Sitka is a charming coastal town located in southeast Alaska, surrounded by Tongass National Forest and Sitka Sound. Along with beautiful scenery and outdoor recreation, Sitka is known for its lively food scene featuring fresh seafood caught locally and ingredients grown in the fertile soil.
Whether you’re looking for casual bites or a special occasion dinner, these are some of the top restaurants worth visiting in Sitka.
Sitka’s location along the Inside Passage near the Gulf of Alaska means an abundance of delicious seafood is readily available. Salmon, halibut, cod, crab and more can be enjoyed on menus throughout the year. Local farms and foraging also provide seasonal vegetables, berries and mushrooms. Thankfully, Sitka’s talented chefs have developed creative ways to prepare and showcase these high-quality ingredients.
Beyond seafood, you’ll also find cuisine representing Sitka’s diverse cultural influences, such as Russian, Indigenous Tlingit, Japanese and more. Many restaurants use sustainable and foraging practices, supporting the local economy. The dining atmosphere ranges from casual fish counters and pubs to elegant fine dining. No matter what cuisine or vibe you’re looking for, there’s a top-notch restaurant ready to delight your taste buds.
1. The Buccaneer Restaurant
Situated right on the waterfront with stunning views of Sitka Sound, The Buccaneer Restaurant has been a Sitka landmark since the 1950s. Originally built as a floating restaurant, it’s now permanently docked along Singers Cove. The menu changes daily based on the freshest seafood available, but usually includes crab cakes, salmon varieties, halibut and more prepared with skillful techniques.
For ultra-fresh flavors, try the seafood salad or fish tacos from the raw bar. Large windows provide the perfect backdrop for watching boats and seabirds cruise by as you dine. The atmosphere is refined yet relaxed, making it a favorite for special occasions, business lunches or just grabbing a quick bite near downtown. Top it off with a slice of homemade pie from the bakery.
2. The Rock Bin
Overlooking the harbor from a scenic bluff, The Rock Bin is an unpretentious gem serving satisfying, quality meals to locals and visitors since the 1970s. The design is pure function over style, but the food is where it counts. Start with a round of fish tacos or halibut nibbles and chips – some of the best in town.
Save room for a full ocean-to-table feast like firecracker halibut or herb-crusted Sitka salmon served with fresh veggies from local farms. Adventurous diners can even try local delicacies like slivered octopus ceviche or smoked rockfish chowder. Friendly servers will gladly offer pairing recommendations from the beer and wine list. With stunning water views, The Rock Bin sets the stage for an enjoyable lakeside lunch or dinner.
3. The Sitka Hotel Dining Room
Over 100 years old, the Sitka Hotel retains historic Alaskan charm. Nestled in the heart of town, the hotel’s restaurant offers refined coastal Northwest cuisine highlighting regional bounty. The locally sourced menu changes daily but always features creative preparations of wild salmon, halibut or spot prawns alongside veggies from local farms and foragers.
Whether indulging in the three-course prix fixe menu or ordering a la carte, dishes are beautifully presented with attention to flavorful contrasts. Indulge in starters likehouse-smoked salmon mousse or kale and mushroom strata, followed by pan-seared lingcod over potato hash or herb-crusted chicken under morels and asparagus. Save room for temptations from the bakery like bread pudding or blueberry crisp. Superior service in the historic dining room makes this an ideal choice for special occasions or treating yourself to dinner downtown.
4. Larkspur Cafe
This charming corner cafe fuses fresh, seasonal Northwest cuisine with a welcoming neighborhood vibe. The casual yet earnest approach has made Larkspur Cafe a beloved local staple for two decades. Stop in for breakfast tacos, homemade granola or fried chicken and waffles on the weekends.
For lunch and dinner, expect rotating plates highlighting sustainable fish, local veggies, tapenades and compound butters. Recent standouts include spot prawn BLT’s, curried mussels over tomato-cilantro rice or steelhead trout piccata. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options abound thanks to the creative chefs. With artwork from local artists adorning the walls and friendly regulars, Larkspur Cafe offers a cheerful respite any time of day.
5. The Sitka Salmon Shares Fish Counter
Situated along the historic Sitka Cannery building, The Sitka Salmon Shares Fish Counter focuses solely on showcase the bounty from surrounding waters. From May through September, order straight from fishermen at the counter daily around noon or visit the onsite market for perfect seafood to take home.
Expect the freshest varieties of salmon, halibut, cod, shrimp, crab and more – all easily prepared for meals at your accommodation. Browse recipes, sample appetizers and chat with friendly staff to learn about sustainable practices and seafood preparations. For an authentic Alaskan treat, order smoked salmon or fish cakes from the wood-fired smoker. With its thriving location in the center of town, The Salmon Shares Fish Counter is essential for stocking up on gold-standard Southeast Alaska seafood.
6. Penny Ice Creamery
For a sweet break or afternoon delight, make your way to charming Penny Ice Creamery in the heart of historic Fortress of the Bear. Enjoy handcrafted ice cream and sorbet made from local dairy and seasonal ingredients inside the cozy cafe or stroll with a cone along downtown’s waterfront trails.
