Anchorage sure likes its breweries. What an expansive brewery restaurant this place is with its beamed ceilings and very exposed kitchen. We came here for a late dinner (~9pm) on a Tuesday, and the place was almost packed. We didn't have to wait for a table, but I was surprised at how lively it was on a Tuesday.
$11.95 IPA Sampler - IPA, Split IPA, Cask IPA, Tangerine IPA, Blood Orange IPA: great selection, who doesn't like a sampler?
$13.95 The Last Word - Aurora gin from Anchorage, Luxardo Maraschino, green Chartreuse, lime juice: As traveling aurora chasers, we were curious to find out what Aurora gin is. I still don't know what it is, but it was nice and tart and pretty looking.
$28.95 Brewhouse Appetizer Tower - garlic prawns, calamari, Alaska smoked salmon dip, including... $14.95 calamari - buttermilk battered, jalapeño lime aioli, jalapeño chips: great! large chunks of breaded calamari rings, breaded and fried jalapeños, and thick aioli
$15.95 Garlic Prawns - Pacific jumbo white prawns, garlic, artichoke hearts, tomato, fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, potato rosemary bread croutons: great! buttery, garlicky, saucy prawns and thick croutons
$14.95 Smoked Salmon Dip - Alder smoked Alaska sockeye salmon, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, capers, dill, w/ alder-grilled artisan bread, crisp sweet gherkins: excellent! simple yet deliciously creamy yogurt salmon dip on toasted bread. I made myself a mental note to myself to make it.
$9.95 Seafood Chowder - roasted corn, shaved fennel, sweet red peppers, crisp bacon, creamy crab broth, splash of dry sherry: good! creamy, savory, sweet soup, great with a bit of hot sauce
$14.95 Double Sausage Mushroom Pizza - Alaska grown and produced spicy Italian sausage and Andouille, caramelized fennel, oyster mushrooms, fresh mozzarella, house made marinara: okay! good sausage, crust wasn't amazing. Pizza was alright, especially compared to the seafood appetizers.
$28.95 Alaska Snow Crab Stuffed Roasted Cod - Alaska cod and snow crab, braised spinach, parmesan, artichokes, garlic mashed potatoes, chive beurre blanc: Very good! When I saw this on the menu, I wanted to see how this would be stuffed, and what would be stuffed with what? Turns out it is a creamy crab mixture in the center of a cod filet, on top of a chive butter sauce and garlicky mashed potatoes.
If it were the right season, I would have loved to try the king crab. Perhaps I will have to return...
Read moreGlacier Brew House offers an inviting retreat where a relaxed atmosphere meets an exciting culinary experience. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted by a warm environment highlighted by thoughtfully arranged seating, soft ambient lighting, and decor that balances modern style with a nod to rustic charm.
One of the major draws is their house-made drinks, which have quickly become a local favorite. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or simply looking to try something unique, these expertly crafted beverages set the tone for an enjoyable evening. The mixologists here clearly take pride in their creative concoctions, adding an extra layer to the overall dining experience.
Admittedly, there is a brief initial wait during peak times—a small trade-off that turns into a pleasant period of anticipation. Once attended to, the service is excellent; the staff exudes warmth and attentiveness, ensuring that your glass stays filled and your dining needs are met with genuine care and professionalism.
The food at Glacier Brew House is where the promise of a complete experience shines. The crab spinach dip is a standout—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavors that beautifully complement the house-made drinks. The seafood chowder, with its hearty chunks and well-balanced seasoning, provides comforting warmth on cooler evenings. Additionally, the Fish and Chips are a highlight; the batter is perfectly crispy without being greasy, and the fish is fresh and flaky, making it an essential order.
While the menu is robust, a small suggestion for improvement might be to provide a few more innovative twists on classic dishes—something that could further entice food enthusiasts always on the lookout for something new. However, the current standout items, particularly the crab spinach dip and the impeccable fish and chips, ensure that Glacier Brew House already holds a top spot in the hearts of many diners.
Overall, Glacier Brew House excels in creating a dining environment that is as appealing to food enthusiasts as it is to casual diners. Its house-made drinks, quality food offerings, and attentive service make it a worthwhile stop for anyone looking to enjoy a memorable meal and a delightful atmosphere. Whether you decide to drop in for the drinks, stay for the food, or simply soak up the ambiance, Glacier Brew House is a destination that promises a well-rounded and...
Read moreI have tried very, very hard to find restaurant I enjoy as much as Glacier BrewHouse.
Have I had any luck? NO. Even my husband agrees this is hands down one of the best meals we've had at a restaurant.
Let's start with the drinks. House–brewed root beer and cream soda? Get that. My husband couldn't decide which one he wanted so our waiter brought him a little shot glass of both to help make a decision. Here's a fun fact: he ordered both.
If you're feeling boozy, the bartender pours one heck of a lemon drop martini. I may have had three of them. I truly don't remember. LOL. I can tell you that I without a doubt had at least two. After the second, I specifically remember our very sweet waiter bringing me a glass of water and telling me to hydrate before I went home. I obviously had a designated driver so it made me chuckle. My husband and I still laugh about it every so often.
Before we ordered our meal, our waiter also specifically asked if we had any allergies. I'm kind of bummed I don't remember his name (blame the martinis). Since they have a somewhat extensive menu, it was very thoughtful.
In anticipation of our trip to Alaska, I swore I would find myself King Crab legs somewhere. And, alas, Glacier BrewHouse satisfied the craving. The crab meat was so yummy. Very sweet and flavorful. I also asked for jasmine rice instead of the potatoes it normally comes with. My Asian ancestors would be proud.
My husband ordered the ribeye and basically finished it before I could open my third crab leg. Didn't even offer me a bite...that's how you know it was good! I may have snagged a piece while he was mid-sip of his root beer. I can confirm it was cooked and seasoned perfectly.
The bread pudding was a great choice to wrap up our dinner. We left full of delicious eats all around.
The only cons are (1) you have to be prepared to walk a bit. Street parking is hard to find and once you settle on a lot, you can expect to pay upwards of $15 in parking fees before dinner. (2) You're not getting in without a reservation. Well, maybe you could, but you'll likely be waiting awhile. I made our reservation weeks in advance.
Other than that, we had a great dinner in a very lively atmosphere. We're definitely coming back on our next trip...
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