July 21, 2015 2015 READERS’ CHOICE FAIRBANKS, ALASKA
TUESDAY, JULY 21,2015
The best of
FA I R BA N K S
2
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
About the 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards
Your picks for 2015
W
FOOD & DRINKS
elcome to the 2015 edition of the Daily News-Miner’s Reader’ Choice Awards. The voter turnout for this edition was spectacular, with thousands of readers logging in to choose the best of the best in Fairbanks. Putting together the questionnaire this year made us realize just how many options there are in Fairbanks for dining, entertainment, sporting events, personal and medical services, education, shopping and more. Who knew there were so many places to get a good cup of coffee or margarita? Not to mention the many, many options for Asian food. And pizza! Most of the categories were very, very close, but a few had some very clear winners. We tried to make the list of choices as comprehensive as possible, but if we left anyone out, please let us know so we can include them next year. And let us know if you’d like to see any new categories, as well. Many people left suggestions on the questionnaire, so we will include even more categories next year. For 2015, however, check out our list to see who won the recognition as the Best Waiter/Waitress in town, not to mention the Best Bartender, Best Teacher and Best Financial Planner. These Readers Choice Awards don’t exist without you, the readers. Thank you for participating, and for everyone who made the “Best of � list, congratulations. Julie Stricker Online Content Director Fairbanks Daily News-Miner
Asian Fusion 1. Fushimi Japanese Fusion 2. Lin’s Asian Bistro Asiana
Chinese Food 1. Pagoda 2. Bamboo Panda 3. Panda Garden
Japanese Food 1. Shogun 2. Ajimi 3. Irashi
Korean Food 1. Seoul Gate 2. Jung Korean 3. Aha Oriental Kitchen
Thai Food 1. Thai House 2. Lemongrass Thai Cuisine 3. Bahn Thai
Vietnamese Food 1. Pho House 2. Little Saigon PICKS Âť 4
Thank you Food as art puts Fushimi
in first for Asian fusion
H
ard
re
for making us your
o ware St
By Gary Black GBLACK@NEWSMINER.COM
#1
A restaurant that captures both traditional and not-so-traditional Asian fare has won the culinary hearts of Fairbanks diners. Fushimi Japanese Fusion took the No. 1 spot in the Asian fusion food category in the 2015 News-Miner Readers Choice awards. The restaurant is part sushi bar and part Japanese restaurant with a vast menu that includes Thai and Chinese options as well. “ T h e r e a r e s o m a ny options,� chef Ice Pan said, noting the lobster roll and several beef dishes as some of Fushimi’s most popular dishes. He credited the
Hardware Store!
Serving the Interior since 1904
SAMSON
HARDWARE
F13515131
1IJMMJQT 'JFME 3E t 110 . ' t 4BU t t F"9 TBNTPOBL!BMBTLB OFU t XXX TBNTPOIBSEXBSF DPN
FUSHIMI Âť 4
Chef Ice Pan works on a creation at Fushimi, 607 Old Steese Highway, suite 105. GARY BLACK/NEWS-MINER
