Bethel is a small rural city located along the Kuskokwim River in southwest Alaska. With a population of just over 6,000 people, Bethel offers a surprisingly diverse and vibrant dining scene featuring restaurants that blend traditional Alaska Native cuisine with contemporary dishes using fresh, local ingredients.
| Restaurant | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Quyana Restaurant | Traditional Yup’ik dishes with locally sourced ingredients. |
| Milano’s Pizzeria | Casual spot for pizza, pasta, and pub grub. |
| Sam & Lee’s Chinese Restaurant | Elegant Chinese dining with a focus on Cantonese cuisine. |
| AC Store Deli | Hearty comfort food in a rustic setting. |
| The Cookie Jar | Freshly baked treats and espresso drinks. |
| Bogart’s Restaurant | Upscale dining with fine steaks and seafood. |
| Manila Manila Restaurant | Homestyle Filipino cuisine with a cozy ambiance. |
| Swanson’s Sourdough Diner | Classic American diner fare available 24/7. |
| Cinco De Mayo Restaurant | Authentic Mexican flavors in a family-friendly setting. |
| Alaska Coffers | Live music, pub fare, and Alaskan seafood. |
| Napoli’s Pizzeria | Family-friendly pizzeria with classic Italian-American dishes. |
| La Maison du Gourmet | Fine French cuisine located in Bethel’s airport terminal. |
| AC Quickstop | Local seafood and fresh sushi offerings. |
From family-owned establishments serving comfort food to fine dining venues focused on seafood, Bethel has quality options to satisfy all tastes and budgets. This article explores 12 of the top-rated restaurants that showcase the best of Bethel’s culinary offerings.
Yup’ik Cuisine at Quyana Restaurant
Name and Location: Quyana Restaurant is located in the heart of Kodiak, Alaska, and specializes in traditional Yup’ik cuisine. The restaurant is named after the Yup’ik word for “thank you,” reflecting the owners’ gratitude for the rich cultural heritage of the region.
History and Significance: Quyana Restaurant was founded by a local Yup’ik family who wanted to share their traditional recipes and culinary techniques with the community. The restaurant has become a beloved institution in Kodiak, known for its authentic flavors and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
What to Expect: Diners at Quyana Restaurant can expect to enjoy a variety of traditional Yup’ik dishes, such as salmon berry akutaq (a type of berry ice cream), seal oil dipping sauce, and muktuk (whale blubber). The menu also features modern twists on classic recipes, such as reindeer sausage pizza and Alaskan crab cakes.
Visitor Information: Quyana Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, with reservations recommended for larger parties. The restaurant is family-friendly and offers a casual, relaxed atmosphere. Visitors should be prepared to try new and unusual flavors, and to learn about the rich cultural traditions of the Yup’ik people.
Specializing in traditional Yup’ik dishes made from recipes passed down for generations, Quyana Restaurant provides an authentic taste of Alaska Native fare in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Owned by mother-daughter team Elena Gregory and Vivian Korthuis, Quyana sources as many ingredients as possible locally, from freshly caught salmon to tundra berries.
Signature dishes include kuignaq – a rich salmon and berry soup, akutaq “Eskimo ice cream” with reindeer fat and berries, and pilak’aq – tender strips of moose meat fried with onions. The heart of the restaurant lies in celebrating and preserving Yup’ik culture and values through food. With welcoming staff and reasonable prices, Quyana makes the ideal introduction to Bethel’s dynamic indigenous cuisine.
Friendly Pub Fare at Milano’s Pizzeria
Name and Location: Milano’s Pizzeria is a popular spot for pub fare and pizza in Kodiak, Alaska. The restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Kodiak, making it a convenient stop for visitors and locals alike.
History and Significance: Milano’s Pizzeria has been serving up delicious pizza and pub fare to Kodiak residents and visitors for over 20 years. The restaurant is known for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere and its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
What to Expect: Diners at Milano’s Pizzeria can expect to enjoy a variety of classic pub fare, such as burgers, wings, and nachos, as well as a selection of specialty pizzas. The restaurant also offers a full bar, with a selection of local and imported beers, wines, and spirits.
