20 Best Restaurants in Fairbanks, AK

This article was written by local contributor Adelyn Baker & edited by the Travel Lens team.

Adelyn Baker

Jun 27, 2023 • 16 min read

Jacob Boomsma / shutterstock.com

Greetings, fellow food enthusiasts!

If you happen to be in Fairbanks, Alaska, and are looking for the ultimate dining experience, you've come to the right place.

As someone who has been living in this beautiful city for years, I've had the pleasure of trying out numerous restaurants and sampling their mouthwatering dishes.

And let me tell you, Fairbanks is an absolute treasure trove for food lovers!

In this article, I'm excited to share with you my personal favorite spots, where you'll find a mix of traditional Alaskan flavors, exotic international cuisine, and delectable comfort food that will leave you craving for more.

So, strap in and join me on this culinary adventure through the best restaurants in Fairbanks, Alaska!

Aurora Mediterranean Restaurant

One of my all-time favorites in Fairbanks is the Aurora Mediterranean Restaurant.

I absolutely love their Greek food, and I can confidently say it's the best I've ever had!

Every time I visit this cozy, warm establishment, I feel right at home.

The atmosphere at Aurora is inviting, with awesome music that makes you want to dance and fantastic customer service.

I was first introduced to this gem by a friend who can't stop raving about their food, and now I'm a regular visitor.

I highly recommend the Kofta Bowl with a touch of spice - it's simply amazing!

And their Aurora Mixed Grill is a must-try!

Lane's Quickie Tacos

I've always been a fan of street-style tacos, and I can confidently say that Lane's Quickie Tacos has the best ones in Fairbanks.

The restaurant itself has a warm and friendly atmosphere, making you feel right at home as soon as you step inside.

I usually order the barbacoa, the Texan, or the Merican, and I have never been disappointed.

They use flour tortillas, which taste amazing and add a unique twist to the tacos.

Aside from their mouth-watering tacos, they also serve the best rice and beans in town, as well as nachos, which are a must-try.

To wash it all down, they offer a selection of beers, bottled coke, and their homemade tea and lemonade.

Whenever I crave some spicy kick, I go for the "smoking hot chick" taco.

And for those who prefer something sweet and smokey, the po boy with brisket is an excellent choice.

DW Grill and Catering

One of my favorite places to grab a bite has always been DW Grill and Catering.

It's an easygoing counter-stop that offers a wide variety of sandwiches, wraps, and fried fare.

They also provide on-site catering services for any occasion.

They always greet you with a warm smile and make you feel at home.

On top of that, the food is delicious, and the prices are reasonable, especially for Fairbanks.

I appreciate how clean the restaurant is, too – there's nothing better than enjoying a hot meal in a spotless environment.

The restaurant even has holiday hours, so you can enjoy their delicious offerings during the festive season.

Soba Restaurant

Just the other day, I decided to try out Soba Restaurant with my family after hearing so many great reviews about it.

I have to say, I was not disappointed.

Right from the moment we stepped in, I could feel the cozy and warm atmosphere wrapping around us.

The food was absolutely authentic and delicious – it's truly the best Moldovan cuisine I've ever had in the United States.

We started with the stuffed mushrooms, which I highly recommend as a starter.

Our food arrived promptly after they took our order.

My son ordered the sausage, and the portions were so generous that he couldn't finish it all.

Sam's Taste of Thai

I remember the first time I discovered Sam's Taste of Thai, a hidden gem situated in the woods a few miles west of the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

It is a beautiful drive to get there, especially during the winter, when the snow creates a breathtaking landscape.

The food at Sam's Taste of Thai always tastes great, and the quantity is quite satisfying.

I was amazed by the prices, as they are very reasonable for the quality of food you get in interior Alaska.

I've tried their Pad Thai, and though it was ok, I found that every entree comes with a spring roll, except for the curry.

One of my personal favorites is the Tom Kha chicken soup.

