Sioux Falls has a surprisingly deep burger culture—no‑nonsense Midwestern spots and creative gastropubs alike. These five restaurants are the ones locals keep bringing up when the “best burger in town” debate kicks off.
1. JL Beers
Burger‑and‑beer nirvana in compact form, JL Beers is a go‑to for many Sioux Falls locals.
The burgers are smash‑style: thin, seared patties with crispy edges, layered with cheese and toppings on a soft bun. The JL Burger, Classic Cheeseburger, and various spicy builds (with jalapeños and chipotle mayo) are standouts.
Fresh‑cut fries and chips, plus a long craft beer list, make it a near‑perfect casual burger experience.
2. Phillips Avenue Diner
Retro‑cute and right downtown, Phillips Avenue Diner looks like a place that should have a great burger—and it does.
You’ll find thick patties cooked to a juicy medium, topped with melty cheese, bacon, fried onions, or even a fried egg. Classic cheeseburgers are solid, but locals love their specialty stacks and seasonal specials.
Pair a burger with a shake or malt and some diner fries, and you’ve basically stepped into a better version of the 1950s.
3. Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews
Sickies is unabashedly over‑the‑top: walls of license plates, big screens, and a menu full of wild burgers.
Think patties topped with onion rings, mac and cheese, peanut butter and jelly, fried eggs, or multiple types of cheese and bacon. The standard bacon cheeseburger is great, but this is the place to go big.
Locals love it for group outings, game nights, and cheat‑day cravings—with plenty of draft beer options to go with it.
4. Crack’d Pot Restaurant & Bakery
Known for breakfast and baked goods, Crack’d Pot also serves an underrated, classic‑style burger that regulars rave about.
The burgers are simple: a juicy patty, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles on a toasted bun. No theatrics—just well‑seasoned beef and fresh toppings. It’s the kind of low‑key burger you start craving on a random weekday.
Bonus: you can grab dessert from the bakery case on your way out.
5. Ode to Food and Drinks
A bit more upscale than the average burger joint, Ode to Food gives you a more “chef‑crafted” burger experience.
The burger usually features a thicker patty cooked medium, high‑quality cheese (sharp cheddar, blue, or something fancy), bacon or caramelized onions, and a house aioli on a nice bun. Sides like truffle fries or upgraded potatoes make it feel like a proper entrée, not just bar food.
Locals love it for date nights or when they want a burger that feels just a bit special.
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