During a recent trip to Anchorage, I made not one, but two delightful visits to Snow City Café, a local favorite that more than lives up to its reputation. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this popular breakfast and brunch spot is cozy and welcoming, with a buzz of energy that draws both tourists and locals alike. The bright, quirky décor, featuring colorful artwork and an eclectic vibe, immediately sets the tone for a fun, relaxed dining experience.
First Visit: Breakfast Bliss
On my first visit, I was craving something indulgent, so I opted for their Stuffed French Toast, paired with reindeer sausage and eggs over easy. Let me just say, the stuffed French toast alone is worth a trip to Anchorage. Thick slices of toasted French baguette, berry cream cheese, topped with a generous amount of fresh berries, toasted walnuts, berry compote, whipped cream, and a drizzle of syrup, and a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and tangy, without being overly decadent.
The reindeer sausage was another highlight. I was curious to try it since it’s a distinctly Alaskan offering, and it did not disappoint. It had a smoky, savory flavor that complemented the sweetness of the French toast. The eggs over easy were cooked perfectly — soft and runny (just the way I like them), tying the whole plate together. All in all, it was a breakfast that left me completely satisfied and eager to return.
Second Visit: Benedict Heaven
My second visit came a few days later, and this time I went all-in on the Kodiak (Crab Benedict) and the Ship Creek (King Salmon Benedict). Choosing between the two was tough, so naturally, I had to order both (half and half)!
The Kodiak featured a generously-portioned fresh Alaskan red king crab cake, paired with perfectly poached eggs, all atop a toasted English muffin and finished with a rich, creamy hollandaise sauce. It was everything you’d want from a seafood-inspired benedict — fresh, flavorful, and indulgent.
The Ship Creek Salmon Benedict was equally delicious, but in a different way. The housemade king salmon cake was tender and perfectly cooked, with a smoky flavor that paired beautifully with the poached eggs and tangy hollandaise. The English muffin provided a nice crunch, balancing the creaminess of the sauce. If you’re a seafood lover, this dish is a must-try.
Then, I did a thing. I couldn’t resist finishing off the meal with a dessert-like treat: the Pistachio Affogato. It was the perfect sweet ending. A scoop of pistachio gelato drowned in a shot of hot espresso created a creamy, nutty, and slightly bitter concoction that was refreshing yet bold. It offered a unique contrast to the heavier benedicts, rounding out my meal with finesse.
Snow City Café quickly became a highlight of my time in Anchorage. The food is thoughtfully prepared, the portions are generous, and the atmosphere is both lively and laid-back. Though there can be a bit of a wait, it’s well worth it. Whether you’re in the mood for a decadent breakfast like the stuffed French toast or craving something a bit more savory like the seafood benedicts, this spot has something for everyone. If you find yourself in Anchorage, do yourself a favor and stop by Snow City Café. You won’t regret it.