Lucky Market Asian Deli

Today I was flying solo so I took a trip to the Lucky Market on a tip from a fellow co-worker and friend.

This little hole in the wall type restaurant is located in a strip mall on Arctic St. near the International Airport Rd. intersection. From the outside, I was expecting a tiny, dim, somewhat shabby interior but classic good eats from a place only the “locals’ know about.  Since it was really sunny outside, it took a few seconds for my eyes to adjust to the interior lighting and what I saw pleasantly surprised me! It was not dingy, nor was it shabby. In fact, the roomy establishment was brightly lit and welcoming! It has obviously been recently remodeled and looked clean, and extremely inviting! 

They have a small but adequate menu but the main attraction is the deli for a quick lunch. For $6, you can get your choice of chicken fried rice or stir-fry noodles with one entree of your choice.  For only $1 more, you get to entrees! Naturally I choose the 2 entree meal. There were 15 different entrees to choose from. I just went with the classic Kung Poa Chicken and Teriyaki Chicken to keep thing simple. As well as the Fried Rice, I opted to add a Shrimp Dumpling, Spring Roll and Filipino Sausage to my meal.

You can take this to go or eat in. Since the tables were sparkling clean, I choose to eat in. There are 3 big screen TV’s on the wall broadcasting the daily news along with a photo gallery of the menu items.  (Great Idea!) 

I sampled the Shrimp Dumpling first and considering I am not a huge fan of shrimp, the fact that I greatly enjoyed this was wonderful! Next time I am getting 2!

But I was hungry, after all, it was 3pm and I had not yet eaten that day so next I practically dove into the the rice and Kung Poa! Over all the meal was very satisfying. Given the fact I was well past the traditional lunch hour, my chicken was a bit tough but I will forgive that small flaw. 

My first experience eating a Filipino Sausage was,..... Interesting. It was not bad but not my “thang”. And I would not recommend the Spring Roll.  I did grab a  menu while paying and noticed they serve a Pho Noodle soup. Given the fact that the meal was repeatable, I think I will take my husband here to review the soup. 

Next door to the Lucky Market Asian Deli is, the Lucky Market, naturally.  I had to tour this site as well, always on the look out for something new and interesting. We also happen to feed our doggys RAW so ethnic markets are a most excellent place to grab some bizarre food stuff for a varied diet. They have some very bizarre meats and organs with decent prices. Their isles were not crowded and the store was very clean. It did not have the fishy smell that often accompanies most Ethnic Markets. Even though it was small, there was a wonderful selection and the produce looked very fresh, maybe it was local?

The Greek Corner

Date Night! Time to check out the Greek Corner which has recently moved from the small blue and white building on Fireweed to a nice bigger building off Northern Lights. 

The atmosphere that evening was jovial and my husband and I were very excited about trying some greek food. I have had greek before and rather enjoy the subtle difference from Italian. Feta cheese, greek and Kalamata olives, fruity red wines........... ahhhh.

So, naturally when coming to a new restaurant, we asked our server what she recommended. We choose the smooth red greek wine along with the sampler plate.

The wine was really good, very sweet, deep and rich flavor. 

Our server was a lovely women, very upbeat and “authentic”! When the flaming cheese appetizer was served to some of our surrounding tables the “OH PA!” rang out amount the fellow patrons.  Next time we are getting that! 

Our food was really good. It was not the best tasting food I have ever eaten but there certainly was nothing bad on my plate. We greatly enjoyed the large variety of foods representing all regions of Greece. 

We really enjoyed our evening out, the place was vibrant and festive. I most certainly will return to the Greek Corner.

The New Cauldron

Yesterday I was meeting with friends after they got back from a week long Business trip to Bethel. While sharing war stories, we dined at The New Cauldron located in the University Mall on Old Seward Highway. 

This eating establishment is located on the second floor near the Sadler’s entrance. 

It is very retro, with orange, olive green and brown colors. There was plenty of seating and a pretty casual atmosphere.
Their menu was extensive with lots of exotic looking descriptions. Seems most of their food boarders on the Asian with a mix of teriyakis and wasabi thrown together with traditional american foods. They did offer brown rice in most dishes which is a nice healthy touch.

