Sioux Falls continues to stretch its culinary map with fresh restaurant openings and a blossoming food truck scene. Whether you live nearby or are passing through, there’s a lot to explore beyond the usual dinner plans. Here’s what’s new—and what’s en route.
Standouts in New Openings
Aruma Tacos & Tequila
One of the most notable additions is Aruma Tacos & Tequila. Located at 2310 South Marion Road—where old favorites The SandBar & Grill and Railbirds used to be—this full-service Mexican restaurant breaks out with a distinct identity. Beyond tacos and margaritas, the menu leans approachable but lively, making it a solid option for both casual nights out and celebrating with tacos in hand.
Sabores 502 Building Out
Sabores 502—originally a food truck known for its Guatemalan-style street food—has now opened a brick-and-mortar spot at 804 W. 11th St. The truck still parks behind the building, but now instead of ordering outside, customers head inside the restaurant, which keeps its signature dishes like the shuco (a hot dog with toppings like cabbage and avocado sauce), mixtas, and more. It blends the truck energy with a dining room rhythm.
The Food Truck Scene: Innovation, Flavor, & Local Vibe
There are more than 125 food trucks operating across Sioux Falls this season—up from about 110 last year. The variety is outstanding: German sausages, buffalo burgers, Indian tacos, protein bowls, shaved ice, even “dirty sodas”—if that’s your thing.
Trucks Worth Seeking Out
- Backyard BBQ: Famous for its smoked meats—pulled pork, brisket, wings—and all the BBQ sides, this truck is everywhere from public events to festivals.
- The Corndog Company: Since arriving in Sioux Falls in 2024, it’s become a fixture at pop-ups. You’ll find its corndogs and versions of comfort food around town events.
- King of Gyros: Known for gyros, shawarma, lamb or chicken, fries, and even cheese curds, this truck often appears near 10th & Phillips on weekend nights and events.
- Salas Salsas: If you want breakfast tacos, nachos, or fresh rice bowls, this truck offers bright flavors and is often at Falls Park Farmers Market.
Beyond the Trucks: What’s Changing
Geo’s Hamburger Shopp Takes the Stage
Geo’s Hamburger Shopp—known for old-school cheeseburgers and lobster rolls—jumped from food truck status to operating a brick-and-mortar kitchen at The Gaslight Lounge (2206 W. 12th St.). Expect lunch and dinner options, with late hours Wednesday through Saturday.
New Café for Neighborhood Flair
Zest Social House is set to open in the former Dunn Brothers Coffee building at 8220 W. 12th St. Owner Janelle Whempner is turning it into more than just coffee and treats—think baked goods, a Kiwi-style fruit & ice dessert trade, ice creams, plus espresso, wine, and beer (for when the evening rolls in).
Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Scene
- Check food truck schedules on platforms like Street Food Finder or local Facebook groups—many trucks move around depending on the day and event.
- Weekends and evenings are when new cafes and casual restaurants tend to roll out their special menus or happy hour offerings.
- Evening food truck gatherings and downtown pop-ups are great times to sample from multiple vendors at once, often with live music.
In short: whether it’s a brick-and-mortar Mexican hangout, a truck rolling up at your favorite event, or a former food truck morphing into a dine-in spot—Sioux Falls is feeding itself with creativity. Hungry? You have options.