The 605 Best

The 605 team is lucky to travel around South Dakota and discover what’s the latest and greatest for our jobs. That being said, we thought it would be fun to curate a list of some of our favorite things of the year, and celebrate with a double issue. 

No, this isn’t “pay to play.” These are our legit notes of things that stood out, and we want everyone to know. Here are the first winners of the 2019-2020 605 best. 

FOOD & DRINK

BEST INTIMATE DINING EXPERIENCE

SKOGEN KITCHEN
This chef-driven concept offers innovative breakfast and dinner options by owners Eliza (general manager) and Joseph Raney (executive chef). The name is a nod to their Norwegian heritage, and Skogen Kitchen’s small dining room is full of hygge, mid-century goodness for a date night or meals with friends and family. Reservations are highly recommended to try brunch items like the Ma & Paul pancakes (fried chicken, Frank’s Hot Sauce, and maple syrup) or Piquillo Peppers (goat cheese, pine nuts, honey, golden raisins, and balsamic pearls). 29 N. 5th St., Custer

BEST DIP

ODE TO FOOD & DRINKS, GHOST CHEESE
Mild palates beware. Ghost Cheese sauce is dangerous in several ways, but only so in that you could get hooked. This dip is great with fries, chislic… most things. And the Ghost Cheeseburger is even better. 300 N. Cherapa Pl., Sioux Falls. 

BEST SCHMEAR

BLACK HILLS BAGELS
The softest bagels you’ll ever have, Black Hills Bagels is what you need to survive a busy morning (and your coworkers will love you if you bring some to the office). From Cheddar Pepper to Vanilla Frosting to Olive and Pimento schmears, there’s no way to get bored at this breakfast and lunch stop. 913 Mt. Rushmore Rd., Rapid City. 

BEST METAL RESTAURANT

THE SLED HAUS
Owners Beth and Mickey Staeckeler bring unique flavors from New York to the Lead local hot spot, The Sled Haus. Not only do they have some of the best sauerkraut in the state, and unique beer rims (like the most recent cinnamon sugar with a chocolate-dipped banana porter), but they love metal. And it shows in the restaurant’s aesthetic. 209 Glendale Ave., Lead. 

BEST PLACE TO GRAB A CRAFT BEER & CRAFT COCKTAIL

BEN’S BREWING CO.
Ben Hanten thought of it all when he opened his now-popular watering hole that serves everything from Ben’s Brewing Co. beer (like the Walshtown red ale) to Bud Light. Want to swap atmospheres? Go upstairs to The Copper Room with speakeasy vibes and elevated libations. The upstairs also hosts dinner clubs, trivia nights, vinyl nights, live music, comedy shows, and more. 222 W. 3rd St., Yankton.

BEST BUCKET LIST RESTAURANT

BLACK HILLS BURGER & BUN CO.
“I’ve heard of a really good burger place in the Black Hills.” This is it. And it’s no joke. Homemade burgers, salads, sandwiches, and desserts “created with minimal processing and the best quality ingredients.” Owners Claude and Christie Smith bring every burger lover joy with creations like The Hawaiian (pepper jack cheese, grilled pineapple and jalapeños, bacon, and teriyaki) and The Greek Goddess (feta cheese, roasted red pepper, spinach, and kalamata olive aioli). Vegetarian? Try options like The Lousy Hunter (house made black bean burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles). 441 Mt. Rushmore Rd., Custer.

BEST TOURISTY BAR

RED GARTER SALOON
“A blast from the past,” indeed! Open April through October, Red Garter Saloon has a great beer selection and cocktails—along with specialty drinks that come with a Red Saloon Garter. Non-alcoholic drinks are also available, like a Lil’ Miss Ruby (Shirley Temple) or a sarsaparilla. Don’t miss the afternoon Comedy Western Gun Shows on Monday through Saturday, Memorial Day through Mid September, and nightly musical entertainment by Jerry Allen. 124 Winter St., Keystone.

BEST CHEESE CURDS

LATCHSTRING INN RESTAURANT
Guests have been enjoying the food and hospitality of the Latchstring Inn for over 100 years in the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. Open year round right next to the Spearfish Canyon Lodge, have breakfast, lunch, or dinner surrounded by nature. Just don’t forget to ask for the cheese curds. 21046 US Highway 14A., Lead.

BEST POTATO SALAD

ALPINE INN
Are you really a South Dakotan if you’ve never been to the Alpine Inn in Hill City? Sure there are European offerings like the amazing Schnitzel or Kassler Rippchen, but the potato salad is a family recipe, and is one recipe you’ll fight to find out. We’re still awaiting our next trip so we can ask for all of the potato salad to go. 133 E. Main St., Hill City.