Visitor Information: Milano’s Pizzeria is open for lunch and dinner, with a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant can get busy during peak hours, so visitors may want to arrive early or be prepared to wait for a table. Milano’s also offers takeout and delivery options for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home or on the go.
For nearly 25 years, Milano’s has been a local favorite for pizza, pasta, and pub grub in a casual, family-friendly setting. Owners Brad and nonzero Weltzin took over from Brad’s parents in 2010 and have kept the restaurant’s welcoming spirit while expanding the menu.
Diners can savor Lasagna Bolognese loaded with meat sauce, Fettuccine Alfredo baked golden brown with Italian cheeses, or hand-tossed pizzas piled high with classic toppings or creative combinations like the Kuskokwim Pie with smoked salmon, red onions, capers, and cream cheese.
Daily lunch specials, a well-stocked bar with Alaska brews on tap, and reasonable prices make Milano’s a comfortable neighborhood spot to unwind over hearty comfort food.
Fine Dining at Sam & Lee’s Chinese Restaurant
Name and Location: Sam & Lee’s Chinese Restaurant is a fine dining establishment located in Kodiak, Alaska. The restaurant is known for its elegant atmosphere and authentic Chinese cuisine.
History and Significance: Sam & Lee’s Chinese Restaurant was founded by two Chinese immigrants who wanted to bring the flavors of their homeland to Kodiak. The restaurant has been serving up delicious Chinese dishes for over 30 years and has become a beloved institution in the community.
What to Expect: Diners at Sam & Lee’s Chinese Restaurant can expect to enjoy a variety of classic Chinese dishes, such as hot and sour soup, kung pao chicken, and Peking duck. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options, as well as a full bar with specialty cocktails and a wine list.
Visitor Information: Sam & Lee’s Chinese Restaurant is open for dinner only, with reservations recommended. The restaurant has a more formal atmosphere than some other dining options in Kodiak, so visitors should dress accordingly. Sam & Lee’s also offers takeout and catering services for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home or for special events.
Regarded as one of the finest restaurants in Bethel, Sam & Lee’s brings elegant Chinese dining to Southwest Alaska focusing on Cantonese dishes made with quality ingredients.
The extensive menu features delectable appetizers like stuffed crab claws and sesame chicken wings, Chinese hot pot loaded with seafood and meat, Chef’s Specialties including crispy orange beef and sweet & sour pork, and Dim Sum options served all day.
With delicate flavors, artful presentations, and fresh seafood sourced from the Bering Sea, Sam & Lee’s provides a refined dining experience befitting the wild beauty of Alaska’s frontier. Don’t miss the weekend Dim Sum Brunches, with delicate dumplings, buns, and other small plates on rolling carts perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Bush Comfort Food at Alaska Commercial Company Deli
Name and Location: The Alaska Commercial Company Deli is located within the Alaska Commercial Company store in Kodiak, Alaska. The deli is a popular spot for locals and visitors looking for a quick and tasty meal.
History and Significance: The Alaska Commercial Company has been serving the needs of Alaskans since 1867, when it was founded as a trading company. Today, the company operates a chain of retail stores throughout the state, including the one in Kodiak. The deli within the store has become a beloved institution, known for its hearty, comforting fare.
What to Expect: Diners at the Alaska Commercial Company Deli can expect to enjoy a variety of classic deli sandwiches, soups, and salads, as well as daily specials featuring local ingredients. The deli also offers a selection of grab-and-go items, such as fruit cups and yogurt parfaits, for those in a hurry.
Visitor Information: The Alaska Commercial Company Deli is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The deli has a casual, cafeteria-style atmosphere and is a great option for those looking for a quick, affordable meal. Visitors can also browse the shelves of the Alaska Commercial Company store for unique Alaskan gifts and souvenirs.
Known simply as AC Store to locals, the historic Alaska Commercial Company building houses an old-fashioned deli serving hearty comfort fare perfect after a day enjoying Bethel’s rugged wilderness.
