Nestled against the Chugach foothills, Hillside East is one of Anchorage’s most scenic neighborhoods—and, increasingly, a delightful destination for food lovers. While most locals associate downtown or Midtown with the city’s restaurant scene, Hillside East quietly boasts a selection of outstanding eateries, cozy coffee shops, tempting bakeries, and even the occasional food truck parked near beloved parks. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just exploring new terrain, here’s your go-to guide for savoring the best bites and sips Hillside East has to offer.
The Main Arteries: Abbott Road and O’Malley Road
When it comes to dining in Hillside East, most of the action is centered around two key corridors: Abbott Road and O’Malley Road. These streets are dotted with restaurants and cafes, offering everything from casual weeknight eats to more elevated dining experiences.
Standout Restaurants
- Moose’s Tooth Express (Abbott Road & Elmore Road)
- *Cuisine Type:* Pizza, Pub Fare
- *Price Range:* $$
- *What Makes It Special:* Arguably Anchorage’s most famous pizzeria, Moose’s Tooth has an express location in Hillside East, ensuring that locals don’t have to drive into Midtown to indulge in their legendary pies. Favorites like the Avalanche or Spicy Thai Chicken always hit the spot, and their creative salads and microbrews are perfect for a laid-back dinner.
- Southside Bistro (Abbott Road Shopping Center)
- *Cuisine Type:* New American, Italian, Seafood
- *Price Range:* $$-$$$
- *What Makes It Special:* Tucked away in the heart of Hillside, Southside Bistro’s unassuming exterior belies a seriously sophisticated kitchen. Think wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, fresh halibut, and one of the best wine lists south of Tudor Road. Don’t skip Sunday brunch—the crab cake Benedict is a local legend.
- Korean Garden (Lake Otis Parkway & O’Malley Road)
- *Cuisine Type:* Korean, Asian Fusion
- *Price Range:* $$
- *What Makes It Special:* Family-run and bursting with flavor, Korean Garden delivers generous plates of bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi stew. It’s a favorite for both comfort food seekers and adventurous diners alike. The spicy pork and hot stone bowls are perennial crowd-pleasers.
Cozy Cafés for Every Mood
- Get Roasted Coffee Lounge (Abbott Loop & Lore Road)
- *Cuisine Type:* Coffee, Pastries, Light Fare
- *Price Range:* $
- *What Makes It Special:* A true neighborhood gathering spot, Get Roasted offers locally roasted beans, scratch-baked scones, and a welcoming vibe—perfect for early morning meetups or lazy afternoons with a laptop. Try their “Chugach Mocha” for a sweet pick-me-up.
- South Anchorage Grind (O’Malley Centre Drive)
- *Cuisine Type:* Coffee, Breakfast, Lunch
- *Price Range:* $
- *What Makes It Special:* This family-run spot is prized for its friendly service, hearty breakfast burritos, and creative seasonal lattes. Locals swear by the fresh cinnamon rolls and cozy interior brimming with local art.
Bakeries and Sweet Treats
- Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop (Abbott Road Center)
- *Cuisine Type:* Artisan Bakery
- *Price Range:* $-$$
- *What Makes It Special:* An offshoot of downtown’s beloved Fire Island, this bakery brings flaky croissants, crusty sourdough, and whimsical cookies to Hillside East. Their Alaskan wild blueberry galette is a must-try when in season.
- Juno’s Java & Sweets (Huffman Road, near Hilltop Ski Area)
- *Cuisine Type:* Coffee, Cakes, Sandwiches
- *Price Range:* $
- *What Makes It Special:* A neighborhood classic, Juno’s offers house-baked cupcakes, gluten-free muffins, and breakfast sandwiches perfect for grabbing on your way up to Hilltop for a hike or ski.
Hillside’s Hidden Gems
- El Tequito Food Truck (O’Malley Road Trailhead during summer)
- *Cuisine Type:* Mexican, Street Food
- *Price Range:* $
- *What Makes It Special:* Parked near popular trailheads on weekends, El Tequito is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. Their carne asada tacos burst with flavor, and the spicy homemade salsa packs a punch. Arrive early—they often sell out before noon!
- Samurai Sushi Express (near Service High School)
- *Cuisine Type:* Sushi, Japanese
- *Price Range:* $$
- *What Makes It Special:* Blink and you might miss it, but inside a modest strip mall is one of Anchorage’s best-kept sushi secrets. Families rave about the bento boxes and fresh rolls—plus, it’s quick enough for a pre-game snack before Friday night football.
Taste Local Traditions
Hillside East’s food scene isn’t just about restaurants—it’s also shaped by Alaska’s unique pantry and community traditions. In late summer, join your neighbors at O’Malley Elementary’s farmers market for locally grown veggies, smoked salmon, and homemade jams. Every winter, you’ll see pop-up stands near Elmore Road selling hot chocolate and fry bread to cross-country skiers and sledders. And don't miss the neighborhood potlucks at Abbott Loop Community Park, where moose chili, smoked halibut dip, and blueberry cobbler are perennial favorites.
Price Range Guide
- $ – Most items under $10
- $$ – Most entrees $10–$20
- $$$ – Most entrees $20 and up
Planning Your Food Adventure
Hillside East lends itself beautifully to a progressive food crawl—start with coffee and pastries at Fire Island, lunch on sushi or Korean BBQ, take a mid-afternoon hike, and cap off your day with wood-fired pizza or a glass of pinot noir at Southside Bistro. Dining here means you’ll skip the hustle of crowded downtown; instead, think stunning Chugach views, friendly faces, and a pace that invites lingering over dessert.
Final Bite: Why Hillside East?
What truly sets Hillside East apart is its warm, community-driven food scene. These aren’t just spots to eat—they’re places to gather, celebrate, and experience Anchorage’s rich culinary diversity without leaving your own neighborhood. Next time you crave fresh flavors and genuine hospitality, don’t overlook the leafy streets and lively tables of Hillside East.