BEST PLACE FOR SEAFOOD

DRIFTERS BAR & GRILLE
One of the freshest and most modern restaurants we’ve ever been to in the state, Drifters Bar & Grille on the Missouri River creates contemporary American cuisine with burgers, steaks, flatbreads, and seafood. A solid place for Fish ‘n Chips, they’re best known for Walleye Tacos. 325 Hustan Ave., Fort Pierre. 

BEST COMFORT FOOD

O SO GOOD
Owner and executive chef Omar Thornton built his menu for O So Good based off of ethnic foods he enjoyed growing up in California and the Midwest and “everywhere in between.” From the Smashed Open- Faced Fried Porkchop Sandwich to the Cheesy Grits and Shrimp, this Garretson restaurant in a gorgeous historical building is a state game changer. 529 Main Ave., Garretson.

BEST INSTAGRAM-WORTHY FOOD

CANDY CLOUD FACTORY
Watch the Candy Cloud Factory crew as they make fresh cotton candy before your eyes. Order one of their massive creations, or grab a Rainbow Bag to go. Check out their social media for (adorable) holiday-themed specials. 701 N. Phillips Ave., Ste. 160, Sioux Falls.

BEST UNIQUE FLAVORS

LEONES’ CREAMERY
This Spearfish staple is a must-stop. Sure they have flavors like Dark Chocolate, but do you want to be boring? At least add a scoop of one of their creative rotating flavors, like Cinnamon Red Hots, Blueberry Goat Cheese, or London Fog. This quaint brick and mortar also has vegan options. 722 1/2 N. Main St., Spearfish. 

BEST PLACE TO WINE & DINE

ANTUÑUZ CUISINE
This hidden gem is right off the street downtown in Spearfish and has artisan-style Hispanic, Latin, and Mexican cuisine. The family business has a curated wine and beer list by their house sommelier. Did we mention the Antuñez team always tries to buy ingredients from local farmers and vendors? 117 E. Illinois St., Spearfish.

BEST PATIO BRUNCH

M.B. HASKETT
You know what’s better than eating Chef Michael Haskett’s crepes or Avocado Toast? Eating them on the back patio. There have been many a mornings drinking mimosas and having Croque Madame (thick slice of toast topped with ham, two poached eggs, and Mornay Sauce) back there next to mural artwork by Shaine Schroeder. Just remember to bring sunglasses. 324 S. Phillips Ave, Sioux Falls.

BEST SMALL TOWN BITE

SIOUX VALLEY GRILLE
Since 2017, this modern restaurant has served the town of Canton with high quality dishes at reasonable prices. Grab lunch or dinner at this eatery, and enjoy items like the Chicken Fried Steak Plate, an Open- Faced Meatloaf Sandwich Plate, or a Grille Cedar Plank Salmon Plate. Check Sioux Valley Grille’s Facebook for daily specials, like the Shrimp Scampi Over Angel Hair Pasta. 117 E. 5th St., Canton.

BEST INTERACTIVE DINING EXPERIENCE

CARNAVAL BRAZILIAN GRILL
And did we talk about the massive salad bar? But wait… what about the endless pineapple? Each patron who orders the famous Rodizio at Carnaval Brazilian Grill receives a token that they flip over to show green when they want meat and/or pineapple brought over to them, or flip to red to take a break or throw in the towel. Don’t want Rodizio? The menu is full of other offerings, like burgers and pasta. 2401 S. Carolyn Ave., Sioux Falls.

BEST SECRET

BLIND LION
You need to know someone (or know someone who knows someone) to get you the number to get into the Blind Lion in downtown Rapid City. Once you get to the mysterious location, you walk through a kitchen to get to the secret door where you enter the provided code. This Prohibition Era speakeasy features handcrafted cocktails, artisanal carved ice, and cutting edge food. Don’t miss the smoking and liquid nitrogen table side features, and catch live music while you’re at it. It’s a secret, Rapid City.

BUSINESS & EXPERIENCE

BEST NEW/OLD BUSINESS

LOOK’S MARKETPLACE
After being founded in 1883, Look’s Market has remained an integral part of Sioux Falls, providing quality meat and excellent customer service. Now dubbed Look’s Marketplace, it has a new (massive) location and a whole host of unique offerings for old and new customers alike. 

Look’s has taken over the former location of C.J. Callaway’s, located just east of Minnesota Avenue on 69th Street. 

