We called the weekend prior for the hours of operation. We were told they close at 3 or 4? Didn't want to make the drive from Anchorage and show up to a closed establishment. So we waited until the next Saturday and drove in from Big Lake. We were excited to go have coffee and maybe a bite to eat while enjoying the scenic views. There was one other table there. The server took our drink orders. He was snide, non chalant and maybe his family doesn't own the place because surely he would show a little concern if they did. We ordered $17 burgers. (Don't mind paying for quality food and ambiance) They came served on a paper plate with a plastic holder like you use at family barbecues. I asked for some mayonnaise and he said: "I think she put some on there." I had looked already or I wouldn't have asked. No offer for additional drinks and had to go find our own water which was in a 5 gallon Coleman jug. When I went up and asked him if I could trouble him for some napkins (he didn't bring any)pointing he said, "They're right behind you." I asked about "Today's Goodies" as the menu suggests, hoping for a baked good with our coffees. Again with the pointing finger.
The only saving grace was the young lady who tabbed us out. The burgers were nothing close to exceptional. 3 burgers and 3 drinks = $78 I left a $5 tip and really feel like I shouldn't have left that. We would have had more drinks and dessert if we didn't feel like we were putting him out. Would've been a great tip on a slow day. Next time I think I'll pack a picnic, save the money and spare the attitude. Our sole reason for going was to have coffee, dessert and the scenery. If it hadn't been for the exceptional company I had with me I would have gotten upset. It sincerely felt as if we weren't welcome and were putting him out from the moment we walked in the door. He did not socially interact with us at all and even said if we wanted anything else to come find him???? I'm not sure if he thought we were tourists or locals........either way. A single smile, thank you, actual SERVICE from a server isn't too much to ask when you're paying premium prices. Completely awkward. Would've ruined the day if it wasn't so pretty. Definitely packing a...
Read moreIf you have ever wondered about those cute little red cabins on the right side of the road, just before the actual Hatcher Pass Road, those are the lodge and cabins. Jeff, Cat, and the rest of the staff are some of the warmest and most welcoming people you will ever meet. There is live music every Saturday from 4-7, kids running and dancing, dogs hanging out, plenty of beer, coffee, tea, and sodas; and delicious food to fill your belly after a long day of adventuring in one of the most beautiful places in the state. If you'd like to stay the night, the cabins are absolutely adorable and so cozy! You may have to use a composting toilet, but don't let that scare you! They do an excellent job of keeping their spaces clean and warm for guests. The cherry on top is the sauna down the hill, sitting on top of the creek that runs behind the lodge. You will feel every muscle in your body relax and melt into the benches. When you start to really feel like mush, head out the back door and take a quick dip in the creek (yes, even in the winter)! The shock from the cold water adds to the experience, and you can do it as many times as you want during your session. All in all, whether it's just for a quick drink before heading down the hill, or whether you're crashing for the night, Hatcher Pass Lodge is where you want to go for a truly magical experience. Make sure you also give bar manager Loki lots of pets and ear...
Read moreOur girl scout troop recently travelled to Alaska. Here are the girls’ reviews of Hatcher Pass Lodge: Bailey – The staff was very welcoming and provided us with everything we needed. The cabins were clean and cozy and the food was delicious. The scenery is beautiful and fun to hike in. We found the ruins of an old mine deep in the hills. I would definitely recommend this.
Hailey – Everyone was so welcoming and nice! Cabins were cozy and food was spectacular. I enjoyed my stay tremendously.
Madeline – The staff was very friendly and the food at the lodge was fantastic.
Mei – Employees were very nice, they allowed us to use their kitchen ware so that we could make our diner. The food we bought from them was amazing, especially the razzleberry pie. The cabins we stayed in were very nice and comfortable.
Delia – I absolutely loved it here, beside the breathtaking scenery, the staff was incredibly accommodating and nice. The cabins we stayed in were clean and warm and since we were the only people that night, they let us pick from any of the available cabins!
Kali – The hospitality was amazing. I could go there a lot more.
Becca (troop leader) – Hap is so welcoming and friendly. He was diligent in resolving an...
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