Brewster's - Pub Grub in Fairbanks

As someone who was born and raised the the Fairbanks area, I pay attention to the recommendations of my family and friends when it comes to the restaurants.  One of the restaurants that has become popular in Fairbanks (since I left in 1998) is Brewster's.  It has two locations, and it is offers a pub food menu and a variety of brews on tap.

I recently visited the Old Steese location with my family.  I was a bit hesitant because I had heard mixed reviews.  Some said that it was too slow, and others raved about the food.  Some enjoyed the sports pub atmosphere, and others frowned on the food.  Since my parents had no worries about Brewster's I decided to go in with an open mind.

I ordered the Chicken Ciabatta Sandwich.  Ordering chicken is a risky proposition, as it is easy to over cook and serve dry.  My sandwich was tender and juicy.  It had some roasted peppers, pepper jack cheese, and lettuce.  The combination was mildly spicy, but deliciously savory.

I was quite satisfied with my lunch and would definitely go again.  There are some burgers that look like they need the Alaska Foodie to review :)


Locations and Phone -
Brewster's:  3578 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK - 907.456.2538
Brewster's Northgate: 354 Old Steese Highway, Fairbanks, AK - 907.374.9663

Website - brewstersalaska.com/

Reservations - Nope.

Overall Recommendation - I have heard mixed reviews, but I would have to say on my visit, the food was good, and service was fast and friendly.  I recommend giving it a try and making your own choice.

Ivory Jacks - The Goldstream Hangout

I am in the Fairbanks area visiting my family for the holidays.  I also had some time to visit with some close friends.  One of our friends that we wanted to see works at Ivory Jacks, so we went their so that we could see her and her family.  The food and libations have always been good, so nobody had to twist my arm to go.

Ivory Jacks is the Cheers of the Goldstream Valley, just outside of Fairbanks.  The weather is cold, but Ivory Jacks is warm, comfortable, and the kind of place where there is no pretense.  In other words, this is my kind of place.

There is Yankees baseball memorabilia all over the bar/restaurant.  There  is darts, shuffle board, and even a pac-man game.  There are even photographs of the greatest Ivory Jacks drinkers.  This place is great!

The menu is a great blend of fine dining and pub style food.  I was in the mood for martinis and pub grub, so I opted away from the fine dining part of the menu.  We started with some nice crab stuffed mushrooms.  They were delectable and really whet my appetite.  Next was pizza loaded with meat and pepperoncinis.  It was great, and a perfect pairing for my dirty martinis.

At some point during the meal, a Christmas carol started up in the bar.  I would like to think that it was the spirit of the bar and season that made me join in....but maybe it was the martinis.

Ivory Jacks:

Address - 2581 Goldstream Road, Fairbanks, AK 99709

Phone - 907.455.6665

Website - ivoryjacks.alaskansavvy.com/

Reservations - I have been to Ivory Jacks for dates, wakes, and just dropped in.  You can make a reservation, but usually a table is open.


Overall Recommendation - This is a wonderful place to go when you visit (or live in) Fairbanks.  I love the atmosphere and the people.  Give it a try!