The 13 Must-Try Restaurants in Fairbanks

If you’re up for a scenic drive and some delicious take-out Thai food from a local favorite, Sam’s Taste of Thai on Sheep Creek Road, near the Ester Dome Road junction, is just the place. It resembles a small drive-through shack rather than a full-scale restaurant, but it ranks among the most popular spots on the west side of town. The menu highlights beloved Thai dishes, and while the flavors are authentic, the portions are generous. Expect a line of cars as diners pick up their meals on the way home, but the wait is worthwhile. Call ahead to order, then pick it up and enjoy. The spring rolls are top-notch, as is the pad gra prao.

The Pump House began its journey in 1933 as a water pumping station, channeling water from the Chena River to gold dredging operations in Ester. By 1978, it transformed into a fine dining venue adorned with upscale Victorian gold rush decor. The bar stands out as one of the finest in town for food and cocktails, boasting dark wood, polished brass, and vintage furniture, including pool tables from the 1890s—ideal for intimate conversations over whiskey. The corrugated tin walls enhance the atmosphere, but the outdoor deck overlooking the river truly elevates the experience. On a sunny summer afternoon, it’s the perfect place to savor food and drinks while watching the water flow. Don’t miss the deep-fried halibut cheeks appetizer, and the main courses are equally impressive. Their 16-ounce ribeye steak is consistently cooked to perfection, and the bacon-wrapped Alaska scallops are absolutely divine. You’ll leave fully satisfied.

For a city of its size, Fairbanks boasts an impressive number of Thai restaurants, which have become part of its cultural fabric. However, all paths ultimately lead to Lemongrass. This hidden gem, located in an unassuming strip mall off Old Chena Pump Road, is well worth the search. Although it wasn't the first Thai establishment in town, it has grown into a beloved institution, particularly among the university community. The menu spans both northern and southern Thai cuisines and features some unique regional dishes that are hard to find elsewhere in North America. Be sure to try the panang curry, pad plick khing, and moo yang ribs—or better yet, sample all three.

The Alaska Coffee Roasting Company, fondly known as ACRC by locals, offers a cozy spot for unwinding with a book or catching up on emails over a delightful beverage. Founded by master roaster Michael Gesser, who honed his skills in Kenya and various coffee regions worldwide, even their simplest drip coffee is crafted from the highest quality beans. The full-service coffee bar features talented baristas ready to whip up any specialty drink you fancy, but it’s the food menu that truly sets ACRC apart from other coffee shops in town. From freshly baked scones and irresistible breakfast pockets (a must-try) to decadent cinnamon rolls, everything is made on-site. Their personal pizzas, baked in a wood-fired oven, are worth the trip across town.

Once the northernmost Dairy Queen in the U.S., this spot has transformed into a lively bar and grill, known for serving one of the best breakfasts in Fairbanks. The eggs Benedict and biscuits and gravy are standout dishes, and the full bar is at your service for that 11 a.m. Bloody Mary. Oasis also offers a solid lunch and dinner menu, featuring burgers, steaks, and curly fries. Expect a bustling atmosphere on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.

Fairbanks features a typical selection of pizza places you'd expect for its size, but College Town Pizza stands out. It exudes a cozy neighborhood vibe, complete with plain white walls, low-backed booths, and a few tables that overlook College Road. It's the ideal spot for a Tuesday night: order a large pizza, grab a couple of pitchers of local beer, and settle in for a while. With thirteen vegetarian pizza combinations and nearly double that for meat options, their offerings are all classic New York style. They also serve calzones, strombolis, and freshly made cannoli.

College Corner, informally named for the west end of College Road near the University of Alaska, is home to several seasonal food trucks packed into just a few hundred yards. Leading the charge is Bun on the Run, a beloved spot that's been around since the late '80s, known for its amazing cookies, scones, cinnamon buns, and muffins. However, it’s the deli sandwiches on their artisanal rolls that keep customers returning year after year. This food trailer offers a variety of sandwiches like roast beef and cheddar or avocado and cream cheese, and you can even customize your own. Enjoy your meal at one of the tables by the parking lot while sipping lemonade and reflecting on the joys of life.

This & That Grill embraces its identity as a straightforward cheesesteak and hamburger spot. The food is incredibly tasty and served quickly. The menu features hot dogs, ribeye steak sandwiches, BLTs, Cubans, and Reubens; if it’s served between toasted buns alongside onion rings or French fries, they likely have it.

Don't let the long line deter you; the team at this popular falafel spot keeps things moving swiftly. This is mainly because falafel is the sole item on the menu. You can opt for either white or whole wheat pita and choose between spicy or mild, but after that, it’s best to trust the culinary skills of chef-owner Nadav Weiss. The charming indoor dining area complements the covered picnic tables outside. Bikers can enjoy a complimentary drink if they arrive on two wheels.

Ask any Fairbanks local what the finest restaurant in town is, and you’ll likely hear about Lavelle’s Bistro located on Second Avenue. This relaxed fine dining establishment serves some of the best dishes in all of Alaska. The waitstaff dons ties—a rare sight in Fairbanks—while the wine selection is arguably the best within a couple hundred miles. The menu highlights Alaska-grown produce, with standout dishes like the lollipop pork chop and roasted duck that are well worth the price. Plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available. Look for it on the ground floor of the Marriott Hotel.

As Fairbanks' sole Moldovan restaurant, Soba is a charming and tranquil spot run by a Moldovan couple who moved to Alaska nearly 15 years ago. The staff are welcoming, the portions are hearty, and the chefs creatively blend traditional Moldovan dishes with a side of crispy french fries when appropriate. The menu highlights meats, polenta, wine, and seasoned vegetables. The grilled lamb sausage on the mici plate is a must-try, as is the tocană cu mămăligă.

At The Crepery, crepes are the sole focus, and the menu offers an exciting array of both sweet and savory selections. Indulge in a crepe filled with cheesesteak, chicken caprese, or a delightful combination of brie, figs, and honey. To complement your meal, enjoy mimosas, beer, or espresso, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices to consider. Located in a quirky, renovated downtown building, you can sometimes catch the crepe chefs in action at their large griddles, and outdoor seating is available during the warmer months.

This celebrated bistro showcases a distinctly Latin menu, featuring dishes heavily inspired by Cuban and Puerto Rican cuisines. Highlights include bistec Cubano and shrimp with laguna sauce. Their Cuban sandwich is touted as the best in Alaska. With live music most evenings, from local talents to larger acts playing Latin jazz, the ambiance is vibrant. If you’re in the mood for arroz con pollo alongside congas and a lively horn section, Jazz Bistro is the place to be. Reservations are strongly recommended.