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Your Guide to Some of the Best Places to Eat in Downtown Watertown, SD

Element Watertown, SD

Find your next favorite meal just steps away from Element Event Space & Collective Workspace!


Downtown Watertown is becoming a true destination for food lovers: from craft beer and artisan burgers to sushi, and the newest to family favorites on the block. Whether you're hosting an event at Element Private Event Space, coworking for the day, or simply looking for a cozy evening out, you’ll find incredible dining options all within walking distance.


And here’s why it matters:

Dining Downtown keeps our community vibrant. Every meal, every coffee stop, and every night out strengthens local businesses, supports real families, and helps maintain a thriving historic district. When you choose Downtown Watertown, you’re choosing connection, creativity, and the future of our city.


Let’s explore some of the best spots to eat downtown... plus a fun little food-crawl guide at the end to help you plan your perfect day.



1. Watertown Brewing Company

Address: 113 E Kemp Ave

Proximity to Element: 3-minute walk


Watertown Brewing Co. is the place for handcrafted beers, elevated pub classics, and a warm, bustling atmosphere. Their rotating seasonal brews pair perfectly with spent-grain pizzas, burgers, and shareable appetizers. Great for pre-event drinks or post-coworking meetups.



2. Gather

Address: 122 E Kemp Ave

Proximity to Element: 4-minute walk


Gather is a coffee shop that has become a daily necessity for coffee addicts, foodies, and anyone looking for a community-focused vibe. Try an award-winning baked good or a specialty coffee drink.

Gather also has a backroom meeting space perfect for small get-togethers or parties! It’s the ideal stop before coworking or for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.



3. Hot Mama Mack’s

Address: 206 E Kemp Ave

Proximity to Element: 4-minute walk


Hot Mama Mack’s specializes in homemade freezer meals that are already cooked to be picked up.

Known for fresh ingredients and strong local support, Hot Mama Mack’s is the perfect spot for quick and flavorful meals in the heart of downtown.



4. Mavericks Steak & Cocktails

Address: 100 E Kemp Ave, Suite B

Proximity to Element: 2-minute walk


Mavericks at The Goss is a favorite for families, celebrations, and weekend dinners. The rustic atmosphere and friendly service make it a classic Watertown dining experience.



5. The 19th Hole

Address: 28 N Broadway

Proximity to Element: 1-minute walk


Known for its energetic atmosphere, cold drinks, pizza, and classic bar favorites, The 19th Hole is a great late-night stop or casual meetup spot after events downtown.


Watertown, SD Photo Credits to Visit Watertown
Photo Credit: Visit Watertown

6. Downtown Sushi

Address: 18 N Broadway

Proximity to Element: 1-minute walk


With another convenient location close to Element and affordable pricing, they are a natural choice for dine-in or take-out meals. They are known for their variety of tastes and high-quality fresh ingredients, offering sushi and Japanese appetizers.



7. Breakout

Address: 19 N Broadway

Proximity to Element: 1-minute walk


Breakout is a coffee shop just a few doors down from Element, offering coffee and drinks, specialty wines, craft beers, small plates, and desserts. Escape Rooms are available to book Thursday-Saturday. Quite literally something for everyone!



8. Dempsey's Brewery Pub & Restaurant

Address: 127 N Broadway

Proximity to Element: 3-minute walk


Dempsey's Brewery Pub & Restaurant is the 2nd-oldest brewery in the state. They have 21+ tap lines, house-brewed beers (as well as root beer and cream soda), a full rotating menu with made-from-scratch recipes, and they’ve got something for everyone. Dempsey’s is known for its welcoming vibe, perfect for casual dinners or catching up with friends.



9. 2nd Street Station

Address: 15 2nd Street SW

Proximity to Element: 4-minute walk


A Watertown classic known for its friendly service, comfort food, great specials, and relaxed atmosphere. Whether it’s burgers, pasta, or a hearty steak dinner, 2nd Street Station always delivers a hometown feel.



10. The Local (NEW - OPENING SOON)

Address: 16 W Kemp Ave

Proximity to Element: 1-minute walk


The Local looks forward to sharing many creative dishes that are sure to tantalize anyone's taste buds. At The Local, there’s something for everyone. From hearty classics to fresh, flavorful bowls and handhelds, their menu is built for all tastes.



Why Dining Downtown Matters

Choosing to dine downtown isn’t just about great food (though it's a great plus); it’s about supporting the heart of Watertown. When you choose a local coffee shop or a small restaurant, you’re helping:


  • Strengthen local entrepreneurship

  • Keep money circulating in our community

  • Preserve the charm and character of Downtown Watertown

  • Fuel the growth of new businesses (like The Local!)

  • Create a vibrant, walkable district for residents and visitors


Every meal, every latte, and every date night adds up. Downtown grows because you choose to show up for it.



Ready to Explore?

Whether you're planning a food crawl, grabbing coffee before a workshop night at Element, or heading out for a weekend dinner, Downtown Watertown has something for every craving.

Support local. Try something new. And savor the best flavors our town has to offer. This list only scratches the surface. ❤️


Suggested Route:

  1. Start with coffee and grab a quick bite → Gather or Breakout

  2. Shop, and grab a few frozen meals (or some amazing salsa) → Hot Mama Mack’s

  3. Lunch stop → Mavericks or Downtown Sushi

  4. Afternoon brew → Watertown Brewing Company or Dempsey’s Brewpub

  5. Attend an Element Sip 'n Paint or Sign Workshop 😉

  6. Dinner → 2nd Street Station (or The Local - SOON!)

  7. Nightcap → The 19th Hole


Happy dining, and happy holidays!


Element - Private Event Space and Collective Workspace

Address:

1 N Broadway

Watertown, SD 57201

Contact:

elementevents605@gmail.com

(605) 884-5582

Facebook: Element

Daily Booking Hours: 7:00 am – 11:00 pm


 
 
 

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