Since 1974, Chatanika Lodge has been a cherished and historic local hot spot operating as a bar, restaurant, motel, and events venue. This Alaska Icon of over 50 years, comes with a full liquor license and alcohol package store license. Chatanika has been host to many events over the years including car shows/races, outhouse races (at the famous “Chatanika Days”), live music, charitable events, and private events such as weddings and birthdays, etc. There are many other businesses and events that can be incorporated to complement this thriving local business. The restaurant features a full kitchen, large dining room/lounge, stage and dance floor, arcade and pool table, with a long full-service bar in the middle of it all. The motel features 10 rooms with various bed sizes and amenities, and two large bathrooms each with multiple showers, toilets, and sinks. There are living quarters adjacent to the bar/lounge that are perfect for the new owners or managers. There is a paved parking lot in the front, a 2080sq ft. detached shop to the side, two mobile home rentals, and various small outbuildings/sheds on the property. Become the next owner to provide a respite from the hustle of Fairbanks, or to quench the thirst and hunger of those who regularly travel the Steese Highway.
Customers consistently praised the food, highlighting dishes like burgers, fish and chips, and fried chicken as delicious and well-prepared.
Service
The staff received numerous compliments for being friendly, accommodating, and providing excellent service.
Atmosphere
The lodge's unique and rustic decor, along with its welcoming vibe, contributed to a memorable dining experience.
Location
Many reviews noted the scenic drive to the lodge, making it a worthwhile destination for visitors.
EB
Evan Barnard
Dec 15, 2025
5.0
Really big place out in the middle of nowhere. Great food, awesome staff, all from georgia. Great price for the location especially.
JA
Jack A
Dec 14, 2025
4.0
Last stop before heading out to eagle summit. This place is a treasure! A fantastic location and full of charm. We thought this might be like a general store but it’s just a really cool restaurant/bar. The people here are very welcoming but as some other reviewers have pointed out, the food can be quite salty. We needed napkins to wipe the salt off our fries!
JL
Jacob Linde
Nov 27, 2025
5.0
After stopping by for my girlfriend to use the restroom, we got a little hungry and decided to ask if they were reservation only. They told us yes but also said we are more than welcome to sit down and eat. Great customer service and great people!
KF
Kelley Farrar
Nov 24, 2025
5.0
Wow!!! The views of the Aurora at the Chatanika Lodge are just stunning!!! The unbelievably nice & accommodating new owners allowed us to enjoy the northern lights from their amazing location and then enjoy warming back up inside. They even had a roaring fire, hot cocoa & sweet treats for us. We went back & forth from inside to outside enjoying the lights outside & the atmosphere & hospitality inside.
The unique style of this place will have you looking forward to your next visit. Grab a dollar bill, sign & date it and look forward to seeing it there each time you visit. We can't wait to come back in the future!!!
EF
Emily FBX Foodie
Nov 11, 2025
5.0
Had a great meal here! Excellent cocktails and tasty dishes! The fried chicken sandwich was so good. You can tell the new owners are doing a great job while still staying true to the roots!
Chatanika Lodge is a bar, restaurant, motel, and events venue operating since 1974 in Fairbanks, Alaska.
What are the operating hours of Chatanika Lodge?
Chatanika Lodge is open Monday and Wednesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM and closed on Tuesdays.
Does Chatanika Lodge have lodging available?
Yes, Chatanika Lodge features a motel with 10 rooms of various bed sizes and multiple amenities.
Can I host events like weddings or live music at Chatanika Lodge?
Yes, Chatanika Lodge serves as an events venue and has hosted weddings, live music, car shows, and other private and charitable events.
Is there a full bar and restaurant at Chatanika Lodge?
Yes, Chatanika Lodge includes a full-service bar and a restaurant with a full kitchen, dining room/lounge, arcade, and pool table.
How can I contact Chatanika Lodge for reservations or inquiries?
You can contact Chatanika Lodge by phone at +1 907-389-2164 or via email at chatanikalodge@yahoo.com.
Where is Chatanika Lodge located?
Chatanika Lodge is located on Steese Highway in Fairbanks, Alaska, postal code 99712, United States.
What nearby medical facilities are close to Chatanika Lodge?
Nearby medical facilities include Orthopaedic Surgical Associates, LLC: Jimmy Tamai, MD, Alaska Oral & Facial Surgery, and Steese Immediate Care, which may be useful if you need quick medical attention in the area.
Are there any automotive services near Chatanika Lodge for travelers?
Yes, nearby automotive services include Seekins Ford Lincoln, Quick Lane for tire and oil change services, and Service for general automotive needs, convenient for travelers on Steese Highway.
What other amenities or points of interest are near Chatanika Lodge for visitors?
Visitors can find retail at Big John's Shopping Center, beauty services at Kiley’s, and banking services at Global Credit Union nearby, making it easy to combine errands with a visit to Chatanika Lodge.