Students who returned from summer break might have noticed that the Brookings restaurant scene has changed. 

A handful of new places have opened up in locations that previously housed other eateries. Here is a look at three of those new restaurants:

Chix Chicken and Waffles

Chix Chicken and Waffles began in Le Mars, Iowa, with nothing more than a food truck and a dream. Founder Tracy Brent always has had a passion for creating delicious food and in 2020, she and a friend began their journey experimenting and perfecting a menu that became a fan favorite. 

When her friend later chose a different path, Brent pressed forward with determination, turning that dream into reality in 2024 when she opened her own restaurant in downtown Le Mars. 

That success led to the decision to expand to Brookings. On Aug 22, 2025, Chix Chicken and Waffles officially opened its doors in Brookings at the former Patriots Grub and Sweets at 2035 Orchard Drive. Try the Nashville fried chicken and their homemade waffles. The menu also features buffalo ranch loaded fries, a variety of chicken sandwiches, the dirty bird and cowboy corn bites. 

 The restaurant is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

Domellie’s American Steakhouse 

Matt Chapman is the owner of Domellie’s American Steakhouse, a new restaurant coming to Brookings on Sept. 23. Domellie’s will be a chef-inspired steakhouse offering premium cuts of beef and other fine cuisine crafted with high-end ingredients. 

Guests can expect a fun, inviting dining space, perfect for celebrating special occasions, enjoying a date night or simply treating themselves to a meal. Chapman, a culinary school graduate and a Brookings native, said he is excited to bring something new to his hometown. 

“As a chef, I’ve always dreamed of having my own place. When this opportunity came along, I jumped at it,” Chapman said. “I wanted to bring something special back to the community I grew up in.” 

Domellie’s, in the former Wilbert’s Alehouse at 929 25th Ave, will open beginning at 3p.m. Tuesday through Saturday with happy hour from 3-5p.m. Weekly, chefs will feature dishes highlighting fresh cuisine from across the country. 

Along with the restaurant is a full ballroom event center, which seats up to 400 guests for weddings, corporate gatherings and other special events. The name Domellie’s is a nod to Chapman’s two children, Dominic and Ellie. Although it’s not open yet, Chapman hopes that it will quickly become a staple in the community. 

Chapman said he is excited to open and see all the community members enjoy this new restaurant. 

Qiubo Restaurant 

Qiubo, a restaurant offering Nicaraguan, Mexican and Honduran cuisine, has taken over the location on South Main formerly known as Yessica’s at 1300 Main Ave South.  

This family-friendly restaurant offers a new cultural experience filled with flavor and tradition. Qiubo is the creation of María Rebeca Salas, originally from Corinto, Nicaragua. Growing up surrounded by a hardworking, entrepreneurial family, Salas developed the same drive to create something of her own. 

“Qiubo was created after many nights of dreaming with my little family,” Salas said. “We longed for a restaurant where we could enjoy delicious dishes that remind us of our traditions, culture, and the warm flavors of our country.” 

Her vision was to bring those flavors and experiences to Brookings—making it possible for the community to share in the food and culture of Nicaragua. Salas describes Qiubo’s menu as, “Full of family flavor—homemade, cozy, and comforting.” 

Every dish is crafted to deliver the authentic taste of Nicaragua to South Dakota. The menu features dishes such as lengua en salsa, bacanal de mariscos, pollo en salsa blanca and street fries. 

According to Visit Brookings, Qiubo holds the distinction of being the first Nicaraguan restaurant in South Dakota. According to Salas, beyond the food, Salas and her team are committed to creating a welcoming, home-like atmosphere that makes every guest feel part of the family. 

Qiubo officially opened on July 24 and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.–9 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.