Alaska: a land of vast wilderness and untamed beauty. But did you know it’s also a hotspot for dining with a side of the bizarre?
From haunted hangouts to floating cafes, each spot comes with its own unique tale. Sit tight as we explore eight Alaskan eateries where the legends are as rich as the meals.
1. Annabelle’s Famous Keg and Chowder House
In Ketchikan, there’s a place that serves both hearty chowder and ghostly encounters: Annabelle’s Famous Keg and Chowder House. This charming spot occupies the historic Gilmore Hotel, where tales of paranormal activity are as plentiful as its menu items. Visitors often share stories of seeing a ghostly man in a top hat or a woman calmly seated in a chair, adding a spine-tingling twist to their dining experience.
Legend has it, some guests have experienced objects moving on their own and unexplained cold spots, making every meal an adventure. One particularly chilling tale involves a Coast Guard officer who found a mysteriously soaked bed in an unoccupied room, leaving him utterly baffled.
Whether you’re in it for the chowder or the chills, Annabelle’s offers an immersive experience in mystery. If you find yourself in Ketchikan, dare to dine here and maybe you’ll leave with a story of your own.
2. The Pump House Restaurant
A trip to Fairbanks isn’t complete without a stop at The Pump House Restaurant. Known for its eclectic collection of gold-rush era artifacts, this place is a treasure trove of stories and old-world charm. The building itself was originally constructed to serve the booming gold mining industry of the early 20th century, offering a rich historical backdrop to your meal.
As you walk in, the rustic design and historical relics transport you back in time, making you wonder about the lives of those who walked before. It’s a place where history and food meet in the most delightful way.
The atmosphere might seem a bit unsettling at first, with its vintage decor and dim lighting, but it adds to the allure. Whether you’re a history buff or just hungry, The Pump House promises a memorable visit with a dash of intrigue.
3. The Alaskan Hotel & Bar
Established in 1913, The Alaskan Hotel & Bar in Juneau is more than just a place to rest your head; it’s an experience. With its quintessential Alaskan atmosphere, this historic establishment is rumored to be haunted, which only adds to its mystique.
Guests have whispered about a ghostly presence wandering the halls, leaving some to question whether they signed up for a spooky stay. Despite the eerie legends, it remains a beloved fixture in Juneau’s nightlife scene, always bustling with activity.
So, if you’re feeling adventurous, book a night and see if you encounter anything otherworldly. After all, who doesn’t love a little mystery with their lodging? It’s a tale of history, hauntings, and good times wrapped in one.
4. The Saltry Restaurant
The Saltry Restaurant in Halibut Cove isn’t just about good food; it’s about the journey. Only accessible by boat, this gem started as a tiny café that took an epic voyage across the bay on a barge during the highest tide of the year.
Its origin story is as colorful as its cuisine, providing diners with a tale of ingenuity and daring. Picture this: a restaurant floating delicately across the water, only to be anchored in place, ready to serve its loyal patrons.
In recent years, the owner found themselves in a curious legal predicament, accused of harassing a seaplane with a boat. Whether true or just a fish tale, it adds a quirky chapter to its already fascinating history. Visit The Saltry for an unforgettable dining adventure where the legend is as delicious as the meal.
5. The Double Musky Inn
Nestled in Girdwood, The Double Musky Inn offers more than just a Cajun feast; it serves up a slice of community history. After the 1964 earthquake, the locals rallied together to help build this vibrant eatery, infusing it with stories of resilience and camaraderie.
The restaurant quickly became a hub of activity, where polka dancing and lively conversations were the norm. It’s a place where the decor is as eclectic as its beginnings, creating an inviting atmosphere for all who enter.
With its roots deeply embedded in the community, The Double Musky stands as a testament to the spirit of collaboration and joy. Stop by for a meal, and you might just find yourself dancing along to the rhythm of its colorful past.
6. George Inlet Lodge
In Ketchikan, George Inlet Lodge offers a dining experience as grand as its backstory. Known for its king crab feasts, this lodge’s history is nothing short of epic. Originally a cannery bunkhouse from the 1940s, it embarked on a journey like no other.
In 1974, the three-story, hundred-ton building was towed 90 miles across the Inside Passage on a log raft. It was a move filled with challenges and triumphs, ultimately bringing the lodge to its stunning present location.
This incredible journey adds a layer of excitement to every meal served. With its breathtaking views and rich history, George Inlet Lodge invites you to savor both the scenery and the stories.
7. Gwennie’s Old Alaska Restaurant
Step into Gwennie’s Old Alaska Restaurant in Anchorage, and you’re immediately enveloped in nostalgia. This local favorite is a time capsule, adorned with an array of Alaskan memorabilia that gives it a unique charm.
The eclectic decorations create a vibrant atmosphere, making it feel like home. Each artifact tells a story, turning your dining experience into a nostalgic journey through Alaska’s history.
Known for its traditional home cooking, Gwennie’s offers both comfort food and a comforting ambiance. It’s a place where the past meets the present, inviting you to become part of its enduring story.
8. 49th State Brewing Co.
In Anchorage, 49th State Brewing Co. is not just about the brew; it’s about the buzz. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this popular spot has a reputation that’s grown more from online tales than ales.
Bizarre reviews have surfaced, spinning tales of eccentric workplace conditions and peculiar management. Though hard to verify, these stories add a layer of intrigue to its bustling environment.
Whether you’re there for the food or to witness the legend yourself, 49th State Brewing Co. offers a lively experience. It’s a place where stories are born, and memories are made.
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