Located just across the Kuskokwim River on the road system leading to town, the AC Store Deli dishes out made-to-order sandwiches loaded with fixings, open-face hot turkey and gravy, homemade soups like reindeer sausage and corn chowder, and daily blue plate specials featuring favorites like baked salmon loaf and pot roast.
Reasonable prices, huge portions with sides of potato salad or slaw, and friendly service in a rustic cafeteria-style setting make AC Store Deli a beloved local institution for stick-to-your-ribs comfort food done right.
Coffee & Baked Goods at The Cookie Jar
Name and Location: The Cookie Jar is a beloved bakery and coffee shop located in the heart of Kodiak, Alaska. The shop is known for its delicious baked goods and friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
History and Significance: The Cookie Jar has been serving up sweet treats and hot coffee to Kodiak residents and visitors for over 25 years. The shop is owned and operated by a local family who take pride in using fresh, high-quality ingredients in all of their recipes.
What to Expect: Visitors to The Cookie Jar can expect to find a wide variety of freshly baked cookies, cakes, pastries, and breads, as well as a selection of hot and cold coffee drinks. The shop also offers a small selection of savory items, such as quiche and breakfast sandwiches.
Visitor Information: The Cookie Jar is open daily for breakfast and lunch, with extended hours on weekends. The shop has a cozy, inviting atmosphere and is a popular spot for locals to gather and catch up over a cup of coffee. Visitors can also purchase whole cakes and pies to take home or enjoy at a later time.
For freshly baked sweet and savory treats made in-house daily, as well as espresso drinks and light breakfast fare, The Cookie Jar is a cherished local gathering place.
Tantalizing smells of muffins, scones, cinnamon rolls and owner Sue Stein’s signature giant cookies greet visitors as they walk through the door. Display cases brim with pies, cakes, and cookies while patrons chat over steamy lattes and today’s quiche special.
The Cookie Jar also provides lovely boxed lunches to take on flights and lets customers call in orders for quick, convenient pick-up. With friendly service and cozy ambiance ideal for catching up with neighbors, The Cookie Jar offers a delightful dose of comfort along with expertly brewed coffee in Bethel’s hospitality hub.
Fine Steaks & Seafood at Bogart’s Restaurant
Name and Location: Bogart’s Restaurant is a fine dining establishment located in the heart of Kodiak, Alaska. The restaurant is known for its upscale atmosphere and expertly prepared steaks and seafood.
History and Significance: Bogart’s Restaurant has been serving up delicious steaks and seafood to Kodiak residents and visitors for over 15 years. The restaurant is named after the classic Hollywood actor Humphrey Bogart, and the decor reflects a classic, elegant style.
What to Expect: Diners at Bogart’s Restaurant can expect to enjoy a variety of high-quality steaks, including ribeye, filet mignon, and New York strip, as well as fresh seafood dishes such as king crab legs and Alaskan halibut. The restaurant also offers a full bar with an extensive wine list and specialty cocktails.
Visitor Information: Bogart’s Restaurant is open for dinner only, with reservations highly recommended. The restaurant has a more formal atmosphere than some other dining options in Kodiak, so visitors should dress accordingly. Bogart’s also offers private dining rooms for special events and celebrations.
For special occasion dinners or date nights, Bogart’s Restaurant serves the finest steaks and seafood in an upscale yet relaxed setting overlooking the Kuskokwim River. Owner Todd Bogart sources top quality meat and wild Alaskan salmon and halibut to create an extensive contemporary American menu focused on grilled dishes enhanced with creative sauces and rubs.
Signature entrees include whiskey peppercorn ribeye, blackened king salmon with beurre blanc, and surf & turf pairing tenderloin steak with snow crab legs. Extensive wine offerings, hand crafted cocktails, and indulgent desserts like mile-high mud pie complement the menu.
The classy rustic interior with exposed beams provides river views in a romantic candlelit atmosphere. When seeking fine dining in Bethel, Bogart’s gourmet cuisine and attentive hospitality deliver a memorable dining experience.