Owners Beau Vondra and Nick Heineman are cousins who became partners of Look’s 12 years ago after Nick’s father, Greg Heineman, purchased the business. Heineman and Vondra moved back to Sioux Falls where they grew up, from Chicago and Minneapolis respectively, to run the market. 

Vondra and Heineman knew they wanted to expand their footprint, but had originally planned to build a new place from scratch. When they saw this new location, though, they were sold.

“We were just floored by the space—the history, the architecture, the proximity to current customers. We like to stay on the southside [of Sioux Falls] to provide [patrons] with a community feel and some dining options,” said Vondra. 

The community feel has now expanded to multiple new kitchens, groceries, grab-and-go options, a rotunda for community seating, two outside patios, full-service fine dining, and a brewery. 

Vondra and Heineman worked hard to create an open-market feel to their new location in order to be an open book to their clientele.

“One thing we want to point out is that we’ve opened up pretty much every area for the customers to see,” said Vondra. “They can see our butchers cutting, they can see our bakers baking, they can see our cooks cooking.” 

Many of Look’s customers have been shopping with them for years, which gives the market a family atmosphere that Vondra and Heineman say they work so hard to create. They know their customers’ favorite sports teams, what colleges they went to, and how their families are growing. 

Vondra recounted how a member of their leadership staff is engaged to a customer who has been shopping there since she was 13 years old. This sense of connectedness has been woven into the new location.

“Customers can really use the space however they want. They can come and get a pound of ground beef and leave. They can have a craft beer after a round of golf, or they could bring their families and sit at one of our community tables with another family and enjoy the afternoon,” said Heineman. “There are innumerable options as far as what you can do with the five kitchens that are in here.” 

The new and improved market will retain a staff of 70 members, increasing from the 20 team members at their former location. 

Vondra and Heineman started this process in August of 2018, started the demolition in January of 2019, and opened the new location in November. 

Because the new space allows for more food options for the public, Vondra says their menu will appeal to everyone.

“Hopefully it will be a favorite place to eat,” said Vondra. 

Being both born and raised in Sioux Falls, the cousins say that the people have been the biggest reason for taking on this new adventure. Their clientele have asked for more throughout the years, and Vondra and Heineman say they’re listening. 

Heineman hopes to continue their legacy: “We want it to be a highlight of Sioux Falls.” 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT LOOKSMARKET.COM.

BEST SUMMERTIME STOP

TWIST CONE ICE CREAM
Twist Cone in Aberdeen is always packed, but it’s definitely worth the wait. Not only is the classic neon sign great for a photo op, but you can order ice cream with fake eyes (see above for cuteness). When in season, check out the company’s Facebook page for the Flavor of the Week, like Strawberry Butter. 503 N. 3rd St., Aberdeen.

BEST LAKE STOP

BROADWATER BAR
From the shark on the wall to the oversized beach chair, Broadwater Bar on Lake Madison is the place to go to feel like you’re on summer vacation. Pull your boat right up to the dock and fill up with gas, then hop inside for great food like Broadwater Shrimp (lightly battered and tossed in homemade creamy sriracha sauce) and drinks. During busy season, listen/dance to live music on the patio with scenic views. 6625 Wentworth Park Dr., Wentworth.

BEST ROAD TRIP STOP

PORTER SCULPTURE PARK
While many have seen the 60-foot bull head sculpture from I-90, it’s worth pulling over to see the rest of Wayne Porter’s creations. Porter has been completely self taught, and has over 50 “larger than life” sculptures you can walk by and touch. Walking not your thing? There are golf carts. 25700 451st Ave., Montrose. 

BEST TREND IN 2019

MURALS
From students at Black Hills State University to out-of-town influencers creating an Instagram-worthy piece in Brookings, murals are so hot right now. Artists banned together in Sioux Falls for a row of different artwork and Vermillion also got a mural creating conversation. But let’s be real, Art Alley in Rapid City was ahead of its time. Statewide. 

BEST PLACE TO MULTITASK

HARRY’S HAIR CUTS & HOT TOWELS
Grab a bite at Harry’s and walk into the barbershop connected to get a shave and a cut. It’s the best way to spend your lunch break. The large, historical building in downtown Watertown has darts, pool, and live music. Don’t miss their Monday night wing special, and check their Facebook for the Burger of the Week (i.e. The Roadhouse Burger with a garlic parmesan-seasoned burger topped with bacon, mushrooms, cheddar cheese, onion rings, and roadhouse sauce). 16 W. Kemp Ave., Watertown. 

BEST STATIONERY AND CARDS

ZANDBROZ VARIETY
Amid a sea of colorful vintage signs, pinball machines, and revamped telephones, Zandbroz Variety owner Jeff Danz sat down with 605 to talk about the newest renovations to his store. 

