One of the best perks of visiting Alaska is the opportunity to sample the delicious culinary delights that fill this state. From fresh seafood to native favorites, Alaska is home to some amazing restaurants – but they often come with a hefty price tag. While you are traveling throughout the state, you can easily expect to pay more that $15-$20 an entree, which can quickly cut into your budget.
To help you save on costs and splurge on adventure, here is a list of top tips and places to help you find affordable eats throughout the Last Frontier!
Food Trucks
Why They’re Affordable: Alaskan food trucks save on overhead costs, which often means lower prices for customers.
Where to Find Them: Spread throughout the state, they offer a fantastic array of local and fresh food with daily specials.
Pro Tip: Follow their Facebook pages for the latest updates on menus, locations, and deals. This is also a great place to ask questions about dietary restrictions, closures, and local favorites.
Favorites to Try:
- Tacos 49 in Kodiak
- Fresh Fish in Sitka
- The Hungry Deckhand in Anchorage
- The Burger Bus in Kenai
Local Specials
Save on Entrees: While regular restaurant prices can be high, many local eateries offer nightly specials that significantly reduce meal costs.
Get Local Info: These specials are a magnet for locals, providing an excellent opportunity to mingle and enjoy authentic Alaskan dishes with the locals who call this state home.
Where to Stay Informed: Join local Facebook community groups for the latest on specials. Look for groups like Friends of Kodiak, Homer Area Communications, Seward's Events, Anchorage To Go, and Juneau Area News and Info.
Prepare Your Own Meals
Cost-Effective Strategy: Preparing your own meals can lead to substantial savings. Local grocery stores are your go-to for ingredients and some of the cheapest prices for foods. Be sure to take advantage of rewards programs to reduce costs.
Loyalty Rewards: Sign up for free rewards programs at Safeway, Carrs, and Fred Meyer for discounts and freebies. Use the same phone number for all your programs to maximize the most benefits.
Convenience: Most chain grocery stores throughout the state often feature delis and food bars for quick, inexpensive meals, such as a sandwich bar, buffet bar, and home cooking.
Costco
Consistent Pricing: In Anchorage, Juneau, or Fairbanks, use your Costco membership for meals at prices comparable to the lower 48, including the fan favorite of the cheap hot dog and pizza.
Membership Note: You'll need a Costco membership, but your existing one will work.
Affordable Restaurants in Alaska
Check out this list of cheap local eats for more affordable options in the major travel hubs throughout Alaska. Be sure to double check with each location for hours, seasonal closures, and locations (as some of them are food trucks and may move).
Anchorage
- Uncle Joe’s Pizza
- Yak and Yeti
- Benji’s Bakery
Juneau
- Grumpy's Delicatessen
- Deckhand Dave’s
Fairbanks
- Sam’s Sourdough Café
- The Crepery
Kodiak
- Tacos 49
- Harborside Fly By
Sitka
- Fresh Fish
- Ludvig’s Bistro
Kenai
- The Burger Bus
- Veronica's Cafe
Seward
- Apollo’s (cook your catch option)
- Resurrect Art Coffee House
Homer
- Homer Sweet Home
- River Cafe