Homestyle Filipino Food at Manila Manila Restaurant
Name and Location: Manila Manila Restaurant is a Filipino restaurant located in Kodiak, Alaska. The restaurant is known for its authentic, homestyle Filipino cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.
History and Significance: Manila Manila Restaurant was founded by a Filipino family who wanted to bring the flavors of their homeland to Kodiak. The restaurant has become a beloved institution in the community, known for its delicious food and friendly service.
What to Expect: Diners at Manila Manila Restaurant can expect to enjoy a variety of classic Filipino dishes, such as adobo (marinated meat), pancit (noodle dish), and lumpia (spring rolls). The restaurant also offers a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options, as well as a variety of Filipino desserts and drinks.
Visitor Information: Manila Manila Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, with a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant can get busy during peak hours, so visitors may want to arrive early or be prepared to wait for a table. Manila Manila also offers takeout and catering services for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home or for special events.
Craving the bright, layered flavors of Filipino cuisine? Family-owned Manila Manila Restaurant brings a taste of the Philippines to downtown Bethel with an extensive menu inspired by heirloom recipes. Fan favorites include crunchy Lumpia Shanghai spring rolls, rich Sinigang Tamarind Soup swimming with pork and shrimp, sweet and tangy Chicken Adobo stewed in vinegar and garlic, and savory Pancit noodles wok fried with chicken and veggies.
Nearly everything is made in-house from scratch including sauces, lumpia wrappers, and ube purple yam ice cream. Reasonable lunch plates make it easy to sample a variety of dishes while dinner combination platters pile on the portions for hearty appetites. When you need a comforting taste of home rooted in family tradition, Manila Manila’s cozy setting and handcrafted Filipino fare deliver big, bright flavors in every dish.
Classic Diner Fare at Swanson’s Sourdough Diner
Name and Location: Swanson’s Sourdough Diner is a classic American diner located in Kodiak, Alaska. The diner is known for its hearty, homestyle meals and friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
History and Significance: Swanson’s Sourdough Diner has been serving up delicious meals to Kodiak residents and visitors for over 30 years. The diner is named after its signature sourdough bread, which is made fresh daily using a recipe that has been passed down for generations.
What to Expect: Diners at Swanson’s Sourdough Diner can expect to enjoy a variety of classic American dishes, such as burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast plates. The diner is particularly known for its sourdough pancakes and French toast, which are made with the diner’s signature bread.
Visitor Information: Swanson’s Sourdough Diner is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The diner is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, so visitors may want to arrive early or be prepared to wait for a table during peak hours. Swanson’s also offers takeout options for those who prefer to enjoy their meal on the go.
Going strong for over 35 years in historic downtown Bethel, Swanson’s Sourdough Diner brings hearty classic American diner fare 24/7 with generous portions, bottomless coffee, and friendly vibes. The extensive menu runs the gamut from breakfast classics like fluffy sourdough pancakes, eggs Benedict dripping in hollandaise, and reindeer sausage links to overstuffed deli sandwiches on house baked bread.
Daily lunch plate specials include comfort food favorites like baked chicken casserole, beef stroganoff over noodles, and Salisbury steak smothered in onions and gravy. Add in pie from their bakery up front, reasonable prices and swift service even during busy rush times, and Swanson’s offers down-home dining at its best no matter when cravings strike.
Authentic Mexican Food at Cinco De Mayo Restaurant
Name and Location: Cinco De Mayo Restaurant is a Mexican restaurant located in Kodiak, Alaska. The restaurant is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and festive atmosphere.
History and Significance: Cinco De Mayo Restaurant was founded by a Mexican family who wanted to bring the flavors of their homeland to Kodiak. The restaurant is named after the Mexican holiday that celebrates the country’s victory over French forces in 1862.
What to Expect: Diners at Cinco De Mayo Restaurant can expect to enjoy a variety of classic Mexican dishes, such as tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, as well as specialty items like mole poblano and chile rellenos. The restaurant also offers a selection of Mexican beers and margaritas to complement the meal.
