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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.
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.
This bustling, casual waterfront eatery focuses on what Ketchikan does best—and it's quite successful, as the frequent line out the door indicates (don't be daunted, it moves quickly). Order at the counter and enjoy fresh halibut or salmon while looking out at the vessels that haul in the catch. Or, for an interesting twist on local dining, book a fishing trip with Baranof Fishing Excursions and have your catch dropped off here, where you can have it prepared by the chefs and served at your table. The restaurant and the fishing company are both owned by a third-generation Alaskan family.
An unpretentious Victorian-style restaurant on the Gilmore Hotel's ground floor, Annabelle's serves pastas, steamer clams and other seafood dishes, and several kinds of chowder. Prime rib on Friday and Saturday evenings is a favorite, and the lounge, which has a jukebox, has a friendly vibe.
On a clear day, the deck at this popular eatery typically overflows with a lively local crowd devoted to the creative dishes of chef Renée Trafton, a James Beard Award semifinalist. Trafton believes in sustainable practices—that includes a living wage for staff and no tipping (if you do leave a tip, it will be donated to local charities). Beak is near the bridge in a historic building that also houses the local radio station, KCAW.
This busy little seafood deli and burger joint in the heart of Petersburg is a great place for a quick bite en route to your next adventure, or a breakfast sandwich before you get started. Live or cooked crab is available for takeout, and the shop can process your sport-caught fish.
King, Dungeness, and tanner (or snow) crabs are served in various forms when in season at the Crab Station, an outdoor stand with tables on the docks extending out over the water. During Dungeness season, crabs are caught in the surrounding waters of Port Frederick and kept alive until your order is prepared.
Trees, mountains, and the rushing water of Salmon Creek surround the comfortable, canopy-covered benches and tables at this authentic, all-you-can-eat salmon bake operated through Alaska Travel Adventures. After dinner you can pan for gold in the stream, wander up a hill to explore the remains of a gold mine, or roast marshmallows over a fire.
Located at the end of the docks, this downtown grill owned by a former Floridian is the place to come to sample Alaska's famous king crab and enjoy a beer in the sun (if you're lucky) at one of the outdoor tables. If crab legs aren't your thing, try the Dungeness crab mac and cheese, the crab-topped fries, or the blackened halibut salad.
Down the boardwalk from the port you'll find the Landing Zone. Larger and a bit more upscale than the Cookhouse, the Landing gets its name from its location at the end of the ZipRider zip line; those who remained on the ground can watch their braver friends fly through the air on live-stream video monitors while sipping an Alaskan-brewed beer at the bar. The Landing's half-dozen menu items include salmon prepared at an outdoor grill, beef brisket, and reindeer sausage.
On the water right next to the docks, this casual and energetic spot has a reputation for expertly prepared seafood and a friendly staff. Here you'll find favorites like halibut and chips, king crab legs, and pan-seared salmon, as well as nightly specials showcasing the kitchen's more creative side. A small deck offers outside seating and there's a decent selection of beer and wine.
Housed in a log-frame waterfront building adjacent to the base of the Goldbelt Tram, Twisted Fish serves fish as fresh as you'll find. Grab a seat on the deck and enjoy prime-time Gastineau Channel gazing over a glass of wine or locally brewed beer.
