About
With “The Road Goes On Forever and The Party Never Ends” as its motto, Chair 5 Restaurant is your go-to for down-home food, top-shelf spirits, and good times.
The eatery’s saying is more than a gimmick or part of its marketing scheme. One quick read of its history tells you that its roots read more like a cheap dime novel than a business concept devised by high-end executives. If you don’t believe us, here’s the opening line: “Chair Five Restaurant was conceived in a drunken stupor during the rainy season of 1982.” What follows is what reads like a Hollywood script for either a comedic movie with a “feel-good ending.” Enough said on the history, but it’s well worth the read!
Taking its name from one of the original chairlifts at the nearby Alyeska Resort, Chair 5 became the gathering spot where skiers, snowboarders, and townsfolk swapped stories after long days on the slopes.
Over the decades, the restaurant has built a reputation for hearty food and for having one of the most impressive whiskey and scotch collections in Alaska. Then again, if you read its history, you easily make the connection to the scotch!
Nevertheless, it’s these two attributes that attract locals and vacationers alike. Here, pizzas, burgers, and fresh seafood are its staples, and have been so since the 1980s.
Add the restaurant’s laid-back culture, complete with a pool table, and it’s easy to understand why flannel shirts outnumber suits.
Vibe
The exterior blends with its mountain surroundings, featuring a brown rustic wood-frame building with green-trimmed windows.
Step inside, and the decor continues the alpine cabin motif. Ski memorabilia, vintage photos, and mounted keepsakes dot the walls. The wood-beamed ceiling, floors, and extended bar with its famous whiskey collection glisten, catching the eye when you enter.
Similarly, the atmosphere hits the sweet spot between lively and relaxed, with live music and karaoke on key nights.
Dining on the main floor is around the pool table, while the bar is ideal for a more laid-back meal. During the summer months, al fresco dining offers mountain views and fresh air.
Whether you’re visiting with a group, family, or solo, you’ll feel at home here.
Chair 5 Restaurant: Menu & Drinks
At the top of the list are the hand-crafted pizzas on a traditional crust or their renowned “home of Alaska’s original deep dish square pizza.” You'll find classics like pepperoni to artisan pies like the Thai Chicken. This fusion of Asian and Italian showcases a house-made peanut sauce with flame-broiled chicken breast, crispy noodles, onions, carrots, red peppers, spinach, and fresh parsley.
Next up in recognition are the hand-pressed 8-oz burgers. These massive handhelds are juicy and come with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle, with a side of fries. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Alaska Wild Game Burger with a mix of elk, bison, Wagyu beef, wild boar with bacon and cheddar cheese. A vegetarian patty is available at no extra cost, while you can upgrade your order with an extra patty and bacon for an additional charge.
A classic pub pick is the Halibut Fish & Chips. The entree features fresh Alaskan halibut filets that are beer-battered and fried golden brown. It comes with fries, lemon, and house-made tartar sauce.
The salads offer lighter yet filling options and come in a small and large size. You can add chicken, shrimp, salmon, or halibut to favorites like the spinach, Greek, house, or Caesar salads.
Additionally, the flavorful tacos, pasta, and steak options ensure something for everyone.
Since the genesis of this dining spot centered around alcohol, you can bet that the bar is well-stocked! You’ll find over 60 micro-brew beers, 30 malts, and 40 tequilas. If you prefer a cocktail, the mixologists can craft classics to specialties.
With its one-of-a-kind history, time-tested menu favorites, and a bar on steroids, Chair 5 promises to enhance your Alaska getaway.
Local Tips
- Groups of 6 or more are subject to an automatic 20% gratuity.
- Order take-out and enjoy dining in the comfort of your Casago rental.
- Check its Facebook posts for live music and karaoke nights.
- It opens at 9:00 a.m., making breakfast an option.
