If you find yourself wandering the charming streets of Juneau, Alaska, you’re in for a treat—especially when it comes to food.
From fresh seafood to cozy cafes and sweet treats, this town punches way above its weight in the flavor department. After a week of exploring, here are the spots we couldn’t get enough of. Whether you’re craving king crab, fish tacos, or just a killer slice of pizza, Juneau’s got you covered.
1. Sandbar & Grill
What’s this place doing at the top of my list of places to eat in Juneau, Alaska — especially with “just” 4.3 stars?
Well, I’ve got to tell you, the Sandbar & Grill serves some of the best, most perfectly crispy fish and chips I’ve ever had. Having spent a year living in the UK and eating fish and chips all over England — from small countryside towns to the heart of London — I can say these hold their own.
The fish was fresh, flavorful, and tender, while the chips were okay—though a little on the soggy side, they still hit the spot. The tartar sauce, however, was a standout—some of the best I’ve ever had. If you love fish and chips, don’t miss this little hole-in-the-wall gem. It’s definitely worth the trip!
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2. Tracy’s King Crab Shack
Tracy’s King Crab Shack is a staple in Juneau, Alaska — and one of the most popular spots for tourists, especially cruise ship passengers.
With that kind of hype and the constant crowds, you might wonder if it’s actually worth it or just another overblown tourist trap. But we were curious, so we headed to the main location, which was buzzing with people. After a short wait in line, we placed our order: a big, steaming bucket of Alaskan crab along with rolls, crab bisque, and coleslaw.
Eating here feels like part of the Alaskan experience. When you order the big bucket of crab, they ring a loud bell, and from there, it’s time to dig in.
The coleslaw was good, though a bit heavy on the mayo. The crab bisque was kind of a letdown. Didn’t taste much like crab and just didn’t do it for me.
There’s something pretty special about cracking open fresh crab in Alaska. Yes, it’s pricey. And yes, a few fellow diners didn’t exactly respect the shared crab tools (someone literally stole ours). But even with the chaos and the cost, I’m glad we went. It’s one of those classic “YOLO, you’re in Alaska” kind of meals.
3. Bullwinkle’s Downtown
Bullwinkle’s Pizza Parlor is a beloved Juneau institution that’s been serving up hearty slices and family-friendly fun since 1973 .
Located in downtown Juneau, this laid-back spot is perfect for casual comfort food with a Pacific Northwest twist. After a day of sightseeing, we appreciated the hearty portions and chill atmosphere.
We had the pepperoni pizza, which had a great crust—just the right thickness with a nice balance of crisp and chew. It was a solid, well-made pizza that wasn’t overly greasy and hit all the right notes. The garlic cheese bread was cooked perfectly and served with both marinara sauce and ranch. I’d go with the marinara. The ranch just didn’t quite live up to the quality of everything else.
The upstairs arcade, filled with classic games, adds a nostalgic touch and provides entertainment for both kids and adults. Whether you’re craving a slice of their renowned pizza or looking to unwind with some games, Bullwinkle’s offers a delightful blend of good food and old-school fun.
4. Alaskan Fudge Co
If you want a little local sweetness, Alaskan Fudge Co is where you want to stop. The owners came from Northern Michigan, bringing with them a classic recipe straight from Mackinac Island—the fudge capital of the world—so they really know their stuff.
At that point, I hadn’t visited Mackinac Island yet, so I hadn’t quite fallen in love with fudge. I skipped it this time—but I did try some of their amazing chocolate-covered blueberries, and they were absolutely wonderful.
5. Sandpiper Cafe
Sandpiper Cafe is a cozy breakfast spot that was our go-to for fueling up before a busy day. The pancakes were fluffy, the coffee was strong, and the friendly vibe made us feel right at home. Plus, the locally sourced ingredients gave everything a fresh, Alaskan edge.