I finally chose the Smoked Salmon wrap which had smoked salmon chunks, brown rice, capers, cucumber avocado and wasabi sauce. I did omit the capers though. Across the table we had burgers, salads sandwiches and chicken teriyaki. 

Mine was the first to arrive. It was wrapped in foil and placed on a naked plate. It looked very dull and unappealing. A few minutes later a burger and beef dip arrived. Unfortunately the fries on my companions plate were ice cold. He did send them back and got them refried (not a good call, should have given him NEW fries). 

Soon all of us had our food and the over all appearance was good. The Salads were HUGE but the blue cheese dressing was only ranch with a few blue cheese chunks in it.  

The Halibut Club did not come with fries nor did my own wrap. (Honestly, the menu was so huge I never noticed that some items do not come with sides)

So, I did enjoy the wrap for the most part. The Wasabi was just spicy enough to bring tear to my eyes and my nose twitch. The smoked salmon was really good and I felt there was a generous amount in my wrap. The veggies were crisp but there was a bit too much brown rice. It was also served with a whole wheat tortilla. I give them kudos for trying to create a healthy menu.

The thing about the New Cauldron is that some of the food was really good but some of the food was not good at all. I’m thinking it is a case of trying to hard to provide a wide array of foods and not specializing and creating a few amazing things.

Amelia's Restaurant

Amelia's Restaurant

On day 3 of my Aleutian Work / vacation,  my co-worker and I went to another local hot spot, Amelia's. Amelia's is a small, unsuspecting place between the airport and famous Grand Aleutian Hotel. From the outside you would never guess this green mobile home is an eclectic full service Mexican restaurant! Inside you find a very spacious main room with a smaller, more intimate side room for a more romantic evening out. The walls of Amelia's are covered, literally, with dozens of pictures of the local scenery along with a myriad of adorable Mexican wind chimes hanging from the center beam. I really should have taken a picture, it was that unique. 

The menu was unbelievable! Once again I was awestruck at the enormous selection of foods being offered in this little Island Oasis!  As much as I love Mexican foods though, my stomach was telling me to try the chili burger and Boy, am I glad I did! Upon seeing my plate arrive, my first comment was, “I can see that this town really caters to the fisherman! Look at the size of these portions!” Anyone eat at a true “Truck Stop” and you will know what I mean. 

Heaping with fresh out of the fryer fries, mounded with chili, cheese and onions, I could not even see a burger under all that. But it was there and my first bite was like a little piece of heaven.  I don't' know how I did it but some how that entire plate of food was devoured and thoroughly enjoyed! The onions were just right, not too strong. The chili was not too spicy and not at all watery. Homemade or not, I dont know but I do know that I have not tasted a canned chili like it before. My burger, once I found it under all those beans was juicy, thick and seasoned to perfection. Since the chili was not watery, even my bun managed to stand up to all that and provided a perfect sponge for soaking up all that scrumptious sauce.

Dutch Harbor Fast Food

Dutch Harbor Fast Food

I was lucky enough to have a trip to Dutch Harbor with my work this past week. Naturally I took the opportunity to try out some of the local eats, this had nothing to do with the fact my hotel room contained only a coffee pot. 

So, for lunch each day I ate out, and on Monday, I was taken to a favorite local spot called Dutch Harbor Fast Food. It is a quaint little yellow building located on Broadway in the heart of the city. 

There extensive menu offers everything from traditional burgers to pizza and Chinese, even some Thai and pho! I was having a hard time trying to decide what to eat but I ultimately decided to just start my Aleutian adventure with a Cheese Burger and fries. 

I was accompanied by a local and we chatted about the colorful town folk as well as the island life. Unalaska is full of some very friendly people. There is a huge mix of cultures here, brought to town mostly for the fishing. The name “Dutch Harbor” and “Unalaska” are used pretty much interchangeably. There is a Dutch Harbor, but the town is officially called Unalaska, as well as the big Island. But they have 2 post offices, one for Unalaska and one for Dutch Harbor. And depending on who you speak with, the area could be called many different things. 

But back to the restaurant. Dutch Harbor fast Food is a small, but very bright and clean restaurant with at least a half dozen skylights warming up the interior. During our hour stay, there were quite a few locals also enjoying the food. 

