When you have food allergies or food intolerances, it can be quite challenging to eat out. I have a severe soy allergy, which is one of my 92 food allergies. My allergy list is insane. Personally, I eat soy-free, gluten-free, corn-free, and very little to no sugar. It is a medically-based Keto diet. I am allowed to have either one craft beer or wheat dish once a month followed by a 24-hour fast. The places on this list are ones that I’ve eaten at over the last four years and can recommend. I did not list most major fast casual or chain restaurants, only a few. I need a restaurant with a Chef that understands food allergies, knows how the food is prepped, and can direct me to the items on his menu that can handle my allergies. I created this post, The Best Places To Eat In Anchorage When You Have Food Allergies to help others that are coming for a visit or live here and want a handy guide to places that you can try.
Please note that most, but not all sausage made in Alaska, including Reindeer Sausage, has soy lecithin mixed in.
NOTE: It is very hard and rare to find any restaurant that can be 100% allergen-free if they serve and prepare any allergen food. The Chef doesn’t want to make you sick just as much as you don’t want to get sick. Ultimately, YOU are responsible for everything you eat… that was a lesson I had to learn the hard way. I carry an Epi Pen, Benadryl, and Zyrtec with me at all times.
If you are a restaurant and want to be added to this list, shoot me a message and I will come in and check out what you have to offer. If you’ve been to an allergen-friendly restaurant and want me to add it, let me know. I will go and eat there so I have first hand knowledge of what they have and are capable of handling. These restaurants are in alphabetically order, not in order of favorites. On occasion I do receive a comped meal as a blogger, but 98% of everything on this list was paid for out of my own pocket.
Disclosure: This post not only has my personal picks as to where to eat for allergy friendly restaurants in Anchorage, Alaska, but also Affiliate Links that I earn commissions from. This is how I make a living and keep this little blog running. Thank you for supporting me! I appreciate it. Much love, Kristi.
Table of Contents
Dinner
49th State Brewery
When Chef Thomas Chapman and Chef de Cuisine Daniel Shier put on a food event at 49th State Brewery, I come running. These two are very talented and make art out of Alaska seafood and game meat. I have had the pleasure of attending their personal Chef and Beer Dinners, plus various events where they get to showcase their food art. Love their food more than I can say!
Not only do I attend their Chef Dinners, but you will see me bellied up to the bar or enjoying their epic patio during the summer. I personally like to go when the Chefs are there as they know me and my dietary restrictions. 49th State’s menu does states if something is gluten-free or vegetarian, but does not list other allergens so you will have to ask. Their oil in the fryers is soybean oil. They do have gluten-free pizza crust and vegan pizzas on the menu too.
What I eat at 49th State Brewery: 49th State’s Summer Menu
- Grilled Alaskan King Salmon
- Yak Burger on Gluten-Free Bun or Lettuce Wrap, no mayo {all commercial mayo is soy-based}
- Sweet Baby Dahl Pizza on Gluten-Free Crust
- I See Northern Lights on Gluten-Free Crust
Charges to Make it Allergen-Free
- Gluten-Free Bun: $1.00
- Gluten-Free Crust: $3.00 *Crust made of tapioca not de-glutenized wheat.
- Vegetarian Burger Patty: $1.00
- Ask to sub out mashed potatoes or a salad if you can’t eat sides out of the fryer: Charge varies based on side.
***49th State has amazing beers and craft cocktails to choose from. They have the largest selection of Scotch and Whiskeys in the state ~ ask to see the labels if you are gluten intolerant. They do offer gluten-free cider from local Double Shovel Cider Company.
Bear Tooth Grill + Theatre Pub
I was pleasantly surprised to find that Bear Tooth Grill can handle food allergies like nobody’s business. The servers ask a lot of questions and the manager comes over if needed. When getting food delivered to the movie theatre, rest assured it is coming out of the same kitchen. Who knew you could have an allergy friendly meal while watching a movie on the big screen?