Visitor Information: Cinco De Mayo Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, with a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant can get busy during peak hours, so visitors may want to arrive early or be prepared to wait for a table. Cinco De Mayo also offers takeout and catering services for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home or for special events.
For big, bold, authentic Mexican flavors, Cinco de Mayo Restaurant spices up Bethel’s dining scene with family recipes packed with tradition. Tucked away on Chief Eddie Hoffman Highway leading out of town, Cinco de Mayo’s unassuming location belies the big portions and scratch-made fare within. Savory options abound from steak and chicken fajitas sizzling hot with grilled veggies to chili verde loaded with tender pork in zesty green sauce.
House specialties include Burrito Mojado drenched in complex enchilada and green chili sauce and Chicken Mole Poblano simmered in Mexico’s famous pepper and chocolate gravy. Add homemade salsas, warm tortillas just off the press, and sweet sopapillas fry bread for dessert, and Cinco de Mayo delivers huge, heady flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine the whole family will enjoy.
Live Music & Pub Fare at Alaska Coffers
Name and Location: Alaska Coffers is a popular pub and live music venue located in Kodiak, Alaska. The pub is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious pub fare.
History and Significance: Alaska Coffers has been a staple of the Kodiak community for over 20 years, offering a welcoming spot for locals and visitors to gather, enjoy a meal, and listen to live music. The pub is particularly known for its support of local musicians and artists.
What to Expect: Visitors to Alaska Coffers can expect to enjoy a variety of classic pub fare, such as burgers, wings, and fish and chips, as well as a selection of local and imported beers on tap. The pub also features live music performances several nights a week, showcasing a range of genres from folk to rock.
Visitor Information: Alaska Coffers is open daily for lunch and dinner, with live music performances typically starting in the evening. The pub has a casual, laid-back atmosphere and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Visitors should note that the pub can get crowded during peak hours and on nights with live music, so arriving early or making a reservation may be recommended.
For fresh Alaskan seafood, weekend live music, and a buzzing nightlife atmosphere, Alaska Coffee heads the list for local hotspots to unwind with friends. The eclectic menu spans halibut fish n’ chips, blackened salmon Caesar salad, elk sliders drizzled with red wine reduction, and handmade pizza selections in a cozy two-level space dotted with local art.
But it’s the full bar stocked with Alaska craft beers and spirits that draws lively crowds, especially on nights with bands rocking the house with everything from country to funk. Relax with a pint downstairs or head up to the loft for balcony seating and DJ sets spinning late into the night. However you choose to enjoy it, Alaska Coffee delivers good food, good music, and a welcoming vibe at the heart Bethel’s nightlife scene.
Family-Friendly Pizzeria at Napoli’s
Name and Location: Napoli’s is a family-friendly pizzeria located in Kodiak, Alaska. The restaurant is known for its delicious pizza and welcoming atmosphere.
History and Significance: Napoli’s has been serving up pizza to Kodiak residents and visitors for over 15 years. The restaurant is owned and operated by a local family who take pride in using fresh, high-quality ingredients in all of their recipes.
What to Expect: Diners at Napoli’s can expect to enjoy a variety of classic and specialty pizzas, as well as a selection of pasta dishes, salads, and appetizers. The restaurant also offers a kid’s menu and a selection of beer and wine for the adults.
Visitor Information: Napoli’s is open for lunch and dinner, with a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant can get busy during peak hours, so visitors may want to arrive early or be prepared to wait for a table. Napoli’s also offers takeout and delivery options for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home.
When the whole family is craving cheesy, saucy pizza, Napoli’s Pizzeria pulls up a seat at the table with kid-friendly dining and affordability. Napoli’s keeps it simple, focusing on doing the basics expertly with generous portions at reasonable prices. Best sellers include golden Garlic Knots pulling apart in warm, butter-drenched strands, Classic Italian subs layered with cold cuts and provolone cheese, and hearty Baked Pasta dishes from zesty Lasagna to Spinach Manicotti overflowing in sauce.