After 30 years of dealing with a flooded basement, wall damage, and constant worry, Danz says the idea for the remodel came simply out of necessity. The basement floor was raised nearly five feet, which gives the back room a midlevel. 

“The building has always been central to what Zandbroz is. The most important thing is being a good steward to this building and keeping it strong,” said Danz. 

The remodeled back room features recovered vintage pieces of all sorts that are largely found and restored by Danz himself, who is an avid collector.

“I buy things I like. If they sell, sometimes I’m disappointed and hate to see them go, but most often when somebody buys something from me, it’s because it made a connection with them,” said Danz. “That always makes me feel good to find a new home for some of those things. It’s a form of recycling, in my mind.” 

One of his favorite pieces is the former Bob’s Cafe sign, featuring Ima, who was the wife of Bob Lyons. The piece is from 1951 and pictures Ima holding a tray of food. 

As for Danz, he plans to keep acquiring more vintage pieces to fix up and sell to the public.

“Vintage allows us to learn about our history and to celebrate it.” 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT ZANDBROZ.COM. 

BEST PLACE TO SHOP FOR MEN & WOMEN

RUST & CO.
The modern-day apparel retailer specializes in American style at The Bridges in Sioux Falls. RUST & Co. is a family business and carries an assortment of new, yet timeless pieces for both men and women. Think weathered meets polished, tomboy meets sexy, and vintage meets modern. 5005 S. Western Ave., Ste. 100, Sioux Falls.

BEST PLACE FOR ANTIQUE SHOPPING

I-29 ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES
You can get lost in this antique mall off of the Tea exit on I-29. We’re talking 14,000 square feet. There are over 100 vendors to peruse, including glassware, jewelry, toys, hunting, sporting, furniture, and more. 46990 271st St., Tea.

BEST HIKE

DEVIL’S BATHTUB
This is one of the most rewarding hikes in Spearfish Canyon. It’s about a 10-15 minute drive from the stoplight in Spearfish that marks the beginning of the canyon, and the entire hike can be done in an hour. Kids might not be up for this hike, and your feet are bound to get wet, so be prepared. The best part is if waters are high enough, you can take a plunge into Devil’s Bathtub at the end to cool off. 1917 Spearfish Canyon Hwy., Lead. 

BEST PLACE TO LEAVE YOUR MARK

PALM GARDEN & CHOCOLATE SHOPPE
When we stopped by the all-yellow eatery and chocolate shoppe during our 2019 605 Road Trip, we fell in love. Not only do they have some of the best paninis, but they invite you to carve (appropriate) messages into their booths. 602 S. 3rd St., Aberdeen. 

BEST JOB

SANFORD UNDERGROUND
As challenging as it is rewarding, the Sanford Underground Research Facility is dedicated to underground scientific research at the former site of the Homestake Gold Mine. We’re talking 7,700 acres underground and 223 acres on the surface. The main level for science is at the 4850 level accessed by the Yates and Ross Shafts, and research includes looking into LZ, a second generation dark matter experiment. 630 E. Summit St., Lead. 

BEST PLACE TO TEST YOUR LIMITS

CANDYLAND
Stop by the state’s largest candy store (8,400 square feet, to be exact). There are hundreds of different types of candy, including a section with edible insects. We’re talking scorpions in suckers. Also, their super impressive soda section has flavors like Barf, Bloody Nose, and Bacon. 23835 Mill Iron Dr., Rapid City. 

BEST COMPANY CULTURE

LEMONLY
Their “lemons-to-lemonade” recipe helps companies with marketing, specializing especially in infographics. Clients include the Grammys, the MLB, Dove, Marriott, and more. But the downtown Sioux Falls company is also known for their impressive company culture. Just to touch on a couple of things, we’re talking a five-year adventure bonus, a continuing education allowance, a company retreat, and a Wellness Task Force. 230 S. Main Ave., Sioux Falls.

BEST WORKOUT CLASS

SÖL YOGA COLLECTIVE’S GOAT YOGA
Someone in South Dakota finally did it! Check out Sōl Yoga Collective’s Goat Yoga, which features adorable goats from Old McDonald’s Farm. Check out their Facebook for the special classes, which fill up fast. 611 ½ Main St., Rapid City. 

BEST KARAOKE SPOT

BILLY FROG’S
What if we told you there was karaoke every single night? It’s true at Billy Frog’s in Sioux Falls. Be patient, as you might have to wait your turn (and watch regulars perform like it’s Coachella), but it’s so worth it. Plus, there are great drink specials. 5002 S. Marion Rd., Sioux Falls. 