My burger came pretty quickly and I was pleasantly surprised to see such bright, fresh and crisp produce!   My burger had a generous amount of lovely melted cheddar cheese on top, the buns lightly grilled and a beautiful mound of crunchy french fries.   It was pretty darn good too. 

My companion enjoyed a chicken burger, which consisted of a breaded chicken breast topped with pepper jack cheese.

While this was no 3 napkin burger it definitely rivaled some Anchorage burgers. The portions were very generous and I was stuffed after this lunch, which was just perfect, so that evening I was able to get by with some soup made with the help of my handy dandy coffee pot. :)

Long Branch Saloon

Long Branch Saloon

Finally!! A multi napkin burger! It is what I strive for on my quest for a great burger. First off it has to be hand pattied. Secondly, it must be juicy. Thirdly, it must require you to use at least 2 napkins.  And the Burgers at Long Branch Saloon have all 3 prerequisites. 

I had the Jalapeno Burger with Jack Cheese and homemade fries. It came out cooked to perfection, slightly pink and was so juicy and flavorful.  A full handful of peppers atop the thick beef patty, cheese melted just the right amount, lettuce, tomato, onion.... Oh My! And naturally, their buns are baked fresh daily. 

The joint was crowded and parking is at a premium but it is worth every bit of a hassle. 

If you happen to have a Northern Lights Coupon Book handy, you will find a coupon in there good for one free lunch with the purchase of a lunch and 2 drinks! A deal you cannot beat.

Hands down, Long Branch does have the best BUNS in town AND the best burgers!

Yummy International Foods

Yummy International Foods

The first time I ordered from Yummy we did so at work. A group of us, about 8 all got something from the lunch menu. You get a choice of 2 dishes with a side of rice for $8. 

I choose the green curry with chicken and the kalbi ribs. It arrived in under 1 hour and each to-go box was clearly labeled so we were able to pass them out to the appropriate person. 

My lunch choice was phenomenal!  I  was so impressed I told everyone within 50 feet about Yummy. How tender and flavorful the ribs were. How impressive the curry was.

So, when my colleagues suggested yummy a couple of weeks later, I jumped at the chance! I had relished the dishes I chose so much I just reordered that exact same meal.

However, much to my great disappointment it was nothing like it was last time. The ribs were all bone, hardly any meat at all. The rice was gooey and the curry, oh the curry........ Let me go regress a bit here. I adore thai curry. It is probably my most favorite food of all times. I can just drink green curry sauce I love it that much... 

So when I first see this curry, my heart sank. I just knew it was all wrong. The sauce was a different color, the veggies used were totally unlike the ones used last time. The taste was no where the same as it was the first time. I was deeply disappointed. I suffered through my lunch, nibbling at the bones, dreaming of olden days when there was meat, licking sauce from my fingers... {sigh}

What happened Yummy? Did your cook get sick?  I am a stickler for consistency and after only 2 trips to your establishment, you failed miserably. 

Will I give Yummy another try? Well, probably, since one time was sublime even though the second time was subpar.  All I can say it that you have a lot of live up to. If you want repeat business, you need to maintain a standard.  Better luck next time.

Ernesto and Richardo's Authentic Mexican Restaurant and Grill

Ernesto and Richardo’s Authentic Mexican Restaurant and Grill

The name in of it’s self is a mouthful but once you have tasted Richardo and Ernesto’s grub, you will surely be back for more!! 

I stopped by yesterday for lunch with hubby and we delighted with a robust interior. Those weeks of remodeling really paid off and turned around a dumpy old restaurant into a fun and hip mexican joint!  The staff was extremely friendly, even the cooks were out mingling with the customers and making sure everyone was having a pleasant time and the food was good.

Upon recommendation of the chef, I choose the daily special which was Pork Ribs with Cactus, beans and rice. To accompany that, we also choose the Taco/Cheese enchilada  combo lunch plate and a homemade tamale a la’carte. (Because I LOVE Tamales!)

