The AAA Approved Badlands Restaurant and Bar (above) in Minot is known as an approachable steakhouse featuring cozy, lodge-style dining spaces and an emphasis on perfectly prepared sirloin, ribeye and New York Strip steaks. But cedar plank salmon, pasta, hand-patted burgers and comfort food classics like pot roast and meatloaf round out a surprisingly deep menu that switches things up seasonally to keep the experience fresh for both visitors and locals.

“Our Philly sandwich is one of our specialties, our rice bowl is very popular and our Cajun chicken tortellini (above) is really good,” recommends manager Joshua Livingood. “And we do rotate our menu about every four to six months.”

The generous and well-stocked soup and salad bar is popular weekday lunch. It offers four piping hot soups and around 30 different fresh vegetables, leafy greens, crunchy salad toppings and a variety of dressings, so diners can customize their own healthy creations.

A kids menu makes dining easy and affordable for families. And flexible seating options make this a popular spot for large gatherings, including tour groups and celebrations.

“Our event room seats 35, and a lot of our tables are set for large parties, so we’re good for any occasion,” says Livingood. “We only require 10 or more for the back room, but we do ask that people call ahead to reserve it.”

The dining room doesn’t accept reservations, but Livingood says that the staff prides itself on getting large groups seated quickly. He suggests arriving early and enjoying a North Dakota Bulldog (a sweet cocktail enhanced with vanilla vodka) or a coconut rum Prairie Punch from the bar while staff members get the table ready. (Splitting an order of pretzel sticks, sweet chili shrimp or fried pickles while the rest of the party trickles in is also a good idea.) Save room for apple crisp or a brownie sundae for dessert.

AAA Inspector Notes:

“This restaurant was designed with a lodge theme in mind and has a rock-front bar and a wood-burning fireplace. Steak, seafood, chicken, pasta and classic comfort foods are offered. Desserts are made in house.”