5 Best Restaurants in The Bush, Alaska

Background Illustration for Restaurants

Dining options are few when traveling around Alaska's Bush; smaller communities may have one or two eateries, if any at all. On the bright side, you won't need to worry about reservations. If they're open, they'll let you in, and you'll likely be surprised at the variety available: in addition to Alaskan seafood, game, and locally grown vegetables, Mexican and Asian fare are standard, even in the state's remotest corners. Usually Bush restaurants will feature two or three different cuisines. All food prices, including at grocery shops, reflect large transportation charges, so be prepared to pay more than you would back home or even in Anchorage.

Empress Restaurant

$$$

Look for mostly Thai, Chinese, and American dishes at this spot along the shore. It offers a simple but filling selection of tempura, rolls, burgers, soups, and more, along with fast and friendly service.

301 Shore Ave., Kotzebue, AK, USA
907-442–4304
Known For
  • Good array of Chinese dishes
  • Burgers and Philly cheesesteaks
  • Friendly, fast service
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun.

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Golden China

$$

You'll find Japanese and Korean food, burgers and bento boxes, and seafood baskets and pho along with standard Chinese fare at this casual spot on Front Street. It truly has something for everyone and ample seating, too.

231 Front St., Nome, AK, 99762, USA
907-443–2300
Known For
  • Lots of cuisine choices
  • Comfy booths
  • Fast and friendly service
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun.

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Sam & Lee's Restaurant

$$$

Whether you're up early or late, Sam and Lee's has got you covered. They start with an excellent breakfast menu and stay open late with mostly Chinese fare, such as kung pao beef, almond chicken, and Szechwan chow mein. Locals rave about the kimchee too.

1052 Kogiak St., Utqiaġvik, AK, USA
907-852–5556
Known For
  • Delicious kimchee
  • All day hours
  • Friendly staff

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Snack Shack

$$

This longtime Chinese and American restaurant is known for its rice and noodle dishes. Look for udon and egg foo young, along with fried food baskets, sandwiches, and family dinner specials like burger packs that include four burgers with fries and soda.

520 3rd Ave., Bethel, AK, USA
907-543–2218
Known For
  • Family-friendly burger packs
  • Well-prepared Chinese dishes
  • Big portions
Restaurant Details
Closed Sat.

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Tundra Restaurant

$$

A longstanding Bethel eatery, Tundra focuses on Chinese, Korean, and American food. Choose from a range of rice and noodles dishes or mix it up with bento boxes and lunch or dinner combos.

473 Ridgecrest Dr., Bethel, AK, USA
543–5005
Known For
  • Bento boxes and lunch specials
  • Popular Chinese dishes
  • Reasonable prices
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon.

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