Restaurants 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.

The Marx Bros Cafe

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.

Benihana

Do not come for conversation, you will be competing with your animated, knife-juggling chef and comedian. From Splash 'N Meadow (steak and shrimp $24.99) to Fish Tsutsumi-Yaki with Yakisoba (salmon and vegetables $24.99) to vegetable tempuras, there are choices for the meat, seafood or vegetarian lover. Traditional dishes such as the Hibachi Scallops ($22.99) and Benihana Yakisoba Dinner ($16.99) are both delectable. Full sushi menu is available by request. A full lunch menu is available from $7.99. Full bar onsite.

La Cabana Mexican Restaurant

Soft arches join three separate rooms under dim lighting where booths and tables are topped with oil lamps. Try the combination platters for the largest variety or the dinners served with rice and beans varying from Enchiladas Zuizas to Chili Rellenos. Lunch specials offer slightly smaller portions (and prices) and include Jumbo Prawns with salad and fries, Tamales and many others. Beer, wine and mixed drinks are served.

Downtown Deli

Breakfast is served all day; try the famous sourdough pancakes made with sourdough starter received from an Alaskan gold miner in 1939. Lunch consists of traditional sandwiches, soups and salads (there can be quite a wait so you may want to call your order in advance). Dinner offers a noteworthy appetizer, the Alaskan Sampler made of smoked halibut, lox cream cheese dip and reindeer sausage. Then try the Fresh Alaskan Salmon for a light and delicious entree. Wine and beer are available.

Kodiak Kafe & Dinner House

Offering a full breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, each menu has a different focus. Pigs in Blanket are a delicious breakfast of sausages wrapped inside of pancakes with apples. Biscuits and Homemade Gravy and Omelets are also available. For lunch, try the Reuben. Dinner is a mix from Tournedos Diane, Manicotti with Marinara or Phad Phak Thai Stir Fry. Alaskan choices are available like Alaskan salmon, halibut, steamed clams and smoked salmon mousse. Beer and wine is offered.