20 Best Restaurants in Fairbanks, Alaska (2024)

The city of Fairbanks, Alaska, is located near the beautiful Denali National Park. It has fantastic scenery, numerous boutiques, and excellent dining options. A lover of both travel and food will appreciate this welcoming town.

As you explore this charming city, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Thankfully, there are plenty of incredible restaurants in Fairbanks to fuel you up in between attractions. Whether you’re in the mood for Indian food, fresh Alaskan seafood, or a fine dining experience, there’s a restaurant for every tastebud.

Check out our visit to Denali National Park on our YouTube channel!

Travel and food lovers (like us!) will appreciate this lovely town. If you’re one, too, this can be your guide when looking for great food places to hit when traveling in Fairbanks. We’ve got takeout restaurants in Fairbanks, food trucks, and fine dining in Fairbanks – read on to find out where to eat in Fairbanks.

Best Local Food & Restaurants in Fairbanks, Alaska

1. Fushimi Japanese

Address: 607 Old Steese Hwy, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

Fushimi Japanese is considered one of the best restaurants in Fairbanks for authentic Japanese cuisine. It’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it though, so be sure to use your GPS.

It’s located in a strip mall right on Old Steese Hwy. Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you, there’s delicious Japanese food waiting for you inside.

The restaurant’s interior is dynamic and has a touch of Japanese designs, creating a lovely Asian restaurant vibe. Fushimi Japanese serves authentic Japanese food and has an extensive menu that covers everything from soup and salads to bento boxes. Of course, you’ll want to try a few of the sushi rolls and sashimi that this place is known for.

See Related: Best Hotels in Fairbanks, Alaska

2. Simply Thai

Address: 3611 Rewak Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States

One of the things that surprises visitors is the fact that this town in the middle of Alaska, close to the Arctic Circle, offers a range of diverse international cuisine. Believe it or not, they have great Thai food in Fairbanks. Simply Thai is a lovely restaurant serving several delectable Thai dishes in a no-frills, all-flavor atmosphere.

There are no tables inside this hole-in-the-wall restaurant, though.Don’t let that stop you from swinging by, just plan ahead and make it a fast food option to grab and go before you hit the road to Denali.

Service is quick, so you’ll be back on the road in no time.The menu has a great selection, including Pad Thai, stir-fries with rice, and traditional appetizers. Speaking of appetizers, be sure to try the spring rolls!

See Related: Best Hiking Tours in Denali National Park

3. DW Grill & Catering

Address: 617 27th Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

DW Grill & Catering is among the most popular family-friendly restaurants in Fairbanks. They’ve served delectable cuisine since the summer of 2012 and have become a great stop for locals and tourists craving fantastic comfort food.

The restaurant offers a diverse American food menu, from classic American breakfast to sandwiches, salads, and burgers. This modest restaurant has an energetic, friendly, warm dining ambiance with artistic interior designs and paintings on its walls.

Good food, a great atmosphere, and satisfying all cravings are all part of the experience. The restaurant also rents out tables for private parties.

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4. Pump House Restaurant & Saloon

Address: Chena Pump Road, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States

Travelers and history lovers won’t be disappointed when they step inside The Pump House. This family-friendly restaurant is located along the scenic Chena River with plenty of outdoor seating.

If the views don’t win you over the food sure will. The extensive menu at this eatery focuses on “Alaskan style” food with a focus on local, Alaska-grown produce whenever possible.

Be sure to try the seafood chowder, it’s one of the top-selling menu items here. The building was reconstructed in 1978, but just about everything you’ll see within these walls is authentic to Alaska’s Gold Rush Era.

See Related: Best Family Vacation Spots in Alaska

5. Soba

Address: 535 2nd Ave #106, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United StatesA Moldovian restaurant in the heart of downtown Fairbanks? Welcome to Soba! It’s a welcoming and super delicious restaurant that serves excellent Eastern European and Russian cuisine that’s worthy of your time. Soba opened in 2018 much to the delight of Interior Alaskan residents.

As the only authentic Moldovan restaurant in Alaska, you can bet you’re in for a fabulous meal when you take a seat at Soba.Soup, salad, grilled lamb, and desserts like traditional Moldovan cheese doughnuts are delicious signature dishes. While the menu is full of authentic Moldovan cuisine, the wine menu might be more your style.

Moldova is a wine country, so Soba’s extensive wine menu will quickly win you over.Your server will help you select the best wine for your meal, so it’s sure to be a perfect pair.

