Top Bars and Cafes in Anchorage

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.

Cafe Amsterdam

Quite the popular lunch spot, if you arrive at noon, it will be too late to get a table. The smug expressions of those who are seated will attest to the quality of the food and service that you're missing. Try the Belgium waffles that are fluffy and light, but crispy and topped with fresh berries and hot maple syrup or sample the hot soup of the day and half of a deli sandwich. The coffee is gourmet, freshly ground and delicious.

Gwennie's Old Alaskan Restaurant

A real Alaskan experience, this restaurant has scads of memorabilia on its walls and in displays. President Carter and the first lady once ate here while passing through Anchorage. Down-to-earth, friendly Alaskans - who are happy to share what they know of Alaska - operate this restaurant. Meals are served all day, and you may expect large Alaskan portions. Have your omelet with reindeer sausage, or a grilled halibut sandwich for lunch. Dinner options include barbecued salmon, and wine and beer is available.

La Mex

This is the kind of restaurant where the staff sings to you for your birthday. Try the enormous combination platters if you are really hungry or a dinner plate like the Halibut Stuffed Tacos with lime sauce and fresh fruit salsa for. House wine is Gallo and Mexican, domestic and microbrew beer is available. Come and enjoy your evening here!

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.

Europa Bakery

This coffee shop and bakery parallels 36th Avenue, directly around the corner from Jen's Restaurant and the Atlasta Deli. Touting the smoothest lattes in town, it serves roasted beans from the Espresso Vivace Roasteria for the java drinks and offers Oregon Chai, fruit juices and herbal leaf teas. The bakery portion of the establishment produces a plethora of steaming loaves of bread in the wee hours of the morning and tops it off with fresh croissants, cinnamon rolls and pastries before it opens.

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.

Crow's Nest

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.

Fly-In Restaurant

Hanging plants, booths framed in chrome pipe, a neat-as-a-pin dining area and a friendly wait staff all add up to a pleasant dining experience. Twelve Chinese dinner combinations, 19 appetizers and more single items than can be mentioned, provide for a wide range of Chinese dinner options. Fish and chips, chicken strips and fried oysters, as well as spaghetti and meatballs, veal cutlet, New York steak, hamburgers and salads provide the American side of the kitchen. Both beer and wine are served by the glass.

Cafe Vivachi

Each of this cafe's three locations has the same flair for service and atmosphere. A convenient drive-up window at this location gathers quite a lot of business, but if you pop in, you can enjoy the peace and quiet of its small round tables made of shiny chrome. Espressos, lattes, mochas, and granitas are all available. Muffins, bagels, and pre-made deli sandwiches made locally and fresh daily, are available.