We also tried a couple of standout dishes that really elevated the experience. The French toast special came with a cheese filling that added a creamy, slightly tangy flavor to an otherwise subtly sweet dish. It had just the right amount of crunch and held up without getting soggy.
The crab cake Benedict was equally impressive—the crab cake was flavorful and perfectly cooked, with a light sweetness that paired beautifully with the creamy hollandaise and crispy fried capers. The biscuit, used in place of a traditional English muffin, was a delicious twist, and the grilled potatoes on the side were outstanding.
6. Harbor Tea & Spice
If you’re a tea lover—or just need a peaceful break from your Alaskan adventures—Harbor Tea & Spice is a little slice of calm right in the heart of Juneau. This cozy shop offers an impressive selection of loose-leaf teas, spices, and blends that feel like they were made for slow sipping on a chilly day.
One tea that truly stood out was the Glacier Blue tea. Visually stunning with its deep blue hue, it’s as calming to look at as it is to drink. Caffeine-free and lightly flavored with hints of licorice, it’s the kind of tea that helps you unwind in the best way. I’ve tried a lot of teas during my travels, but this one easily made it into my top favorites—both for the flavor and the experience.
7. Deckhand Dave’s Fish Tacos
Fish tacos done right. Deckhand Dave’s serves up some of the freshest fish tacos we had anywhere in Alaska. The flavors were bright and zesty, with just the right amount of spice. Perfect for a quick, delicious bite by the harbor.
We tried the beer-battered halibut tacos, and they were a solid choice—the fish was fresh, crunchy, and cooked just right. They came topped with fresh pico, red cabbage and a chipotle-style sauce that added a nice little kick without being too much.
We also had the halibut cakes, which were a bit on the greasy side but still packed with flavor and had a bit of heat to them. The tartar sauce was made in-house and definitely stood out.
8. Pucker Wilson’s
If you’re craving a burger in Juneau, Pucker Wilson’s is a must-visit spot. With multiple locations—including the flagship downtown at The JACC, a spot in the Valley at Mendenhall Business Park, and a food truck on Franklin Street next to Deckhand Dave’s—it’s convenient no matter where you are in town.
The menu is straightforward but packed with flavor. The Husky Dawson burger is a standout, featuring bacon, beer-battered onion rings, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and their signature Pucker sauce.
For something different, try the Cowboy Sundae—a hearty pile of hand-cut fries topped with 15-hour smoked pulled pork and savory slaw. The fries were cooked perfectly and really tasty, and the pulled pork had great flavor. Unfortunately, they were out of coleslaw during our visit, so we didn’t get to try it, but the rest still hit the spot.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, the Chicken Sandwich with buttermilk fried chicken, pickles, and lettuce on a toasted bun is a solid choice. Vegetarians aren’t left out either—the Wilson’s Betrayal veggie burger offers a satisfying alternative.
Pucker Wilson’s has earned a loyal following and was even featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, it offers a delicious and satisfying meal in a laid-back setting.
9. Coppa Ice cream
At Coppa Ice cream, we were actually hoping to try the legendary candied salmon ice cream. I heard it’s a flavor you’ve got to try at least once—both for the novelty and the surprisingly sweet-and-savory combo. Sadly, it was sold out by the time we arrived (clearly, we weren’t the only ones curious).
That said, Coppa didn’t disappoint. We sampled a few other flavors—Spruce Tip had an herby, citrusy brightness that tasted like walking through the forest, while the Devil’s Club Fudge was rich, earthy, and indulgent with a swirl of deep chocolate. Their ice cream leans more subtle and natural than sweet and punchy, but it’s clearly crafted with intention.
10. Salt
For a slightly more upscale night out in Juneau, Salt is an excellent pick. Located in a historic building that was once part of Juneau’s early 20th-century commercial district, the restaurant blends modern elegance with a nod to the city’s Gold Rush-era charm. It’s a perfect reflection of what Juneau does best—honor its roots while embracing fresh, local creativity.