What I eat at Booth Tooth: Bear Tooth’s Menu
- Apple Walnut Salad
- Grilled Artichoke
- Seared Steak Tacos with Lettuce Wrap – ask for non-marinated steak if soy allergic
- Wild Mushroom Pizza on Gluten-Free Crust
- Nachos if sharing with friends
Charges to Make it Allergen-Free
- Gluten-Free Crust: $4.00
***Bear Tooth has a full service bar and carries a couple different cider options, including Double Shovel Cider.
Crush Bistro
Crush is my favorite wine bar in Anchorage! The waitstaff is amazing, the food is on point, and the wine list is epic. I can’t say enough good things about Crush!
What I eat at Crush: Crush Menu
- Prosciutto Wrapped Dates
- Toasted Goat Cheese
- Crispy Brussels without the breadcrumbs
- Motherboard Charcuterie
- Creme Brulee
***I drink as much Rose and Sauvignon Blanc as I can while at Crush! 🙂
Glacier Brewhouse
Executive Chef Jeremy Fike is a great addition to the brewhouse. Glacier Brewhouse has a separate part of their kitchen for orders that come in flagged with food allergies. They wear gloves, have separate utensils, plus pots and pans that are used for that specific order. If you can’t find something on the menu to meet your food allergy requirements, Chef Fike and his team will make you something that you can eat. They are very accommodating and is where I take my friends from out-of-town who have food allergies as severe as mine. That separate prep and cooking area is a game charger for people like me. 👌
What I eat at Glacier Brewhouse: Glacier Brewhouse Menu
- Alaskan Seafood Scramble for brunch
- Garlic Prawns
- Herb Crusted Alaskan Halibut
- Parmesan Macadamia Crusted Alaska Rockfish
- Shrimp & Grits – I ask each time I go if the Andouille sausage is soy free as manufacturer’s change this constantly
- Brussel Sprouts
***Glacier Brewhouse does not have gluten-free beer, but they do have a nice wine list and a good mojito.
Haute Quarter Grill
I have been to Haute Quarter Grill a handful of times, and one year for my birthday. I emailed the Chef to let him know I was coming in. I didn’t want to to through the whole spiel on my birthday in front of my friends It was a pretty smooth process!
What I eat at Haute Quarter Grill: Haute Quarter Grill’s Menu
- Cheese Plate
- Gnocchi
- Ribeye Steak
- Filet Mignon Kabobs
Kincaid Grill
One of the best restaurants in South Anchorage to find allergen friendly dishes is at Kincaid Grill. Chef Drew Johnson has built a cult-like following with local Alaskans. I love it when they are at festivals throughout the year as I love trying all of their new dishes.
What I eat at Kincaid Grill: Kincaid Grill Menu
- Gorgonzola Fondue
- Kodiak Clams
- Filet Mignon Box Meal when I need something quick to take on a day trip
Kinley’s
I’ve only been to Kinley’s twice, I really need to go more often. They have a stellar Alaska beer selection. I was able to ask the Chef to modify a couple dishes for me and he was able to do it with no problem.
What I eat at Kinley’s: Kinley’s Menu
- Calamari Steak
- Bacon Wrapped Dates
- Halibut Cheeks – a must try when visiting Alaska
Orso
Orso is the sister restaurant to Glacier Brewhouse. Just like with GH, Orso has a separate prep and cook area to make allergen-friendly foods. I’ve never sat in the main restaurant here, you can find me in the bar area for their epic Happy Hour.
What I eat at Orso: Orso’s Menu
- Seafood Deviled Eggs
- Crispy Cauliflower
- Harvest Salad
- Crab Stuffed Alaskan Rockfish
- Orso Lamb Shank
***Orso carries Glacier Brewhouse’s Craft Beers as well as a few other bottle options. They do have Double Shovel cider! If you like Port Wine, they have a lovely selection as well.