BEST PLACE FOR SOCIAL MEDIA

VINYL TACO
Everything about this place is Instagram worthy. There’s the lava wall, vinyl records everywhere (including records playing in the dining room), a mini bowling alley, and margaritas that are so cute you almost don’t want to drink them. But then you do. 3609 S. Western Ave., Sioux Falls. 

BEST LOCAL PRODUCT

GAYLEN’S HOMEGROWN POPCORN
South Dakota grown, and South Dakota delicious. There are so many flavors of popcorn that you’ll never get bored—Caramel Green Apple, Cheddar, Spiced Pumpkin Delight, Caramel Cinnamon Roll, Birthday Cake, Cookies and Cream, Cherry Chocolate Drizzle… we could go on. Gaylen’s started doing a Monthly Popcorn Box, where the company sends random popcorn flavors straight to your door for $18 a month. 23546 462nd Ave., Wentworth. 

BEST CAMPING EXPERIENCE

UNDER CANVAS MOUNT RUSHMORE
When you drive up the road toward Under Canvas Mount Rushmore at night, the small landscape lights and tents strewn about the forest makes you feel like you’re in a fantasy film like Lord of the Rings. You can go more rustic (as rustic as glamping can get) or have a full bathroom and other amenities (like the Stargazer window where you can sleep looking at the stars). The mid-century décor is adorable, and your tent stays tidy as there’s daily housekeeping. There are also complimentary camp activities, a fire pit and s’mores, on-site dining, USB battery packs, and an Adventures Concierge. Presidio, 24342 Ranch Rd., Keystone. 

BEST BRANDING

FERNSON BREWING COMPANY
Mitch Torbert and Evan Richards are the masterminds behind Fernson Brewing Company’s marketing, branding, and graphics. The graphic designer and marketing director chatted with 605 to give a look into their process. 

They credit the marketing of Fernson to the partnerships they have created with other Sioux Falls organizations like the Great Plains Zoo, Sanford International, and That Sounds Decent. 

“We find that partnering with organizations that are well thought of is a lot more fun for people than just ‘here’s a new beer’,” said Torbert.

They also attribute the marketing to inner-advertising with FernsonFest (Fernson’s annual beer and music event), their taprooms, and social media. 

As for the design side of branding, Torbert and Richards follow six guidelines: sincere, humble, simple, imaginative, fun, and approachable. 

“These came out of the core of who we and the owners are,” said Torbert. 

To witness the six aspects of their design, Richards encourages people to follow them on social media. 

“Drink local, support local, read local, hang out local,” said Richards. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT FERNSON.COM. 

BEST DATE NIGHT EVENT

JAZZCRAWL
Once a year the Sioux Falls Jazz & Blues Society puts on JazzCrawl—an event held at participating locations where each host performers throughout the night. Taste delicious bites and sip on beverages, and hop your way to different venues to see a variety of acts like Elisabeth Hunstad and the JAS Quintet. This also falls on Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM), so go support the arts with that special someone. Venues vary, Sioux Falls.

BEST ANNUAL EVENT

DEADWEIRD
“It’s how Deadwood does Halloween,” and boy do they do it right. The spooky weekend gets crazy with the Monster Ball on Friday with live music, prizes, dancing, and the big costume contest on Saturday. Trust, you don’t want to miss these contests as people go all out like the group costume that was the game of The Price is Right. Party in the street of downtown until curfew, then continue the party inside. Venues vary, Deadwood. 

BEST AIRBNB

BALE & BUTTERFLY BUNGALOW
We haven’t stopped dreaming of staying at this strawbale studio since we featured it years back. The 700-foot space has a full kitchen, futon, queen size Murphy Bed, full bathroom, a walk-in closet, and a 108-foot glass door with the views of the Black Hills. Not only is it full of plants and artwork, the hosts have filled it with activities like a wiffle ball field and a toolbox of arts and crafts. 8340 Schroeder Rd., Rapid City. 

BEST PLACE TO WORK REMOTELY

HARRIET & OAK
This coffee shop in the former auto sales and repair shop is full of modern charm and great natural light. Whether you’re having a meeting or are just wanting to chill in the vintage VW van (“Oakswagon”), enjoy everything from mimosas to craft coffee drinks to gourmet food (like the Thai Buddha Bowl with quinoa, marinated tofu, carrots, purple cabbage, cilantro, spinach, and crushed peanuts with house-made peanut sauce and a lime wedge). 329 Main St., Rapid City. 

