The 14 Must-Try Restaurants in Juneau

Nestled within Forbidden Peak Brewery, just a short drive from downtown Juneau in Auke Bay, Red Spruce serves a selection of small bites like homemade Bavarian pretzels, smash burgers, and pork carnitas. Enjoy ample outdoor seating, a kids menu, and lovely views. 

This charming, budget-friendly diner in the Mendenhall Valley features a Filipino influence and a loyal following. It’s hard to leave without feeling satisfied. Many local culinary professionals, including Rachel Carrillo Barril, chef at In Bocca al Lupo, started their journeys here. Popular dishes include loco moco, bacon fried rice, and the beloved “garbage plate” scramble, which boasts a dedicated fan base.

This well-loved takeout spot in the Mendenhall Valley offers a delightful Asian/Pacific Islands menu featuring barbecue, pork belly pho, banh mi, noodle bowls, curry bowls, and Korean-style wings. The poke dish is particularly popular. Zerelda's is also vegetarian-friendly and serves ramen on Thursdays.

Donna’s embodies the charm of a classic diner where breakfast is served all day, chicken-fried steak is a staple, and the pie display is always enticing. Its convenient location near the airport makes it a perfect spot to relax while waiting for a flight, especially given the unpredictable air travel in Southeast Alaska. Don’t miss out on Donna’s Ice Cream right next door.

Situated just a short stroll from the bustling cruise ship area, Coppa is a charming lunch spot and ice cream parlor offering homemade pastries, locally roasted coffee, and a rotating array of ice creams. The menu is anchored by a selection of fresh soups, salads, and sandwiches, with the brown rice salad being a local favorite.

With two locations dedicated to one mission—serving affordable, mouthwatering burgers and sandwiches—this local favorite is a must-try. One spot is conveniently located downtown near the Juneau convention center, while the other is a short drive away in Mendenhall Valley at Juneau Mercantile and Armory. At both venues, you can enjoy a rotating selection of specials, including the popular hot chicken sandwich and tender brisket.

This Italian wood-fired pizzeria in downtown Juneau boasts several James Beard nominations. Don't miss the exquisite specials crafted by executive chef Beau Schooler and chef de cuisine Rachel Carrillo Barril, featuring fresh summer seafood—especially the wood-fired salmon scraps—and a beloved pasta pomodoro infused with miso. Be sure to check out the innovative pastries showcasing Filipino flavors like ube and coconut, along with inventive mocktails. A selection of wine and beer is available, and while outdoor seating is limited, reservations are advised during the summer months.

This vegan- and vegetarian-friendly Mytoury in downtown Juneau combines Filipino culinary influences with a gothic ambiance. The menu features stunning vegetarian wraps, hearty salads, noodles, Spam biscuits, breakfast hash, fried rice, pork belly, and brisket. There are plenty of gluten-free and dairy-free options available. If you're feeling adventurous, let the witches and warlocks behind the counter select your soup or sandwich for you.

A popular spot among lawmakers, this downtown Juneau restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a martini—try the local Almaga gin—or sampling fresh local oysters, and if you prefer, a hearty ribeye. The full bar features a solid cocktail selection and an extensive wine list that locals appreciate. Private spaces are available for groups, and reservations are advisable during the summer months.

This beloved breakfast and lunch destination in downtown Juneau is known for its superb espresso. The Rookery Cafe serves breakfast bowls, freshly baked pastries, salads, sandwiches, and a standout burger. Don't miss the adobo loco-moco and the extravagant toast specials featuring unique toppings like caramelized corn flakes and sweetened condensed milk. It's a welcoming spot for families, offering communal dining options.

This Russian dumpling Mytoury located in Historic Merchant’s Wharf is a go-to spot for teens and the late-night bar crowd. Open after hours, it offers two delicious varieties of hot dumplings—meat and potato—served with sriracha, spices, a dollop of sour cream, and a slice of bread. The vintage record player adds a charming touch.

This restaurant offers authentic southern Indian dishes crafted from family recipes, featuring specials prepared by owner Nimmy Philips, a former electrical engineer affectionately known as 'the spice lady.' Situated in downtown Juneau, it’s a popular spot for Indian visitors in the summer. Beer and wine are available.

This seasonal food truck, operated by a former commercial fisherman, is just a few blocks from the cruise docks and offers a straightforward menu featuring tacos. The highlight is the fresh fish straight off the boat, including rockfish, halibut, and salmon.

While many small food carts on the wharf cater to tourists, this Filipino food cart attracts cruise ship workers for good reason. They flock here for delicious barbecue, turon (fried banana rolls), and dinuguan (pork blood stew). Grab a plate and find a bench with a view of the channel.