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Exploring Whittier, Alaska: Swiftwater Seafood Cafe

Whittier, Alaska, isn’t easy to find, but if you end up there, check out the local community and cuisine at the Swiftwater Seafood Cafe.

I’m obsessed with Whittier, Alaska. The fact that this entire small town (mostly) lives in one building on the edge of the world is fascinating. Not to mention, it’s not an easy town to get to. If you’ve been on a cruise through Alaska, there is a good chance you’ve docked in Whittier but didn’t pay much attention to the town. Which is too bad because it has a fascinating history as well as a unique community. Which includes the Swiftwater Seafood Cafe.

What to do in Whittier

Nestled on the coast of Prince William Sound, Whittier, Alaska, is a hidden gem for nature lovers. This small town may not be as well-known as other Alaskan destinations. Still, it offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and wilderness of the Last Frontier more intimately. Visitors can take a boat tour to see glaciers, whales, and other marine wildlife up close. Adventurers can take advantage of kayaking and fishing. And, for those looking for a unique experience, there is the scenic train ride through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, the longest combined rail and vehicle tunnel in North America.

The Swiftwater Seafood Cafe

But no matter your reason for visiting Whittier, stop by Swiftwater Seafood Cafe for some of the best fish and chips (which is saying something in a state known for its fish). The menu offers a wide variety of seafood options. For example, the seafood chowder is a must-try, and it’s made with fresh local ingredients, making it one of the best chowders you’ll ever have. No matter what you order, the portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.

In the documentary short below, Vice visits the local community and dines at the Swiftwater Seafood Cafe – take a look:

Whittier, Alaska, a town that used to only be accessible by boat or plane, has one of the most remote places to buy fish and chips — Varly’s Swiftwater cafe.