It took some time for the food to arrive but when it did, OH BOY! Let me tell ya that I have never ate cactus before and was rather excited apprehensive about trying it. However, it was more delicious! The pork ribs were to tender the meat literally was falling off the bone. The cactus was cut into strips and just as tender without any odd sort of flavor, they were just great! The whole dish was seasoned to perfection and was sizzling hot! I do like hot food coming from a kitchen! That tells me the waitstaff and cooks are well coordinated and nothing it left sitting around getting cold. 

I tried the tamale next. The presentation of the tamale was darling! Set on 1/2 a corn husk, shmeared with a lightly spiced red sauce, accompanied with a leaf of bright and crisp romaine lettuce, slices of tomato, fresh avocado, and queso cheese and an artistic drizzle of sour cream. There was a lovely smell coming from the tamale that reminded me of a spice and incense store at Pike’s Place Market in Seattle. It was just heavenly to eat because with every bite I was taken back to the Market. 

My husbands Steak Soft Taco was, of course splendid. It was not the taste sensation from the taco trucks in Cali but for Alaska, we were satisfied.

But back to the Main Course! So, this Cheese loving American Gringa was very pleased with the generous helping of cheese atop our lunch! It was all melty and gooey. And the cheese enchilada was nearly 3/4 of an inch thick with cheese.Thank you!  The only part of the meal that was not up to par was the rice. Bland and over cooked, it just sat there looking very sad as I gleefully devoured the rest of my meal. 

Their menu is extensive and covers Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner! I saw some mexican breakfast ideas that looks awesome and I know I will be back to try more 

delectables very soon. A generous lunch for 2 with a drink ran about $26 before tip. 

Located at the corner of Arctic and International, in the old American Diner location. 

Cafe Del Mundo

I have be come of what of a regular here although I am inconspicuous enough to not be noticed as such. So between 8am and 10am on Monday - Friday this is where you can find me, typing away at my Mac, either blogging about food stuff or doing other pertinent   job related things. 

Today I got just a simple pot of tea. Herbal Black Currant Vanilla to be exact. I must say it is quite smooth yet tangy, very pleasant on the palate. I am enjoying my little pot very much as I type this.
But my favorite drink at Cafe Del Mundo is the Chai. Starbucks has nothing on the Mundo! They make some of the best Chai in town. Not watery at all. They have some local blends for Chai as well, all are equally fantastic!  My friend raves about their gelato, which I admit is really rather dreamy even though I am not an ice cream fan. (I know, I know!) 

Plus there is a display case chalk full of tasty baked goods! I seem many satisfied patrons consuming these delicacies! 

Cafe Del Mundo has 3 locations in Anchorage. Each coffee shot is bright and cheery, with tons of friendly customers and happy employees. They also have wifi for their coffee-holics! Stop by today and see what I mean.

Nino's

Finally, a night out without the kids. It has been a long time coming. Upon the recommendation of a few friends and co-workers, we decided to try out Nino’s. 

Nino’s is a cute little Italian place located on the corner of the New Seward Highway and 36th.  It is seats just a few handful of people so there is usually a line but table seem to clear fairly quickly (with the help of super efficient waitstaff) so the wait is not long.  Space is at a premium so if you don’t like crowded places or are claustrophobic, maybe order Nino’s to-go?  However, I rather enjoyed the closeness. It forces you to talk to your neighboring tables. Which my husband did quite naturally.  

We choose the Spaghetti with Sausage based upon a table-mate’s suggestion and the hand-rolled manicotti. All meals come with a basket of “Garlic Knots” as well. We were advised the manicotti would take 20 minutes of bake time but we had all night.  Nino’s is a lively joint, plenty of conversation yet not loud. It felt very comfortable and friendly.  Soon our order arrived, I’m sure it had not been the full 20 minutes but I am not one to complain about fast service! 

The manicotti was served with a generous smothering of marinara sauce and loaded with creamy delicious ricotta cheese. The menu said it was a 3 cheese blend but I cannot tell you what 3 cheeses it might have been. It was very good but the filling was a bit on the cool side inside those hand-rolled manicottis.  On a personal note, I would have preferred it to be baked in the oven with melted cheese on top as well. (which I has falsely assumed it was going to be like given the fact the waitress told me it had a 20 minute bake time) Needless to say, I enjoyed it very much. 

