Out to eat in Sioux Falls: Diner provides quality service, comforting atmosphere
A cozy restaurant in downtown Sioux Falls sports a fun color scheme and architecture that takes the customers back to the 1970s.
When going inside the Phillips Avenue Diner, booths line both walls and tables at each end of the building accommodate larger parties. Or, if dining solo, patrons have the option to sit at the bar and watch as the staff make shakes and malts.
The staff are friendly and kind as soon as you walk in the door, and all the details create a warm and comfortable environment to dine in.
The diner features a variety of cozy foods, including burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads, appetizers (such as cheese curds), pastas and all-day breakfast.
For additional costs, the diner serves coffee, soft drinks and specialty shakes and malts. While the menu offers classic flavors, such as chocolate or vanilla, it also boasts more specialized flavors, including s’mores, strawberry cheesecake and Chocomint Crunch.
In addition to the standard menu, the diner also offers a monthly menu that features selections of appetizers, entrees and a shake flavor that is specific for each month.
When I went to the Diner, I was immediately greeted with a smiling hostess. I was quickly seated in a booth, and a waiter came to the table to greet me and take my drink order.
I went to dinner at 4:30, which is slightly early. During the peak times of noon and around 5:30-6 p.m., the restaurant does become quite busy because of its popularity and the relatively low amount of seating, which is caused by the small size of the restaurant. If someone goes during busy times, be prepared to wait; however, even when going at busy times, the staff do their best to interact with the customers and respond timely to their tables.
After looking at the menu, I decided to try the Pesto Tortellini, which came with garlic bread and cost $14 in total.
The lowest-priced item on the menu is the Tomato Bisque for $5 while the highest-priced item is the Bourbon Street Salmon for $18.50. The majority of the items ring up to $15 or so.
After ordering, I prepared to wait for food, but it came out relatively quickly. The pasta, which arrived warm and visually appealing, was a good-sized portion. It was well cooked and the pesto mixed with the tomatoes and onions to create an interesting yet delicious combination. At the end of the meal, the garlic bread was the perfect medium to eat the remaining pesto.
By meal’s end, I felt satisfied — with the flavors, the food and the service — and full due to the portion size. Including tip, I paid less than $20 for a dining experience at Phillips Avenue Diner, which I think was more than fair due to the delicious food and the great service.
