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If you bring up Anchorage in a conversation, chances are the first comment you hear will be something along the lines of, "Isn't it cold up there?" Well, yes. During summer, water temperatures near Anchorage range from 41-54 degrees Fahrenheit, in contrast to the 59-84 degrees on the Atlantic and Pacific coast waters during those same months. But if you are a seafood lover, the cold water and weather is not such a bad thing. As a result of the cold temperatures, seafood coming from here tastes different than it does in regions with warmer water. Alaskan fisheries bring in more than a billion dollars a year in gross product, and be it oysters, crab, shrimp, scallops, clams, mussels, cod, salmon, or halibut, Anchorage serves up some of the best seafood found anywhere. The wild salmon are firmer than the farmed fish found "down south," while the crab are larger and the oysters are cleaner. If you're not a seafood fan, don't worry: All of the restaurants mentioned also carry plenty of non-seafood entrees and appetizers. Yes, even Phyllis's Salmon Bake makes a mean prime rib.

Crab

Crab ranks among the most-beloved types of shellfish in this area. Several kinds are available, with king crab legs a favorite at the more upscale restaurants. This low-fat delicacy is actually somewhat indelicate to eat due to its sprawling, spike-covered orange legs. In any case, few serve it up sweeter than the Downtown Captain Cook Hotel's Crow's Nest restaurant.

No matter where you go, you will find many restaurants that serve crab entrees and appetizers. Try the hot crab and artichoke appetizer at Humpy's Great Alaskan Alehouse or the deviled crab cakes served at Marx Bros, both of which are located Downtown. A 45-minute drive south to the Double Musky will get you the best crab-stuffed halibut you can find—an unbeatable way to try two seafoods at once.

Shrimp

Equally fantastic shrimp can also be found throughout the city. Try Regal Alaska's garlic shrimp appetizer, or the Cajun-style Double Musky's shrimp etoufee or garlic seafood and pasta. The most commonly used shrimp are the three-four inch spotted tiger prawns, due to their size, texture, flavor and accessibility.

Salmon

Readily available salmon is served in a variety of preparations, which differ widely among restaurants. Dishes include the Wasabi and Pistachio Crusted Salmon at the Southside Bistro on the south end of town, the Coconut Salmon at Girdwood's Double Musky and Horseradish Crusted Salmon at the Downtown Snow City Cafe. For a basic, troll-caught salmon filet without a bunch of frills, head to Phyllis's Salmon Bake for the grilled salmon. Even if you're not a salmon lover, you might still want to try a taste of smoked salmon, as it offers a completely different flavor. Restaurants frequently list a smoked salmon platter or smoked salmon dip among their appetizers.

Clams

Steamer clams, typically served in a steaming broth of white wine, butter and fresh minced garlic, are another item to try while in Anchorage. Try the Glacier Brewhouse, the Southside Bistro or Sack's Cafe Downtown. Sack's offers a tiny, warm, delicate sourdough loaf for dipping in the sauce, while the Glacier serves up heavy bread made from the same hops and barley used for brewing. Both are excellent and complement the tender, sweet, buttery clams. Humpy's, meanwhile, serves its clams with a thick cream, wine and pepper sauce, and is also worth a try. If you're hungering for a larger clam, head south on the Seward Highway and dig some for yourself, or head Downtown to Sullivan's Steakhouse for some baked clams.

Oysters

Pacific oysters farmed in Alaska are outstanding. Available all year since the cold water staves off the maturation that takes place further south, they receive almost no bacterial contamination, meaning they're much safer than other raw oysters. Because the water temperature is too cold for them to reach a reproductive state, all oysters grown here must be transplanted as "spats," or juveniles, from Pacific Coast hatcheries. It may take them longer to come to grow to size in this water (18-36 months), but they're worth the wait. Sample the Alaskan-grown Pacific oysters on the half shell at Fletcher's in the Captain Cook Hotel, or head a couple blocks east and try the ones at Humpy's.

