You know the feeling. You're watching television when something beautiful — a view, a meal, an adventure — hits just right, causing you to unconsciously quote Liz Lemon:
"I want to go to there."
More and more, shows are discovering the magic of South Dakota. Check out some of the biggest programs to highlight our state as you plan your own showbiz-worthy SoDak adventure.
Full Throttle Saloon
19942 SD-79, Vale
The address may say Vale, but this place is all Sturgis, given its claim as “The World’s Largest Biker Bar.” Located just outside the home of the biggest motorcycle rally in the world, the mega-bar was the focus of “Full Throttle Saloon,” a reality show that ran from 2009 to 2015. Bikes. Loud rock. Dancing bartenders. A lot of fun. It’s all part of the business at the Full Throttle, where folks still pack the place for live music and one heck of a good time.
Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives
Guy Fieri – the mayor of Flavortown himself – explored the Sioux Falls area in search of deliciousness. He definitely found it, raving over three episodes about everything from Doro Wat at Lalibela Restaurant to the crossroads of delicious & healthy that is Daily Clean Food & Drink. To make sure you don’t miss a bite, check out this page on the places and meals that guarantee Fieri’s return to the land of Great Faces, Great Places.
Sanaa's 8th St. Gourmet
401 E 8th St. #100, Sioux Falls
Sanaa Abourezk has gained international attention for her creation of healthy – and delicious – dishes at Sanaa’s 8th Street Gourmet in Sioux Falls. But in 2016, loads of loyal customers were rooting for her to "Beat Bobby Flay" on the Food Network show of the same name. Sanaa didn’t win, but her Mediterranean dishes and vegetarian & gluten-free options consistently earn rave reviews from happy customers.
Bokujō Ramen
518 Mount Rushmore ROad, Rapid City
Whether it’s from the Food Network or Marvel.com’s “Eat The Universe,” fans are likely to recognize Justin Warner. He won season eight of “Food Network Star,” but today he and his wife, Brooke Sweeten, operate Bokujō Ramen in Rapid City. The pair saw a need for ramen – the real stuff, not the 10-cent bags – and diners seem to agree, keeping the place so busy that the food regularly sells out. Bokujō Ramen has a focus on using local ingredients, which only adds to the flavor and the experience.
Fireball Run: Big Country
The 11th season of Amazon’s Fireball Run took competitors on a 2,000-mile trek through eight cities, including Yankton, Pierre and Rapid City. Locals and celebrities alike competed in the Trivial Pursuit-like race that featured stars like Brian O’Halloran ("Clerks," "Mallrats," "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back") as well as South Dakota locals.
The Great Food Truck Race
Kicking off at Crazy Horse Memorial, the “About Face in South Dakota” episode of "The Great Food Truck Race" featured five teams in heated competition to sell their delicious wares in Rapid City. When a challenge led team members to need rides, Midwestern hospitality was there to drive them to their destinations. Downtown staples like Hotel Alex Johnson, Main Street Square, and Skyline Drive were all featured in the episode. While the competition may be over, plenty of tasty food options await your discovery in South Dakota’s second-biggest city, especially at top spots like Tally's Silver Spoon and Independent Ale House.
