Our Story
"A neighborhood favorite born of fresh food and shared bottles."
The Legacy Since 1995
Southside Bistro opened its doors in 1995, long before South Anchorage grew into the bustling community it is today. Founded on the principle of "Fresh, Fun Food," the restaurant quickly became a neighborhood institution. From our early days as a quiet suburban secret to our position today as an established culinary destination, we have stayed committed to one simple idea: a great dinner and a serious bottle of wine are always worth staying out for.
The Roar of the Hardwood Oven
At the physical center of Southside Bistro sits our high-temperature hardwood oven. This oven is the beating heart of our kitchen. Fired by premium wood, it infuses our artisanal pizzas, roasted steaks, and fresh catches with a signature smoky character that standard kitchens can't replicate. Sitting at the Bistro counter, watching the flames crackle while our chefs roast fresh plates, has been a favorite ritual of Anchorage locals for nearly three decades.
Dining Room vs. Bistro
To accommodate every mood, Southside Bistro is intentionally divided into two dining experiences:
- The Dining Room: An elegant, reservation-focused space where guests enjoy multi-course dinners. Here, wild Alaskan troll-caught salmon and wood-fired tenderloins are paired with rare selections from our cellar.
- The Bistro & Bar: A spontaneous, walk-in friendly space. Frequented by regulars, the Bistro features wood-fired pizzas, house pastas, and small plates, served alongside over 20 global wines poured by the glass.


Our Partners
The next era of Southside Bistro is led by three local partners who spent years in the restaurant's kitchen and dining room before taking ownership:
Travis Haugen
Chef & Owner
Travis leads our culinary team, refining classical European bistro methods while championing wild Alaskan halibut, salmon, and oysters.
Amanda Haugen
Wine Director & Owner
Amanda curates our 300+ selection global cellar, sourcing legendary Old World labels alongside bold boutique finds from the West Coast.
Jens Nannestad
General Manager & Owner
Jens directs our front-of-house hospitality, ensuring every guest feels the warm, welcoming neighborhood vibe Southside is famous for.