July 21, 2015
2015 Readers Choice
3
2015 READERS’ CHOICE
Thank you, Fairbanks, for voting Madden Real Estate #1
WesMadden.com
F57519969
(907) 452-3000
4
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
PICKS Continued from 2
FOOD & DRINKS BBQ/Ribs 1. Big Daddy’s 2. Bad to da Bone 3. Tubby’sÂ
Bloody Mary 1. Oasis 2. Ivory Jack’s 3. Pump House
Cup of coffee
Hamburgers
1. Alaska Coffee Roasting Co. 2. Sunrise Bagel Espresso 3. Mocha Dan’s
1. Brewster’s 2. Monderosa 3. Food Factory
Dessert
Healthy Dining
1. Wolf Run 2. Hot Licks 3. Hilltop Truck Stop
1. Pita Place 2. Chowder House 3. Great Harvest Bread Co.
Fast Food
Ice Cream/Milkshakes
1. Speedy Subs 2. Pita Place 3. Taco King
1. Hot Licks 2. Cold Stone Creamery 3. Knotty Shop
Fine Dining PICKS Âť 8
1. Lavelle’s Bistro 2. The Turtle Club 3. Silver Gulch
1. Cookie Jar Restaurant 2. Sam’s Sourdough Cafe 3. The Bakery
FUSHIMI
BrunchÂ
Continued from 2
1. The Pump House 2. Pike’s Landing 3. Cookie Jar Restaurant
restaurant’s use of fresh seafood as a reason it took the No. 1 spot, followed by Lin’s Asian Bistro in the No. 2 spot and Asiana taking third place. The menu is vast, including a selection of soups and salads; cold dishes; appetizers such as soft shell crab and New Zealand lamb chops; specialty rolls like the Dragon Roll, White House Roll or Aurora Roll; sushi and sashimi entrees; and a la carte options. The menu also includes a range of seafood and teriyaki dishes. Many of the
Restaurant & Pizzeria
Great Italian Cuisine
I TA
L I AN
FO
For voting us among your favorite Veterinary Clinics in the Interior. We appreciate all of your support!
F11521627
701 College Road r 452-2299 Pick WR r &KPG KP www.geraldos.com
Third, Fan said, is the ser vice the employees strive for. “We serve people with heart and soul,� he said. Comments on Yelp, the crowd-sourced website that offers of reviews of restaurants, businesses and nightlife, are generally favorable, with many commenters noting the fresh seafood used in Fushimi’s sushi as being a popular selling point. Fushimi Japanese Fusion is located at 607 Old Steese Highway, suite 105. It is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. on Sundays. The telephone number is 328-0988.
Thank you Fairbanks
D
ST
O
Geraldo’s was in “Pizza Magazine�as one of the Top 100 Italian Pizzerias in the country!
BE
Best Italian Food 2015
creations are handmade in the front of the house, allowing diners to watch as their food becomes a piece of edible art. Frank Fan, a server at Fushimi, listed three reasons as to why the restaurant took first place. “First, it ’s the fresh sushi. Everything is fresh,� Fan said. “Second, it’s the design. People say it’s a good presentation.� To illustrate that, Fan pulled up a photo on his smartphone that included rolls served around a dragon carved out of ice. “They say it’s amazing and beautiful,� Fan said. “That’s the reaction from people.�
Dr. Barb Cole Dr. Jeanne Maddux Dr. Greg Pietsch Dr. Val Stuve Dr. Michelle Webb Dr. Molly Yazwinski And all the Aurora Animal Clinic Staff
F12519004
Breakfast
July 21, 2015
5
2015 Readers Choice 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
Big Daddy’s BBQ is the 2015 Reader’s Choice winner for Best BBQ. ERIC ENGMAN/ NEWS-MINER
Big Daddy’s brings the best of southern BBQ to the far north JRICHARDSON@NEWSMINER. COM
Harold Groetsema said he gets a special thrill chatting with summer tourists at his downtown restaurant, Big Daddy’s BarB-Q. “The best compliment I ever get is when people from Texas and the Carolinas come up and say, ‘That’s some of the best barbecue I’ve ever had,’” Groetsema said. Fairbanks residents seem to share their enthusiasm. Big Daddy’s claimed the “Best Barbecue” category in the News-Miner’s 2015 Readers Choice Awards, a spot the restaurant has frequently claimed during the past decade. Bad to da Bone BBQ and Tubby’s Alaskan BBQ placed second and third, respectively.
Despite Fairbanks’ distance from Southern barbecue, Groetsema said the Golden Heart City knows what it’s doing when it comes to smoked meats. Since Big Daddy’s opened at its current location in 2004, the local scene has blossomed, he said. “The barbecue in this town has really excelled,” Groetsema said. “Some of them have me scared.” Big Daddy’s has thrived during that period by keeping it simple. The menu is largely unchanged since it opened 11 years ago, mostly featuring smokehouse staples such as brisket, ribs and chicken, along with a variety of burgers. A few months ago the restaurant added Lead Dog BBQ sauces, an award-winning North Pole product. At the heart of it all is
the slow-moving operation that a top barbecue joint requires, slowly churning out Big Daddy’s tasty Carolina-style meats.
