South Dakota Town Is Home To The States Oldest Hamburger Shop

For nearly a century, this beloved hamburger establishment in South Dakota has been delighting patrons with its iconic burgers.

Nick's Hamburger Shop in Brookings where you can "Buy 'em by the bag" is South Dakota's Oldest Hamburger Restaurant.

Nick's website states, “On South Dakota State University’s Hobo Day Nov. 2, 1929, Harold and Gladys Nikalson fired up a little stove burning what was then known as “white gas” and starting turning out what became the most famous, enduring hamburger ever.”

Established in 1933, Nick's Hamburger Shop has become a beloved institution in Brookings, South Dakota earning a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.

Although the building itself dates back to 1932, the original owner, Nick Dixson, had a short-lived venture, closing within six weeks of opening.

It was H.F. and Gladys Niklason, who had started their business in Brookings in 1929 and revived the space as Nick's Hamburger Shop a year later.

The restaurant's burgers gained national recognition in 1978 when the Washington Post featured them as one of the "82 Great Hamburgers" in a survey of all-time favorite hamburgers.

Despite changing hands a few times over the years, the iconic establishment has steadfastly retained its name and reputation as Nick's Hamburger Shop in Brookings, South Dakota.

Nick's has a simple but delicious menu including:

• Hamburger
• Double Hamburger
• Cheeseburger
• Double Cheeseburger
• Chips
• Homemade Pie
• Drinks and Shakes