In Alaska, going to the store is a little bit more challenging than in most places. Of course, in the larger cities and towns there are a variety of national chains, but in smaller places it is harder to get things you might want. Rural people sometimes visit a city like Anchorage or Fairbanks to buy bulk supplies, but for most of the year they are dependent on the local store.
The small, independent grocery stores in Alaska have long been a staple of life in the far North. The trading posts of the frontier evolved into the small neighborhood grocery stores we still see in Alaska. Visit these stores to pick up anything you need while in the towns. They may not have everything you’ve ever dreamed of, but the local charm and customer service more than make up for it.
This market in downtown Fairbanks has an excellent variety of healthy foods and fresh deli items to enjoy. They feature natural, organic and locally raised veggies and meats, wild-caught Alaskan seafood, and healthy grocery items. An oasis of color and life, the Co-op is a retail cooperative that is a hub of community for people in the North.
2. IGA Food Cache, 266 Richardson Hwy, Delta Junction
This place is right in the heart of Delta farm country and the produce section is fresh as can be. They also have a large population of Russian descent and there are Russian products throughout the store, as well as a full deli, coffee stand and bakery. This place is an oasis for delicious vegetables on the road.
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3. Cubby's Marketplace, Mile 98.6 Parks Highway Talkeetna
Cubby's is a necessary stop on the Parks Highway for those turning down the 14 mile road to Talkeetna proper or for those just cruising by. Your basic grocery, but for some reason so much more charming than most. Eat at the deli and get local produce in season.
This grocery is cosmopolitan and features many international ingredients as well the freshest produce and meats. New Sagaya has a fantastic deli of delicious Asian and classic American lunch items created with ingredients as fresh, local, and organic as available. The sitting area and patio are spacious and sunny.
Valdez Food Cache is 100% locally owned and operated grocery in Valdez. They do their best to supply the grocery, but also offer to special order anything you personally want for you.
Juneau's natural food store is right downtown and pops with delicious foods and charm. This place is small and efficient with excellent produce from a place that is difficult to travel to. As a seaside locale, they offer local specialties like fresh sea asparagus. Look for locally grown, organic greens year round in this temperate climate, a rare treat for most Alaskans.
Have you been to any of these places in Alaska? Tell us about it in the comments below.
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