Briskets get at least 12 hours in the smoker, ribs get 4 to 5 hours and chickens spend 2 to 3 hours in the barbecue. Groetsema said the leisurely approach requires more planning but that there’s no other way to do it right. ”It takes a lot of patience in the kitchen,” Groetsema said. “Barbecue is done when it’s done.” It’s status as the “Northernmost Southern BBQ” has also won some national acclaim. The Food Network show “Diners, DriveIns & Dives” stopped in at Big Daddy’s four years ago, and Groetsema said
BBQ » 7
We vote Fairbanks
BEST COMMUNITY!
F10522277
By Jeff Richardson
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 years and Counting!
9
#11
Pizza in Fairbanks!
Thank you Fairbanks! 457 -22 00
ctownpizza.com 3535 College Road Fairbanks, AK
F13515136
6
July 21, 2015
7
2015 Readers Choice 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
BBQ
Hot Licks Homemade Ice Cream was named the best ice cream in Fairbanks in 2015.
Continued from 5 visitors still stop by specifically because of Guy Fieri’s program. But Groetsema credits the success to his staff of experienced, loyal employees who can smoothly weather the storm of a bus filled with hungry tourists. Two of the managers, Steven and Julie Moody, have been at Big Daddy’s for more than a decade. “I owe it all to my managers and my crew,” he said. “They’re probably the best crew I’ve ever seen.” Expansion efforts have been tried a few times, once for a second Fairbanks restaurant and another time to a spot near Austin, Texas. Neither effort quite worked out, due to location or economic slumps, Groetsema said. Groetsema doesn’t have plans for another expansion attempt but said more than a few Anchorage residents are fans of his barbecue. He wouldn’t rule out the possibility of another restaurant in the future. “I wouldn’t say no to it right now,” he said with a smile.
NEWS-MINER FILE PHOTO
Contact staff writer Jeff Richardson at 4597518. Follow him on Twitter: @FDNMbusiness.
Celebrating
25
BE D ST CHIN SE FOO E
I RV SE STA URANT
F18519872
RE
BE
ST
Your votes motivate us to always strive to provide a great dining experience! www.pagodanorthpole.com 431 N. Santa Claus Lane, North Pole 488-3338
NT
BE
ST
CE
wonderful years in North Pole!
OV RA ERA AU LL REST
Open 7 days: Friday-Saturday: 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sunday - Thursday: 11:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
8
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
PICKS Continued from 4
FOOD & DRINKS Italian Food 1. Geraldo’s Italian 2. Gambardella’s 3. The Vallata
Margarita
Pizza
1. Gallo’s Mexican 2. Mayan Palace 3. Los Amigos
1. College Town Pizzeria 2. Geraldo’s Italian 3. Papa Murphy’s Pizza
Mexican Food
Prime Rib (not steaks)
1. Taco Azteca/Mayan Palace 2. Miguel’s 3. Gallo’s Mexican
1. The Turtle Club 2. Lavelle’s Bistro 3. The Pump House PICKS » 12
Thank you for making Arctic Taxi the #1 Announcing the merging of King Cab, Alaska Cab and Arctic Taxi. Working to Bring You the Best Taxi Service Possible!
Thank You Fairbanks SALE!
Thank you for voting us as the Best Eye Clinic and voting Dr. Damien Delzer as one of the Best Eye Care Professionals.
…50% off frames* with purchase of full price prescription lenses 25% off non-prescription sunglasses* *Bring in a copy of this ad. Some restrictions apply. Excludes Maui Jim & Oakley Sun. Valid through 8/1/2015
907-456-7760 t .JOOJF 4USFFU t 'BJSCBOLT ",
F12517998
Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm Sat & Sun 10am - 5pm www.HolmtownNursery.com
F17518844
cab company in Fairbanks!
9
July 21, 2015 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
Thank you, Fairbanks, for voting us ‌ 1st & 2nd Favorite Optometrists for
Dr. Michael Mavencamp & Dr. Barbara Keys
2nd
Eye Care Clinic
Not Pictured: Dr. Michael Mavencamp, Melinda Simon, Julie Hanson, LeeAnne Mihm, Diana Puhak
F13512824
for Best
Open At Our New Location
(FJTU 3PBE t akwestvalleyvision.com
College Town Pizza once again was named Fairbanks’ best pizza. NEWS-MINER FILE PHOTO
THANK YOU, FAIRBANKS. WE ARE PROUD TO BE YOUR CAR DEALER OF CHOICE.
$872 RI )$,5%$1.6
LET’S START SOMETHING GREAT.