Salt focuses on elevated Alaskan cuisine, and the seafood here is the star. Dishes are thoughtfully crafted, highlighting regional ingredients without being fussy. One standout is the Alaskan Halibut, pan-seared to perfection and often paired with seasonal vegetables and rich, house-made sauces that bring out the best of the fish.
We stopped by for Sunday brunch (which may not be something they still do), and it was a great way to start the day. The lemon drop martini was smooth and refreshing, and the sugared rim added just the right touch of sweetness.
We split the sweet breads and berry parfait, which came with banana bread, croissants, and cinnamon coffee cake. Everything was soft, warm, and tasty. The steak and eggs were a highlight too. It looked great and was full of flavor, especially with that rich Diane sauce. The potatoes were cooked just right, and the eggs tied it all together.
The atmosphere strikes a nice balance: refined but still relaxed, making it just right for a date night or a memorable meal with friends. If you’re looking to experience Juneau’s local food scene beyond the casual crab shacks and breweries, Salt is where to go for a meal that feels both special and distinctly Alaskan.
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11. Red Dog Saloon
A true Juneau classic, Red Dog Saloon isn’t just a bar—it’s a full-on Alaskan experience.
This legendary watering hole dates back to the Gold Rush days and claims roots as far back as the early 1900s, when it served miners, loggers, and frontier adventurers looking for a strong drink and a rowdy good time. It’s even said that Wyatt Earp once checked his pistol at the door.
Walking in feels like stepping back in time. Sawdust covers the floor, old-timey signs line the walls, and the bar is filled with quirky memorabilia—including a walrus oosik (you’ll know it when you see it). Live honky-tonk piano music and servers dressed in saloon-style outfits complete the Wild West vibe.
Beyond the atmosphere, the food and drinks are solid. The Duck Fart shot (a layered mix of Kahlúa, Baileys, and Crown Royal) is a Red Dog original and practically a rite of passage for first-timers. When the waitress delivered it with a grin and a sharp “quack quack, no stirring, no sharing, just knock that shit back,” you knew you were in for an experience.
As for food, the gold rush nachos or avalanche burger is a must try. If you’re hungry and want a hearty bite, they’ve also got crowd-pleasers like beer battered Alaskan cod and the McKinley BBQ pork sandwich.
12. Pel’meni
Craving something a little different from the usual Alaskan seafood? Pel’meni is a tiny, no-frills spot that absolutely delivers on flavor with just one thing: Russian dumplings. And trust me, that’s all they need.
The menu is as simple as it gets—beef or potato dumplings, seasoned with curry powder, butter, cilantro, and a dash of hot sauce. It might not sound fancy, but these little pockets of goodness hit a level of comfort food perfection that’s hard to beat. They’re warm, filling, and just the right kind of spicy. It’s the kind of dish that somehow gets better with every bite.
What makes Pel’meni special is its commitment to keeping things simple and doing them well. There’s no pretense here, just good food served late into the night, making it the perfect pit stop after a long day of exploring Juneau (or bar hopping). It’s easy to miss—but if you skip it, you’ll seriously regret it.
13. The Salmon Bake
If you’re after the full Alaskan experience—salmon, waterfalls, forest, fire pits, and a dash of gold rush history—Gold Creek Salmon Bake is where it’s at.
Tucked into a forest just 10 minutes from downtown Juneau, this outdoor buffet is more than just a place to eat. Sure, you’ll get your fill of alderwood-grilled wild salmon (grab it glazed for extra flavor), baked beans, cornbread, and even blueberry cake—but the real charm is the setting. You’re dining creekside, surrounded by mossy trees and the sound of rushing water. It’s like a summer camp cookout crossed with a history lesson.
As for the food, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. The regular salmon was cooked perfectly but came off pretty bland unless you went for the glazed version, which had a caramel-like sweetness that really brought it to life. The au gratin potatoes were decent, though nothing to write home about, while the baked beans stood out as a surprise hit—sweet, hearty, and full of flavor.
