The Best Restaurants in Valdez

The Roadside Potatohead is a laid-back spot known for hearty burgers, salmon rolls, and fresh-cut fries made from potatoes peeled in the kitchen. Guests order at the counter or window and help themselves to essentials, creating an easygoing, self-serve experience. Indoor tables and ample outdoor seating make it a convenient stop for casual dining with beer and wine available.

Nat Shack is a casual food truck offering Mexican-inspired street food with both vegan and seafood options. Guests highlight generously filled crunchwraps, burritos, and tacos noted for bold, spicy flavors. Friendly staff and made-to-order dishes contribute to its appeal. Outdoor seating overlooks the harbor, creating a lively, scenic setting for a relaxed meal.

Old Town Diner specializes in freshly cooked burgers, praised for their juicy, well-seasoned patties and generous toppings. Curly and straight fries, made from real potatoes and fried to order, are a popular accompaniment. The diner is clean, unexpectedly spacious inside, and staffed by friendly servers who contribute to a relaxed, welcoming experience.

The Fat Mermaid offers a broad menu that blends American comfort food with Asian-inspired dishes, from burgers and fish baskets to Pad Thai and curry. Breakfast items such as salmon eggs Benedict are noted for arriving hot and well prepared. Guests highlight generally friendly, efficient service and the option to dine on a front patio with harbor and mountain views, along with a selection of local beers.

Magpies on the Fly Coffe Shop is a community hub set in a restored vintage RV, offering an authentic Alaskan coffeehouse experience. Guests enjoy specialty coffee drinks, handmade pastries, and simple breakfasts or takeaway lunches for local adventures. Regular live music, open mic nights, and local theater events create a lively cultural gathering place.

Fu Kung Chinese Restaurant serves classic Chinese cuisine alongside Thai dishes and sushi in a clean, inviting dining room with distinctive décor. Diners highlight flavorful preparations, from curry dishes and lemon chicken to Szechuan-style fried rice, soups, and spring rolls. Portions are generous, making it a popular choice for a satisfying, unhurried meal.

Set within a hotel overlooking the harbor, The Wheelhouse Bar and Restaurant offers marina views from many of its dining room tables. The menu features Alaskan-influenced seafood such as halibut and salmon alongside burgers, pasta, and other hearty dishes, with options for pescatarians and vegetarians. Generous portions and attentive, friendly service define the experience, complemented by an adjacent bar for drinks.

Aunty Yum Yum’s serves freshly cooked, authentic Thai dishes from a casual food truck setting. Guests highlight vibrant flavors and quality ingredients in favorites like pad Thai, fried rice, and tom yum. Friendly service and made-to-order preparation create a satisfying stop for classic Thai comfort food.