It's so comforting during the colder months, and it's a great deal compared to other Thai restaurants in Fairbanks.

Sam's charges only $13 for the same amount of soup (rice included) and excellent fresh ingredients that you'd pay $20 for elsewhere.

The Drunken Noodle with pork is another dish I highly recommend.

I asked them to make it spicy, and they did not disappoint – the flavors were incredible!

The dish had big thick pieces of meat, grilled veggies cooked to perfection, and yummy huge noodles.

I think it was the best drunken noodles I've had in Fairbanks.

I'm also looking forward to trying their Massaman Curry on my next visit.

The service at Sam's Taste of Thai is exceptionally kind, and they prepare the food made-to-order, ensuring that everything is fresh and delicious.

I also enjoy their humongous Thai iced tea, which is the perfect complement to any of their dishes.

East Ramp Wood Fired Pizza

One of my absolute favorite dining spots in town has to be East Ramp Wood Fired Pizza.

What makes this place truly unique is its location overlooking the airfield, providing a fantastic view while you chow down on some delicious pizza.

Once you're inside, you'll get to design your own wood-fired pizza.

For those with a penchant for spice, the spicy sauce is a must-try.

While the wait time for the pizzas can sometimes be a bit longer than expected, I've never found it to be unbearable.

Besides, it gives you some time to soak in the atmosphere and watch planes take off and land.

In addition to the mouth-watering pizzas, they also offer salads and appetizers, though I've yet to try them myself.

The drink menu is small but well-curated, and the large windows overlooking the airfield come equipped with binoculars for an even closer look at the action outside.

This & That Grill

I recently visited This & That Grill, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!

I had been hearing rave reviews from friends and neighbors about their mouth-watering burgers and hand-dipped onion rings, so I decided to give it a try.

My Mushroom/Swiss Cheeseburger was cooked exactly how I ordered it (medium rare) and tasted incredible.

The service was friendly, and I enjoyed the cozy atmosphere of the place.

I also couldn't resist trying their onion rings and corn dogs, which were freshly hand-dipped and oh-so-delicious.

The sweet potato waffle fries and regular fries were also tempting choices, but I had to save some room for my next visit.

SUKA'S Polynesian Cuisine

One of my favorite spots in Fairbanks is SUKA'S Polynesian Cuisine.

The moment I walked in, I was greeted with signs warning me of "large portions," and they definitely were not joking!

The portions are incredibly generous, making every visit feel like a feast.

What keeps me coming back, though, is the fantastic food and atmosphere.

I absolutely love their chicken katsu bowl and mango tea, which are packed with incredible flavors.

The surprise of biting into a pineapple while enjoying my meal just adds to the delight.

Plus, the macaroni noodles at the bottom of the bowl are a pleasant surprise that really ties everything together.

The service is quick, and the island reggae music and beach ambiance add to the overall enjoyable dining experience.

Spice It Up Grill

The other day, I decided to give Spice It Up Grill a try, and I must say, it was a great experience.

When I called in my order, it was ready in just about 15 minutes, and the service was really impressive.

I'm already looking forward to going back and trying out more of their dishes.

What I noticed is that the place leans more towards Indian cuisine than Mediterranean, with options like butter chicken, curry chicken, and chana masala on the menu.

They were kind enough to provide samples, which helped me make up my mind on what to order.

The food presentation felt like a street/fast-food joint, making it a perfect spot for a quick meal.

The white cucumber and red "spicy" sauces were delicious and ended up being the highlight of my dinner.

Ajimi Japanese Restaurant

As a frequent visitor to Ajimi Japanese Restaurant, I've come to appreciate its relaxed atmosphere and creative menu.

The sushi rolls are not the highest quality, but they are still enjoyable, and the presentation is often quite appealing.

The tempura batter is light and flavorful, making it one of my favorite dishes to order.

One interesting aspect of Ajimi is the mix of Japanese and Korean influences, as evidenced by the decor and menu selections.

What truly stands out at Ajimi is the service.

