Zesto Drive In in Brookings, South Dakota, represents a classic American drive-in experience with a diverse menu that spans burgers, shakes, floats, and more. This guide delves into every category and feature to help you navigate the offerings with ease.
Each section highlights signature items, pricing examples, and insider tips. Explore history, specialties, and nutritional insights.
Established decades ago, Zesto Drive In has become a local landmark for families and students alike. Their commitment to fresh ingredients and friendly service remains unwavering.
Over time, the menu has evolved, adding modern twists to timeless favorites. Brookings location continues to draw crowds year-round.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed tables showcasing menu items and prices, blockquotes featuring customer testimonials, and bold text to emphasize crucial information. Breakdowns for each category—burgers, sides, drinks, desserts, and combo deals—allow easy comparison.
Nutritional notes and customization options round out the overview. Let’s start with signature sandwiches.
Burgers & Sandwiches
Burgers form the heart of the Zesto Drive In Brookings menu. Made with premium ground beef, each patty is seasoned to perfection.
Buns are lightly toasted for crisp texture and taste. Customization options allow patrons to add cheese, bacon, or extra toppings.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Zesto Burger | Beef patty, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, house sauce | $5.25 |
| Cheese Deluxe | Beef patty, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, mayo | $5.75 |
| Bacon BBQ Burger | Beef patty, bacon strips, cheddar, BBQ sauce | $6.50 |
| Veggie Burger | House-made patty, lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado spread | $5.95 |
| Chicken Sandwich | Grilled or fried chicken, lettuce, tomato, pickles | $6.25 |
All burgers can be made into a combo with fries and a drink for an additional $2.50. **Add extra patties** or substitute gluten-free buns at no extra charge upon request.
Seasonal toppings like jalapeño relish or pineapple slices are sometimes available. Kids’ smaller versions are also offered.
In addition to handhelds, Zesto offers **hot dogs** and specialty sandwiches. The chili dog features a steamed bun and house-made chili.
For a lighter option, choose the turkey club wrap. All sandwiches are served with sea salt chips unless upgraded to fries.
Sides & Extras
Complement any main item with crisp, golden sides. Zesto sides are prepared fresh daily.
A variety of dipping sauces and seasonings are available to suit all palates. Portion sizes range from single-serving to shareable.
| Side Item | Portion | Price |
|---|---|---|
| French Fries | Small, Medium, Large | $1.95 / $2.50 / $3.00 |
| Onion Rings | Small, Large | $2.25 / $3.25 |
| Chicken Nuggets | 6 pcs, 10 pcs | $3.75 / $5.50 |
| Side Salad | Individual | $2.95 |
| Loaded Nachos | Family Size | $7.50 |
Additional items include **mozzarella sticks**, **jalapeño poppers**, and **cheesy tots**. Add-ons such as chili, cheese sauce, or bacon bits can be requested for a minimal extra fee.
Sour cream and salsa are complimentary with nachos. Gluten-free and vegan sides are available upon request.
Shakes, Malts & Floats
Zesto is renowned for its creamy milkshakes and customizable flavors. Every shake is made with premium ice cream and real dairy milk.
Flavors rotate seasonally, featuring local fruit and specialty syrups. Malts use rich malt powder for an extra dimension of flavor.
| Shake Flavor | Classic | Malt | Price (16 oz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vanilla Bean | ✓ | ✓ | $4.25 |
| Chocolate Fudge | ✓ | ✓ | $4.50 |
| Strawberry | ✓ | ✓ | $4.50 |
| Mint Chip | ✓ | ✓ | $4.75 |
| Peanut Butter Cup | ✓ | ✓ | $5.00 |
| Seasonal Special | Varies | Varies | $5.25 |
Floats blend soda and ice cream for a nostalgic treat. Popular pairings include root beer with vanilla or cola with cherry.
**Float flights** allow sampling of three mini floats in different flavors. All shakes can be topped with whipped cream and sprinkles.
Cold Beverages
Beyond shakes and floats, Zesto offers a selection of cold drinks to quench any thirst. Fountain sodas feature major brands, with free refills on dine-in orders.
Fresh lemonade and iced tea are house-made daily. Seasonal slushies bring vibrant colors and fruity taste.
| Beverage | Size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fountain Soda | Small, Medium, Large | $1.50 / $1.95 / $2.25 |
| Fresh Lemonade | Medium, Large | $2.25 / $2.75 |
| Iced Tea | Medium, Large | $2.00 / $2.50 |
| Smoothies | 16 oz | $4.95 |
| Sodas in Bottles | 20 oz | $2.50 |
Slushie flavors such as blue raspberry, cherry, and watermelon rotate with the season. Add a shot of flavored syrup for an extra twist.
**Mocktails** combine slushies and sodas for layered flavor. All beverages can be served in eco-friendly cups.
Desserts & Treats
In addition to shakes and floats, the dessert menu includes classic and creative options. Warm cinnamon rolls come drizzled with cream cheese icing.
