Brookings’ Iconic ‘Nick’s Hamburger Shop’ Changes Ownership

One of South Dakota's most iconic little restaurants is now under new management.

Nick's Hamburger Shop in Brookings has changed hands.

If you're not familiar with Nick's, you've been missing out on a real South Dakota gem!

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Nick's is known for its simplistic approach, and that's why everyone loves them. Nick's has a long history in South Dakota of crafting the "Nickburger," delicious little sliders made with fresh, never-frozen beef, cooked using a unique tank-fried method, and served on a special recipe bun.

One thing is for certain: the price at Nick's is right!

Each famous Nickburger is only $2.00, and they've been that ridiculously low for over 10 years now!

In addition to their tasty burgers, Nick's has a legendary reputation for serving up melt-in-your-mouth homemade pies and mouthwatering milkshakes in a fun, retro 1950s classic diner atmosphere, right in the heart of downtown Brookings.

Since they first opened their doors in 1929, Nick's has seen all sorts of different types of customers. Ranging from students to locals to celebrities to world-travelers.

Former owner, Todd Fergun, told Dakota News Now that he's owned the restaurant since 2004. Its charm and tradition are what help keep Nick's so special.

New owner, Justin Price, agrees, he told Dakota News Now, “Tradition. It’s the place that everyone comes to. It’s where the governor stops, senators, pro-football players, you don’t know who’s going to come in the door. People from Madrid, Barcelona, Italy, Brazil, you don’t know, and that’s what makes it unique. Everyone can talk in there and converse.”

Price plans to keep Nick's Hamburger Shop the same. Everyone is used to it. It’s simple, it’s easy, there's no need for change.

Even though Fergun no longer owns Nick's, he is planning on hanging around to work there temporarily, until the staff and the community feel comfortable with the change, then he will retire.

However, he does plan to sneak in a little "me" time along the way.

Fergun has pretty much been married to Nick's Burgers for the last 12 years. He told Dakota News Now, "I’ve got some life to live and want to take care of some family things and so on.”

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Nick's Hamburger Shop is closing in on almost 100 years of history in South Dakota. The next time you visit Brookings, make sure to experience one of South Dakota's best-kept secrets yourself.

Nick's is open Monday - Friday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM at 427 Main Avenue in Brookings.

Source: Dakota News Now