Simon & Seafort’s
Simon’s does not have an extensive amount of soy-free options, but they do have a Chef that is happy to come up with something on the fly. I tend to ask for the Halibut Cheeks and a veggie side as their Halibut Cheeks are the best in town! They do not have a separate space to make allergy-free meals. I have asked for new utensils when making mine and they have accommodated the request ~ note though that I do not go here in the summer when it is crazy busy. If I do go in the summer it is at the beginning of dinner service to make it easier on the kitchen.
What I eat at Simon’s: Simon & Seafort’s Menu
- Alaskan Ceviche
- Steamed Fresh Clams
- Halibut Cheeks when in season
South Side Bistro
One of the most popular restaurants in South Anchorage is South Side Bistro. I’ve only been there a handful of times with friends who live on the south side. It was delicious! I need to go again as the food is amazing and fresh, and their wine list has won the Winespectator Award of excellence for 20 consecutive years!
What I eat at South Side Bistro: South Side’s Menu
- Fresh Mussels
- Steamed Clams
- Shaved Brussels Sprouts
- Australian Rack of Lamb
Spenard Roadhouse
I enjoy going to Spenard Roadhouse for a casual dining experience. It is an upscale diner experience with fantastic food at affordable prices. When you want to get in and out and have a great meal to boot, this is the place to go.
What I eat at Spenard Roadhouse: Spenard Roadhouse Menu
- Garlic Parmesan Popcorn
- Super Tater Tots {trust me on this}
- Blueberry & Chevre Salad
- Prosciutto Fig Pizza with Gluten Free Crust
- Grilled Pork Chops
Charges to Make it Allergen-Free
- Gluten-Free Crust: $3.00
- Sub Sweet Potato Tots: $3.00
- Sub Small Salad: $2.00
Sullivan’s Steakhouse
Sullivan’s is where I go when I want a glass of wine and appetizers downtown, as do most of the Anchorage’s business professionals. I’ve only ate at the bar as table service is better if you’re on a date or a have a more serious business meeting. I’m more comfortable sitting up at the bar enjoying a glass of wine and working on my laptop. Sullivan’s is one of only a handful of non-local places I go to, it is a high-end chain, based out of Texas.
What I eat at Sullivan’s Steakhouse: Sullivan’s Menu
- Tableside BLT Salad
- Steakhouse Salad – verify what the steak has been marinated in
- Charcuterie Chopped Salad
- Salt Crusted Baked Potato – I’m a sucker for this one
- Whole Roasted Cauliflower
Suite 100
Suite 100 is where the locals go for delicious food coupled with great cocktails or craft beer, not to mention their extensive wine selection. Make a reservation if you can or find a seat in the bar area.
What I eat at Suite 100: Suite 100’s Menu
- Seared Scallops
- Surf & Turf
- Lollipop Lamp Chops
- Babyrack Ribs
- Pork Tenderloin Medallions
Table 6
Table 6 is located in Midtown and is another local’s favorite. You will find me in here watching a ball game and enjoying a big bowl of their Shrimp & Grits! Their beer and wine menu has some of my faves on it, so I’m a happy camper when I go to Table 6.
What I eat at Table 6: Table 6 Menu
- Shrimp & Grits
- Chicken Verde
- Spinach Salad
The Rusted Goat
I used to eat at the Rusted Goat a lot more when a friend lived down the street. They have a great patio to enjoy the summer sun. They are also opened early with a great coffee bar and serve a killer breakfast too. Perfect place to pop in and enjoy a cold brew and yummy apps.
What I eat at Rusted Goat: Rusted Goat Menu
- Rustic Goat Nachos
- Farmers Cheese & Spring Berry Salad
- Chicken Marsala
Fast Casual
Natural Pantry Cafe
The Natural Pantry Cafe is located inside Natural Pantry in Midtown. This is my Go To Place for fresh-pressed juices and for a allergen friendly salad bar. Everything is labeled, there are no surprises here. This is Alaska’s version of Whole Foods. Inside the cafe are plenty of tables, a fireplace, and fast WiFi.