Halibut

If you like white fish, you will love halibut. Flaky and hinting at a buttery flavor, this cavalier bottom fish lends itself to a multitude of preparations and will surprise and delight you with its versatility. Try the Seared Halibut in a Ginger Sauce at Seven Glaciers (50 minutes south of town in Girdwood), the grilled halibut at the Glacier Grill in Midtown, or the Poached Halibut with Leeks and Mushrooms at Jen's. If it's a nice day, head outside to the casual patios of Midtown's Arctic Roadrunner for a halibut sandwich, or go to the Regal Alaskan Hotel's Fancy Moose Lounge by the airport and sample the Beer Battered Halibut.

Mixing Seafood

Mixing seafood is an old trick; some of the better dishes of this sort are the Alaskan Seafood Bouillabaisse at Corsair, the lime-marinated ceviche at Mexico in Alaska and the Fettuccine Di Mare at Sorrento's Italian Restaurant. If you're partial to one particular seafood item, don't be afraid to ask for more of it in your dish, and if you don't like one of the items in the mixture, you can always ask if they can leave it out for you.

The best tip is to always ask for the recommendations of the wait staff, wherever you go. They're sure to know what is the freshest and the best, and what's in season and what's not. They might even prompt you to try something new.

And now, back to the weather....







Copyright 1999-2005 Wcities, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Contact Wcities

Arctic Roadrunner


Pure Alaskan burger joint
5300 Old Seward Highway
Anchorage, AK 99518
United States
+1 907 561 1245
Outstanding atmosphere and burgers make it successful. Each wall is covered in Alaskan history through photos and stories of the many friends of this restaurant. Locals and tourists alike, tip their heads back and read from these walls. Offering basic burgers with different spins including the halibut or the salmon patty, it is best known for the big juicy hamburgers and tasty fries that come in large portions served piping hot. Shakes, sodas and coffee are available but not alcohol.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Arctic Roadrunner photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Captain Cook Hotel


Downtown luxury
4th & K Street
Anchorage, AK 99501
United States
+1 907 276 6000 / +1 800 843 1950
http://www.captaincook.com/
Named after the discoverer of Cook Inlet, this hotel was built in 1964 to demonstrate prosperity in Alaska. One of only 100 worldwide hotels with Preferred Hotels and Resorts Worldwide status, it boasts 20 floors of teak paneling and a foyer that displays marble tiles and columns. This downtown location offers three restaurants to choose from including the Crows Nest, and one pub, Fletchers. The hotel offers spectacular views of the Chugach and Alaskan Mountain Ranges.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Captain Cook Hotel photo by Mel Green
Photo: Mel Green
 

 
Corsair Restaurant (Voyager Hotel)


Elegant local favorite
944 W Fifth Ave
Anchorage, AK 99502
United States
+1 907 278 4502
http://www.corsairrestaurant.com/
Established in the '70s, this classic restaurant continues to offer fine dining in Anchorage. Just around the corner from the Voyager Hotel, it is frequented by legislative members, business travelers and local couples. In the theme of a sailing vessel, its cocktail lounge and dining room are separated by mahogany covered walls and sailing artifacts with artwork tastefully placed throughout. Sample the Alaskan Bouillabaisse made with Alaskan caught seafood and the wild Alaskan troll caught King Salmon. Its largest wine list in Alaska will impress.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Corsair Restaurant (Voyager Hotel) photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Crow's Nest (Hotel Captain Cook)