I've been here for special occasions like my cousin's birthday and have always been impressed with how quickly the food is prepared, allowing for ample time to enjoy the meal and snap some great pictures.

Lemongrass Thai Restaurant

Whenever I'm craving some delicious Thai food, Lemongrass Thai Restaurant is my go-to spot in town.

Their menu is full of amazing curries, noodle dishes, and stir-fries, with fantastic lunch specials and plenty of vegetarian options.

One of the things I truly appreciate about this place is their attentiveness and accommodation when it comes to food allergies.

I have a friend with a shellfish allergy, and they always make sure to take extra care with our orders.

Plus, their fresh spring rolls are simply divine!

My personal favorites are the yellow curry with a spice level of hot and the chicken skewers.

I also enjoy their Thai iced tea, although it can be a bit sweet for some.

Bahn Thai Express (College Road)

Bahn Thai Express is a hidden gem you shouldn't miss.

Tucked away in the back corner of a shopping plaza, this small restaurant might not catch your attention at first.

But trust me, their food is amazing!

Don't be surprised if you see a lot of to-go orders; their dishes are that good.

My personal favorite is the green curry.

It's almost as good as their downtown counterpart, and the parking is much better!

I've also tried their Pad Gra Phrao with Basil, and it was delicious.

Nim's House of Thai Food

Another Thai spot I couldn't stop visiting is Nim's House of Thai Food.

The unassuming restaurant offers a variety of traditional Thai dishes in an easygoing atmosphere, making it a perfect place to grab a quick bite or enjoy a relaxed dinner with friends.

On my last visit, I ordered their popular Drunken Noodle with Pork and found it to be tasty.

I also tried the Nim's Special with Chicken, which is a lighter version of the Drunken Noodle but with more vegetables.

What really stood out to me was the friendly and attentive service.

The waiting time for my takeout order was just about 10 minutes, so I was quite pleased with the speed of service.

Next time, I'm looking forward to trying their Lad Nar and Pad See Ew, which I've heard are also delicious options.

Blue Roof Bistro

I visit Blue Roof Bistro at least once a week, and I can't help it - their food is just too good!

I particularly enjoy their empanadas and burger, but their daily specials never fail to impress me.

Just the other day, they had a pot roast slider meal on biscuits that was simply divine.

One thing I appreciate about this bistro is the effort they put into making their dishes fresh and flavorful.

Their homemade corn tortillas and chips are a testament to that.

Another highlight for me is their unique side dishes, like the French fries with bacon salt.

It's such a tasty and addictive combo that I often find myself craving more.

And don't get me started on their chipotle ketchup and ranch dipping sauces - they're simply irresistible!

The Pump House Restaurant

One of my favorite places to dine in Fairbanks has to be The Pump House Restaurant.

The ambiance is cozy and charming, with gold-rush-era relics and an ornate mahogany bar that really sets the mood.

Whenever I have a special occasion or want to treat myself, I make sure to reserve a riverside table by the window to enjoy the beautiful view while indulging in their delicious surf 'n' turf dishes.

Their menu always leaves me impressed with the fresh and quality ingredients they use.

I cannot get enough of their unique clam chowder, which is unlike any other I've tried.

I also love their seafood risotto, which is creamy and packed with flavors.

If I'm in the mood for something a bit different, I go for their pumpkin seed-crusted halibut with veggies, another delightful choice.

They are attentive and knowledgeable about their menu, making it easy to get a perfect recommendation.

Fuji Japanese Restaurant

I remember the first time I decided to try out sushi at Fuji Japanese Restaurant, and it has since become one of my favorite spots in town.

The other day, I was craving some sushi and salad, and I arrived just a few minutes before they closed.

I've always been impressed by the restaurant's interior, which gives off a cosmopolitan, urban vibe.

But the real star of the show is their food.

When I brought my sushi and salad home, I was amazed by the presentation, even for take-out.

