What in the World is a 'South Dakota Martini'?

I have had the pleasure of living in Sioux Falls for just over four years. Although I truly love living in God's country, there is one aspect of living in Sioux Falls that still puzzles me to this day.

Serious question: Why do Sioux Falls beer drinkers put pickles in their drinks?

Just a personal preference, I'm the type of person who prefers to consume her food separate from her drink and not while it’s floating around in her drink!

Canva/Christine TSM

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The South Dakota Martini: A Local Specialty That Defies Expectations

When I first moved to South Dakota, one of my friends bought a beer and the waitress asked, "With or without a pickle?" I had to check with my friend to see if I actually heard the waitress correctly. Sure enough, people like to call this drink a "South Dakota Martini."

This tradition hails from different parts of the Midwest, especially South Dakota. According to Urban Dictionary, the South Dakota Martini is "an American adjunct lager with green olives." This recipe can also involve pickles.

From my understanding, pairing the pickle with a light draft beer is the best way to enjoy a South Dakota Martini.

Christine Manika TSM

So why do beer drinkers in Sioux Falls and South Dakota put pickles in their beers? Apparently, it tastes pretty good.

Taste of Home explains, "Basically, the vinegar and salt in the pickle complement the flavor of the beer, which makes drinking a whole new (and better) experience." Umm...okay I'll take your word for it.

As someone who doesn't drink beer, adding a pickle to it does not make it any more appealing for me to taste. Therefore if you're someone who likes pickles in his or her beer, I respect you for being adventurous!

I'll just stick to my periodic glass of wine. What do you think about putting pickles in beer? Do you enjoy it, or do you prefer a plain, good old-fashioned beer?

Best Bars in Sioux Falls

There is always something different to try when you visit a local Sioux Falls bar or brewery. There could be a specialty drink at one bar and a new beer recipe at the next. It's kind of like a smorgasbord of drinks to taste test. The only problem is deciding which bars are the best bars in Sioux Falls to explore with your family or friends?

This is a difficult decision just because there are so many great local options. Luckily, our friends at Yelp identified the top ten bars in Sioux Falls thanks to numerous reviews on each establishment.

The next time it's your turn to select a bar for a night out on the town, be sure to visit one of these ten bars highly reviewed by Yelp.

Gallery Credit: Christine Manika

Birthday Freebies You Can Get at Sioux Falls Businesses

We've added even MORE birthday freebies from Sioux Falls businesses.

Everyone loves free stuff, especially on your birthday. Most of the freebies require you to sign up for their rewards program, e-mail list, or mobile app, so make sure you plan ahead. Some of the offers are good just on your birthday, while others are good for a week or longer.

Of course, this is just a small list. There are many more businesses that offer free stuff for your birthday right here in Sioux Falls. You just need to ask! Or, choose your favorite business, check out their website, and sign up for their e-mail club. All offers are subject to change at any time. Call ahead or check their website for more details.

*List updated 12/28/2022 - Individual businesses may change their policies at any time.

Gallery Credit: Karla Brown