Sitzmark Bar and Grill

The Sitzmark Bar & Grill sits slope-side at Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, about 40 miles south of Anchorage, and it's the après-ski spot in the area by a wide margin. Built in the 1970s as part of the original Nugget Inn, the bar has earned enough history to be called "the hardest working bar in Alaska" — a claim that makes sense once you understand what a ski resort bar with a loyal mountain community looks like in practice.

The Bar and Drinks

The tap list runs to more than a dozen local beers, and the drink menu keeps pace with what a full-time resort bar needs to offer. The interior is comfortable and dark in the way that ski bars should be, with accumulated decor that reflects decades of Girdwood mountain culture. One wall features the Sitzstine Chapel — a painted ceiling that's become something of a local landmark. The deck, described by regulars as the best in Girdwood, overlooks the surrounding Chugach Mountains and fills up on any evening worth being outside.

Food and Kitchen

The kitchen runs burgers, grilled sandwiches, and the kind of hearty menu that makes sense when you've been skiing all day. Kitchen hours vary by day — check current hours before planning a late meal, as the kitchen closes earlier than the bar on most nights.

Hours and Age Policy

The Sitzmark transitions to a 21-and-over venue at 8pm. Families with younger kids can visit during the daytime hours, but the evening programming is adult-oriented. The bar runs to 2am on Fridays and Saturdays, with earlier closing times the rest of the week.

Getting There

The Sitzmark is at 100 Olympic Mountain Loop, accessible through Alyeska Resort at the base of the mountain. From Anchorage, take the Seward Highway south and exit at Girdwood. The resort base area has parking and the bar is steps from the lifts. Call (907) 754-1111 for reservations or current hours.

More to Do in the Girdwood Area

If you're making a day of it, Chugach Adventures runs guided outdoor experiences out of Girdwood. On the drive back toward Anchorage, Portage Glacier is worth a stop. Back in Anchorage proper, Anchorage Distillery is a solid landing spot to continue the evening.

Already had a good day on the mountain?

The best deck in Girdwood. Live music on weekends.