Why go to a restaurant that features only one cuisine, when you can hit up a place that fuses two or more culinary traditions into a union of deliciousness. Because of Alaska’s location on the Pacific Rim, its rich native tradition and long history of immigration, fusion food comes naturally. Here are our favorite restaurants to get your fusion fix.
Ginger is one of the Last Frontier’s preeminent fusion restaurants. For more than a decade, Ginger has been pleasing the palates of even the pickiest Alaskans with dishes from around the Pacific Rim, as well as familiar Asian favorites. We really enjoyed the mango-teriyaki Alaskan tofu—a little local, a little exotic, a lot delicious.
Inspired by jazz music and Latin cuisines that range from Spain to South American and the Caribbean, Jazz Bistro on 4th brings a whole lot of warm spiciness to the sometimes-frigid Interior. How about the Cuban salmon, which pairs the best of Alaska with the some of the finest island flavors?
In the Capital City, V’s Cellar Doors pairs all the flavors of Asia with the cuisines of Mexico. The infused ahi, for example, is fresh, yellowfin tuna that is seasoned with Mexican and Korean spices and then served with avocado and kimchi aioli. Add a side of the kimchi rice to boost the Korean punch.
On the Kenai Peninsula, The Flats Bistro does not advertise itself as a “fusion” restaurant, however a glance at their menu or specials makes clear just how much their fresh, delicious dishes are inspired by global cuisines. Scotch egg? Mongolian-glazed lamb ribs? Shrimp scampi? From Italy to Mongolia—via France, Scotland, Alabama (pimento cheese hush puppies) and Alaska—a menu doesn’t get much more “fusion” than The Flats Bistro’s.
Folks in Eagle River can sample a wide selection of pan-Asian cuisines at Kim’s Cuisine Asian Fusion Bistro. They offer Japanese, Chinese and Thai classics all on a single menu. From sushi and sashimi to pad Thai, tempura udon and Singapore mei fun, you’ll find something to make you smile at Kim’s.