See Related: Best Things to Do in Icy Strait Point, Alaska

6. Aurora Mediterranean Restaurant

Address: 1452 S Cushman St, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

The Aurora Mediterranean Restaurant is one not to miss. True to its name, this family-friendly eatery serves authentic Mediterranean and Greek food throughout the day.

The restaurant has an extensive menu of dishes, but it’s known for specializing in Greek fare. Everything served here is a hit, from appetizers of grilled halloumi cheese to entrees of gyros and steak kebab. Dietary restrictions including gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options are accommodated by the kitchen.

It has a lovely interior, and the place is filled with a lively, dynamic, and friendly atmosphere. It really sets a great mood to bond and eat delicious food with family and friends. The restaurant is near some of the top attractions in Fairbanks, making it a convenient place to grab a great bite after a day of adventures.

7. The Cookie Jar Restaurant

Address: 1006 Cadillac Ct, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

The Cookie Jar Restaurant is one of the coolest spots, and if you have a sweet tooth, you’ll love having lunch here. The Cookie Jar came from a humble beginning – baking great cookies – and eventually became one of the most popular restaurants in town.It’s a charming patisserie-style restaurant that provides delightful baked goods made from scratch and delicacies to savor while exploring the town.

Not only do they have plenty of sweets, but they also have a full breakfast and lunch menu, and breakfast is served all day. The baked goods that The Cookie Jar Restaurant offers are all made from scratch.

This lovely restaurant offers a range of baked goods to taste and enjoy, from cupcakes to cookies. Come for a hot meal, and then grab a few sweets for the road.

8. Jazz Bistro on 4th

Address: 529 4th Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

Good food, a warm atmosphere, and live music are served in Jazz Bistro on the 4th. It’s quickly became a local favorite when it opened in 2015.

The restaurant provides delightful indoor and outdoor seating with beautiful views of the area. If you’re planning to swing by on the weekend, I’d recommend you make reservations ahead of time.

The restaurant specializes in dishes from Cuba and Puerto Rico, plus other Latin delicacies. Food Network’s Guy Fieri even stopped by to try the famous Steak Cuban Churrasco Style and had nothing but praise for it. Give it a try!

9. Mom’s Kitchen

Address: Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

The mission of Mom’s Kitchen is to supply delicious cuisine and a wide selection of wine, microbrews, and co*cktails. Residents and visitors to Fairbanks enjoy this distinctive spot because it makes them feel right at home. The restaurant is a fantastic bar and grill with excellent food and a great and memorable dining experience.

It’s a unique eatery with a wide range of cuisine including Thai, Korean, and American. There is also a range of drinks to pair with the food they provide.

This is the perfect spot for groups where everyone wants something different. Just like you’d expect from the name, Mom’s Kitchen is simple, warm, and welcoming. Swing by and give it a try.

10. The Crepery

Address: 523 2nd Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

The Crepery is another spot on the list that’s great for anyone with a sweet tooth. Crepes are the main delicacy prepared and served in this cafe. This lovely joint provides a wide selection of sweet and savory crepes and a menu of delicious craft drinks.

Vegetarians will also enjoy the vegetarian crepe side of the menu. Aside from crepes, the restaurant also offers stuffed avocados which you didn’t even know you needed until this moment.

11. Irashai Japanese Restaurant

Address: 419B Merhar Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

Irashai Japanese Restaurant is another great Japanese restaurant in Fairbanks. The talented chefs have created a massive menu that covers everything from udon noodles to mochi ice cream.

The stylish dining restaurant has a fabulous and dynamic atmosphere for a delightful and diverse dine-in experience. It’s family-friendly and offers huge portions without the hefty price tag. Yes, please!Irashai Japanese Restaurant’s menu also has pictures to help you decide, making this an ideal restaurant if you want to try authentic Japanese food for the first time.

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12. Bobby’s Downtown

Address: 609 2nd Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

Bobby’s Downtown is one of the best restaurants in Fairbanks for Greek food, great beer on tap, and great pizza. The restaurant serves mouthwatering Greek delicacies and delicious drinks six nights a week.

Located in downtown Fairbanks, Bobby’s is the place to be for good food and outstanding customer service. There is a range of dishes at the cafe, including sandwiches, salads, burgers, prime rib au jus, spanakopita, rack of lamb, and ribeye steaks.

13. Turtle Club

Address: 2098 Old Steese Hwy N, Fox, AK 99712, United States

The Turtle Club is your answer for fine dining in Fairbanks. This high-end restaurant has been a favorite for locals and travelers alike since it opened in 1950.Classic American fare is what you’ll find on the menu at The Turtle Club.