Popular standalone flavors include hazelnut fudge truffle, Sitka Spruce tip and salted caramel. But innovative combinations like smoked salmon fig biscotti or decadent sea salt chocolate are can’t-miss limited editions highlighting the region. Vegetarian, vegan and keto-friendly options satisfy all tastes too. Whether you linger over a hot coffee and fresh-baked scone or pick up pints to enjoy later, Penny provides a delightful taste of Sitka.
7. Grandma’s Saloon & Grill
This charming old-school bar and restaurant in theowntown core dishes up hearty pub fare with a creative twist since the 1980s. Classic options like burgers, fish tacos and chicken strips pair well with 16 rotating taps of craft beers, ciders and kombucha on draft.
But it’s the seasonal specials and family recipes that really shine – think smoked maple-glazed salmon or chicken pot pie bursting with local veggies. Save room to split a giant cookie skillet or slice of mile-high berry pie still warm from the oven. With pool tables, dart boards and live music, Grandma’s Saloon provides perfect people watching any night of the week. Early birds can indulge in build-your-own breakfast scrambles too.
8. Sitka Sound Seafood and Chandlery
In addition to The Salmon Shares fish counter downtown, head to Sitka Sound’s secondary location at Alaska’s former Wharf for a stunning waterfront setting. Dine casual inside, out on the deck or order from the walk-up window for quintessential Alaskan seafood.
The fish’n’chips plate hits all the crave-worthy notes, fried to a golden crunch. Or order the halibut sandwich piled high with slaw, pickles, secret sauce and fries for a satisfying lunch. Indulgent fish platters come loaded with coleslaw, hushpuppies and house-made tartar sauce too. Friendly staff let you know what’s freshest from Sitka’s charter boats each day. Sit back and take in scenic views of island mountains across the channel while you enjoy.
9. Japonski Grill & Sushi Bar
Tucked along Katlian Street’s waterfront, Japonski Grill provides refined Pacific Northwest fare blending Japanese and local influences. Start with seafood appetizers like smoked salmon nori rolls, miso soup or a sake flight before digging into platters.
Halibut katsu, yellowfin tuna poke bowls and spot prawn tempura highlight Alaska’s bounty. But traditional teriyaki, yakitori and teppanyaki options satisfy too. An extensive raw bar and signature sushi rolls round out the menu. Comfortable seating, Asian artwork and chill vibes make this a date night favorite. For takeout, don’t miss the house sake, lemon grass chicken bento boxes or teriyaki salmon bowls by the water.
10. AnnieKaig’s Restaurant
Inspired by her Tlingit heritage, Chef Bennette Blasberg creates innovative contemporary Pacific Northwest fare highlighting Alaska’s indigenous ingredients at AnnieKaig’s. Located within The Centennial Hall building, the spacious dining room fits large parties celebrating special events.
Start with house-smoked salmon spread or steamed manila clams before indulging seasonal dishes like smoked halibut chowder, seaweed risotto or wild berry sausages. Extensive wine, craft cocktail and beer lists cater to every palate too. Friendly yet polished service handles large events seamlessly while keeping the meal memorable. With its picturesque setting downtown and commitment to cultural traditions, AnnieKaig’s enhances any Sitka experience.
11. Sitka Tribe of Alaska Smoked Salmon & Gift Shop
For authentic Alaska Native flavors, stop at the Tribal Center’s smokehouse and shop demonstrating Tlingit traditions. Watch salmon being hot or cold smoked over alder wood through large viewing windows. Then sample spreads, rolls or filets to take home.
But don’t skip the café featuring smoked salmon chowders, soups and more prepared fresh daily by acclaimed chefs. With seating indoors and out along scenic Indian River, it provides a unique way to experience local culture over a meal. Shop for handcrafted foods, gifts, jewelry and more too. The Smoked Salmon Shop shares an important part of Sitka history any time of year.
12. Kavik Pub and Restaurant
Nestled near the Sitka airport terminal, Kavik provides all-day grub and conviviality within a cozy lodge atmosphere. Sip craft beer or cocktails perfect for unwinding after a flight. Then dig into favorites like Sitka halibut fish tacos, blackened shrimp poboys or shepherd’s pie for homestyle comfort.
Hungrier eaters should sample the pork chop plate piled with veggies and mashed potatoes. Daily specials highlight seasonal items too whether sautéed salmon cakes or mushroom risotto. With laidback ambiance year-round, Kavik makes a welcoming spot to grab a quick bite en route to exploration or have a relaxing meal any time.
Conclusion
With its scenic waterfronts, cultural attractions and abundance of seafood, Sitka fosters a thriving culinary scene. These top-rated restaurants showcase the region’s history and resources with creative flair.
From cafes to fine dining, there’s an option for every taste and appetite. Be sure to leave room for sampling Alaska’s freshest seafood and experiencing the warmth of Sitka’s community around every meal. Bon appétit!