F40522279
KENDALLAUTOALASKA.COM
10
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
Holm Town Nursery grows into a winner By Gary Black GBLACK@NEWSMINER.COM
NURSERY Âť 11
Employee Charlotte Chilson tends to geraniums at Holm Town Nursery, 1301 30th Ave. News-Miner readers picked Holm Town Nursery as the best nursery in Fairbanks. GARY BLACK/NEWS-MINER
Thanks, Fairbanks, for voting us #1
F11523047
What started as a small greenhouse operation has grown over the course of 23 years to be a favorite among Fairbanks gardeners. That small nursery founded in 1992 by Jim and Marcia Holm — Holm Town Nursery — recently took the top spot in the 2015 News-Miner Readers Choice Awards as favorite nursery/garden center. Holm Town bested Risse’s Nursery, which took the No. 2 spot, followed by Plant Kingdom in No. 3. The sprawling complex at 1301 30th Ave. is more than just a greenhouse, though. It contains eight greenhouses that produce just about every vegetable and plant you can imagine, from stan-
dards like tomatoes, squash and broccoli to more fun or exotic offerings like artichokes or Romanesco. On the non-vegetable side, several greenhouses are devoted to flowering plants of every color, shape, size and smell. It’s not just the vast selection of plants, it’s also the range of merchandise the nursery offers — specialty fertilizers, decorative garden accessories, even garden furniture, among the selection. “I also think it’s our excellent customer service and our dedication,� said General Manager Dona Tuck. “If we don’t have the answers, we will find them for you.� One of the missions of the nursery is helping each gardener, she said. That means knowing the products they carry
Great Staff . (SFBU 1SPEVDU Great Town.
Thank you for voting us the #1 Japanese Restaurant! Open 7 Days A Week Mon.-Thurs. 11:00am-10:00pm Friday 11:00am-11:00pm Saturday Noon-11:00pm Sunday Noon-9:00pm
4005 Geist Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99709
907-328-3222
8JOF #FFS t #JSUIEBZ 1BSUJFT
F10522278
Hibachi Japanese Steakhouse In the heart of downtown Fairbanks Between 2nd & 3rd Ave. 215 Cushman Street
r XXX *G0OMZ"MBTLB DPN 0QFO %BZT B 8FFL .POEBZ 4BUVSEBZ B N UP Q N ] 4VOEBZT B N UP Q N
July 21, 2015
2015 Readers Choice
11
2015 READERS’ CHOICE
and helping with advice when it comes to growing, whether the gardener is a novice or an expert. “There are people who come in from age 5 to 95,” Tuck said. “They come in, and if they can’t find it, we find it for them. We try to expand our varieties in both the store and the greenhouse. We try to keep up
Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and Fourth of July. Even in the winter, when most of Fairbanks isn’t thinking about gardening, the staff at Holm Town is, Tuck said. “We’re your go-to garden center. We’re it,” she said. “When it’s 40 below zero outside, it’s really nice in here.” Holm Town Nursery can be reached at 457-3544 or online at www.holmtownnursery.com.
Andrew Wappett, DMD | Elle Kimberly Lovejoy, DDS
(907) 456-8100 | wappettdental.com | 607 Old Steese Hwy. Suite C, Fairbanks, AK 99701
General Manager Dona Tuck, Holm Town Nursery
Always a favorite!
ASIAN BISTRO “Asian Fusion Category” F13515139
We appreciate the confidence expressed by our patients and strive to earn that trust every single day.
“There are people who come in from age 5 to 95. They come in, and if they can’t find it, we find it for them.”
Thank You for your Votes!
linsasianbistrofairbanks.com 1900 Airport Way (next to McDonalds) 479-8866
F11523010
Continued from 10
and bring in new things.” According to the nursery’s website, greenhouses take up 60,000 square feet of space, with a retail store occupying 10,000 square feet. The retail store also contains Petunia’s Cafe, a bistro serving sandwiches, light dishes, coffee and lattes and, according to Tuck, “one of the largest gluten-free menus in Fairbanks.” Holm Town Nursery is open seven days a week and is closed only on
F57522151
NURSERY
12
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTING EVENT
Restaurant Service 1. Lavelle’s Bistro 2. Pagoda Restaurant 3. The Turtle Club
Restaurant (overall) 1. Lavelle’s Bistro 2. The Turtle Club 3. Pagoda Restaurant
Salad Bar 1. The Turtle Club 2. Fred Meyer 3. Cafe at Fairbanks Memorial Hospital
Sandwiches 1. Speedy Sub 2. The Chowder House 3. Great Harvest Bread Co.