BEST WAY TO PLAY WITH THE FAMILY

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF S.D.
This giant attraction promotes learning for children of all ages and abilities in Brookings. Along with studios and classrooms, the exhibits include KidStreet (where kids can check out Kids Live!, Market Fresh Grocery, Central School, Under the Hood, the Post Office, and more. Get wet with the Water Play, check out miniExplorers for babies and toddlers, and check out The Prairie (which includes the epic Cloud Climber). Get outside to walk through Tangle Town, and don’t leave without saying hi to Mama and Max, the T-Rex duo. 521 4th St., Brookings. 

BEST WAY TO PLAY AS AN ADULT

PRESS START
The basement bar arcade is one of our favorite spots. Full of nearly 100 retro games, feel nostalgic while sipping on a beer or cocktail. Hungry? There are pizzas and wings to recharge. Play games like Punch-Out!, or test your beer pong skills. Did we mention the video game décor is fantastic? 504 Mt. Rushmore Rd., Ste. 2, Rapid City. 

BEST BRUNCH

DRAG BRUNCH
Quinn Kathner beams with pride in more ways than one when she talks about Sioux Falls’ upcoming second annual Winter Pride celebration. As president of Sioux Falls Pride, she says they’re very excited to host another successful brunch. 

The drag brunch will feature queen Mari Jane, who is back by popular demand. 

“If you want to see a queen do a running jump off of the stage into the splits, you will see it there,” said Kathner.

The brunch will be at Icon Lounge and will be catered by Parker’s Bistro. There will also be mimosas, Bloody Marys, and non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase. The Pride Store will be selling merchandise there, which will all be $10 and under. All proceeds go back into Sioux Falls Pride. 

Kathner anticipates around 150 attendees, and tickets are pre-sale only on their website. Kathner says tickets go fast because of their consistent growth. 

“To see how far we’ve come is motivation for us to keep moving forward. We’re not slowing down, we’re only getting started,” said Kathner. 

Text PRIDE to 555888 to receive updates about upcoming events. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT SIOUXFALLSPRIDE.ORG.

WINTER PRIDE EVENTS

+ January 15
Dine to Donate Fundraiser Night // Info TBD
+ January 16
2020 Sioux Falls Pride Gala // 5-8 p.m. // Icon Loung
+ January 17
All-King Drag Show // 10 p.m. // Club David
+ January 18
S.D. Ultimate Entertainer Pageant // 10 p.m. // Club David
+ January 19
Winter Pride Drag Brunch feat. Mari Jane // 11 a.m. // Icon Lounge

BEST REFRESH

ROYAL RIVER CASINO & HOTEL
Royal River Casino & Hotel was made all the more royal by its recent renovations that senior director of operations Tim Morrissey says turned their entire Flandreau property into “a new place.” 

The changes include hotel room renovations, expansion of the casino gaming floor, the addition of a VIP lounge, the reconstruction of the Casino Porte-Cochere, the creation of the Center Gaming Bar, the expansion of the snack bar, and the expansion of a full-scale restaurant and buffet. 

Although there have been a multitude of changes, Morrissey says customers can expect to find the same level of customer service as before. 

“When you walk in, we usually know your name and who you are,” said Morrissey. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT ROYALRIVERCASINO.COM.

SAVE THE DATE

+ February 8
Aaron Lewis Acoustic Performance // 8 p.m.
+ March 6
Drew Lynch Comedian // 8 p.m.
+ March 27
American Icon Johnny Cash Tribute Featuring Penny Gilley and Doug Allen Nash // 8 p.m.
+ May 9
Buckcherry // 8 p.m.

PEOPLE

BEST LOCAL BAND

TENENBAUMS
Sioux Falls natives Brandon Phrommany, Mike Helland, and Drew Helland are friends, roommates, and bandmates. They chatted with 605 about their indie rock band, Tenenbaums. 

They started the band in 2014 and as Mike and Drew like to say, “all of us are brothers; we’re just twins.” 

Tenenbaums describe their sound as “daydream-80s-new wave rock.” However their music is described, it has brought them to many venues across the Midwest, including First Avenue in Minneapolis. 

“We take a lot of pride in our live shows,” said Drew. 

The guys practice in a DIY-style recording studio they put together in their home, where they’re currently working on new tracks. In the meantime, you can listen to their music on any streaming service or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT TENENBAUMS.BANDCAMP.COM

BEST BARTENDER

BRIAN WHITE
Brian White (or “Whitey”) has been in the service industry for years, and everyone was thrilled when their favorite bartender turned into a business owner with not just one, but two innovative establishments. Whitey is a co-owner of the successful Carpenter Bar, and he most recently worked with the same partners to open The Treasury at Hotel on Phillips downtown. That hasn’t changed his bubbly personality or the fact that he remembers your dog’s name or your family history (or your secrets if you told him too much after craft cocktails). Carpenter Bar, 215 S. Phillips Ave., Sioux Falls. The Treasury, 100 N. Phillips Ave., Sioux Falls.

