BEN’S BREWING CO. YANKTON Ben’s Brewing Co. dates back to 2005 when owner and head brewer Ben Hanten started South Dakota’s first smoke-free bar and one of the first craft beer bars in the state. The Yankton staple grew into an official brewery in 2017, growing its distribution footprint locally and statewide. Though his business is serious, Hanten says his brand is not. “We’re approachable, relaxed, and community-first,” he described. “We take beer seriously, but not ourselves. The goal is quality without pretension.” With the need to continue to grow, Hanten purchased the historical Freeman Company building, moving over his brewing operations to one side of the location and opening Ben’s Brew Station on the other in June of 2021. “Ben’s Brew Station is huge, warm, and comfortable with a mix of industrial and cozy elements,” said Hanten of the 4,300-square-foot taproom. “There is plenty of seating for groups, families, and solo drinkers, plus TVs, 11 pinball games, 30 arcade games, and a layout that works equally well for casual afternoons or busy weekend nights.” In June of 2024, Hanten announced he would be selling his classic 222 West 3rd St venue and focus solely on Ben’s Brew Station. Patrons can try any of the 22 beers on tap, including Hanten’s favorite and the brewery’s flagship— West Side Park . “I drink more West Side Park than anyone, but I love lagers, too,” he said. Ben’s Brewing Co. is also known for Strawberry Blonde , Kenny Pepper , and Dakota Thirst . “We’re really excited about our Banana Pecan Cream Ale and Batch 1000 , which is an Imperial Hazy IPA ,” said Hanten. The team is also excited about expanding their event calendar, refining their core beer lineup, and their recent launch of Wicked Eats —a permanent, chef-driven food truck inside the taproom. “We’re also leaning into more small-batch and rotating features while keeping our everyday favorites dialed in,” said Hanten. The crew is looking forward to summertime, when they can open up Ben’s Brew Station’s 10,000-square-foot patio to welcome in lake and river tourists and locals. “We load up nearly every day with events like pinball tournaments, live music, magicians,
Can You? Ben’s Brewing Co. distributes West Side Park, Strawberry Blonde, and Kenny Pepper statewide.
and game nights,” said Hanten. “It’s a lot of fun.” For more information, visit bensbrewing.com.
BAR + RESTAURANT ISSUE march 2026
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