Bars and Cafes in Downtown (Anchorage)

Glacier BrewHouse

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.

Corsair Restaurant

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.

Simon's & Seafort's Saloon & Grill. The Great Alaskan Dinnerhouse

One of the best views of the sunset over Cook Inlet and Mt. Susitna is found behind an outstanding piece of Simon's Key Lime Pie. This restaurant offers a full view of the Alaska Range. As incredible as the food, view and service are, do not look for an especially intimate dinner here, the noise level will not allow it. With the freshest seafood available, your entree is made to order. Prime rib, steaks and plenty of pasta specials are part of the ever-changing menu.

Club Paris

Established in the 60s, the same family still operates this local steakhouse. The signature four-inch thick 14-ounce filet mignon, established the "fine steakhouse" reputation. Other entree options include the 16-ounce New York steak, 16-ounce Prime Rib; as well as appetizers like steamer clams and Cajun mushrooms. Desserts like the macadamia nut pie will likely have to be taken home because portions are so large. The best advice, resign yourself and keep ordering. It is worth every penny and bite.

Snow Goose Restaurant & Sleeping Lady Brewery

Walnut paneling and copper piping are present throughout the two floors and the effect is warm, classy and polished. The top floor also has a wonderful sun deck for the summer days; it offers a view of the Alaska Range. Try its coconut prawns (dipped in an ale batter and served with a sweet and sour sauce) they're a favorite from its list of appetizers. Preferred entrees include the blackened halibut caesar salad and the wild mushroom fettuccini. The beer is exclusively made at this brewery.

Snow City Cafe

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.

Sullivan's Steakhouse

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.

Rumrunner's Old Towne Bar

This historic bar situated in the Historic Anchorage Hotel offers live music every Friday and Saturday night. With classy chandeliers and old fashioned, round wooden tables with leather topped bar stools, it is a favorite of downtown business people and hotel guests. Try the spicy chicken wings or the Alaskan salmon chowder bowl, a round sourdough loaf filled with chowder. Entrees such as beer-battered halibut, and shrimp or salmon dishes are served with fries, onion rings or potato salad.

Darwin's Theory

This is a wildly hopping location most evenings, particularly in summer. A place known for its interesting clientele, many of these patrons seem to spend their every waking moment in this bar, and the result is a warning against alcohol consumption. Nevertheless, this is a fun bar with plenty of young and old people. Many pop in, intrigued by the regulars and the general theme of the establishment. In 1995, Indigo Girls singer Amy Ray visited this joint and wrote "Cut It Out" after her visit here.

Orso

Adjacent to the Glacier Brewhouse, this establishment offers two stories charmingly decorated in an elegant lodge-like theme. This 6,000-square-foot restaurant and bar holds broad wooden tables, gilded mirrors, dim lighting and an upstairs fireplace. Appetizers served at lunch and dinner include: calamari, smoked salmon, and portabellas on toast points. Entrees include Wild Mushroom Ravioli, Herb Crusted Halibut, or a variety of salmon specials. A nice selection of Italian, French and American wines are available along with a full complement of desserts and dessert drinks.

The Pantry

This is a tried-and-true eavesdropper's paradise as local secretaries pop in here to vent about their bosses and have lunch with friends. Full breakfasts are available, as are lunch and dinner. Try the perfect Caesar Salad, add blackened chicken for an extra amount. Its foccacia bread Greek Sandwich has many fans. If your appetite is light, or if you are famished and want to add to your full meal, try a portion of its daily soup. No alcohol is served here.

Whale's Tail

Deep mahogany wood and dim lighting accent this mid-sized dance club. Located on the main floor of the Captain Cook Hotel, with a casual yet upscale atmosphere, the bar is appealing to many kinds of people. It has a full cocktail bar and Alaskan microbrews on tap, as well as an appetizer menu that offers light snacks such as baked garlic with hot crusty bread or a hot open-faced crab/cheddar sandwich (USD7). Pizza and salads are also available.