BEST BAND TO SEE LIVE

LATER BABES
From the lights to crowd surfing on an inflatable pizza slice, Later Babes puts on a show. Tory Stolen, Myles Gosmire, Isaac Show, and Wes Eisenhauer specialize in dance jams mixed with live music, and it definitely turns into a party you don’t want to miss.

BEST BUSINESS COUPLE

MAMA’S LADAS AND MAMA’S PHRIED PHILLYS
For Jayme and Matt Mothershead, working together is second nature. The couple have owned and operated Mama’s Ladas since 2001 and opened Mama’s Phried & Phillys in 2013. 

Mama’s Ladas features enchiladas—the recipe for which was passed down from Jayme’s mother. Before opening the restaurant, she says, Jayme had only made the enchiladas on her own twice. Mama’s Ladas also has a large wine bar and homemade sangria. 

Mama’s Phried & Phillys specializes in authentic Philly cheese steak sandwiches and Matt’s grandmother’s recipe for southern fried chicken, which he says only a few people in his family know how to make. 

The couple has three children and have been married for more than a decade, but still enjoy the time they spend together, both at home and at work. 

“We both agree that the best part of working with one another is that the restaurant industry is so unpredictable, so we both find comfort that we can rely on each other for anything at any time,” said Jayme. “We truly have each other’s backs.” 

Both restaurants are located downtown and have a solid base of regulars. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT MAMASLADAS.COM.

BEST LOCAL ACTORS

DEADWOOD ALIVE
Deadwood wouldn’t be what it is without Deadwood Alive. For the last 20 years, the performers bring history to life with actors walking around town as famous characters like Jack McCall (Sean Baxter), Calamity Jane (Jena Sierks), and Wild Bill Hickok (Joseph Miller). See them perform at Main Street Shootouts, the Trial of Jack McCall, and more. Venues vary, Deadwood.

BEST BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL

NATALIE EISENBERG
Is there anything not cool about Natalie Eisenberg of Sioux Falls? She’s the CEO at Click Rain (a digital agency) and worked previously in a variety of industries like healthcare, higher education, retail, and nonprofit. She can do it all dressed up or can pull off a blazer over an Adidas sweatshirt. Eisenberg can be seen at many events, along with giving a lot of her time to the community (she’s a board member for both Bishop Dudley House and Levitt at the Falls.) #Goals. 300 N. Phillips Ave., Ste. 110, Sioux Falls.

BEST SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT

ARGUS911
Whether it’s cows on the road, the I-90 runaway pig, or people walking around with sledgehammers, Argus911 on Twitter is reporting local news of all kinds. Makenzie Huber, one of the Argus911’s breaking news reporters, talked with 605 about the popular social media account. 

Huber, who says she has her ear to the police scanner all day, tweets out updates and writes up briefs for larger incidents. 

“I never realized how weird Sioux Falls is until I started working the scanner,” said Huber endearingly. 

Argus911 was started in 2010 and immediately gained a large draw because of its immediacy and interaction with the public. 

“We are able to flip between those two goals of occasionally having a light-hearted voice behind our account, while maintaining the good public service mission of our journalism,” said news director Cory Myers. 

Huber says one of her favorite tweets was when she heard a report about a ninja attempting to perform a robbery. 

Not only does Argus911 use Twitter to get information out, you can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook. 

“People want to know what’s going on; they like to be informed, but they also love to laugh and smile,” said Huber. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT ARGUSLEADER.COM/NEWS/ARGUS-911.

SOME TWEET FAVORITES
Here are some of our favorite @Argus911 tweets (written as shown on Twitter profile).

+ October 29, 2019
officials deduce that moose on the loose has for now become a recluse (we’re calling him bruce)
+ October 5, 2018
there’s a report of a girl scout selling brownies and cookies but she is also carrying around an 8-inch kitchen knife
+ September 19, 2018
Report of ANOTHER LLAMA on the loose Not sure if the same llama from yesterday.
+ September 25, 2018
overheard on the scanner, in an unbelievably calm voice: “i do have an albino python or a boa I’m fighting with right now”
+ July 15, 2017
Family dispute on E 33rd started with a fight over bread sticks.
+January 1, 2017
Ambulance called for 80-year-woman who possibly had a stroke. Upon further inspection, she likely had ‘too much champagne’ and ‘too much fun’

BEST MEDIA PERSONALITY

SHAWN CABLE
The Emmy award-winning meteorologist, anchor, and reporter for KSFY News is always a friendly face on and off air. No matter what time of night (it seems), Shawn Cable will give social media followers the latest updates on all things weather. The best part? He’s not afraid to also goof around, like having Star Wars characters walk across the green screen, or dressing like a space character while hosting the South Dakota ADDY Awards. If you’re lucky, you’ve also watched him perform his lovely (tenor) vocals at events. 325 S. 1st Ave., Sioux Falls.

