Judy's Cafe - Anchorage, Alaska

Brian Svedin

This is the exact place I needed to have the perfect small-diner experience. I felt like the employees want to be here, not that they have to be here. No credit cards; cash or check only (they have an ATM). Similar menu to other places that serve breakfast, but everything just tasted better here, as if they make everything themselves.

Megan Gibbs

Everyone was so friendly and the service was very good! Our coffee cups and water cups were filled constantly, and the food came out very quickly, even with a smaller cooking staff from what I saw, I applaud their hard work! The food was decently priced. Do keep in mind that they only accept cash or check, but they have an ATM on-site.

Michael McKenzie

What wonderful way to start the day! Judy’s is the diner’s diner. It doesn’t look like much on the outside but from my experience it’s usually these places that have the best, most comforting food.

The atmosphere is typical. It’s very homey, warm, and inviting. The restaurant is clean and smells of coffee, eggs, and sausage. It’s exactly what you want in a diner. The staff is above and beyond friendly and welcoming. I ate with a local who frequents Judy’s often and the interactions felt like they were old friends and I immediately had the same feeling.

The menu is expansive and offers everything you’d expect from a diner but with local ingredients like reindeer sausage. Per the recommendation of our local friend we all got the special, a reindeer sausage, cheese, and mushroom omelette.

Here’s a quick synopsis of specials. These are usually items that try to use excess ingredients in a way to got rid of them in a clever way.any times, they’re mediocre. Judy’s is not that. While that may be the case, it certainly didn’t seem like it.

So let’s dig in to the special. These photos are very deceiving. Like many places the food doesn’t look very spiced but let me tell you all the flavor is there. The hashed browns were tender in the center with the perfect crunch. I judge food based on what I need to add to them and these hashed browns needed nothing. Anything you add is just to add the flavor to your liking.

The same goes for the omelette. While there was a lack of pepper, that’s just personal preference. The egg alone tastes great and each individual ingredient enhanced the flavors of the others. The egg was fluffy but firm, the mushrooms were soft and didn’t water down the plate. This was my first experience with reindeer sausage and it was mouth watering. All in all, the meal came in a large portion that will leave you filled and satisfied.

The sourdough toast was a good side that came well buttered. The coffee wasn’t typical diner coffee however. Judy’s puts effort into each of their cups. It’s great for those who love black coffee or who like creamer.

The staff as mentioned before was super friendly and always checked in to make sure we had enough coffee. Were they TOO attentive? Perhaps. However they didn’t linger long enough for us to stop our conversation dead in its tracks.

I’m giving Judy’s 4 stars because the next time I’m in Anchorage I will be visiting again to try out other menu items. If you’re in Anchorage for any amount of time this is a great place to start your day.

Neha Mujumdar

Loved the food and service. I would definitely recommend chicken omelette and crispy chicken salad. Fries were little salty for my liking but overall very tasty food. Very friendly staff.

Elijah Gadol

I got the 2x2 which includes two eggs, two of your choice of meat, and two pancakes for $11. The service was fantastic; the waiter consistently checked in on us and never let our drinks get low. The food was tasty as well. This is a great spot to get breakfast!

Allison Akootchook Warden

I took my friend here who was visiting from Massachusetts. On our way in, we ran into a famous Alaskan artist who had just dined here with his wife. He made us laugh, and said that it was a great choice for my friend, as this is a true Alaskan spot for amazing breakfast or lunch. We entered and there was a little bit of a wait, maybe five minutes for a table, but there was immediate space at the counter. We chose to wait. She ordered the 2x2x2, which was two pancakes, two eggs, and two slices of bacon. I got the waffle with two eggs and two slices of bacon. Our coffee was strong and good. Our food was generously proportioned and yummy. We had a great conversation and really loved the vibe of the place and the service from a very nice waitress. We had a fantastic visit, loved the folks that frequent this local establishment. Can't wait to come on Sunday and try the eggs Benedict that is served only on Sundays. I also really want to try the biscuits and gravy.

Shrimp

Service was great! The server was very sweet and helpful with suggestions. Biscuits and gravy were delicious, the biscuit was fluffy. Also tried the Denali omelet and chicken fried steak. Definitely both were good. Denali omelet has reindeer sausage which I found interesting to try. Great little breakfast place.

Tim Parker

My breakfast was amazing! Had the 2x2 and was absolutely fantastic! I am terrible at names but all of the employees went above and beyond to make sure our group was taken care of. Dining room is cozy, but super clean and organized. Food was brought out hot and fresh. The reindeer sausage was YUMMMMY!! You gotta try them out, you won't be sorry!