Signature dishes include Alaskan king crab, deep-fried halibut, and some of the best prime rib you’ve ever tasted.Be sure to save room for dessert at The Turtle Club. The talented chefs in the kitchen offer a wide range of desserts to end your meal on, all made fresh daily.

14. Oasis Restaurant

Address: 734 University Avenue, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States

They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. If that’s true, then start your morning off with a visit to Oasis Restaurant.

This place has the best breakfast in Fairbanks! If you miss breakfast, don’t worry. There are plenty of options on the lunch and dinner menu. In addition to plenty of seafood baskets, Oasis offers several sandwiches that are sure to fill you up.

Oasis also offers many signature beverages, and the Bloody Mary is the star of the show. The Irish Coffee is also a favorite.

15. Thai House Restaurant

Address: 412 5th Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

Established in 1989, Thai House Restaurant is a bit of a Fairbanks institution. There are many Thai restaurants in Fairbanks, but few can compare to the absolutely delicious, amazing food you’ll find here.

It provides a genuine Thai ambiance and delicious food with vegetarian and gluten-free options. It’s a great place to stop by and get delicious and fulfilling food like drunken noodles, chicken satay, pad Thai, yellow curry, and green curry.

16. Friar Tuck’s Hoagie House

Address: 427 Merhar Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

Friar Tuck’s Hoagie House is a fantastic restaurant in Fairbanks that provides delicious hoagies, American delicacies, delightful craft beers, and various beverages. This outstanding eatery and bar is perfect for customers looking to unwind and sample top-notch cuisine.

All the food offered in Friar Tuck’s Hoagie House is a mixture of exquisite bar-style bites that complement their freshly brewed beer. Notably, they’re famous for their sandwiches.

17. Noodle House

Address: 731 2nd Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

There are countless international restaurants to visit and eat in Fairbanks, and the Noodle House is a real highlight among them.Genuine to its name, the restaurant served a range of authentic Thai noodle recipes and other delightful cuisines. It’s a family-friendly fast-food place that serves delicious Thai food for lunch and dinner.

Just a few of the menu items at the Noodle House include everyone’s favorite drunken noodles plus Pad Thai, and other authentic dishes including several different curries and BBQ. It is near some of the town’s best attractions, sites, and establishments, making it an ideal pit stop, especially for hungry tourists seeking a place to eat after checking its great aspects.

18. Shogun Japanese Restaurant

Address: 4005 Geist Rd #3552, Fairbanks, AK 99709, United States

Shogun Japanese Restaurant is known to be one of the most incredible spots for great Japanese meals in Fairbanks. This fantastic modern diner is well-known for its outstanding cuisine and fresh Alaska seafood.

You wouldn’t think those two things would be found at the same restaurant, but Fairbanks is full of surprises. Shogun’s menu boasts an extensive range of dishes including udon, sushi, gyoza, delicious sweets, and hibachi.

The atmosphere of Shogun Japanese Restaurant is lively, to say the least. Take a seat at the hibachi grill for an extra-special evening.

19. Sushi Kanapai Restaurant

Address: 1448 S Cushman St, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

Sushi Kanpai Restaurant is a beautiful Japanese restaurant that’s well-known for being one of the finest restaurants in town to visit and enjoy a selection of delectable sushi. They have a fantastic range of tasty sashimi and bento boxes to choose from, plus plenty of authentic Japanese dishes.

This chic eating establishment boasts a pleasing and dynamic environment, a friendly atmosphere, and some of the best food you’ve ever tasted. Sushi Kanpai is one of three restaurants we visited on our two-day visit from Anchorage, Alaska, and it’s genuinely a fantastic Japanese spot. I’d definitely come here again.

20. Hometown Restaurant

Address: 2225 S Cushman St, Fairbanks, AK 99701, United States

Hometown Restaurant is among the most well-known restaurants in the city and serves delicious American cuisine and delightful breakfasts. This local joint doesn’t need a website (or a Facebook page, it does just fine by word of mouth!Hometown specializes in mouthwatering homemade delicacies that provide delightful, warm, and welcoming vibes.

The establishment has an extensive menu of great American dishes, burgers, and french fries, appetizers, and side dishes. Classic breakfast meals include bacon and eggs, hash browns, and pancakes.The restaurant has a warm, homey decor with a dynamic, engaging, and welcoming environment that establishes a lovely setting for eating a good meal and kicking off your tour of Fairbanks.

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