The sausage that came with the Spaghetti was delish! The chef sliced it then grilled it before adorning it with the noodles and sauce. This dish was also served with the marinara sauce, a bright orange red sauce of delightful flavor! Was it homemade? Could have been. :) The noodles were served perfectly al dente and the whole meal was piping hot goodness. We managed to save a few of the garlic knots for dipping and they really just topped of the meal perfectly. 

I was very impressed with the overall atmosphere, taste of the food and quality of service! I saw many impressive and scrumptious looking dishes come through the dinning room and I am eager to return to cozy Nino’s. I’m thinking of trying the Pizza next! 

Golden Corral

 

     I have been putting this off for a long time. The reason being is that I’m just not quite sure what to write here. First of all, by writing this I have just admitted to actually eating at this establishment. Second of all, well, quite frankly the place stinks. I have been there 3 times now and we do go since it is one of the few places I can take 7 people and we each can find something to eat that we like, a very tricky thing to do at times. 

     However each and every time I have gone, the place smells like cat pee and dirty diapers. While the food is generally pretty decent and there is a massive variety of it, I just about gag over the stench. 

     Last week, our server was covering too many tables and because of that was very neglectful to many of them. We often went without refills and clean plates. When we asked for mustard, he never brought it. 

     This is not the place I would take company to, nor would I go here for a date. It is strictly a feed-your-face kinda place.

Luigi's Pizza on Arctic and International Airport Rd.

  How do I sum up Luigi's Pizza in one word?

HUGE!!

    So, we had a coupon from the Northern Light's Coupon Book for a free Hot Sandwich with the purchase of one. Since we are of the thrifty sort, and we were in the neighborhood, this was a perfect option for today's lunch.
     I ordered the Gyro, my Daughter got the Ham Sub (minus the onions) and my Hubby requested the Mushroom Philly  Cheesesteak. Luigi's was pretty busy even at nearly 2pm, but our wait was not long, maybe 15 minutes? Luigi's is only pick up or delivery so after we got our food we headed back out to the Suburban to chow down and chow down we did!!
     Digging into our bag we found a HUGE foil wrapped sandwich. Assuming this was the philly since we did order the large size, it was quickly passed off to my Hubby. However, it was soon discovered that this was the Ham Sub! You would not believe the size of this sandwich. LIterally it had to be over a foot long. Made on Fresh, homemade bread, it was hot and loaded with tasty ham, and cheese, lettuce and tomato. Not to be undone I dove into my Gyro that had way more meat then I had expected, onions and extra tjaziki sauce on the side.
     Well by now my Hubby was feeling a bit left out so we passed the bag to him. Last but not least was the glorious philly, oozing with generous amounts of steak, mozzarella cheese and mushrooms.  His meal also came with homemade potato salad and peppercinis peppers.
     We spent the next 10 minutes sharing bites and just ohhing and ahhing over the super delicious food. honestly, Luigi really impressed me. I will most assuredly be back!
     Besides I have another coupon, for a free Calzone!

Burrito Haven

Went here for lunch with my Mother-In-Law and was really impressed with the size of the Burritos! WOW~ Very impressive. Each burrito is crafted before your eyes with fresh ingredients that you pick out so you get exactly what you want.
Located just outside the Boniface Gate, it is frequented by the military as well as civilians. These burritos are so big that I personally recommend eating them INSIDE or at least sitting down. You will need a place to catch the drips and most boss' don't look to kindly on a hot sauce splattered BDU or button-down shirt!


Enjoy a hot made to order burrito fresh from the Haven next time you are out at lunch.


326 Boniface Pkwy
Anchorage, AK 99504

Military Discounts! All the places in Anchorage that give a military discount

All the businesses below give a 10% military discount unless otherwise stated.
Just show ID.