The freshness of the ingredients, the beautiful containers, and the attention to detail made it feel like a luxurious dining experience.

Plus, I noticed that they have their own delivery car, which is a convenient option for those cozy nights at home.

Jazz Bistro on 4th

I recently spent an amazing evening at Jazz Bistro on 4th, and boy, was it an unforgettable experience!

I walked in without a reservation, and to my delight, I was greeted and seated immediately.

The lighting and live music created the perfect atmosphere, making me feel relaxed after a long day at work.

I was initially hesitant about trying a menu unfamiliar to me, but I couldn't have been more satisfied with my meal.

The Latin tapas and Cuban classics were to die for – my shrimp cocktail tasted like a hearty stew, while the Pollo con Crema was simply amazing.

Moreover, they had a great selection of wines.

My partner and I have already decided to spend our future date nights at the Jazz Bistro on 4th, and I can't wait for their Latin nights, which I've heard are a blast!

Oishi Kitchen

I never thought I'd find such a delightful bakery and café right here in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Oishi Kitchen has quickly become one of my favorite spots in town, offering a delicious selection of both regular and gluten-free entrees and desserts.

They even have Oishi Bakery coffee cups, beanie souvenirs, and imported Japanese treats for sale.

Finding the place might be a bit tricky as it is located down a short gravel road and through a gate, but don't worry, there are enough signs to guide you to this hidden gem.

Once you arrive, you can choose to dine inside at their counter stools or enjoy the beautiful Alaskan weather at their outdoor picnic tables.

What really sets Oishi Kitchen apart is the authentic taste of their food, which brings back fond memories of my time spent in Japan.

The cakes are light, fluffy, and not too sweet – simply perfect.

And if you're looking for something savory, don't miss out on their Bao buns or ramen, which are both excellent choices that will surely expand your palate.

House of Fire Pizza - East

I've been a resident of Fairbanks for quite some time now, and let me tell you, it's not always easy to find a good place to hang out and grab a bite to eat.

Well, that changed when I discovered House of Fire Pizza - East.

I remember the first time I stepped into this place, I was instantly taken by the warm and friendly atmosphere.

It felt like an oasis in the midst of chaos.

One particular night, I went there with a friend who ordered a Chicago deep-dish pizza.

I decided to stick to a regular pizza, but I really wish I had opted for the deep dish too.

It looked absolutely amazing!

However, my regular pizza did come out 15 minutes earlier than my friend's, so I guess that's one advantage.

The location near Minnie Street is quite spacious, which is a nice change from some of the smaller places around town.

What really stood out to me, though, was the incredible service..

Seoul Sushi

I absolutely love going to Seoul Sushi for a delightful dinner.

The service is always top-notch, and the atmosphere is cozy and relaxed, making it a great place to unwind after a long day.

One of the things I appreciate most about Seoul Sushi is their impressive selection of rolls and dinner plates.

I often opt for the all-you-can-eat option, which is priced at $32.99 and offers a wide variety of sushi and appetizers to choose from.

And, of course, I can't forget to mention their amazing Sake offerings – they have a nice variety to pair with any dish.

I've been to Seoul Sushi with both small and large groups, and despite the restaurant's smaller size, they always manage to accommodate us comfortably.

A unique touch that I particularly enjoy is their deep-fried Oreos and Sake bombs!

It's little surprises like these that keep me coming back to Seoul Sushi time and time again.

Oh, and if you decide to try their ramen rice curry, be warned – it's incredibly spicy but so delicious!

Final Thoughts

From mouth-watering Mediterranean dishes at Aurora Mediterranean Restaurant to the delightful tacos at Lane's Quickie Tacos, there's always something for everyone in Fairbanks.

The fusion of flavors at Sam's Taste of Thai and comforting Japanese dishes at Oishi Kitchen are just a few more examples of the incredible culinary experiences that this city has to offer.

So, next time you find yourself in Fairbanks, make sure to treat your taste buds to these amazing restaurants - it's an experience you won't forget!

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