The Farmhouse Bistro, Bar & Backyard

Spearfish, South Dakota

For decades, a series of dilapidated farm structures on a rolling farmstead along Spearfish Creek defined quintessential rural Americana. When the original owner demolished the buildings and listed the property for sale, the new owner, Merideth Pangburn-Walker, decided to use the opportunity to create a restaurant that reflected the fondly-remembered old farmstead in both structure and feeling. She wanted to customers to feel as if they were eating at her own home — clean, simple, comfortable — with a variety of indoor and outdoor dining experiences, all focused on views of the Spearfish Creek valley. The result was the Farmhouse Bistro, designed by JLG Architects.

The Farmhouse features six different indoor and outdoor dining environments: indoor dining with expansive views of the Creek; a more intimate Mezzanine level with views of the valley; private dining with floor-to-ceiling glass overlooking the Creek; an open outdoor patio; a unique structure providing shaded outdoor seating; and an outdoor deck at the Mezzanine level with elevated views of the Creek. The restaurant serves up “casual fine dining” for 90 guests inside, and 28 outside.

The Farmhouse is easily accessed from I-90 — a main East/West connection through northern U.S.A. — which passes on the North and East edges of Spearfish. A public pathway connects the site to the opposite side of the Creek. Farm artifacts such as a plow, metal feed bin, and large milk containers were integrated within the landscape. Aspen trees were selected for their light and lacey texture, compatible with the barn structure.