What’s on your list of must-do activities for your trip to Alaska?
We’re confident in assuming that it’s packed with awe-inspiring natural wonders, rugged landscapes, and spotting some incredible wildlife.
But don’t forget to dive into our home state’s thriving food scene too!
From bountiful seafood to unique local specialties, Alaska has something to satisfy every palate.
We’ve used the experience and local knowledge that goes into our guided food tours in Anchorage to put together these recommendations for five dishes that you have to eat in Alaska.
Scroll down to see our tips and start planning a culinary adventure like no other.
And if you need more information about our Anchorage guided food tours, please get in touch with any questions you have.
Enjoy an Exquisite Seafood Extravaganza!
When it comes to seafood, Alaska is an unrivaled paradise. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the freshest catches from the Cook Inlet and the Gulf of Alaska.
Start your seafood feast with the legendary Alaska salmon. If you ask us, it’s impossible to choose between its succulent regular form and the rich delights of smoked salmon.
Our solution? Try both!
Flaky and delicate halibut, renowned for its sweet and mild flavor, is another seafood staple. Alaskans serve this fish in all manner of ways, be it grilled, steamed, baked, or pan-fried.
And don’t miss out on the delectable crab varieties, including the king, Dungeness, and snow crabs.
Savoring the rich, sweet flavor of our crab dishes is an indulgent experience that you must treat yourself to, from classic steamed crab with butter for dipping to comforting crab cakes.
And there are many more treasures from the sea to fill up on!
Just some other mouthwatering ingredients worth your consideration include tender and flavorful Pacific cod, black cod, burbot, rockfish, pollock, and sole.
And, of course, there’s the delightful richness of clams, mussels, and scallops, prepared in various salivating ways.
For a final treat, indulge in the briny oysters that fishermen harvest along Alaska’s coast.
From shore to plate, Alaska’s seafood will leave you craving for more.
Looking for more vacation inspiration? Check out our recommendations for the best attractions to see and visit in Anchorage, Alaska.
Reindeer Sausage — An Alaskan Specialty
For a truly unique dish to try in Alaska, reindeer sausage could be the one for you.
Bursting with flavors and a touch of gamey goodness, this savory sausage is actually a combination of reindeer meat, pork, beef, and various herbs and spices.
The result tastes like, well, sausage! It may have a little more spice than other sausages, but the taste will be inherently familiar.
Whether grilled, sautéed, or simmered in a hearty stew, reindeer sausage embodies the spirit of the untamed wilderness and is a must-try for any adventurous eater.
Keep embracing this sense of adventure by reading our tips for the most fun things to do in Anchorage, AK.
Alaska’s Wild Berries — Sample a Spectrum of Flavors
Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness boasts an abundance of wild berries that will satisfy your sweet tooth and connect you with the land’s natural bounty.
From luscious blueberries to vibrant salmonberries, and tart highbush cranberries to juicy watermelon berries, Alaska’s wild berry varieties will leave you spellbound.
For a colorful and refreshing kick to your breakfast, add them as a topping on your morning pancakes or waffles.
You can enjoy wild berries in delightful desserts such as cakes, bread, muffins, cobblers, and pies.
We also preserve berries as jellies and jams, as well as dehydrating and freezing them.
Wild berry jellies and jams are perfect for spreading on toasted bread and pancakes. They are also used as fillings in pastries and as a glaze or filling for donuts.
The burst of flavors and the connection to nature will make each bite an unforgettable experience.
Read our previous guide Where Can I Get a Great Breakfast in Anchorage, AK? and make sure you start your vacation days right!
Birch Syrup — The Essence of Alaska
Move over maple syrup, because Alaska has its own unique liquid gold: birch syrup.
Made from the sap of birch trees, this amber-colored sweetener boasts a distinct flavor profile that is sweet, dark, and earthy, with hints of caramel and molasses.
This versatile ingredient adds depth and character to an array of sweet and savory dishes.
You can find it drizzled over pancakes and waffles, used as a glaze for grilled meats and fish, or mixed with legumes and veggies or into stews.
Incorporated into marinades and dressings too, birch syrup is a ubiquitous ingredient here in Alaska.
Are you heading to Alaska on a couple’s getaway? We think you’ll love our suggestions for the best romantic places to visit in Anchorage.
Alaskan Breads Offer a Taste of Tradition
When it comes to bread in Alaska, one word reigns supreme: sourdough.
Anchorage has a rich history of sourdough culture, and our first recommendation is an absolute must for all bread lovers.
Sink your teeth into fluffy sourdough pancakes and flaky biscuits made from old sourdough starter.
These time-honored recipes have been passed down through generations and are sure to leave you wanting more.
But the bread adventure doesn’t end there! Alaskan fry bread is another delightful treat that you mustn’t miss.
Picture golden, deep-fried dough that is crispy on the outside and delightfully soft on the inside.
Whether you enjoy it plain or topped with butter and honey, Alaskan Fry bread is a true culinary delight.
Experience Alaska’s Culinary Delights on Our Anchorage Walking Food Tours!
Now you know the five dishes that you have to eat in Alaska, it’s time to start planning your food adventure!
Browse our range of guided food tours in Anchorage and find out more about trips into our city’s food scene as well as its culture, history, and local legends.
Do you have any questions about our Anchorage guided food tours? Please contact us for the answers you need.
