FOOD + DRINK
From a James Beard Foundation Award Winner to “cow to cone” ice cream, Brookings has something to satiate any appetite. 605 ate and drank our way through town during the three days, checking out family-owned eateries and longtime local and visitor favorites.
PHEASANT RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
Winner of the 2024 James Beard Foundation America’s Classics Award , the Pheasant Restaurant & Lounge (lovingly referred to as The Pheasant ), has been a Brookings staple honoring its Scandinavian heritage since 1949. Head chef and general manager Michael Johnson and his family are third generation business owners, adding their personal touches to the legacy. “When Michael took over management, he had an idea of elevating it from just being a place that had good food and beer to really showcasing what makes South Dakota unique, and slowly changed things,” said assistant general manager (and Johnson’s partner) Trevor Clements . While classics stayed, like the Café Hot Roast Beef Sandwich and Liver and Onions , the team began offering fresh menu inspiration with local flair “in a setting where you feel at home.” They’ve become famous for their “ Veekend Vafler ”— Norweigan waffles offered during brunch, including the Uptown Farmhouse Breakfast Waffle , the Banana , Nutella , and Whipped Cream waffle, and the Vaffel med Laks (Smoked Salmon Waffle) . Guests can pair their dish with a Bloody Viking , Elderflower Mimosa , or Bottomless Coffee (with a private label coffee locally roasted by Cottonwood Coffee ). 726 Main Avenue South, Brookings.
Stop in the Shop Meander into the Pheasant Cellar and Oil & Vinegar Tasting Bar to sample over 40 varieties of authentic olive oils and balsamics, and shop their extensive retail wine selection.
ROAD TRIP ISSUE may 2026
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