Wild rice was fine but on the bland side, and the coleslaw (with unexpected raisins) didn’t win many points. Pickled beets were classic and tasty if you’re into that sort of thing. The cornbread was a pleasant surprise—moist, slightly sweet, and far from the dry stuff you might expect.
The BBQ chicken had great flavor and was cooked well-done (which we liked), but others might find it a bit dry, and the rubbery skin didn’t help. The salmon Caesar salad was a miss—soggy, overly dressed, and somehow still bland. But the real star of the show? The blueberry sheet cake. Moist but light, with bursting berries and dusted with powdered sugar it was easily the best thing on the menu. Honestly, we could’ve eaten a whole sheet pan. Almost did!
After you eat, you can walk off your plate of salmon by wandering the short trail past mining relics and a waterfall. Watch for real wild salmon swimming upstream (especially mid to late summer), and roast a few marshmallows at the campfire before catching the free shuttle back to town.
Is it the best meal in Juneau? Maybe not. But for the vibe, the views, and the “I-roasted-marshmallows-in-a-forest-after-watching-wild-salmon” bragging rights—it’s worth it.
14. Timberline Bar and Grill (Tramway)
Nestled near the tramway, Timberline Bar & Grill was a solid spot to grab a bite and warm up after taking in the views from the top via a short hike. It’s casual, friendly, and felt like the kind of place you can kick back and relax without any fuss.
We had the shrimp basket—fries were the standout, big, crispy, and full of flavor. The shrimp looked great with a nice crunchy coating, but the inside was pretty mushy, which threw it off. Still, the chili mayo sauce on the side was tasty and helped a bit.
We also tried the Glacier Margarita—it was strong, sweet, and definitely did the job after a day of sightseeing. Nothing fancy here, but if you’re hungry and nearby, it’s a good, easy stop.
15. Heritage Coffee Roasting Co.
If you’re craving something cozy and local after hiking, whale watching, or eating your body weight in salmon, Heritage Coffee Roasting Co. hits the spot.
This place has that perfect rainy-day-in-Alaska energy—wood-paneled walls, warm lighting, locals typing away on laptops or reading paperback novels, and the smell of actual small-batch coffee roasting in the air. It’s not touristy, and that’s exactly why it works.
We rolled in, slightly damp from the mist, and got two of their hearty breakfast burritos. The bacon mushroom burrito was worth the wait, with bacon still nice and crunchy and mushrooms cooked just right.
The Baja burrito brought a fresh punch thanks to crisp peppers and cilantro (though the chipotle sauce was on the runny side and a bit too vinegar-forward for our taste). Pair either one with the signature Raven’s Brew or a seasonal roast, and you’ll feel like a true rugged Alaskan coffee drifter.
Pro tip: Grab a window seat. You’ll get a front-row view of downtown Juneau life—floatplanes humming overhead, bundled-up cruise visitors, and the occasional dog in a raincoat.
16. Chilkat Cones
Chilkat Cones is a charming ice cream shop located in downtown Juneau, Alaska, near the cruise ship docks. Known for their unique, handmade cones imprinted with Chilkat tribal designs, they offer a variety of flavors, including options like Espresso Explosion and huckleberry. The shop also features artisan chocolates and coffee, making it a delightful stop for both locals and visitors seeking a sweet treat in the heart of Juneau.
Update: this place may no longer be open.
Final Thoughts
Juneau might be known for its glaciers and wildlife, but its food scene has its own quiet charm—especially if you know where to look. From fire-roasted salmon in the rainforest to surprise scoops at a tucked-away ice cream shop, each bite told a story of this wild and welcoming place. Whether you’re in port for the day or staying awhile, we hope this guide helps you eat well—and remember Juneau long after you’ve left.
Love discovering hidden food gems? Join UponArriving EATS—a free Discord for foodies on the hunt for the best local eats. 👉 JOIN NOW!
Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo. He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio.