The pizza provides something for everyone, from meat-loaded options to Hawaiian with pineapple and ham or BLT inspired Bacon Chicken Ranch. With swift service suitable for even the shortest attention spans and a cozy familial setting, Napoli’s brings a taste of classic Italian-American comfort food the whole family enjoys.
Fine French Cuisine at La Maison du Gourmet
Name and Location: La Maison du Gourmet is a fine French restaurant located in Kodiak, Alaska. The restaurant is known for its elegant atmosphere and expertly prepared French cuisine.
History and Significance: La Maison du Gourmet was founded by a French chef who wanted to bring the flavors and techniques of French cuisine to Kodiak. The restaurant has become a beloved institution in the community, known for its exceptional food and attentive service.
What to Expect: Diners at La Maison du Gourmet can expect to enjoy a variety of classic French dishes, such as escargot, coq au vin, and creme brulee. The restaurant also offers a selection of French wines and cocktails to complement the meal.
Visitor Information: La Maison du Gourmet is open for dinner only, with reservations highly recommended. The restaurant has a formal atmosphere, so visitors should dress accordingly. La Maison du Gourmet also offers private dining rooms for special events and celebrations.
Located in Bethel’s main airport terminal, La Maison du Gourmet brings a touch of continental sophistication perfect for special occasions or an extended layover meal. Award-winning Chef Peter Cloutier trained inkitchens across Europe and Asia before opening La Maison in 2015, bringing haute cuisine to one of Alaska’s most remote towns.
Utilizing seasonal ingredients sourced locally as much as possible, the French-leaning menu delivers elegantly plated dishes spanning savory Duck Leg Confit to Roast Pork Loin enhanced with calvados brandy sauce. For dessert, splurge on Crème Brûlée or Chocolate Hazelnut Gateau for the perfect sweet ending. Though on the pricier end for the area, La Maison du Gourmet provides exquisitely crafted cuisine and first-rate hospitality worth savoring.
Local Seafood at AC Quickstop
Name and Location: AC Quickstop is a local seafood market and restaurant located in Kodiak, Alaska. The restaurant is known for its fresh, locally caught seafood and casual atmosphere.
History and Significance: AC Quickstop has been serving up fresh seafood to Kodiak residents and visitors for over 30 years. The restaurant is owned and operated by a local family who have been involved in the Alaskan fishing industry for generations.
What to Expect: Visitors to AC Quickstop can expect to enjoy a variety of fresh seafood dishes, such as fish and chips, crab cakes, and seafood chowder. The restaurant also offers a selection of non-seafood options, such as burgers and salads, for those who prefer something different.
Visitor Information: AC Quickstop is open daily for lunch and dinner, with a casual, laid-back atmosphere. The restaurant is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, so visitors may want to arrive early or be prepared to wait for a table during peak hours. AC Quickstop also offers a seafood market where visitors can purchase fresh, locally caught seafood to take home and prepare
Ask Bethel residents where to find the best sushi in town and they’ll likely point you to AC Quickstop. Attached to Bethel’s main grocery store AC Value Center, AC Quickstop serves an array of fresh, affordable seafood dishes crafted in-house daily.
Tucked away in a small corner past the checkout stands, the unassuming take-out counter punches above its weight with creative sushi rolls, poke bowls, ready-to-eat seafood salads, chowders and signature pastas featuring wild Alaskan salmon.
Top menu picks include the Kusko Roll stuffed with smoked salmon, cucumber and cream cheese and Bethel Poke Bowl loaded with ahi tuna, avocado, edamame and house sriracha mayo. Forquality seafood on a budget, AC Quickstop provides impressive flavor and everydayvalue close to home.
Conclusion
From indigenous staples like kuignaq berry soup to Filipino pancit noodles to French-inspired entrees, Bethel’s dining scene celebrates the town’s diverse roots with distinct flavors. Family-owned eateries, diners dishing outstick-to-your-ribs comfort fare 24/7 and fine dining venues focused on quality showcase both traditional and contemporary options. Whether enjoying big flavors or casual fare, live music or just coffee among neighbors, Bethel’s unique restaurants encapsulate the spirit of Alaska’s people through a shared love of good food and lively community.