Delicious places to dine surround you in Rapid City, South Dakota. In the downtown district alone you'll find locally made ramen, handmade pasta, and incredible pizzas. A staple of the Rapid City dining scene that's existed since the early 90s is the Firehouse Brewing Company. It's one of those "did you really even visit Rapid if you didn't dine here?" places, and here are the three reasons why.
1. The Atmosphere
I could go on forever raving about the atmosphere of the Firehouse Brewing Company. It’s one of the most unique dining environments in Rapid City. The building its housed in started out as Rapid City’s original firehouse which was built back in 1915 and is listed in the National Historic Register. The business embraces its fiery roots by carrying the theme throughout the space. Kids can get plastic fireman hats, the walls are decorated with firefighting memorabilia and the original fire pole is still in the building! My favorite part is actually outside of the building. Step out onto their expansive patio and take in the murals that add a spectacular awe factor to an already impressive space.
2. The Drinks
Firehouse Brewing Company was the first brew pub in South Dakota, opening its doors in 1991! That means they’ve spent years perfecting their beers, and it would be a mistake to travel all the way here and not try one. Not a beer lover? Have no fear, they also serve locally crafted Firehouse Wines! I’ve never been one to enjoy beer, but I am a self-proclaimed cider snob. The Firehouse has a delicious one called the Teacher’s Pet for my fellow snobs out there, and they also have a great non-alcoholic Root Beer!
Firehouse Brewing Co. and Firehouse Wine Cellars are on the Rapid City Grapes & Grains Trail so be sure to sign up for your visit so you can win prizes!
3. The Food
Firehouse Brewing Company offers pages and pages of delicious food items. Feelin’ like having a burger, they got it. How about a juicy steak, check. Maybe you’re even in the mood for some Gumbo, they got you covered. To get you started, let me point out a few of my favorites. First stop: the appetizer section where you will find the Cheesy Artichoke Dip. Go ahead and order yourself one of those the moment you arrive. For your main dish you can’t go wrong with the Buffalo Blue Burger, The Firefighter (chopped pork sandwich), or some Fish N’ Chips. End your meal with a Blackout – and by that I mean the brownie marbled with cream cheese and smothered in ice cream and chocolate syrup. Can I get a yum?
Dining out should be an experience, and at the Firehouse Brewing Co. it is one. Take time to check it out while you’re in town!