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From scallops to king salmon, fresh seafood dominates menus in Southeast. Juneau, Sitka, Skagway, and Ketchikan have all variety of ethnic eateries, along with some notable restaurants serving more sophisticated, contemporary fare. Many towns also have good greasy spoons or roadhouses where you can get a serving of local gossip along with your breakfast or slice of pie.
A former park in the middle of downtown Juneau has been transformed into a vibrant outdoor food court thanks to Deckhand Dave, a commercial fisherman who has acquired a loyal local following for his foodtruck-prepared rockfish and halibut tacos. Significantly expanded in 2024, the backyard patio atmosphere includes tents, heat lamps, firepits, and a ship-shaped bar.
Named one of the 50 best restaurants in the country by the New York Times in 2023 and led by James Beard Award–nominated chef Beau Schooler, In Bocca Al Lupo has been justly celebrated for its success in creating a distinctly Alaskan Italian restaurant. Alongside house-made pasta dishes and pizzas, innovative and ever-changing specials highlight local ingredients, such as Alaskan scallops, and cultural influences, including Filipino cuisine. The dining room strikes the right balance between intimate and energetic, making it ideal for couples or small groups; solo diners appreciate the small bar area.
Food lovers pack into Ludvig's to sample chef-owner Colette Nelson's remarkably creative cuisine, which means there's often a wait, but rest assured that your meal will be worth it. Seafood (particularly king salmon and scallops) is the specialty, and organic ingredients are used whenever possible. The interior evokes an Italian bistro, with rich yellow walls and copper-topped tables. Ludwig's also operates a soup cart near the Sitka Sound Science Center—a good option for those who can't commit to dinner or score a reservation.
The 1920s-era roots of this space adjacent to the New York Hotel come through in the antique bar and fixtures, creating a casual yet elegant place to enjoy a meal while staring out the plate-glass windows at life on busy Stedman Street, or admiring the mural by local artist Ray Troll that spans one wall. The menu includes reasonably priced seafood, salads, and burgers, along with Mediterranean-influenced fare, and solo diners should feel very comfortable at the bar.
A popular spot with the locals, and known to attract repeat customers from as far away as Juneau, this Thai restaurant fills up very quickly in the summer around dinner hour; it's best to call ahead. One reason for the crowds is the authenticity of the traditional Thai cuisine; Starfire's American chef learned his recipes during visits to Thailand, where he watched local friends and their grandmothers at work in their kitchens.
Alaskan king crab—a not-to-be-missed Alaskan delicacy—is the specialty of popular Tracy's. There's often a line to place your order, but the wait is entirely worth it. In addition to Tracy's main location on the Seawalk docks, the owners operate a second shack down the road on the waterfront with the same menu but much more space, making it a good choice for large groups.