Romantic & Elegant
4th & K St
Hotel Captain Cook
Anchorage, AK 99501
United States
+1 907 276 6000 / +1 800 843 1950
http://www.captaincook.com/res...
This restaurant offers light French cuisine. Teak paneling, candle light and tabletop-to-ceiling windows add to the romance of panoramic sunset views. From Pan-Seared Ocean Scallops and Brandy Flamed Lobster served with Filet Mignon to range-raised Bison or New Zealand lamb, variety abounds. Indecisive? Try the chef's Tasting Menu and receive five courses plus wine chosen by the wine steward. More than 1,200 labels are available. Dress is formal; the clientele, sophisticated.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Crow's Nest (Hotel Captain Cook) photo by pinoy_pinay
Photo: pinoy_pinay
Crow's Nest (Hotel Captain Cook) photo by Rick Webb
Photo: Rick Webb
Crow's Nest (Hotel Captain Cook) photo by Shardul Rao
Photo: Shardul Rao
Crow's Nest (Hotel Captain Cook) photo by dremle
Photo: dremle
Crow's Nest (Hotel Captain Cook) photo by kenkyle
Photo: kenkyle
Crow's Nest (Hotel Captain Cook) photo by Tara Crosslan
Photo: Tara Crosslan
 

 
Double Musky Inn


Mardi Gras in Alaska
Mile .3 Crow Creek Road
Anchorage, AK 99587
United States
+1 907 783 2822
http://www.doublemuskyinn.com/
Referred to as the "last great American roadhouse" by Esquire magazine, its first life was as an "after-ski bar." It developed into a restaurant worthy of the most discriminating tastes, according to CNN. From appetizers like Scallop Stuffed Mushrooms Rockefeller and Coconut Salmon, to the 16-20 ounce French Pepper Steak, the Garlic Seafood Pasta, and the Crab Stuffed Halibut, every taste bud will cheer. Nearly any label of wine or beer and any type of cocktail is available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Double Musky Inn photo by Harry Gordon
Photo: Harry Gordon
 

 
Fancy Moose Lounge (Millennium Alaskan Hotel)


Within the Millennium Hotel
4800 Spenard Road
Millennium Alaskan Hotel
Anchorage, AK 99517
United States
+1 907 66 2249
http://www.millenniumhotels.co...
Themes of Alaska and aviation prevail here. There are photos of the state's early pioneers and their planes, as well as wooden model planes hanging from the ceiling. Clients are typically casually dressed business people. Table service provides the hot wings (USD6), burgers (USD5-7), salads and pizza (USD2 per slice, USD14 large) prepared next door in the Flying Machine Restaurant. The full bar has several microbrews from the local Midnight Sun Brewing Company on tap.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Fancy Moose Lounge (Millennium Alaskan Hotel) photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Fletcher's


Classy and popular
400 K Street
Hotel Captain Cook
Anchorage, AK 99501
United States
+1 907 276 6000
http://www.captaincook.com/res...
This pub is classy and casual, drawing as many locals as it does guests staying within the hotel. The deep mahogany theme of the hotel continues throughout with dark leather booths and bar stools providing comfortable seating. Best known are the gourmet, two person pizzas with toppings of garlic and feta or chicken fajita. Start with baked garlic and bread or steamer clams, and then proceed to enjoy the Gorgonzola topped spinach salad. The full bar offers all mixed drinks, beer and some wine.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Fletcher's photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Glacier BrewHouse


Great Food & Atmosphere
737 W 5th Ave
Ste 110
Anchorage, AK 99501
United States
+1 907 274 2739
http://www.glacierbrewhouse.com
Opened in 1997, this pub took Anchorage by storm. The menu holds a full selection of appetizers from Brewhouse Amber Ale-Battered Halibut (USD10) and calamari (USD9.50) to desserts such as Wood-Oven-Roasted Bread Pudding (USD6.50) or outstanding crème brulee (USD5.25). Entrees vary also, from an Applewood Grilled King Salmon Pinot (USD20), to a Three Peppercorn Spit-Roasted Prime Rib (USD25) accompanied by garlic-mashed potatoes. Drinks are from USD4-7 per glass; wine (by the bottle) from USD21.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Glacier BrewHouse photo by Crystal Bock
Photo: Crystal Bock
 