What I eat at Natural Pantry Cafe
- Fresh Pressed Juices
- Salad Bar
Red Robin
There are two Red Robins in Anchorage. I ask for their Allergen Menu and the manager is notified of the allergy. The menu lists out each item with its ingredients. When I want a somewhat quick burger this is where I go.
Subway
Some of the Subway’s in Alaska just recently started to have gluten free bread. The two locations in Anchorage that do are Lake Otis near Abbott and then Benson at New Seward. Also the Subway in Talkeetna has them too. I haven’t been to Subway in a decade, I’ve put it on my list to go check out and see what the buzz is all about.
Pizza
To say I love pizza is an understatement. Often times I will save my one wheat-filled day and splurge on a pizza and Alaska craft beer. I love those days, but I know that my body doesn’t. Thank goodness though my favorite pizza places have gluten-free crusts. I will have to check if any make it in house. I believe all of these gluten-free crusts are brought in from the Lower 48.
49th State Brewery
- Sweet Baby Dahl Pizza on Gluten-Free Crust
- I See Northern Lights on Gluten-Free Crust
Charges to Make it Allergen-Free
- Gluten-Free Crust: $2.99 *Crust made of tapioca not de-glutenized wheat.
Moose’s Tooth
Moose’s Tooth has won the #1 Pizza in the US on more than one occasion and for good reason. It’s so dang good and is always busy! This is my Go To Place for pizza takeout. I also will pick it up if I’m going to someone’s house as you know you are loved when you share Moose’s Tooth Pizza!
What I eat at Moose’s Tooth: Moose’s Tooth Menu
- Raspberry Vinaigrette Salad – no dressing, lemon only
- Solstice Pizza – Gluten Free Crust
- The Napoleon Pizza – Gluten Free Crust
- Santa’s Little Helper Pizza – Gluten Free Crust
- The Forager Pizza – Gluten Free Crust
- Wild Mushroom Pizza – Gluten Free Crust
***Broken Tooth is their brewery and they serve their beer. They do not have gluten-free beer options available.
Charges to Make it Allergen-Free
- Gluten-Free Crust: $4.00
Hearth Pizza Tavern
Hearth is newer on the scene, but the word has gotten out that their pizza and vibe are where it’s at. Have a great slice of pizza, an Alaska craft beer including cider, or a glass of vino. Perfect!
What I eat at Hearth: Hearth’s Menu
- Mussels
- Simply White Pizza – Gluten Free Crust
- Fun Guy Pizza – Gluten Free Crust
Charges to Make it Allergen-Free
- Gluten-Free Crust: $4.00
Breakfast
I don’t eat out for breakfast very often, but when I do I head to Snow City or South. You can’t go wrong with either choice, it just depends on what area of Anchorage you are in when you wake up.
Snow City Cafe
Snow City Cafe is located in downtown Anchorage and is the perfect place to start your day. They can handle most food allergies as long as you tell your server. They know their ingredients and will use a new pan if you ask. Easy peasy to work with!
What I eat at Snow City Cafe: Snow City Cafe’s Menu
- Crabby Omelet {if soy free, ask for a clean pan with butter and no cooking spray}
- Farmer’s Market Omelet {if soy free, ask for a clean pan with butter and no cooking spray}
- Snow City Carrot Cake
Charges to Make it Allergen-Free
- ZILCH! WooHoo! Sub out bread for gluten free bread or corn tortillas. Sub out whole eggs for egg white – no extra charges!
South + Coffeehouse
South has two parts to its restaurant. On one side is the coffeehouse where you can get quick on-the-go breakfast and lunch items. On the other side is the restaurant and a patio that you have to enjoy when it is open! Typically, it takes a couple back and forths with the server for them to understand my allergies. The Chef or Manager tends to come out to verify. You see, most Chefs are used to gluten intolerances and vegetarian requests, but soy is a category in and of itself. It is much, much harder to avoid than gluten. Plus, I’m anaphylaxis to soy so I am always happy when that extra step is taken to make sure what I’m eating is safe.
