About
One of the Black Hills' cherished dining spots is the Alpine Inn.
Built in 1886 as the Harney Peak Hotel, it was a luxury hotel for executives of the Harney Peak Tin Mining, Milling, and Manufacturing Company during the Black Hills tin boom. When the mining industry collapsed and two major fires ravaged the building, the hotel closed in 1934.
In 1974, German immigrant Waldraut "Wally" Matush stepped in and purchased the historic building. After extensive repairs, he launched the Alpine Inn restaurant in 1984. His daughter, Monika, took over in 1996, making the eatery a South Dakota hotspot with its Old World charm, European-influenced flavors, and more than a century of hospitality. With its seasonal hours, German classics, and famous filet mignon dinners, it’s no surprise Alpine Inn attracts diners like bees to honey.
So, visit and discover for yourself why it’s one of South Dakota’s most iconic restaurants!
Vibe
The revitalized two-story 1886 structure is easy to spot on Hill City’s Main Street. The brown clapboard siding, vintage-style windows, and wrap-around front porch speak of Old World charm with a modern touch.
The interior continues the European theme with wood paneling, cozy lighting, and copper tin ceilings. Framed artwork and period details add character, connecting the present with the building’s storied past.
There are multiple seating areas, from open spaces to nooks for a more intimate dining experience. The wrap-around porch makes dining al fresco in the mountain air a highlight, especially during warm months.
This blend of history, comfort, and mountain-town charm makes the ambiance at Alpine Inn a natural fit for a South Dakota vacation.
Alpine Inn: Menu & Drinks
Before we unpack the dinner menu, let’s explore the lunch menu that has more variety. A European comfort dish is the Kaes Spaetzle, showcasing German dumplings with Swiss cheese. Accompanying the spaetzle is a fresh bratwurst with red cabbage and German bread.
A classic Deutschland meal is the schnitzel, which is thinly sliced pork pounded flat, breaded, and fried to a golden brown. Accompanying the schnitzel is Kaes Spaetzle, sauerkraut, red cabbage, and German bread.
A lighter choice is the Black Forest Meat and Cheese Board, with Brie, pepperjack and Swiss cheese, salami, turkey, and ham, with 1/2 baguette and grapes.
For a more American-style lunch, check out the sandwiches like the Reuben and club, or order the Alpine Burger. This juicy handheld features a 1/2 lb of ground filet mignon patty with lettuce, tomato, onion, and our house-made fire and ice pickles.
Now, on to the dinner menu! When we alluded that lunchtime has more options, we weren’t exaggerating; the dinner menu has two choices! But don’t let the lack of “more” deter you from visiting because these entrees have had diners flocking here for years!
The top draw is the bacon-wrapped filet mignon in either the 6- or 9oz cut. The steak is tender, and the straightforward preparation allows the beef to speak for itself. The portion and quality far exceed the modest cost, which explains the long lines at the Alpine Inn! The mignon comes with a baked potato, Texas toast, and a quarter wedge of lettuce with homemade ranch dressing.
The other dinner choice is Kaes Spaetzle Primavera, which will appeal to vegetarians. The German dumplings with Swiss cheese are topped with fresh steamed vegetables and come with a wedge of lettuce, house-made dressing, and Texas toast.
Whether you visit for lunch or dinner, save room for dessert! The bakery case is filled with house-made deliciousness, like tortes, pastries, and cakes.
On the drink side, the restaurant's coffee and espresso offerings pair well with the European desserts. The wine selection will complement the beef-focused dinner menu.
Visiting Alpine Inn will enhance your Black Hills getaway with its history, German cuisine, and modest prices. Discover firsthand why it’s one of South Dakota’s celebrated restaurants.
Local Tips
- Alpine Inn is a first-come, first-served eatery.
- Credit cards aren’t accepted, so bring cash. There’s an ATM onsite should you need it.
- The kids’ menu makes the Alpine Inn family-friendly.
- Grab a porch table in warm months for the best seats.
