What to Eat in Juneau

Food is a significant part of travel and the Alaskan capital is no exception. Unless you’re making just a short stop on a cruise, you’ll want to know what to eat in Juneau to make the most out of your experience. And, of course, soothe those hunger pangs after a day of hiking, whale watching, or any one of the many activities available here.

Thanks to its location, fresh-caught seafood is a definite highlight on Juneau menus, perhaps alongside a cold brew or a glass of wine. Combined with the award-winning chefs at the helm of locally owned and operated eateries, multiple craft breweries and craft distilleries, your tastebuds will not be disappointed.

These are some of the top dishes to try when it comes to what to eat in Juneau.

King Crab

An Alaskan King Crab meal at Tracy’s King Crab Shack, Juneau, Alaska photo credit: K.C. Dermody

You’d be hard-pressed to find a better place to indulge in a king crab leg feast than in Juneau. Tracy’s Crab Shack has long been highly acclaimed as the best spot for it, with the menu mostly focused on locally caught Alaskan crab.  Drawing locals and visitors alike, the legs easily reach a foot and a half in length and the meat is incredibly succulent, steamed to perfection and served with melted butter. But fair warning, once you try it you’ll be spoiled for life and might find yourself planning a return trip just to satisfy a craving. Plus, the view of the water and the mountains from the patio doesn’t hurt either.

Salmon Bake

The Gold Creek Salmon Bake, Juneau
photo credit: Creative Commons

A salmon bake is a classic Juneau dining experience that shouldn’t be missed. Except it actually isn’t baked, it’s roasted over an alderwood fire. There are several venues for enjoying it, including The Gold Creek Salmon Bake. One of the most popular, it’s been running for over three decades and includes an all-you-can-eat meal with sides like corn bread, baked beans, wild rice pilaf, and Gold rush potatoes. Lemonade, tea, or coffee is complimentary, or enjoy locally made ale, wine, or beer for a bit extra. It’s all finished off with roasted marshmallows you’ll prepare yourself over the campfire with a backdrop of live local folk music.

Halibut Fish N’ Chips

The Hangar on the Wharf, Juneau photo credit: The Hangar on the Wharf

If your fish n’ chips is usually made with cod, wait until you try halibut fish n’ chips. We’re pretty sure you’ll agree it’s the best you’ve ever had and in Juneau, it would be challenging to find a bad plate. It’s a staple here, available at The Hangar on the Wharf, Alaska Fish N’ Chip Company, Twisted Fish Company Alaskan Grill, and more.

Food Tour

If you want to sample some of the best of what to eat in Juneau, consider a comprehensive crash course. A Juneau Food Tour includes tastings at some of the best restaurants in the city, including Tracy’s King Crab Shack and SALT which offers a wide range of mouthwatering seafood, fresh-caught from the waters around Juneau. It’s a great way to try the highlights, including local favorites like Alaskan king crab, salmon, and halibut fish ‘n chips. Oftentimes, local brew and other beverages are included too.

Fine Dining With Your Own Private Chef via Alaska Luxury Tours

How about combining multiple unforgettable experiences while enjoying some of the best fine dining prepared by your own private chef? There are few better things you can do than take advantage of the Private Chef Option via Alaska Luxury Tours.

You’ll enjoy a private excursion that will take you to experience world-class wildlife viewing in Juneau – and, Chef Amara Enciso’s services can be included as well. Not only can you indulge in some of the best food you can eat in Juneau, but it always tastes better while dining on a luxurious yacht in Southeast Alaska.