BEST FASHION

BRADY MALLORY
For reporter and KELOLAND news anchor Brady Mallory, clothing is a battle armor of sorts. When he likes what he’s wearing, he says he feels invincible. Like his reporting, his style is also bold. Mallory caught up with 605 to talk about his fashion inspiration. 

After preparing the news stories for the day, Mallory perfects his sharp look. 

“I read through scripts and get to know the show. Then I put my tie on and pile on enough hairspray to get my pompadour just the right amount of obnoxious,” said Mallory. “Depending on how tall my hair is, I can go from 5’11” to 6’4″ very quickly.” 

Mallory says his inspiration comes from his parents’ young Elvis and Priscilla look in the ‘70s and celebrities like Ben Platt, Ryan Seacrest, David Beckham, Ellen DeGeneres, and Dolly Parton.

While getting ideas from these celebrities, Mallory has his own style that he describes as bold, classic, clean, and eclectic. 

“I take a few risks here and there, and I like to try new trends, but I basically just stay with what I know looks good and fits well on my body,” said Mallory. 

Off-air, Mallory says he is a casual t-shirt and jeans guy, but he loves dressing up for concerts, social gatherings, and the KELO Christmas party, which he says is a “very swanky affair.” 

At the end of the day, however, no matter what he’s wearing, Mallory cares about the news. 

“We all do our best to bring important and meaningful stories to our viewers. I’m very proud of that,” said Mallory. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT KELOLAND. COM.

BEST COLLABORATION

STARTUP SIOUX FALLS AND ZEAL
Earlier this year, Startup Sioux Falls and Zeal Center for Entrepreneurship formed a partnership to help local small businesses and entrepreneurs. Matt Paulson of Startup Sioux Falls and Brienne Maner of Zeal chatted with 605 about their collaboration. 

“We’re all working toward the same goal, but how do we work more cohesively? It just made sense—as we continued to form that relationship and take stock of what entrepreneurs need in the community—to merge our efforts together,” said Maner. 

Startup and Zeal’s main goal is to connect entrepreneurs and small business owners within the community. 

“The joint organization will be able to connect people through government resources to metro capital resources to service providers to mentors,” said Paulson. “Whatever stage of business somebody is at and whatever problem they need help with, we can connect them to people that can help them or point them in the right direction.” 

The organizations host in-person events every month so that community members can network with each other. A full list of events can be found on their website. 

As for advice, Maner says to just take the first step. 

“Everyone has an idea rolling around in their head, but once they declare that it’s something they’ve been thinking about—whether that’s to a trusted source or to come out to Zeal Center for entrepreneurship and ask for help—that’s when the journey really starts,” said Maner. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT SIOUXFALLS. ECO OR REALZEAL.COM.

BEST BUZZWORTHY ARTIST

JOE SCHAEFFER
Co-founder and partner of Made by Thaw, Joe Schaeffer’s solo work has been shown in several exhibits this year, including at the Sioux Falls Arts Council and at the Museum of Visual Materials. Schaeffer’s paintings are available at Rehfeld’s Art & Framing, where he says his pieces are “grounded in his background of graphic design.” 8909 Lakeside Dr., Sioux Falls. 

PEOPLE’S CHOICE

We can’t possibly pick all of the winners. 605 opened up voting for three categories to win The People’s Choice.

BEST NEW BUSINESS

TERRA SHEPHERD BOUTIQUE & APOTHECARY, SIOUX FALLS
Fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products that are good for you, the environment, and the people who produce them.

BEST CHISLIC

MERIDIAN CORNER, FREEMAN
A family owned establishment offering food, a full bar, and the “perfect country atmosphere.” Specializes in Chislic, Tiger Meat, and fresh hand-pattied burgers.

BEST ROAD TRIP DESTINATION

CUSTER STATE PARK, CUSTER
Famous for bison herds, other wildlife, scenic drives, historic sites, visitor centers, fishing lakes, resorts, campgrounds, and more. Explore 71,000 acres of adventure.