Seafood 1. Turtle Club 2. The Pump House 3. Lavelle’s Bistro
Steak (not prime rib) 1. Lavelle’s Bistro 2. The Vallata 3. Turtle Club
Bartender  Larry Lowery at Lavelle’s Bistro
Waiter/waitress (tie) Debbie Campbell at Two Rivers Lodge Sharif Nero at Lavelle’s
Live Production/ Show of 2014-15 1. Fairbanks Light Opera Theatre: Les Miserables 2. North Star Ballet: The Nutcracker 3. Fairbanks Light Opera Theatre: Shrek-The Musical
Local Sporting Event 1. Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race 2. Ice Dogs playoffs 3. Governor’s Cup: UAF Hockey
Local Sports Team 1. Fairbanks Ice Dogs 2. UAF Hockey 3. North Pole Babes in Toyland: Roller Derby PICKS Âť
The Ice Dogs are Fairbanks’ choice as the best sports team in 2015. NEWS-MINER FILE PHOTO
The Law Offices of William R. Satterberg, Jr., would like to thank all three of its supporters who voted for us!
Thank you, Fairbanks, for voting Hot Licks your favorite for ice cream/milkshakes!
709 4th Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 452-4454 7:30 am – 6:00 pm
Gulliver’s Books 5IBOL :PV 'BJSCBOLT
F10522287
Continued from 9
F11523028
PICKS
GPS NBLJOH (VMMJWFS T #PPLT UIF
#PPLTUPSF JO 'BJSCBOLT Follow us on Facebook! F12517994
3453 College Road near UAF Mon-Sat 12:00 to 11:00 p.m. & Sun Noon to 10:00 p.m. 2OG &KHQD 3XPS 5RDG ‡ &KHQD 3XPS 3OD]D Mon-Sat 12:00 to 10:00 p.m. & Sun Noon to 9:00 p.m. ‡ ZZZ.hotlicks.net
t $PMMFHF 3E 'BJSCBOLT ", /FBS UIF DPSOFS PG $PMMFHF 6OJWFSTJUZ
www 4IPQ(VMMJWFST#PPLT DPN t #VZ *U 0OMJOF 1JDL *U 6Q "U 5IF 4UPSF
July 21, 2015
2015 Readers Choice 2015 READERS’ CHOICE Fairbanks Light Opera Theatre’s “Les Miserables� was voted the Best Production/ Show of 2015. NEWS-MINER FILE PHOTO
Thank You Fairbanks
for making Seekins Ford Lincoln a top choice in New Automotive, Used Automotive & Automotive Service and Repair
F57491954
Proud to serve Alaskans since 1977 t 4FFLJOT 'PSE %S
13
14
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
SHOPPING
Hair Salon/Stylist
Continued from 12
Place to Bring Tourists 1. Chena Hot Springs Resort 2. Riverboat Discovery 3. UA Museum of the North
Theater/Performance Company of 2014 1. Fairbanks Light Opera Theatre 2. Fairbanks Concert Association 3. North Star Ballet
1. Elements 2. Team Cutters 3. Charlotte Rouge
Antique Shop  (tie) 1. Airport Road Antiques and Blue Door Antiques 2. Roxy’s Secondhand
Nail Salon 1. U.S. Nails 2. Allure 3. Happy Nails
Art Gallery 1. Expressions in Glass 2. Alaska House Art Gallery 3. Well Street Art Gallery
Personal Trainer 1. Tina Ferringer, F&H Fitness 2. Michael Flannigan, 40 Below Fitness 3. Christian Hood, Anytime Fitness
Book Store 1. Gulliver’s Books 2. Barnes & Noble 3. Forget Me Not
Place for Dancing Tanning Salon
1. The Blue Loon 2. Howling Dog 3. Kodiak Jack’sÂ
1. Sun Fix Tanning Salon 2. Tans & Teas 3. Turbo Tans
Cashier/Clerk
Barber shop/Barber
Tattoo/Body Piercing
Florist
1. Elements 2. Alaska Barber Shop 3. Team Cutters
1. Sublime Line Tattoo Studio 2. Body Piercing Unlimited 3. Patina Tattoo ParlorÂ
Thank You
Dental Care with an Artistic Touch.
