This Quirky Alaska Restaurant Is The Most Unique Place You’ll Eat All Year

Daily life in Alaska is different than life in the lower 48. We deal with harsh weather, dangerous situations and inconveniences (both large and small) all the time, and we've learned to have a sense of humor when it comes to just about everything. You'll definitely find some quirky restaurants across the state, and here's one you'll want to check out the next time you're in Fairbanks.

You'll find Chatanika Lodge at 5760 Steese Hwy., Chatanika, Alaska. It's about 30 miles north of Fairbanks.

This lodge got its start as a gold camp for the Fairbanks Exploration Company, and there's plenty of gold mine history still to be found here. This old gold dredge still sits across from the restaurant.

The restaurant's walls are covered with Alaskan antiques and memorabilia. You could spend hours looking at all this cool stuff!

The antiques are just part of the unique decor. You'll probably notice the dollar bills covering the ceiling and some of the walls...

...and you might double-check your calendar when you see the Christmas decorations everywhere.

Twinkle lights, tinsel, snowmen and santas, snowflakes and ornaments hanging from the ceilings. This cheerful holiday decor stays up all year long!

But wait...there's more! Pop your head into the back room to check out the classic car...

...and the motorcycles.

The atmosphere is unique and quirky, but it's also cozy and warm. The owners are generally onsite, and they're some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet.

The food here is delicious, too. You'll find items on the menu like homemade fried chicken, deep-fried cod or catfish, and T-bone steaks.

The Dredge Burger is a local favorite, and you'll want to order yours with the delicious onion rings.

Chatanika Lodge is open year-round, from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., every day of the week except Tuesday..

Have you ever dined at Chatanika Lodge? Alaska's restaurants aren't the only weird places to visit...check out these ten weird museums in Alaska.