2 Best Restaurants in Anchorage, Alaska

Background Illustration for Restaurants

Anchorage's dining scene has, to the relief of repeat visitors and, even more so, locals, been on the rise for the past several years. Established (and still highly recommended) restaurants like Jens’ and Marx Bros. Café have been joined by the likes of the small-plate and wine-focused Crush Wine Bistro and Cellar and the Pacific Rim cuisine–focused Ginger. No matter the restaurant, the local catch is a frequent star. Beware: eating salmon or halibut in-state may ruin you for fish served in the Lower 48. Anchorage also offers up plenty of worldly flavors thanks to the city's ethnic diversity. And nobody should leave Anchorage without trying the local fast-food specialty: a reindeer sausage from the cart in front of the courthouse on 4th Avenue.

The Bubbly Mermaid Oyster Bar

$$ | Downtown

This tiny seafood joint easily offers the quirkiest dining experience in Downtown: almost the entire room is taken up by a boat-prow bar. At the helm, owner Apollo Naff has created a convivial environment where fellow diners become fast friends over plates of Alaska oysters and other briny bites, such as crab cake po'boys, seafood chowder, and seared scallops in umami sauce.

417 D St., Anchorage, AK, 99501, USA
619-665–2852
Known For
  • Alaska oysters
  • Nautical ambiance
  • Menu items inspired by chef's Tijuana roots

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Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill

$$$$ | Downtown

Windows overlooking Cook Inlet vistas, along with the high ceilings and a classic brass-and-wood interior, have long made this an Anchorage favorite. The menu includes prime rib and other steak-house classics, but the main attraction is fresh Alaska seafood. The best tables are adjacent to the tall windows facing the water, and reservations are recommended.

420 L St., Anchorage, AK, 99501, USA
907-274–3502
Known For
  • King crab dishes
  • Happy hour food menu with an ocean view
  • Enormous steaks
Restaurant Details
Reservations recommended

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