RAPID CITY, SD — A longtime favorite in the Black Hills dining scene is getting a fresh start this spring.

Millstone Family Restaurant on Lacrosse Street will officially reopen May 8 following a significant interior remodel, led by owner Ted Diehl, aimed at modernizing the space while preserving the restaurant’s well-known atmosphere.

Diehl said the decision to renovate came down to staying competitive in a growing part of Rapid City.

“It was time,” Diehl said. “We’ve got to stay relevant and stay top of mind. There’s a lot of new retail being built around us, and we don’t want people to forget about us.”

The remodel ties into exterior upgrades completed several years ago, creating a more cohesive look both inside and out. The updated design leans into a warm, “cozy cabin” feel that reflects the Black Hills while offering a refreshed dining experience.

One of the biggest changes is a redesigned dining room layout intended to create a more open and inviting space. Ceilings near the entrance were raised by 18 inches, additional windows were installed above the front doors to increase natural light, and entryway walls were pulled back to improve flow and visibility.

The flooring was also completely updated, replacing carpet with luxury vinyl plank to give the restaurant a cleaner, more modern appearance.

Even with the upgrades, Diehl emphasized the importance of maintaining the character longtime customers have come to expect.

“We wanted to keep up with the times, but it was also important to keep some of that cozy charm,” he said.

The remodel was designed with both employees and guests in mind, creating an environment that enhances the overall experience on both sides of the table.

“We wanted to create a space employees will be excited and proud to work at,” Diehl said. “We also wanted to create a space that was comfortable and welcoming for our loyal customers. I think we definitely accomplished that.”

The Lacrosse Street location is set to reopen Thursday, May 8, with anticipation building among regulars eager to see the transformation. Diehl said the focus remains on the community that has supported the restaurant for years.

“We have the most loyal customers in Rapid City, and we hope they will be happy with what we have done,” he said. “Because it was all for them. The staff and I can’t wait to see all their smiling faces.”

As Rapid City continues to grow, Millstone’s investment signals its commitment to remaining a cornerstone of the local dining scene in the Black Hills—blending tradition with thoughtful updates for the next generation of guests.

Disclosure: The Millstone is marketed by The HomeSlice Group, the parent company of The Rapid City Post.