The Best Place to Eat in Anchorage: Club Paris
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Do you ever eat at a restaurant while on vacation and find yourself dining there again and again? That’s exactly what happened to me after my first meal at Club Paris in Anchorage, Alaska. Club Paris has earned a reputation as one of the city's top dining destinations and you’ll find it on almost every list of “best places to eat in Anchorage”. This cozy restaurant offers an inviting atmosphere with a menu that showcases excellent cuts of steak along with some of the best halibut I’ve ever had.
Club Paris is unique in that it’s a steakhouse but not in the traditional sense. You won’t find a dress-code or fancy place settings here. Club Paris is a come as you are type of establishment and aside from the amazing food, that’s what really sets it apart. Club Paris was the first meal I had after arriving in Anchorage and it was love at first bite.
History and Story Behind Club Paris
The history of Club Paris makes this fantastic restaurant that much special. It’s the oldest steakhouse in Anchorage and it survived the 1964 earthquake. The building itself has been around since the 1920s and was previously a furniture store and a funeral home at some point - cue the ghost stories. The building transformed into what we know today as Club Paris in the late 1950s when a World War II verteran returned home with his french wife and hoped to offer her a little sophistication in the Last Frontier. It has since become an icon in Anchorage and it can’t be missed when visiting.
Menu Highlights and What to Order
Club Paris is known for its exceptional steak filets and it’s probably the most popular item on the menu. I ordered the petit filet on my first visit and was not disappointed. The thick cut melts in your mouth and even though the portion looks small when it’s delivered to your table, it will surprisingly fill you up in no time! On top of signature steak main dishes, they also offer a rotating daily special which is a little more decadent than their classic options.
Most of their main courses come with a side of your choice ranging from a baked potato to rice pilaf. I ordered the fresh cut fries with my steak, which are more like potato wedges, and they paired perfectly. On my second and third visit, I opted for the rice pilaf and it was by far the best side dish. The rice is cooked to perfection and there are fresh seasonal vegetables mixed throughout.
If you’re not a lover of red meat, don’t fret. Club Paris also offers a variety of seafood dishes, from red king crab to lobster, that are fresh and delicious. For my second time dining at Club Paris, I knew I had to try some fresh Alaskan seafood. I opted for the blackened halibut and boy, was I in for a treat! This was the largest piece of halibut I had ever been served at a restaurant and it was cooked to absolute perfection. So much so, that I ended up dining at Club Paris a third time just so I could have the halibut one more time!
No visit to Club Paris would be complete without indulging in one of their home-made desserts. The Crème Brûlée, with its velvety custard and caramelized sugar crust, is a classic French treat that will leave you yearning for more. Another popular dessert is the New York Style Cheesecake which is always a classic option. One of my favorites is the peanut butter pie. I had never had a peanut butter pie before, but it was so satisfying and you don’t want to miss out on trying it at Club Paris.
Ambiance and Dining Experience
Club Paris exudes a warm, inviting ambiance that you’ll feel as soon as you step through the front double doors. The interior is a cozy, dimly lit space adorned with rustic wood accents and a blend of Alasakan decor and items with a nod to France. There are tables for parties of two to six scattered around and booths along the walls. The attentive staff greet you with genuine warmth as you approach the hostess stand. They expertly guide you through the menu, offering recommendations and explaining the special of the day.
While the ambiance is cozy and casual, the real star of the show is the food. Each dish is prepared to perfection while keeping the focus on the food over presentation. The portion sizes are generous so make sure you’re hungry before arriving.
Pricing at Club Paris reflects the quality of the experience, with entrees ranging from $30 to $60. However, the value is undeniable, as the great service, mouthwatering cuisine, and historical aspect create a dining experience that is truly memorable and worth every penny.
Is Club Paris Worth It? Review and Ratings
Hands down, yes! Club Paris has garnered rave reviews from both locals and tourists alike. With an impressive 4.6/5 rating on Google from over 1,600 reviews, it's clear that this restaurant delivers an exceptional dining experience. Many reviewers praise the cozy, welcoming ambiance and attentive service, making it a popular spot for date nights and special occasions.
The pros of dining at Club Paris include the consistently excellent steak and seafood in a casual, unpretentious setting. The restaurant's commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients shines through in every dish. Standout menu items frequently mentioned include the Petit Filet, Lobster, Halibut, and the decadent Peanut Butter Pie.
On the flip side, some reviewers note that the prices can be on the higher end, especially for larger parties or those indulging in multiple courses. Additionally, the cozy space can sometimes feel crowded during peak hours, leading to a noisier atmosphere.
Club Paris is best suited for those seeking an authentic dining experience, whether for a dinner with friends or a celebratory meal. Or, if you’re like me and just love the food and want to sit alone at the bar.
Overall, the overwhelmingly positive reviews and ratings suggest that Club Paris is indeed worth the splurge for those seeking a truly memorable dining experience in Anchorage.
The Best Place to Eat in Anchorage?
After dining there three times within a two week span, I can confidently say that Club Paris Restaurant is undoubtedly one of the top restaurants in Anchorage and a dining experience worth seeking out. From its rich history and charming ambiance to the exceptional classic steakhouse cuisine and attentive service, this iconic 5th Ave staple ticks all the boxes for a delicious, memorable meal.
The menu offers an array of classic steakhouse dishes along with fresh, locally sourced seafood prepared to perfection, showcasing the chef's dedication to authentic flavors and high-quality ingredients.
While the prices may be on the higher end, the overall value proposition is well-justified by the level of sophistication, attention to detail, and dining experience Club Paris provides. It's a place where you can truly savor the Alaskan flavors in the most welcoming steakhouse.
If you're looking for a special occasion restaurant or simply craving a delicious steak in Anchorage, Club Paris should be at the top of your list. It's a gem that has stood the test of time and continues to delight locals and visitors alike with its unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity.
Happy travels!
-Tess
Tess Arnold
Hi! I’m Tess, founder of TravelingTessie.com, and not only do I love to travel, but I love immersing myself in new places and finding off the beaten path experiences wherever I go! I’ve lived in 4 different states & traveled to 13 countries and counting. I believe that tourism is meant to benefit both visitors and locals alike—and I want to bring that idea back into the travel industry by highlighting companies run by locals such as tours, hotels, restaurants, and more. On Traveling Tessie you can find hidden gems in top destinations around the world, travel tips, detailed city guides, and tons of inspiration for your next trip! If you love travel as much as I do, then please join me on this journey! I hope you enjoy my content as much as I enjoy providing it for you!
