Alpenglow Coffeehouse: Girdwood’s Cozy A-Frame for Coffee & Views | A Review
Nestled in the scenic mountain town of Girdwood, Alaska, Alpenglow Coffeehouse stands out with its striking A-frame architecture and panoramic views. It’s more than just a place to grab a coffee; it’s an experience, offering a warm refuge for locals and a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the Chugach Mountains. With its sunny deck and inviting interior, this coffee shop aims to be the perfect spot to start your day or unwind after an Alaskan adventure. But does the food and coffee live up to the spectacular setting? We’ve analyzed customer experiences to give you the complete picture.
The Atmosphere: A Quintessential Alaskan Vibe
The first thing you’ll notice about Alpenglow Coffeehouse is its incredible ambiance. The building itself is a highlight—a beautiful A-frame with large windows that frame the majestic mountain landscape. Reviewers consistently praise the “super cute,” “clean, spacious, and inviting space.” Whether you’re settling into a cozy corner inside or soaking up the sun on the front deck, the views are an undeniable co-star.
Beyond the scenery, the coffeehouse cultivates a welcoming, community-focused feel. The walls are adorned with art from local artists, and a small corner with games invites guests to linger. It’s a family-friendly spot, as noted by visitors with children, yet it maintains a calm and pleasant atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment alone.
On the Menu: Drinks, Baked Goods, and More
Alpenglow Coffeehouse offers a well-curated menu of drinks and light bites, extending beyond the typical cafe fare to include beer and wine.
Drinks:
The coffee and tea selection receives high marks. Customers describe the coffee as “beautifully made” and the matcha green tea as having a full, authentic flavor that isn’t watered down. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple drip coffee or a specialty latte, the quality is evident. The addition of beer and wine makes it a versatile spot, transitioning easily from a morning coffee run to a relaxed afternoon drink.
Food:
The food menu is where customer opinions diverge, presenting a mixed but informative picture.
- The Hits: The baked goods are a clear winner. Items like the berry scones and other savory pastries laid out on the counter are described as “yummy” and “tasty.” These seem to be the safest and most satisfying bet.
- The Misses: The breakfast burrito is a point of contention. While one visitor found it tasty, they noted it was small for the price. Another reviewer was more critical, describing the burritos as “tiny” and likely pre-made, comparing them to a bulk-buy product. At $21 for two, the price was felt to be “exorbitant,” suggesting you’re paying for the location rather than food quality or quantity.
- Limited Options: A significant drawback highlighted by customers is the lack of variety, particularly for those with dietary restrictions. There are reportedly few, if any, vegan or modifiable vegetarian options. Suggestions like adding avocado toast or overnight oats indicate a desire for more diverse and health-conscious choices.
Objective Analysis: A Tale of Two Experiences
Alpenglow Coffeehouse excels in creating an unforgettable atmosphere. The combination of stunning architecture, breathtaking views, and genuinely friendly staff who “love working there” makes for a top-tier cafe experience. For anyone looking for a beautiful place to enjoy a well-made coffee, tea, or local beer, it’s an absolute must-visit in Girdwood.
However, when it comes to food, potential visitors should manage their expectations. The offerings are best described as light bites to accompany a drink, rather than a destination for a full, hearty meal. The pricing on certain items, like the breakfast burritos, appears to be a premium for the ambiance. Furthermore, the limited menu may be a deal-breaker for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone with specific dietary needs.
Verdict: Alpenglow Coffeehouse is highly recommended for its superb drinks, incredible ambiance, and friendly service. It’s the ideal spot to relax, socialize, and soak in the beauty of Girdwood. If you’re looking for a substantial or value-driven meal, you may want to eat elsewhere, but don’t skip stopping in for a coffee and the view—it’s truly what makes this place special.
Typical Food & Drink in the Girdwood Area
While visiting Alpenglow, you can get a taste of Alaska, but here are some other local flavors to look out for in Girdwood and the surrounding region:
- Reindeer Sausage: A unique Alaskan staple, this savory sausage is often found in breakfast dishes, scrambles, and burritos. It has a rich, slightly spicy flavor that sets it apart from traditional pork sausage.
- Smoked Salmon: Alaska is world-famous for its salmon. You’ll find it in many forms: smoked salmon dip, lox on a bagel, or incorporated into a hearty chowder. It’s a quintessential taste of the region.
- Local Berries: During the summer and fall, the Alaskan landscape is bursting with wild berries like blueberries, raspberries, and salmonberries. Look for them in pastries, pies, jams, and syrups. The “berry scone” at Alpenglow is a perfect example of this local treat.
- Alaskan Craft Beer: The craft beer scene in Alaska is thriving. Many local breweries use pure, glacial-fed water to create exceptional beers. Since Alpenglow serves beer, it’s a great opportunity to ask if they have any local Alaskan brews on tap.
