Hungry? For me, the answer is almost never no, and steak almost always sounds amazing. Well, South Dakota is one of those states that does steak perfectly almost no matter where you go - if there's anything we do right, it's food. There's a little hole-in-the-wall steakhouse in South Dakota that's worth a shout-out. Nestled in the town of Hartford, the Hartford Steak Company might have a small menu - but it's big on flavor. You'll see.
Hartford is considered a small city, though to most it's more like a small town.
Its population was just over 3,300 as of the 2020 census - which, in my opinion, just makes this find that much better.
You'll walk in and immediately be surrounded by the incredible aroma of steaks on the grill.
The place is very homey and small-town; it's the sort of spot where the locals come to hang out and talk about life.
The menu is small, but the steaks are not.
I'm not even sure where else on this planet you'll find two pounds of Filet for less than $40, and that filet is amazing.
No matter what you get, it's sure to be delectable.
Everything on the menu is cooked beautifully and to perfection. Rare, medium rare, medium, medium-well - no matter how you like your red meat, you'll find it done perfectly 'round these parts.
The whole restaurant definitely has that local, hole-in-the-wall kind of vibe to it.
Personally, I feel like this detail makes it that much better. Food is, after all, sometimes only as good as the atmosphere it's delivered in - and this little spot nails it with all of the above.
Personally, I can't get enough of the prime rib and the filet mignon.
You'll find other wonderful, choice cuts of meat ready to be devoured... order more than enough and take some home for later. You won't regret it.
Of course, don't forget to leave room for dessert... if you can.
This wonderful little steakhouse in South Dakota is everything you could ever hope for in a small-town hidden gem. Hartford Steak Co. is easily one of my favorite places I've ever covered for OnlyInYourState, and you will not regret a trip out for one second! It recently opened up a second location in Vermillion, which is also wonderful, but the all-original spot is the best! Need a place to stay while in Hartford? Check out the offerings from our friends at VRBO.
What are your favorite small-town steakhouses beloved by locals? Let me know in the comments!
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