DICKINSON —
Fluffy Fields Vineyard and Winery
welcomed the crew from
America’s Best Restaurants
on Wednesday, Aug. 5, as the national media and marketing company filmed an episode highlighting the locally owned business as part of its nationwide Roadshow series.
The visit included an on-camera interview with owner and chef Deb Kinzel, who shared the story behind the winery and what has made it a destination for locals and visitors alike. The production also showcased several of the winery’s signature menu items, including The Board, Veggie Flatbread and Boozy Bread Pudding.
The completed episode is expected to premiere in about three months. The exact release date will be announced on Fluffy Fields Vineyard and Winery’s Facebook page and social media channels, as well as on America’s Best Restaurants’ website and YouTube channel.
America’s Best Restaurants Roadshow host J Russell is filmed by videographer CJ Havens during a visit to Fluffy Fields Vineyard and Winery on Aug. 5.
Kelly Harju / The Dickinson Press
As part of the visit, Roadshow host J Russell also gave away $25 gift certificates to viewers who commented on the winery’s social media posts about their favorite Fluffy Fields memories and menu items.
Russell said restaurants are selected through a combination of customer recommendations, direct outreach and invitations from the America’s Best Restaurants team.
“As you can see from our vehicle over there, there’s a barcode,” Russell said. “A lot of people around the country scan the code. Even if you’re in North Dakota but live in New York, you can recommend your favorite restaurant. That’s kind of the first thing people do to get on the show.”
Beyond nominations, Russell said Fluffy Fields stood out because of its commitment to listening to customers and creating an experience that extends beyond dining.
America’s Best Restaurants Roadshow host J Russell, right, and videographer CJ Havens sample locally made wines during their visit to Fluffy Fields Vineyard and Winery on Aug. 5.
Kelly Harju / The Dickinson Press
He pointed to the restaurant’s popular charcuterie-style offering, known simply as “The Board,” as an example of how customer feedback helped shape the menu.
“The charcuterie board became The Board because they listened to the customers, and that says everything you need to know about how personable this place is,” Russell said. “As you can hear right now, there’s live music out here. Kevin and Deb told me they used to go to concerts all the time but couldn’t anymore because they’re busy here, so they brought live music to the winery instead. You can also get married here. There are just so many different elements that you don’t find at a typical restaurant. You can spend an entire day here.”
Kinzel said the recognition came as a surprise and is something she never imagined when the winery first opened.
“It’s so cool just to be on something that you’ve watched for a few years,” Kinzel said. “I never dreamed I’d have a place they would come to. We take pride in the food we make, and we just hope people enjoy it. Hopefully, this helps more people recognize what we have going on here.”
Videographer CJ Havens films the kitchen staff at Fluffy Fields Vineyard and Winery for an upcoming America’s Best Restaurants Roadshow feature on Aug. 5.
Kelly Harju / The Dickinson Press
Kinzel said Fluffy Fields has always focused on creating a welcoming atmosphere where guests feel at home while enjoying handcrafted food and locally produced wine.
“It’s family-owned,” she said. “We take pride in everything we do. We want to make sure everybody’s happy. We’re not always perfect, but we want people to come here and enjoy what we have to offer. We make wine from grapes that we grow, along with other wines produced in North Dakota.”
She also encouraged anyone who may be intimidated by the idea of visiting a winery to stop by, emphasizing that Fluffy Fields is designed to be comfortable and accessible for everyone.
“Just come on in. Don’t be scared,” Kinzel said. “You hear ‘winery,’ and you think it’s a little stuffy or not for you. But we’re laid-back and relaxed, and everybody is welcome. We’re kid-friendly, pet-friendly and husband-friendly.”
Kevin Kinzel, husband of owner Deb Kinzel, pours wine samples for the America’s Best Restaurants Roadshow crew during its visit to Fluffy Fields Vineyard and Winery on Aug. 5.
Kelly Harju / The Dickinson Press
What began as a hobby in home winemaking eventually evolved into a full-service winery and restaurant. Today, Fluffy Fields is the only winery in southwestern North Dakota and operates year-round, serving locally made wines alongside a food menu featuring shareable plates, flatbreads and desserts.
In addition to its food and wine offerings, the venue hosts live music, weddings and community events throughout the year, giving guests multiple reasons to visit beyond a traditional dining experience.
The winery is also known for its community involvement, which has remained a priority since it opened. Fluffy Fields regularly supports local organizations through donations, sponsorships and fundraising events, reinforcing its commitment to giving back to the region that has supported the business.
The upcoming America’s Best Restaurants feature is expected to introduce Fluffy Fields to a national audience while showcasing a locally owned business that has become a gathering place for residents and travelers alike.
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As a professional writer with more than 10 years of experience, Kelly lives by these words. With a bachelor’s degree in communication, majoring in broadcasting and journalism, and a fiery passion for writing that began in childhood, she uses the power of words to make an impact in the community — informing, educating, and entertaining a wide range of audiences.
As a journalist, what Kelly loves most about her job is the ability to bring unique stories to the public and give people a voice that can be heard around the world. Whether through print or digital platforms, her goal is to share stories people enjoy reading while spreading valuable information that supports the welfare of southwest North Dakota and its people.
Dining and Cooking