The Grind — Restaurant in Alaska

Best. Coffee. Ever! So glad we stopped at The Grind for the few minutes we were in Girdwood. The barista was delightful to chat with and the Black Irish Espresso was so delicious. (It was the brew of the day, I did not order it as an espresso or Americano.) I can't say enough wonderful things about how smooth this coffee is. We bought a one-pound bag to take home! The selection of items in the store are eclectic and fun. Cute greeting cards and gifts. I wish I could remember the barista's name so I could thank her in this review. She had her well-trained dog Koda in the back room; and he was delightful, too. If I ever go back to Alaska, and am anywhere near Girdwood, I will definitely return...

A Hidden Gem Worth Crossing Oceans For

Listen, I’ve had coffee on five continents—from sipping steamy brews in the Andes to dodging scooters for a cortado in Barcelona—and this little gem? Chef’s kiss.

The coffee here? Smooth like jazz, strong enough to wake a jet-lagged panda, and crafted by folks who clearly love what they do. The staff? So friendly I almost invited them on my next trip. They don’t just remember your name—they remember your vibe.

Also, pro tip: don’t sleep on the snacks and gifts. I came in for caffeine and left with the best locally made treats and a gift for a friend… which I totally kept for myself.

In short: 10/10, would detour an international flight to stop here...

Hannah helped me today and she was a fantastic barista. She said she is somewhat new to the profession but she clearly takes her work seriously, the coffee was as good as it looks in the picture! We chatted about the place, which I can’t believe I have never been to before. She praised the owner of 11 years, “Gator”, for really caring about his customers. The shop is wonderfully eclectic and with a lot of fun paraphernalia on the walls to explore. Star Wars fans are in for a treat! It’s a really cozy place to bring a computer and work or just hangout and play a game of chess. Now that I’ve discovered this place, I will visit whenever I’m...