to all our customers for voting us
322 Muldoon Road, Suite C
570 Riverstone Way
Anchorage, AK 99504
Fairbanks, AK 99709
JUNEAU 907.780.6066
WASILLA 907.376.5207
2237 N. Jordan Avenue
110 E. Swanson Avenue
Juneau, AK 99801
Wasilla AK 99654
#2
t Gift Sh
Best Gift Shop
t Ice Cre s e B
am
FAIRBANKS 907.455.4350
B es
op
Thank you for voting Dr. Jensen among your favorite dentists in Fairbanks.
ANCHORAGE 907.337.9434
1. Safeway Floral Department 2. College Floral 3. Santina’s Flowers & Gifts
#3
SERVICES
1. Judith at FMH Cafe
Best Ice Cream
We truly appreciate your business over the years! ‡ 5LFKDUGVRQ +Z\ 6DOFKD $ODVND ZZZ DODVNDNQRWW\VKRS FRP
All insurances accepted including Tricare, Medicaid and Denali Kid Care. F13512822
F18519907
PICKS
July 21, 2015
2015 Readers Choice
15
2015 READERS’ CHOICE Expressions in Glass was voted Best Art Gallery in 2015. NEWS-MINER FILE PHOTO
Thank You, Fairbanks,
2015 Reader’s Choice RE TIQUES
ST
F13512848
AN
F11523045
S
T
Airport Road Store & Blue Door Antiques Thank you for your vote!
for making us your #1 law firm. We have appreciated your support for over 50 years!
O
BE
Best Antique Store Category
1402 Gilliam Way
STELLA’S Superstore
#1
In Fairbanks
Thank you Fairbanks for voting us a Fairbanks Favorite
0O "JSQPSU 8BZ t 4IPQQFS T 'PSVN "OOFY
374-8399
F11523033
Making us
Best Pawn Shop
Thank you for
Chef/Owner Miguel 30 Years Cooking In Fairbanks
(Formerly Ben’s)
F11523009
II Dice Pawn
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
Liquor Store 1. Brown Jug 2. Northern Vines 3. Gavora’s Fine Wine
Furniture Store
1st Place Jewelry Store Category 2015 Readers Choice 456-8369
1. Sadler’s Furniture 2. Bailey’s Furniture 3. House of Kustom
Pawn Shop
Gift Shop
Pet Supplies Store
1. If Only … A Fine Store 2. Knotty Shop 3. Steamboat Landing at Riverboat Discovery
1. Cold Spot Feeds 2. Alaska Feed Co. 3. Petco
1. Ben’s Superstore 2. Fairbanks Fast Cash
Sporting Goods Store
Jewelry Store
Teddy Bear Plaza
“For Jewelry as fine as she is”
PICKS Continued from 14
SHOPPING
Our warmest thanks for your votes!
15
20
©
1. REI 2. Beaver Sports 3. Prospector Outfitters
1. Taylor’s Gold-N-Stones 2. Gold Rush Fine Jewelers 3. Fred Meyer Jewelers
F11523016
Open Mon-Sat, 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Corner of Airport Way & University Ave. Fairbanks, Alaska 99709
Ladies Clothing Boutique 1. Fireweed Consignment 2. In My Element 3. Woolly Rhino
Tools/Hardware Store 1. Samson True Value Hardware 2. Lowe’s 3. Home Depot PICKS » 20
THANK YOU FAIRBANKS!
Thank you!
serving your #1
BREAKFAST ALL DAY
For voting us Favorite Mortgage Company in Fairbanks.
License #AK157293
907-479-8319
Summer Hours:
Mon-Sat 6:30a-830p cookiejarfairbanks.com Sun 8a-8p
1006 Cadillac Court (Behind Kendall Auto)
F17518845
BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER
F45520790
16
July 21, 2015 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
Samson True Value Hardware was voted the best Tools/Hardware Store in 2015.
Lori Peterson
F10522280
NEWS-MINER FILE PHOTO
Thank You, Interior Alaska for consistently voting us a top choice for Real Estate Agency/ Realtor!
