9 Best Restaurants in Downtown Anchorage (A Local's Opinion)

Downtown Anchorage has many hidden gems - from unique things to do and places to eat, it can sometimes be hard to choose which one to go with if you're only here on a short visit. Luckily, after countless visits I've gone ahead and put together a list of restaurants here in Anchorage that you won't want to miss on your visit.

My Essential Alaska Travel Resources :
There are a lot of travel companies out there, but some are better than others. These are my favorite websites and resources to help plan an incredible trip to the 49th State.

For flights, I recommend using WayAway or Hopper to compare the cheapest dates to travel to Alaska.

Car rentals, arguably the best way to see Alaska, are best through Discover Cars!

I always use AGODA for hotels. They have an easy-to-use platform where you can compare the best rates.

To keep cell phone service if you're traveling internationally, I always use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

For fun things to do, I recommend Viator to find the best tours in the area, otherwise Klook also does the trick.

Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use for travel insurance.

Lastly, my Alaska packing list for your travels to the Last Frontier.

What to Expect in Downtown Anchorage

Downtown Anchorage, like any major city, can have vastly different experiences depending on the time of year you visit, the time of day you visit, and how far you're planning to walk from your parking spot. During winter months, especially at night, it can feel a bit eerie - empty streets, homeless walking around - but truth be told my husband and I have never had any issues here. If you're visiting, I recommend exploring during the day when streets are a bit busier.

On another note, if you're looking for a great place to stay, I recommend The Aviator Hotel. They're located right downtown (in between some of our favorite restaurants!) and they're currently undergoing a huge remodel to put in a brewery, restaurant, cafe, and shop. The rooms are boutique style and very cozy plus they have parking right onsite!

My Favorite Tours Near Anchorage :
- Matanuska Glacier Tour
- Alaska Railroad Roundtrip to Seward

Best Restaurants in Downtown Anchorage

1. Crow's Nest, $$$
A hidden gem located at the very tippy top of the Captain Cook Hotel, they open at 5 pm everyday with last dinner service at 8:30. I recommend making reservations to coincide with sunset, this way you can enjoy the incredible views of Anchorage and Cook Inlet before then enjoying the views of the Sunset. I recommend getting the Risotto of the Day, the Kodiak Scallops, the Venison, and the Chevre Cheesecake.

2. Whiskey & Ramen, $$
The most popular restaurant downtown, I recommend booking your reservations as far in advance as you can. (I booked mine a week away from the date I wanted and they only had one time slot, 8:30pm, left.) They do take walk ins, but chances are you'll need to sit at the bar. I recommend getting the Whiskey Pork Buns as an appetizer, The Hook (most basic, original ramen on their menu), the Tokyo Rich Tsukemen (deconstructed ramen bowl where you dip the noodles and veggies into the broth that's been served on the side), and the Matcha Panna Cotta for a light dessert.

3. La Palmeria, $$
This recently opened restaurant has very tropical and upbeat atmosphere, and you can find some great eats here for a pretty decent price! My personal favorites are their Hibiscus Rosemary fusion drink, their Nachos, and their Street Tacos. I guarantee you'll leave in a better mood than when you came!

4. Sullivan's Steakhouse, $$$
If you're looking for steak, or for a fancy dinner, then Sullivan's Steakhouse is the place to go. This is my favorite steakhouse in town, and although it's priced a bit on the higher side, it's 100% worth it. Of course, here I would recommend trying one of their fun drinks and your cut of choice with one of their specialty butters. Because meals come out family style, if you want any sides you'l have to order them for the table. They also have a $51, 3 course fixed menu to make ordering a bit easier!

5. 49th State Brewing, $$
Another one of the most popular spots in town this restaurant, this spot comes highly recommended by pretty much everyone in town. In the summer months they have a great outdoor patio to enjoy the views, and because of their popularity they almost always have a wait. Some of my favorite things to get here include their Crispy Cauliflower, the World Famous Yak Burger, and their Baked Mac & Cheese. They also host lots of fun, local events throughout the year.

6. Serrano's, $$
A local restaurant with multiple locations, this is one of the most popular Mexican restaurants in town. I always end up getting some of their tacos here, but I've heard their other dishes are just as good!

7. Club Paris, $$
Another steakhouse in downtown, this is another favorite for locals, especially because it's been around since 1957. Their steak meals are a bit more reasonably priced than Sullivan's, and the interior is uniquely Alaska themed.

8. Glacier Brewhouse, $$
This spot is very popular with local business people making their way through town, meaning that on the most random days it can be very busy. They have a very large menu, with all types of food, but I usually go with their Seafood Fettuccine or their Herb Crusted Alaska Halibut.

9. Anchorage Pel Meni, $
Another favorite of mine is a bit of a hidden gem, and is the perfect spot for a light meal or snack. Pel Meni are traditional Russian dumplings, and here you can choose between meat filled Pel Meni or potato filled. I like to get the potato filled with "everything" which includes curry seasoning and cilantro, and dip them in sour cream!

Watch my Adventures Downtown :

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Other Alaska blog posts you might be interested in : 
-> 24 Hours Anchorage Guide
-> Anchorage Trolley Tour
-> E-Biking the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

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