Brown Jug (Thursday 5%)
Walgreens (15%)
Wendy's
Tastee Freeze
Arctic Liquor (tudor)
Taco Bell
Carl's Jr. (5%)
McDonalds
Birch Tree Dining
Burger King (off base only)
Lowes
Home Depot
Old Navy (on the 1st of the month only)
Hot Topic 
Regal Theaters ($6.75 - $7.75)
Arby's
Village Inn  (free soda)
Papa John's (only on items that are not on special)
IHOP
Denny's  (20%)
Seams Like Home 
Kid to Kid!
City Diner
Sally's Beauty Supplies
Schuck's / Orielly Auto Supply
Arctic Playground
Walmart Eye Center
Papa Murphy's Take and Bake
El Rodeo (dinner only)
Tanasy Tanning & Massage 
Inked Monkey Tattoo
Peppercini's
Dairy Queen
Far North Garden Supply (corner of Northern Lights and Boniface)
Alyeska Resort
Taco Del Mar
AIH hardware store 
Tidy Tushes
Sadler's Home Furnishings
Party World!
Samurai Sushi
Zales
Micheal's Crafts (10% every wednesday)
East End Tattoo (20% active duty)
Sportsman's Warehouse (5%)

If anyone has info on more, please comment !!

Capone's Pizza

Ah, Pizza! What kid or grown up for that matter, does not enjoy a nice hot slice of pizza? Since we moved last year, I have been eyeing Capone's, located on the corner of Northern Lights and Boniface. Tonight was the night. We choose one of the daily specials that gave us 2  2-topping jumbo pizzas, an order of breadsticks, a 12 piece buffalo wings and 2 2-liters of soda all for just $45!

Luckily, this did feed our family of 7 but I know our teens will be having a snack later. Still the amount of food was pretty good for the price.

The pizza was take-out, arriving home about 7 minutes after it was cooked.  I thought the buffalo wings were pretty tasty. Not too hot, not messy (although I enjoy the mess and the heat). I was rather disappointed they served them with a sweet ranch dip as opposed to the traditional Blue Cheese though.
We all agreed the pizza sauce was on the sweet side but I for one was pleased to see just the right amount on the pizza.  Not sloppy, who likes to have soupy pizza?  I was unsure about the crust. It seemed "chewy". I would hate to think they pre-made the crust. :(   Would the disappointing pizza been better if we ate in?  But alas. there was no dine in seating. Capone's is a Take-Out/Delivery only pizza place.

I'm sorry Capone's, I was not impressed.

Willing to make a few changes? Let me know and I'll be back!

Pho Vietnam ~ Korean and Vietnamese soup

This quickly became a favorite lunch spot for a quick HOT and delicious bowl of noodle soup.

We visited Pho Vietnam nearly a dozen times during the summer and fall months here in Anchorage.

We found their soups to be quite wonderful. With the famously large servings, bowls chalk full of  veggies and noodles, one cannot go wrong. They can be spiced up with a wide array of seasonings at your table too.

Each bowl of Pho soup comes with a plate of assorted toppings such as fresh bean sprouts, cilantro, basil, and lime.

Most people go to a Pho restaurant for it's namesake, PHO SOUP! a clear broth soup perfect for any meal. Highly regarded for its soothing and healing properties, Pho Soup is clearly a good choice for everyone!

Pho Vietnam also serves fresh rolls, and other delectable asian yummies!

The Fresh rolls do come out with an abundance of cilantro and basil in them so if you prefer yours on the lighter side, don't hesitate to ask your server! They gladly will make them to order.

Enjoy!

Edited.... Well, we visited this establishment last week and ordered our spring rolls with less Cilantro and Basil  however, they ignored this request and did not make them to order. So, even though one of our previous servers said just ask, they don't always listen. :(

Fu Do ~ Chinese

We had this for Delivery once, Spent $75. Wont do that again.

Ding How ~ Mongolian BBQ and Buffet

Mongolian BBQ is when the customer picks a variety of raw foods and they are cooked by the chef on a huge round gill.  Mongolian BBQ Iis not Mongolian nor is it a BBQ. It is actually derived from the Japanese cooking style of teppanyaki.  I have been in Mongolican BBQ restaurants that had over 50 different foods to choose from and an even larger variety of sauce combinations!  

Ding How is a bit nicer and much cleaner then Twin Dragons, although I like the waitstaff from Dragons better. Anyway, the crab rangoons were delicious, as always.
The seating area was nicley lit but not too bright. They had a cute area with 2 large tables for "private" parties. Since there were usually 7 of us eating, this is ideal, plus it is a good way to keep the kids corralled.

Located at 2140 Muldoon, they are also right across the street from Fred Meyer (Debarr and Muldoon) and very easy to get too.

