miss out on this Sioux Falls favorite.
2. Juice Stop
Another SuFu fave is Juice stop. Incomparable to any other smoothie chain, your “juice for the journey” can be blended at four Sioux Falls locations and various locations throughout Nebraska. Whether you need a cleanse, a healthy pick-me-up, a boost of energy before practice or a shot of wheatgrass, there's something for any health nut or couch potato to sip on. Pro Tip: there is a JS location right behind Bagel Boy on Minnesota...best of both worlds!
3. The Diner
This place is my absolute favorite restaurant in Sioux Falls (boys...take note.) Located in the heart of downtown directly on Phillips Avenue, The Phillips Avenue Diner is everything you’d think it would be. From burgers and malts to banana bread french toast, your taste buds and sweet summer vibes will be thriving. It’s also the perfect date night eatery….just saying.
4. Gilibertos
Located at the old Long John Silvers on Minnesota Ave, this taco shop serves up crave worthy burritos, churros, chips and guac 24/7. Wether you're having breakfast, lunch or the 3am munchies Gilibertos is the place to be. Continually popular amongst college students as a early morning snack after a night out at the bar if you know what I'm saying. It's lit.
5. Golden Bowl
If you're a sucker for a dish of sweet and sour chicken or wanton soup then you've just found your next paradise. This quaint Chinese restaurant is tucked behind Juice Stop just off of Minnesota Ave and has the tastiest egg rolls you could ever have. Did I mention they have a whole tank full of coy fish to stare at? And don't forget to rub Buddha's belly on your way out for luck.
6. B&G Milkyway
It isn't summer unless you've spent half of your summer job money at B&G. B&G Milkyway is a popular ice cream parlor with toppings galore and cheeseballs to die for. Like honestly, you have to go here. My order consists of a peanut butter bell avalanche with chocolate ice cream (it's a reese cup in liquid form). Order anything from a classic dipped cone, or malt to something more unique like a 'slush-whip' or 'chip-which' — you can't go wrong. With one conveniently located in every part of town, there is always ALWAYS time for ice cream.
7. Coffea
Best. Coffee. Ever. Hands down. No comparison. Each Coffea location, downtown on Phillips Ave and the other on Louise, contains countless hours of work, relaxation, conversation and "me time". Need a place to study? Coffea. Read? Coffea. Pick up chicks? Coffea. With friendly staff and that classic chill, hipster vibe, you'll leave feeling accomplished, caffeinated and smelling like coffee.
8. Carnaval Brazilian Grill
Keyword: MEAT. Carnaval Brazilian Grill is thee establishment if you are starving. While pricey, the quality (and quantity) of this authentic Brazilian cuisine is to die for. The servers bring out skewers upon skewers of different steaks, pork, chickens and my all time favorite, grilled pineapple. Not only is the meat on point, but I would also recommend the salad bar and the brunch option on Sunday mornings. The calm, cool and romantic atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for any special occasion.
9. Sanaa’s
Want more food to die for? Sanaa's is a mediterranean style, gluten free, vegetarian restaurant located at the East Market arts hub, DTSF at 8th and Railroad. Sanaa herself is an award winning chef and popular spokesperson on behalf of Sioux Falls dinning. Her food is made form scratch daily — you can even taste the freshness! Not to mention my grandparents swear by the Friday night 10 course buffet. Give Sanaa's a try!
10. Queen City Bakery
Located downtown just off of 8th and Railroad, with a similar environment as Coffea, what sets Queen City Bakery apart is the amazing pastries. I don't think I have ever had a better cookie. Not only is the food superb, but the wooden tables and brick walls make for the perfect study space. 10/10 would recommend.