 
Jens' Restaurant


Renown for Attitude & Taste
701 W 36th Ave
(at Arctic Blvd)
Anchorage, AK 99503
United States
+1 907 561 5367
http://www.jensrestaurant.com
More than 40 wines are offered by the glass in the fabulous wine bar and restaurant. The dining room is elegant with cream stucco and eclectic artwork evenly spaced on the walls. With French, New American and Scandinavian choices, Alaskan seafood is the steadiest presence on the menu. Entrees like grilled salmon served with a cold horseradish, herb-butter and mahi-mahi topped by a spicy fruit salsa will be matched, at your request, with a wine chosen by the wine expert on staff. Veal, rack of lamb and many other options are available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Jens' Restaurant photo by Pravin Premkumar
Photo: Pravin Premkumar
 

 
Marx Bros Cafe


Charming and elegant dining
627 West Third Ave
Anchorage, AK 99501
United States
+1 907 278 2133
http://www.marxcafe.com
This 22-year-old restaurant produces award-winning and noteworthy culinary successes each year. Selections change weekly though some standbys can always be found. Two of these choices are Van's Caesar Salad with tableside preparation for two and Caspian Sea Caviar, available by the ounce. Typical entrees are the Pepper Crusted King Salmon and Roast Rack of Lamb in Pecan Crust. With 11,000 bottles of wine in the cellar, you are sure to find something you like. Formal dress is recommended.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Marx Bros Cafe photo by Steve  McIntyre
Photo: Steve McIntyre
 

 
Mexico in Alaska


Authentic Mexican in Anchorage
7305 Old Seward Hwy
Anchorage, AK 99518
United States
+1 907 349 1528
Since 1972, this is where everyone comes when they want a real Mexican meal. Unbelievably delicious Chile Rellenos and Nopales con Huevo made with cooked cactus in scrambled eggs are just two of the entrees served here. The guacamole appetizer is filled with chunks of avocado and there are 14 selections of tacos alone. Equipped with a terrific mole and salsa, all dishes are fresh and flavorful. A special vegetarian menu is available on request. Dessert is limited to ice cream and caramel custard.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Mexico in Alaska photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Midtown


Anchorage
United States
Ship Creek was selected as the original tenting site of the pioneers who arrived in the area to build the railroad in 1914 and 1915. They first filled the area located nearby Ship Creek, then spread north up to Government Hill. Visitors who come during summer can experience the fun of amusement rides, car races and the Saturday Market. Ship Creek is also a great place to be when the salmon are spawning, and it provides excellent salmon fishing, as approximately 9,000 king salmon spawn here yearly. The large parking lots used by fishermen in summer play host to the ice sculpting contests held during February's Fur Rendezvous Festival.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Midtown photo by guoo
Photo: guoo
 

 
Millennium Alaskan Hotel Anchorage


First class comfort
4800 Spenard Road
Anchorage, AK 99517-3236
United States
+1 907 243 2300 / +1 866 866 8086
http://www.millennium-hotels.c...
Built in 1986 and remodeled in 1998, this hotel rests at the edge of scenic Lake Spenard. It is just one mile from the airport and four miles from downtown. All rooms feature double vanities, while the suites include fireplaces and Jacuzzi tubs. Enjoy fine dining at the Flying Machine Restaurant, which prepares innovative Alaskan seafood and choice steaks. Nearby is the paved Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, if you choose to explore the Cook Inlet on foot, ski or bicycle. Rates vary seasonally.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Millennium Alaskan Hotel Anchorage photo by Ryan McFarland
Photo: Ryan McFarland
 

 
Phyllis's Cafe & Salmon Bake


Fresh Alaskan Salmon
436 D St
Anchorage, AK 99501
United States
+1 907 274 6576
This restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating in the downtown district. Tourists and residents can smell the salmon from blocks away and it draws them through the doors. Daily specials of fresh fish and soups are listed for a discounted price, while burgers and lunch salads are available, too. Dinners include Wild Alaskan Salmon, Alaskan King Crab Legs, Halibut, or Prime Rib and Baby Back Ribs. Microbrew beer from nearby Glacier Brewhouse, and some domestic labels along with wine are also available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Phyllis's Cafe & Salmon Bake photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Sack's Cafe


