Custer's restaurant scene mirrors the town's outdoorsy, no‑frills spirit — chef‑driven plates, comforting favorites and lively pubs line the short Main Street beneath the Black Hills. Locals name Skogen Kitchen "one of the best restaurants West River," HJEM A.M.'s walleyes brunch and Burger and Bun's "best damn burger"; expect seasonal hours and long lines, so call ahead.
Based on Reddit discussions, travel forums, and local blogs.
Locals and travelers overwhelmingly recommend a mix of chef-driven spots, comforting favorites, and casual pubs in and around Custer. Common tips: many places have limited or seasonal hours, expect lines during peak season, and call ahead or make reservations for popular dinner and brunch spots.
Overall sentiment: positive
Chef-driven, inventive fine-dining in a small town; limited hours and fills up quickly so reservations recommended.
"Skogen Kitchen in Custer is one of the best restaurants West River."
Sources: reddit.com · airial.travel · tripadvisor.com
Overall sentiment: positive
Highly recommended for brunch with Norwegian/Scandi-influenced breakfast items and notable walleye dishes; small space — arrive early or reserve.
"HJEM A.M. has a great walleyes dish for brunch."
Sources: reddit.com · custersd.com · travelsouthdakota.com
Overall sentiment: positive
Local burger legend (bison optional) with house-made buns and signature items; expect crowds, lines, and occasional menu/format changes — check current hours.
"Burger and bun company in Custer had the best damn burger I’ve ever eaten."
"The 'hot granny' is kind of our claim to fame."
"Sometimes when we first open, there are people waiting for us to open the door."
Sources: reddit.com · reddit.com · dakotanewsnow.com
Overall sentiment: positive
Casual pub with a rotating/seasonal menu (walleye specials, buffalo sandwich, desserts), good beer selection and patio seating — lively small-town vibe.
"The Custer Wolf in Custer is a great restaurant. Love that place."
Sources: reddit.com · tripadvisor.com · custerwolf.com
Overall sentiment: positive
Local favorite for breakfast and baked goods — known for very large cinnamon/caramel rolls and a solid breakfast menu.
"We ate at Bakers Bakery 2 days in a row for breakfast."
Sources: bakersbakerycafe.com · tripadvisor.com · tripadvisor.com
Overall sentiment: positive
Popular downtown Mexican spot noted for big portions, tableside guacamole, margaritas and a large tequila selection.
Sources: beggingburro.com · chamberofcommerce.com
Overall sentiment: positive
Charming pie and ice cream spot frequently recommended as a must-stop dessert place in Custer.
"There’s a pie place in Custer called The Purple Pie Place. … I recommend it."
Sources: reddit.com · travelcuster.com
Overall sentiment: positive
Mentioned alongside Purple Pie as a popular dessert/ice cream stop in town.
Sources: travelcuster.com
Overall sentiment: positive
Brewery with casual food options; recommended for lunch or a beer stop by TripAdvisor and Reddit reviewers.
Sources: tripadvisor.com
Overall sentiment: positive
Higher-end comfort dishes near Custer State Park — frequently recommended by TripAdvisor reviewers for a nicer meal near the park.
Sources: tripadvisor.com
Hours, directions, and contact info for restaurants in Custer.
24572 SD-87, Custer, SD 57730, USA
Lakeside lodging featuring modern rooms & rustic cabins, plus a seasonal fine dining restaurant.
140 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730, USA
Easygoing taproom/brewpub offering house & guest craft beers, elevated pub fare & deck seating.
506 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730, USA
Warm, casual outlet serving hearty American pub grub & sandwiches alongside on-tap beers.
Closed
19 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730, USA
Open in summer & fall, this playful, purple bakeshop serves homemade pies & ice cream.
Open now
511 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730, USA
Sports-oriented grill serving beer & American faves plus eclectic pub grub in a TV-lined room.
Open now
441 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730, USA
Bustling outpost serving up creative burgers (with vegetarian options) in a cheerful, modern space.
Closed
541 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730, USA
Quaint mainstay featuring homestyle American plates for breakfast & lunch, plus pastries & donuts.
29 N 5th St, Custer, SD 57730, USA
Casual, laid-back eatery serving American comfort classics from eggs to steak plus sweet desserts.
Closed
611 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730, USA
Local produce, elk, buffalo & beef go into the Western American fare at this simple blond-wood cafe.
529 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730, USA
A menu featuring traditional Mexican dishes & drinks in a light-filled space with foliage & piñatas.
904 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730, USA
Snug, wood-paneled restaurant dishing out specialty pizzas, hearty sandwiches, salads & soups.
Open now
335 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730, USA
Soft-serve ice cream & signature shakes top the menu at this classic burger & fries fast-food chain.