What I eat at South + Coffeehouse: South’s Menu
- Crab Frittata
- Vegas, Baby Omelet
- Vegan Pancakes
- Avocado Melt, no bread
- Fresh Steamed Mussels
Waffles & WhatNot Food Truck
I had heard about the Waffles & WhatNot Food Truck from friends who were in love with their waffles. Honestly, I didn’t want to try them. Typically, most food trucks, especially ones that specializes in wheat products, don’t really have anything on the menu for someone like me. They were at an event in Downtown Anchorage and I took a look at their menu. Shut the front door, not only do they have Gluten Free Waffles, but also Keto items!!! I tried the Chicken Alfredo Waffles made with Garlic Gluten Free Waffles, Keto style. OMG it was SO good!!!
I just watched this video from this Veteran-owned company and I have to admit, I got a bit teary-eyed. I can’t wait to support this company in the future. Oh, you can also buy their gluten-free mix and have it shipped to you anywhere in the US!!! YES.
What I eat at Waffles & WhatNot: Waffles & WhatNot Menu
- Chicken Alfredo Waffles made with Garlic Gluten Free Waffles, Keto style
- I want to try ALL of their Gluten Free Waffles with fresh berries!!
Lunch
Acai Alaska
I’ve been to Acai Alaska twice to try their bowls and smoothies. SO good! Highly recommend their bowls if you need a quick, healthy breakfast or lunch.
What I eat at Acai Alaska: Acai Alaska Menu
- Tiger Shark Bowl
- Arctic PB&J Smoothie
- Ketchikan Smoothie
Middleway Cafe
Middleway Cafe is located next to REI in Midtown. They are sensitive to a lot of allergies and to those that are vegan. I have a harder time finding soy free options. The food is delicious, it is fast-paced and as long as I order what I know, I am golden.
What I eat at Middleway Cafe: Middleway Cafe Menu
- Turkey Cranberry Sandwich – Gluten-Free Bread
- West Coast Omelet
- Green Go Go Juice
Charges to Make it Allergen-Free
- Gluten-Free Bread: $2.25
- Lettuce Wrap: $1.00
Organic Oasis
Organic Oasis is the place to go if you want all organic ingredients! They have an extensive vegan and vegetarian menu. For someone who is soy allergic, that is harder for me as most vegan items are made from soy derivatives. I love their smoothies and am always impressed with the variety of their options!
What I eat at Organic Oasis: Organic Oasis Menu
- Beet the Blues Juice
- Peanut Butter Conspiracy Smoothie
Yak and Yeti
For delicious Indian food (plus Tibet and Himalayan), head to Yak and Yeti. Their Chicken Tikka is what dreams are made. Writing this most has me so hungry and all I want is an order (or two) of the Pork Vindaloo or Chicken Tikka Masala. Yum!
What I eat at Yak and Yeti: Yak and Yeti Menu
- Tandoori Mushrooms
- Chicken Tikka
- Coconut Shrimp Malai
- Chicken Tikka Masala
- Pork Vindaloo
Deserts
In full transparency, I never eat deserts out at restaurants. Mind you, I LOVE desserts but they typically have hidden ingredients and the baker is usually not around to verify what is in it. These that I’ve listed have come highly recommended to me by my allergen-friendly friends. I trust them and can’t wait to check out these desert places!
Eva’s Cupcakery
Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop
The Pie Stop
Terra Bella
Places I haven’t tried yet
These restaurants are on my list to try as I hear they have good allergen friendly food. Once I check them out they will move up above in the list.
Out of the Box
Bread and Brew
Pangea Restaurant And Lounge
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Amazing and Delicious food. I love pizza