Gourmet Food With Flair
328 G St
Anchorage, AK 99501
United States
+1 907 274 4022
http://www.sackscafe.com
Charming and bright, this newly opened downtown location is convenient for business people at lunchtime or for a glass of wine and dinner after work. Begin with the baked garlic and gorgonzola cheese or fresh steamer clams. Tell yourself you will have the Chevre salad next time, and then order the Roasted Portobello Mushrooms or the chicken and sea scallops. Fine wines and microbrewery beer are available.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Sack's Cafe photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Seven Glaciers (Alyeska Resort)


Elegance With a Glacier View
1000 Arlberg Dr
Anchorage, AK 99587
United States
+1 907 754 2237
http://www.alyeskaresort.com/p...
From its lofty perch above the Alyeska Prince Hotel, this restaurant's panoramic view spans seven glaciers. Appetizers of Pepper Crab Cakes, Grilled Scallops and Smoked Duck are just a few of the six or more offered. Dinner entrees include Filet of Beef Tenderloin, Venison Rack, King Crab and more. A full bar with a rather pricey wine list complements the delectable offerings.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Seven Glaciers (Alyeska Resort) photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Snow City Cafe


Charming Downtown Eatery
1034 W 4th Ave
Anchorage, AK 99501
United States
+1 907 272 2489
http://www.snowcitycafe.com
Opened in 1998, it became Anchorage's "Favorite New Restaurant" in its first year. Breakfast entrees such as the Tofu Scramble ($8.95) and Eggs Benedict ($8.95) are available until 5pm. Lunches include the Greek Pita and the Salmon Cake Hero (both $8.95). Fresh soups and sandwiches are also made daily.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Snow City Cafe photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Sorrento's Restaurant


Intimate Dining
610 E Fireweed Ln
Anchorage, AK 99503
United States
+1 907 278 3439
Cozy up here! The high booths and intimate seating arrangements maximize privacy, while hanging plants, wine served in carafes and soft music add to the charm. A wide selection of pizzas and signature dishes such as Orange Roughy Almondine, Eggplant Parmigiana, and Pollo Alla Greca are samples of the variety of dishes served. Do not forget the calzones and numerous pasta dishes listed. Beer and cocktails are available also.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Sorrento's Restaurant photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Southside Bistro


Classy & Hip Eatery
1320 Huffman Pkwy Dr
Anchorage, AK 99515
United States
+1 907 348 0088
http://www.southsidebistro.com/
A display of delectable desserts greets you as you step into this classy south Anchorage restaurant, established in 1996. Frequent diners include Alaska's governor and Anchorage's mayor. It became an instant success with locals because of a consistently superb fresh seafood menu and innovative preparations of pork loin, venison and peppered steak. Wine is available by the glass or bottle, and microbrewed beer rounds out the meal. Dress is casual to formal.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Southside Bistro photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Sullivan's Steakhouse


Upscale Dining With Martini Bar
320 W 5th Ave
(5th Avenue Mall)
Anchorage, AK 99501
United States
+1 907 258 2882
http://www.sullivansteakhouse....
Massive bottles of Veuve Clicquot (gold label) grace the long wooden tables placed as dividers within this large, one-room dining room. Hand-cut steaks and an extensive wine list draw a crowd every night. Appetizers of Baked Clams Casino, oysters on the half shell, and Sullivan's crab cakes are excellent starts to a terrific meal. Nine optional side dishes complement the entrees, which include salmon steaks and grilled tuna, lamb rib chops and filet mignon. Live bands play in the bar on weekends.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Sullivan's Steakhouse photo by wcities
Photo: wcities
 

 
Other Schmapplets in this city related to "Anchorage - Dining & Drinking"
Anchorage
Anchorage - Historical Background
Anchorage - Neighborhood Guide
Anchorage - Where to Stay
Anchorage - Art & Entertainment

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