Bismarck Restaurants and Dining

(Bismarck, North Dakota - ND, USA)

There is plenty in the way of dining within Bismarck, North Dakota's busy state capital. Bistros, wine bars, pubs, familiar fast-food outlets and upmarket restaurants are all available, if you know where to look and have a clear idea about what you want to eat.

Bear in mind that the state of North Dakota is completely landlocked and far from the sea, so for a taste of something local, look out for dishes made from buffalo, pheasant and freshwater fish, such as walleye and pike. However, that said, tuna steaks are regularly flown here and so are still perfectly fresh.

A more than reasonable choice of restaurants is to be found within downtown Bismarck, where the Pirogue Grille on North 4th Street is regarded amongst the capital's very best. Offering a casual fine dining experience, the Pirogue Grille features specialties such as grilled Alaskan king salmon, homemade venison sausage and dates filled with goats cheese.


The dining times of restaurants in Bismarck vary greatly. Some only open for evening meals at 17:00 onwards, while others open for breakfast and lunch as well. Eateries in areas with the biggest footfall, such as those around the Kirkwood Mall, will generally stay open all through the day to capitalize on passing trade. Eateries at the Kirkwood Mall include Bob's Pizza Plus, as well as fast-food takeaways Subway and Arby's.

Where to Eat

Located close to the North Dakota State Capitol, at the Arrowhead Plaza (North 3rd Street), is Bismarck's popular Walrus Restaurant, which has micro-brewed beers, pizzas, pasta dishes and grilled steaks, along with delicious tiramisu for dessert.

Roughly a 15-minute walk to the south of the Walrus Restaurant is the Blarney Stone Pub on East Main Avenue. Those dining here can expect a truly authentic Irish atmosphere, with tasty dishes including Guinness Irish stew, bangers and mash, shepherd's pie and Kilkenny cod, accompanied by a selection of more than 30 draft beers.

If you are looking for somewhere to eat breakfast outside of your Bismarck hotel, at the weekend, then the Blarney Stone Pub is a good choice. Traditional Irish breakfasts, comprising sausage, bacon, eggs, beans, Parmesan hash browns and tomatoes, are served up each Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 14:00.

Some of the busiest restaurants around Bismarck lie just off Interstate I-94 (exit 159), where favorites include the Perkins Restaurant and Bakery, the Country House Deli and A & B Pizza, all of which stand on East Interstate Avenue. Close by and situated on State Street are both KFC and Paradiso Mexican.

Reliable dining venues based around historic downtown Bismarck include the Fiesta Ville of East Main Avenue, which is housed within a characterful old train depot and features free nachos, tasty burritos and a taco bar. Just a stroll away, the Peacock Alley American Grill Restaurant and Bar is also more than worthy of a mention.