Portage Glacier Cafe

401 Portage Lake Loop, Girdwood, AK 99587, United States
+1 907-783-3117
$$$ Cafe
(98 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Welcome to the Portage Glacier Cafe, a true gem nestled in the heart of stunning Portage Valley, Girdwood, Alaska. Located conveniently at 401 Portage Lake Loop, this beloved local cafe serves as a perfect pit stop for adventurers seeking warmth and flavor after exploring the breathtaking surroundings.

The cafe offers a charming, casual atmosphere where the rugged beauty of Alaska meets friendly hospitality. Picture yourself enveloped in the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee while seated near large windows that frame the captivating views of the Alaskan wilderness. Whether you're wrapping your hands around a warm cup of coffee before heading off on your glacier tour or enjoying a hearty meal after a day outdoors, the Portage Glacier Cafe creates an inviting space where you can recharge.

On the menu, you'll find a delightful range of hot and cold options. Indulge in their filling hot pies or dig into a classic hot dog, perfect for a quick bite on the go. For a lighter fare, savor a refreshing sandwich accompanied by a chilled drink. While the selection might be modest, the dishes are prepared with care, catering to both adventurous palates and comfort food cravings. Customer Jamie R Robinson raves about the exquisite ribeye sandwich and delectable bread pudding, reinforcing the cafe's reputation for delivering satisfying meals.

Despite some reviews noting the simplicity of the food, it's the genuine warmth of the staff that truly elevates the experience. As Robert Holt mentions, a coffee here is a necessary companion to any glacier tour, and customers like Matthew Stewart express appreciation for the team’s unwavering support during challenging times, highlighting the cafe's community spirit. This cafe embodies the phrase ‘small but mighty’—while the menu offerings may be limited, the quality of service and the kindness of the staff make each visit memorable.

So, whether you're an avid hiker, a family on vacation, or simply a local looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a bite to eat, the Portage Glacier Cafe stands ready to welcome you. Take a moment to browse their collection of uniquely Alaskan souvenirs—not only will you leave with a full belly, but perhaps also with a new keepsake that encapsulates your Alaskan adventure! Stop by today to experience the warmth and flavors of Portage Glacier Cafe, where friendly vibes and comfort food converge in a picturesque setting.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Quick bite
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves lunch
Serves dessert
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Tuesday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Wednesday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Thursday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Friday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Saturday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Sunday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

98 Reviews
Robert Holt

11 Sep 2025

We stopped here to get a coffee and go on a glacier tour

Ryan Stafford

10 Sep 2025

The Portage Glacier Cafe is the only restaurant you'll find in the Portage Valley. Nothing like a hot meal after hours of cold wind. You'll find hot pies, hot dogs, and other hot items. You'll also find cold items like cold drinks and sandwiches. There is plenty of seating and you'll have company with animals surrounding you. The restrooms may be out of order, but you'll find restrooms outside towards the Begich Boggs Visitor Center. If this review was helpful please click the Like button.

Jozef Watson

21 Aug 2025

Food was ok, this seemed to very clearly be a stop to take the tourist. I had the soup and it was nothing special. Service was fast and friendly though. Building was in decent shape overall and it was easy to find with ample parking.

Matthew Stewart

17 Jul 2025

Some of the nicest people work here. They went above and beyond to help my family through a difficult situation. Stop in, buy some souvenirs or if you're not looking for that enjoy some coffee or a bite to eat.

Makanani Colomban

27 Jun 2025

The food choices are small and the taste is alright. It’s what you would expect for a small tourist store. The customer service was very friendly, and the souvenirs they have in the store are cool.

Jamie R Robinson

10 Jun 2025

Would give 7 stars if they would let me. In a time where there is an enormous staff shortage, it goes unnoticed here. The food is exquisite, we had the rib-eye sandwich and bread pudding, and they were the best ever. Their brews are truly excellent. Tried their highly popular key lime pie beer, has a very creamy end note, (which was not especially to my liking,) however, the beer was quite good! Their raspberry wheat ale was superb, and their whiskey flights are an absolute must!

John Carper

02 Jun 2025

Super nice and friendly staff. Great varied collection of Alaskan made art in the shop. We didn't eat while we were there.

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