Yes, Alaska has finally been recognized as a gastronomic destination. Fresh fish, such as salmon, black cod, and halibut will appeal to you. However, the increasingly fantastic restaurant scene will make you want to stay forever. Experience one of Alaska’s best restaurants just outside Denali National Park, excellent wine lists all across Anchorage, and plenty of smoked salmon all over the Kenai Peninsula. On clear nights, head to the top floor of the Captain Cook Hotel for apps and cocktails and a breathtaking view of Cook Inlet.
1. Crow’s Nest
The Crow’s Nest, perched atop the Hotel Captain Cook high above Anchorage, offers unrivaled views of the city and the surrounding natural wonders. With classically trained chefs and a decidedly French flair, The Crows Nest is dedicated to providing a gourmet dining experience. Its cuisine features dry-aged prime cuts of beef, local scallops, and expertly prepared game meats. The elk loin is a house favorite paired with turnips and a parsnip puree. Crow’s Nest is only available for dinner and requires reservations.
2. Gustavus Inn
When a restaurant provides a bush plane as a mode of transportation to its location, you know it’s extraordinary. Gustavus Inn is a hotel and restaurant nestled within a national park about 40 miles from Juneau, Alaska’s capital. Guests stay in a historic home on site and dine in the dining room. Hungry diners may expect salmon and crab from the surrounding strait, and food from the on-site garden collected that day. Gustavus has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation for its excellence, so don’t anticipate basic meals just because of its rural environment.
3. Homestead Restaurant
The Homestead Restaurant is a hidden gem deep amid Alaska’s wilderness. For nearly 50 years, the small community of Homer has enjoyed their restaurant, and they love to welcome visitors. The homestead gathers fresh fish and seafood from the neighboring water and prepares them every day. You’ll find oysters on the half shell, seafood cakes, and cioppino stew on the usual menu. If you don’t want to eat seafood, The Homestead has a large selection of vegetarian options that would satisfy any vegetarian. During the summer months, just.
4. Foraker
The Talkeetna Lodge, which serves as the base camp for climbers attempting to ascend Mt McKinley, North America’s highest peak, houses the Foraker restaurant. Guests can enjoy the spectacular rise from the Foraker restaurant, which is located far away from the perils of mountain climbing. The menu includes meals like grilled halibut fillet and steamed Alaskan king crab legs, typical of Alaskan seafood. Customers also rave about the duck with raspberry rhubarb sauce produced locally.
5. Knik
The Knik River Lodge is ideal for those seeking adventure. Glacier dog sledding and helicopter trips are among the fascinating activities available at the lodge. The lodge’s restaurant is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a well-prepared meal once guests have worked up an appetite. The restaurant is set in a yurt, a circle-shaped canvas tent structure with fine furnishings and romantic lighting. The menu changes depending on fresh and in season, but the cedar-planked salmon and prime rib selections are always famous. Unless you consider the snow boots and parka you will require if you visit during the winter, there is no dress code at Knik River Lodge.
6. Seven Glaciers
Even before entering the restaurant, Seven Glaciers’ location at the summit of Alyeska Resort provides a unique experience. This restaurant is only accessible to guests and staff by a spectacular gondola ride up the mountain face. Once you arrive, the seven Glaciers dining area offers 360-degree views of the harsh, stunning Alaskan wilderness. The fine-dining experience, however, does not end there. The service at the restaurant is perfect, and the food is sophisticated and deserving of a special occasion. The seafood is cooked to perfection, and the product is obtained locally. Seven Glaciers makes the most of everything this state has to offer.
7. Ginger
The restaurant industry in Anchorage is thriving, with plenty of solid alternatives for the adventurous eater. Ginger is distinguished by its strong Asian influences. The design is fresh and modern, with a sleek but welcoming vibe. Ginger’s menu includes traditional fare such as lettuce wraps and sushi rolls and more creative food such as banana and lemongrass soup and baked sea scallop macaroni and cheese. The bar sells local micro-brewed beers in addition to a decent selection of wines and stakes. Breakfast and lunch are also available at the restaurant, which serves quirky takes on American classics.
8. Parks Restaurant and Tavern
229 Parks is warm and inviting, with a log cabin feel. Denali National Park is home to this eatery. The dining area walls are covered with artwork by local artists, much of which is for sale. The menu at 229 has been meticulously crafted to reflect the abundance of high-quality foods accessible in the area. All favorites are braised rainbow chard and feta in phyllo, sliced endive and apple with roasted hazelnuts, and wood fire-roasted carrots. If you order their King crab cakes or rack of lamb, you’ll see why this restaurant is considered one of the best in the state.
9. Jack Sprat
Jack Sprat is a small town with great plans. The restaurant was formed on the principle of catering to a wide range of appetites and preferences, with worldwide influences. Vegetarian foods aren’t an afterthought here; they’re a prominent menu feature. Jack Sprat’s carnivorous recipes are proudly offered sustainable, local fish and humanely raised meat. The restaurant is also a popular favorite for brunch in the little ski town. This restaurant is a friendly sanctuary for out-of-town guests and the familiar local face, with a well-traveled staff and embraces diversity.
10. Crush
Crush provides Anchorage customers a world-class wine list in a relaxing ambiance dedicated to great wine and impeccable food. The restaurant’s love of wine has recently included a retail wine shop above the dining area. Dishes like the elk and pig meatloaf, arugula salad with melon and red wine feta, and truffled white beans are praised for their surprising simplicity. The restaurant’s menu is intentionally modest, focusing on high-quality dishes that may be appropriately combined with excellent wines.
