Let’s just say it right off the bat: Valdez, Alaska is not a place known for budget eats. At least to what locals call “outsiders” – people from outside Alaska and especially outside Valdez. The prices in this town of about 4,000 citizens are high. Only one grocery store serves the rural town that is 300 miles from Anchorage, the state’s biggest city. Still, the amazing and unique scenery has attracted a varied selection of restaurants, from down-home style to Thai food. Valdez can offer a visitor something great to try, as long as prices are held to be relative to the state.
Three great places spring to mind to suggest to a person spending any amount of time in Valdez, located on gorgeous Prince William Sound. One aspect to keep in mind is that many restaurants in Valdez are seasonal and have unpredictable schedules at times. Still, the places mentioned should all be open during the summer months.
First, a burger place. A lot of cities brag about their burger joints, but Valdez’s Old Town Burgers can definitely hold its own in any contest. Its byline on the official Valdez city website is, “Home to good old fashion hand pattied burger, grilled or deep-fried salmon or halibut sandwiches, brauts, mini burgers & sides. Locally owned & operated- Service with a Smile!” This is a great description. Many days a person can meet the owner behind the counter, grilling up juicy and delicious burgers for the public. The everyday menu includes teriyaki burgers, loaded up with pineapple, jalapeño, swiss cheese on a Hawaiian bun, and a personal favorite, the southwest burger, an excellent concoction of grilled onions, green chilies, cheddar cheese, and bacon. Occasionally they offer specialty burgers with slightly higher prices. The fish and chips is also fantastic, but not available until June 1 in 2009. Prices are reasonable considering the quality, ranging from $7.75 for a cheeseburger to $9.25 for a teriyaki or southwest burger. Combos are upwards of $12.75-$14.25. The seafood runs from $8.50 for a fish taco to $13.50 for halibut and chips. Hours in 2009 are 11 am- 8 pm, changing to 9 pm June 1. The restaurant is located at E. Pioneer Drive Eagles Rest RV. They also take phone orders, 907-831-0999. Bring a jacket on chilly days because the eating area is not heated.
The Harbor Café also prepares some excellent burgers, but what I really recommend are the soups and sandwiches at this small restaurant. With both indoor and outdoor seating, the views are also an undeniable reason to try it – the café sits right on the harbor, with imposing mountains rising up in the background. Munch away on a halibut sandwich or pulled chicken sandwich while getting a glimpse of Valdez at its best. A special treat is the Philly cheesesteak, if it’s available. It is one of the most amazing sandwiches ever made. The clam chowder, available all week is also excellent, as is the chili. Served in large bowls, the serving sizes are not skimpy. The prices range from $8.00 for a cheeseburger to $13.50 for a club burger. Soups are around $5.00 a bowl, and sandwiches can be had for anywhere from $8.00-$11.50. The restaurant is found at 255 N. Harbor Drive. In-town deliveries are available, 907-835-4776.
For a change of pace, check out the local Mexican restaurant, Ernesto’s. Ernesto himself is often at the restaurant and will chat with the customers a bit. Having tried almost every item on the menu, I can honestly recommend anything. However, if I were to decide on some favorites, they would have to be the carne asada plate, served with warm tortillas, or the flautas, which are served with guacamole and sour cream. Each of these would be an excellent choice, filled with flavor. They are entrees I return to again and again. Generally, the food is not too spicy, so if that is a concern for any in the family, the meals should be fine. Ernesto’s also offers an American menu, with burgers and shrimp, however, if that is necessary. If at all possible, though, go for the Mexican! Prices and menus differ at lunch (from 11:30 am-4:00 pm) and dinner (from 4:00 pm-close). Most lunches are $9.99, and dinners are in the mid-teens for cost. The restaurant is located at 328 Egan Street. The phone number is 907-835-2519.
If you or a friend is considering a trip to Valdez, by all means, come! The scenery is better than you can possibly imagine, and you will be sure to find some great meals at reasonable (Alaskan) prices.
City of Valdez Dining and Entertainment Guide: http://www.valdezalaska.org/visitorServices/diningEntertainment.html