The price is right at just $13 per person. Less for kids, of course.
Some say this is the best Mongolian in Anchorage and while I cannot disagree with them I have to let you know I have only eaten at 2 Mongolian Restaurants in Anchorage so I have little to compare it too.

I must say, though  that there is a lot more to a dinning experience then just the food. I look at all aspects including the friendliness, the cost, the cleanliness, the atmosphere, the taste, the service..........

If you are in the mood for Mongolina BBQ then this is a place that will not disappoint.

El Rodeo

My husband and I went to El Rodeo again today. This cute little restaurant is located on Muldoon about 2 miles from the Elmendorf Gate.
I really like this place. They offer a nice buffet every weekday for only $10 per person. There is a decent variety of mexican classics and they always have a beautiful salad bar.

The owners are super friendly and love to chat with you. In fact all the staff are quick, attentive and efficient.
So on today's buffet they added a soup! It was nice and mellow, perfect for a cool fall afternoon.
On the typical lunch buffet they have the traditional rice and beans, burritos, and cheese enchiladas, taquitos, and tacos. Plus some Chili Colorado and Chili Verde. The taco shells are thick and crispy, never had a stale one yet. Topped with loads of fresh pico de gallo sauce, they are simply devine!

They also send out a complementary bowl of fresh torilla chips and homemade salsas! Today we got both the medium and the mild. :) Each one is nicely flavored and not too spicey. Although I adore spicey food, my husband does not. The salsa was good.

El Rodeo has a great selection of popular Mexican foods off their menu too.  Your best bet would be just come on down to get a feeling for this family friendly eatery.

They also serve a decent selection of beers including some South of the Border flavors like XX"s and Corona! Make sure to ask for a slice of lime :)

Also check out their website! It's FUN!  http://www.elrodeoak.com/

Namaste Shangri-La

Well, I have never been to Asia and never eaten Indian or Himalayan food until I came to Anchorage so I cannot tell you if this or that is authentic but what I can tell you is this food tastes AWESOME!

We visited the cute and subtle restaurant just the other day on a whim. Hubby and I treated ourselves to a quite mid-week lunch together. Located just off the Lake Otis and Tudor intersection, in the strip mall with Primal Instinct Tattoo and Ichiban. It can be easily missed when going by at breakneck speed. However, when you are in rush hour traffic, take the time to look over and note it's location for tomorrows lunch.

Naturally, when going to a non-american restaurant we ask for recommendations from the host or wait staff. We were not disappointed as our genteel waiter came to our rescue with a variety of house specialties to choose from.

We were the only ones in the restaurant at 11:15 am but having noted they just opened, I was not worried. Soon the tables started to full up and they even had a few take-out orders.

We ordered off the Lunch Menu which consisted of a very nice selection of delightful treats, from vegetarian to meaty. We chose the Lamb Handi (Chunks of lamb cooked with onions, spices and aromatic herbs in a thick gravy) and the Chicken Kalimiri (Chicken pieces marinated in black pepper & cooked in a mildly spiced mushroom sauce).

The inside of the restaurant was warm and cozy with nice dark wood tables, and fanciful lamps from India. It was a very inviting atmosphere and the music was not over powering.

We did not have to wait long to dive right into our lunch either! It came out in those gloriuos copper serving dishes which I love! It makes food sharing so much fun. The rice was perfectly cooked although I am not certain they used Basmati rice. We also ordered the garlic naan which has become my absolute favorite part of any Indian/mountain food! Yuumm!! Lunch was also served with house salad (a cabbage/carrot mix) and dal (a sauce made from lentils and spices, usually served with rice, which our waiter explained it is used to "wet" the food since most Indian food can be very dry). Personally I did not care for the dal, but lentils have not been my thing. It was good, but the taste of all the other dishes outweighed my need for dal.

The sauces were so incredible and full of flavors. Each dish was complex and totally different from each other. I think if it were allowed, I would have licked the bowls clean. Our waiter was very pleased to remove our EMPTY plates!

Their prices are fairly average for a sit down restaurant in Anchorage. A nice lunch for 2 with appetizer and drinks, plus tip was $35.

yes, this hole-in the wall oasis will be a place to return to again and again!