When you travel the Oyate Trail, you’re going to have to stop to eat, at least on occasion. Even if you pack a decent amount of your own food, popping in for a restaurant meal gives you a chance to relax a bit. Plus, you’ll get the opportunity to sample some fun local options, adding something special to your trip.
If you want to make sure you focus on the best options around, here’s a look at how to choose the right Oyate restaurant for you as well as a list of seven great restaurants in Oyate.
Choosing the Right Restaurants in Oyate
If you’re traveling the Oyate Trail, finding the right restaurant is essential. In many cases, you’ll probably want to opt for casual dining if you aren’t staying in the area for at least two nights. That way, you don’t feel like you have to rush to a hotel and get dressed up before dining.
For anyone traveling with children, you’ll probably want to focus on family-friendly options. Generally, these are pretty easy to find, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble locating a place that will make even the pickiest child’s palate happy.
7 Great Restaurants in Oyate
1. Café Brule – Vermillion
If you’re looking for hearty options, Café Brule is a great choice. Many of the restaurant’s guests adore the meatloaf for dinner, and the Sunday brunch is a favorite of locals and travelers. There are also some very unique dishes, like Crab Rangoon Nachos, for those who like to eat adventurously.
This restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan-friendly options, making it an excellent choice for those following those restricted diets. Additionally, there are keto-friendly plates, something you don’t see everywhere else.
2. Czeckers Sports Bar & Grill – Yankton
For a relaxed vibe, it’s hard to beat a bar and grill. If you’re traveling through Yankton, then a stop at Czeckers Sports Bar & Grill can be a great choice for anyone looking for a lowkey option. You’ll find exactly the kind of food you’d expect, including burgers, wings, nachos, and even jalapeno poppers. Plus, they often have daily lunch specials, allowing you to have a hearty meal for less.
The location is family-friendly, so your children are welcomed. Just keep in mind that it can be a little rowdy when there’s a big game on, so make sure to plan accordingly.
3. The Hat Creek Grill – Edgemont
If you like a classic American cuisine restaurant, the Hat Creek Grill is a solid option. The customizable burger is genuinely hard to beat, especially when coupled with delectable sides like fire-roasted corn with poblano peppers. Plus, your little ones have great options as well, like classic kid-pleasing chicken strips.
4. Woolly’s Grill and Cellar – Hot Springs
For fresh and satisfying meals that are sure to please everyone in the family, head on over to Woolly’s in Hot Springs. You’ll find classics like French Dip, Reuben, tomato soup, and turkey wraps. There’s even a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with chips, which is pretty unique at a restaurant.
The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a great choice for families or travelers who prefer to kick back and enjoy their meal in a comfortable environment. Plus, it’s a favorite of locals, so consider stopping by if you want to meet people who call Hot Springs home.
5. Red Steakhouse – Vermillion
For many travelers, nothing is as nice for a meal out as a great steak. If you fall into that category, then make the trip over to Red Steakhouse in Vermillion. Along with an amazing selection of steaks, you can find other classics like shrimp scampi and chicken carbonara.
If you need gluten-free options, you’ll be happy to know that they are available. However, if you are vegetarian or vegan, you won’t find much here, so it may be best to eat somewhere else.
6. Charlie’s Pizza House – Yankton
Sometimes, a great pizza is exactly what you need. At Charlie’s Pizza House, you won’t just find fantastic pizza, but some non-traditional options, too. For example, the Hepburn’s Spicy Delight features meatballs covered in pepper jack. With the Marilyn’s Mermaid Heaven, you get shrimp, crab, and green and black olives.
But you don’t have to head off the beaten pizza path if you prefer not to, as traditional options like pepperoni and plain cheese are also available.
7. Buffalo Dreamer – Hot Springs
If you’re more in the mood for a fine dining experience, you might want to head to Buffalo Dreamer in Hot Springs. There, you’ll find unique fusion dishes, all featuring high-quality ingredients like grass-fed, grass-finished beef and seasonal produce.
The menu does change with the seasons, and this restaurant does close in the winter. But, if you head out in the summer or fall and are looking for an experience unlike anything else, certainly consider making a stop.