For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Main Street in Deadwood, there’s a new (modern) watering hole in town.
Preacher Smith’s Taproom & Commons recently opened in The Lodge at Deadwood, located next to Oggie’s Sports Bar. The “serene getaway,” as director of operations Anthony Galbraith calls it, is a unique blend of history, community, and hospitality inspired by the legendary preacher “who brought hope to the Black Hills during the Gold Rush era.”
“Preacher Smith arrived in Deadwood in early 1876. The town was famous for its gold, gunfights, gambling, and general lawlessness,” described Galbraith. “He quickly became known for delivering open—air sermons, often in the middle of the street, a bar, or a clearing-wherever a crowd would gather.”
Known for carrying a Bible in one hand and revolver in the other, he was later found deceased not far from The Lodge at Deadwood location where a monument currently lies.
Galbraith says when the concept of Preacher Smith’s came up, they wanted the craft cocktail bar to reflect the legend as a gathering place “where stories are shared, connections are made, and good times are had.”
During the map out process for the build-out, the team wanted it to showcase the Wild West with current design.
“We took inspiration from Old West bars in the past and added modern finishes,” said Galbraith. “There is a lot of attention paid to ensuring that everyone who visits has a high-end experience.”
Anthony Galbraith
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AMERICANO
Campari, Carpano Antica Vermouth, soda, and a lemon peel.
BLOODY MARY
Tito’s, PS Bloody Mary Mix, spicy pickle, pepperoncini, olive, celery, lime, and PS Spice rim.
CUCUMBER COLLINS
Hendricks Gin, muddled cucumber, mint and lime, Demerara, and soda.
NEGRONI
Beefeater, Campari, Carpano Antica Vermouth, and an orange peel.
OLD FASHIONED
Old Forester bourbon, Demerara, orange bitters, orange peel, and a cocktail cherry.
PALOMA
Don Julio Reposado, Squirt, lime, and a sweet salt rim.
Preacher Smith’s offers a carefully-curated selection of spirits, craft beers, and craft cocktails. When asked about the menu, Galbraith referred to it as “the Gospel.”
“It’s a Gospel written in handcrafted cocktails—the sermons are poured over ice, and the only confession required is your love for a fine drink,” he said. “It is a mix of new and old, classic, and contemporary.”
One of the most popular drinks is the Preacher’s Sour with homemade sour mix that is balanced with “the highest quality liquors.” The bar also has a selection of different mules that are fan favorites.
The Lodge at Deadwood team are fans of the classics, specifically the Old Fashioned with high-end bourbon and imported cherries as a finish.
“the Relaxing atmosphere adss tranquility to the lodge.”
– Anthony Galbraith
“We also love the Daiquiri, which is inspired by the original recipe and has a nice lime finish without being overly sweet,” said Galbraith.
Along with beverages, Preacher Smith’s has recently introduced a small plate appetizer menu, like imported almonds and olives, flatbreads and cheeses, and shrimp cocktail.
Galbraith is excited for the cocktail lounge to be a place to stop in for a cocktail before or after dinner, for a nightcap with friends “new or old,” or to try something new within the Deadwood experience.
He said, “It’s great to be able to offer our guests well-crafted and unique cocktails to leave the world behind and sip in the spirit of an era where every toast tells a tale.