**Fried ice cream** features a crispy shell wrapped around cold ice cream. Brownie sundaes, waffle cones, and cookie sandwiches make for delightful finishes.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon Roll | Warm roll with cream cheese icing | $3.75 |
| Fried Ice Cream | Vanilla ice cream with crispy coating | $4.50 |
| Brownie Sundae | Warm brownie, vanilla ice cream, hot fudge | $5.25 |
| Cookie Sandwich | Two chocolate chip cookies, ice cream center | $3.95 |
| Waffle Cone | House-made waffle cone, choice of ice cream | $2.75 |
Seasonal desserts include pumpkin spice sundaes and peppermint shake floats during holidays. **Custom ice cream cakes** are available for special occasions with a 48-hour notice.
Sorbet and dairy-free options are provided for allergy sensitivities. Party packs bundle desserts at discounted rates.
Combo Meals & Specials
Combos simplify ordering by pairing favorite items at a bundled price. Mix and match any burger or sandwich with fries and a drink.
Upgrade to onion rings or a side salad for an additional $0.75. Combo prices start at $7.95 and vary by entree choice.
| Combo | Contents | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Zesto Classic Combo | Classic burger, fries, fountain drink | $7.95 |
| Chicken Deluxe Combo | Chicken sandwich, onion rings, iced tea | $8.50 |
| Veggie Feast Combo | Veggie burger, side salad, smoothie | $8.75 |
| Family Pack | 4 burgers, 4 fries, 4 drinks | $28.00 |
| Snack Sampler | Chicken nuggets, mozzarella sticks, fries | $9.50 |
Daily specials rotate Monday through Sunday, often featuring discounted shakes or half-price floats after 8 PM. **Student discounts** apply with valid ID during school sessions.
Senior specials are available on weekdays before 3 PM. Follow Zesto Brookings on social media for pop-up offers.
Catering & Party Services
Zesto Brookings offers catering packages for gatherings and corporate events. Packages include boxed meals, dessert trays, and drink stations.
Delivery and setup can be arranged within a 10-mile radius. Minimum order requirements apply.
“Our office catered lunch from Zesto last month and everyone raved about the burgers. Service was prompt and the variety satisfied every taste. Highly recommend for local events!” – Local Business Manager
Party packs range from snack assortments to full meal spreads. **Kids’ party bundles** include mini burgers, nuggets, fries, and mini shakes.
The dessert station features ice cream novelties and churros. Customized signage and branded cups available upon request.
Nutritional & Allergen Information
Zesto provides detailed nutritional brochures for patrons with dietary concerns. Calorie counts, fat, sodium, and sugar content are listed for all major items.
Gluten-free buns and dairy-free shakes are clearly marked on the menu. Staff members are trained to handle allergy requests safely.
Vegetarian and vegan diners can enjoy veggie burgers, salads, and fruit smoothies. **Low-calorie options** include grilled chicken sandwiches and side salads.
Nutrition information is updated quarterly to reflect recipe changes. Contact the restaurant for specific ingredient queries.
Ordering Tips & Insider Advice
For a quick lunch, pre-order via the Zesto Brookings mobile app and pick up at the express window. Peak hours tend to be 11 AM–1 PM and 5 PM–7 PM on weekends.
Visiting during off-peak times often yields faster service. Loyalty members earn points for every dollar spent.
Ask for the “secret sauce” to be added on burgers for a tangy kick. **Mix-and-match shakes** allow two flavors in one cup at no extra cost.
Request thinner fries for a crispier bite or extra thick shakes for a creamier consistency. Refillable drink cups can be purchased for unlimited fountain beverages.
Location, Hours & Contact
Zesto Drive In Brookings is conveniently located near the SDSU campus on Sixth Street. The iconic neon sign and retro parking stalls make it hard to miss.
Open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, with extended summer hours until midnight on weekends. Drive-thru and walk-up service available.
Phone orders can be placed at (605) 692-9367. Online ordering and delivery options are accessible through the Zesto app or partnered delivery platforms.
Handicap accessible entrance and ample parking spaces provided. Follow the Brookings location on Facebook and Instagram for real-time updates.
Conclusion
Zesto Drive In Brookings offers a timeless menu that blends classic drive-in charm with modern menu innovation. From juicy burgers to creamy shakes, there is something to satisfy every craving.
Detailed tables and pricing help you plan meals and compare options easily. Don’t miss the daily specials and catering packages for larger gatherings.
“Zesto always feels like home with its friendly staff and delicious food. The Brookings menu is unbeatable in variety and value.” – Long-time Customer
Whether you’re a student, family, or local professional, Zesto Brookings caters to all tastes and budgets. Explore seasonal items, indulge in signature shakes, or build your own combo meal.
This guide equips you with the knowledge to make the most of your next visit. Enjoy the quintessential drive-in experience at Zesto!
