Small Eatery Hidden in South Dakota Named Restaurant of the Year

South Dakota is known for restaurants that are full of flavor with every bite. Now, one local eatery is getting recognized as one of the best restaurants in the nation.

Hidden in Custer, South Dakota, Skogen Kitchen has recently been named one of the Restaurants of the Year from USA Today. I hope you like trying food from around the world!

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Skogen Kitchen (via Facebook)

39 restaurants from across the country have been handpicked by food experts with USA Today. They thrive on local restaurants that they consider the surprise gems of each community.

USA TODAY’s 2026 Restaurants of the Year list highlights standout dining destinations across the country, from humble roadside gems to chef-driven hotspots earning national buzz. Chosen by USA TODAY Network food journalists who know their local scenes best, the list celebrates places that offer not just great flavors but also heart, hospitality and a strong sense of community.

These are local eateries people love and always recommend to visitors.

Skogen Kitchen (via Facebook)

What Makes Skogen Kitchen in South Dakota So Special?

This place is like Midwestern hospitality meets Norwegian flair with a California twist, like the lobster steam buns and goat cheese shishito peppers. Yum!

@skogenkitchen (via Instagram)

Chefs and owners Joseph and Eliza Raney bring their own experiences to one kitchen. USA Today says this South Dakota restaurant is full of "magic."

Skogen Kitchen (via Facebook)

Here are some reviews of Skogen Kitchen from Yelp!

The service was excellent! This is a cute restaurant tucked away in the downtown area! Highly recommend to all looking for an amazing dining experience while in Custer

The food was amazing!! If I could give it 10 stars, I would!

This was the best meal I've had in a long time. Everything was cooked perfectly. The service was impeccable. If you enjoy fine dining, make a reservation. You won't be disappointed!

Skogen Kitchen (via Facebook)

Hungry for more? Click here for the full list of the 2026 Restaurants of the Year.

Congratulations, Skogen Kitchen! Bon apetit!

My Top 5 Favorite South Dakota Made Foods

As I was slicing a piece of cheese off my block of Dimock Dairy Colby cheese and boiling a ring of Bluebird Locker German sausage on the stove, I started thinking, "What foods is South Dakota known for?'

Then I realized the state is known for some of my favorite foods, are they're actually made right here in South Dakota!

So, I decided to search my cupboards and refrigerator looking for other South Dakota-made foods and came up with my Top 5.

South Dakota's Weird Exotic Animal Laws Are Amazing

Have an interesting pet or looking to get one? Check this out from South Dakota Exotic Animal Laws before you go trying to adopt one.

You will need a zoo permit to harbor a raccoon dog. That's a real species. It's a small wild dog with a black facial mask and long fur, native to the forests of Asia.

Gallery Credit: Danny V

Source: Small Eatery Hidden in South Dakota Named Restaurant of the Year