If there is one thing that South Dakota knows how to do (aside from being super warm and welcoming, building amazing monuments, and saving residents tons of money, that is), it is making an incredible meal. While you really cannot go wrong with any locally owned and operated cafe around the state, there are a few establishments in particular that stand out as being the best and most unique places to eat in South Dakota, including:

1. Mama's Ladas (Sioux Falls)

We dare you to find better enchiladas in the entire state! Mama's Ladas serves true homemade enchiladas with their original, tasty salsa. The building itself is very small and unique - and if it gets busy, it might just be packed wall to wall - but it is worth it for the fantastic food.

2. Kōl (Rapid City)

Kōl gets its unique name from the massive coal-fired oven that is used to cook its amazing food! The menu choices are both interesting and delicious, and you even get to watch your meal being made in their huge exhibition kitchen. It's got a very modern feel and the atmosphere is one that is one-of-a-kind to the area. Give them a try if you're looking for something new!

EDITOR'S NOTE: Unfortunately Kōl has permanently closed its doors.

3. Palm Garden Cafe & Chocolate Shoppe (Aberdeen)

If you are looking for a place with outdoor seating, look no further than the Palm Garden Cafe. Pair the sunshine with mouthwatering food and you've got yourself THE perfect lunch setting. This place has been around for decades and - while you're eating - you can look at many of the initials of people who have dined there carved into the walls. Before you leave, don't forget to pick up some of their gourmet chocolate treats!

EDITOR'S NOTE: Unfortunately, Palm Garden Cafe & Chocolate Shoppe has permanently closed.

4. Desperados Cowboy Restaurant (Hill City)

Saddle up for this rustic, cowboy-themed restaurant with dishes to die for! One of Desperados' more iconic dishes is their made-in-house chips, shown here with one of their awesome sandwiches. The ambiance at Desperados is perfect for something a little different which - paired with their great food - is nothing short of amazing! Word to the wise: Don't miss out on their buffalo burgers!

5. Cheyenne Crossing (Lead)

If you're on the road and need a place to stop to eat, look no further than Cheyenne Crossing. While they have tons of amazing meals, one of the highlights is their scrumptious Indian Fry Bread and/or Indian Tacos. This unique spot is the perfect place to stretch out and fill up on some great home cooking.

6. Khorasan Kabob House (Sioux Falls)

Located in Sioux Falls, the Khorasan Kabob House serves what is arguably the most delicious and authentic Middle Eastern food in the state. In addition to their unique menu options, Khorasan sells and displays handmade Afghan carpets, which is another reason we consider the restaurant to be one of the best places to dine in South Dakota. Take our recommendation and visit the Kabob House pronto; you won't be disappointed.

7. Nick's Hamburger Shop (Brookings)

"Buy 'em by the bag" is the slogan of this old-fashioned restaurant, and you will want to by the time you're finished! Built in 1929, Nick's Hamburger Shop is a true part of Mount Rushmore State history and preserves the memory of old-time hamburger shops and diners. In addition to their awesome burgers, Nick's whips up mean chocolate shakes and homemade pie, making it one of the best places to eat in South Dakota. The restaurant itself isn't huge, but the taste is big and will give you great memories that you'll want to relive.

8. Grapes & Grinds (Keystone)

Treat yourself to a huge selection of fantastic coffee, wine, ice cream, treats, and more at the wonderful Grapes & Grinds. In addition to the impressive variety of drinks they serve, they also have utterly delectable gelato and fudge with melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. Not in the mood for sweets? Grab a bagel to go with your coffee, as they have plenty to choose from! Whatever you are in the mood for, this hang-out spot is a great place to just relax and enjoy. (Psst... If you think the picture of this gelato is incredible, wait until you try one for yourself!) Check out the Grapes & Grinds Facebook page for current days and hours of operation.

What do you think of all of these South Dakota restaurants? Do you have a unique restaurant that is YOUR favorite? We would love to hear all about it in the comments! In addition to visiting all of these stellar places in SoDak, we also recommend taking this sweet road trip in South Dakota that takes you to old-school chocolate shops and/or checking out these hole-in-the-wall restaurants in South Dakota that will blow your taste buds away!