456-SOLD(7653) *DIIQH\ 5RDG 1RUWK 3ROH ‡ 2957 Santa Patricia Court, Fairbanks
www.somersandassociates.net
F57522158
18
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
Straight Ahead Construction builds a legacy By Matt Buxton
Mike Knoche has a passion for building. His company, Straight Ahead Construction, was named best home builder in 2015.
MBUXTON@NEWSMINER.COM
More than a decade of home building in Fairbanks and excellent customer service have made Straight Ahead Construction the top home builder in this year’s News-Miner Readers Choice voting. Straight Ahead Construction was opened in 2005 by Mike Knoche, who has a lifelong passion for building. “I’ve had several careers, including sous chef and wildlife biology, but building was something I did since I was in my teens,” Knoche said. “I continued in construction here in Fairbanks and I built a few houses for myself here. After that, I decided this is the business I should be in.” Straight Ahead Construction specializes in home construction, additions and garages, entire home renovations, kitchen and bathroom remodels, foundation adjustments, decks, radiant heat flooring, and all things residential. When asked why he thought readers picked Straight Ahead Construction above other home builders, Knoche said it’s likely because of the way he treats his customers. “We listen to what the client wants,” he said. “We never consider projects finished until the client does; it needs to be just right.” Knoche said he’ll meet with a potential client, hear what they’re thinking for the new project and offer suggestions to make it better based on his experience in building in Fairbanks. He said he’ll also offer a range of options for the client based on different fits and finishes. “We do a face-to-face talk and I listen your ideas and might make initial suggestions based on my experience in
Fairbanks,” he said. “It’s such an extreme environment.” And once construction begins, Knoche said he’ll keep in regular contact with the client to let the person know how the work is going and to make sure the customer is happy with the progress. The dedication has earned Straight Ahead Construction a wealth of positive reviews and comments across the Internet. One reviewer found more space in a small bathroom. “Our bathroom is on the small side and Mike put a lot of thought in how to max-
imize the usable space that we have,” one reviewer said. “The final result has been great and it really does feel like a bigger bathroom because of the thought put into the layout. The crew was efficient, professional and did an outstanding job.” Another praised Knoche for being flexible and allowing the client to do some of the construction himself. “Extremely knowledgeable, professional, efficient, and competent, yet always willing to learn from and investigate new options, Mike was a true pleasure to work with,” the reviewer wrote.
In addition to Knoche, Straight Ahead Construction employs four people and subcontracts specialty services such as electrical and plumbing to local contractors. http://www.straightaheadconstructionllc.com/ https://www.facebook.com/StraightAheadConstructionllc The second and third place finishers were Big Street Construction and TS Construction. Contact staff writer Matt Buxton at 459-7544. Follow him on Twitter: @FDNMpolitics.
Thank You, Fairbanks
Vallata
the
Tues.-Sun. 5:30-9:30 Closed Monday
is pleased to serve you Excellent Steaks, Seafood, Italian Dishes & New York Style Pizzas!
Thank you, Fairbanks, for voting AJIMI among your favorite Japanese Restaurants.
2190 Goldstream Rd. Fairbanks, AK 99709
455-6600
F12519017
Reservations recommended
We are proud to serve you. F13506197
July 21, 2015
2015 Readers Choice
19
2015 READERS’ CHOICE
Thank you Fairbanks
t 4 $VTINBO
F57522149
from all of us at Affordable Used Cars for making us your #1 choice
20
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
PICKS Continued from 18
SHOPPING
Snowmachine/motorcycle/ ATV/UTV dealer 1. Compeau’s 2. Northern Power Sports 3. The Outpost
New Car Company 1. Kendall Auto 2. Seekins Ford Lincoln 3. Gene’s Chrysler
Used Car Company 1. Affordable Auto 2. Seekins Ford Lincoln 3. Kendall Auto
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Law Offices
1. Cook Schuhman & Groseclose 2. Law Offices of William R. Satterberg 3. Downes & Tallerico Law Firm
Bank/Credit Union
Insurance Company
Mobile Service Provider
1. Alaska USA Federal Credit Union 2. Spirit of Alaska Federal Credit Union 3. Denali State Bank
1. State Farm Insurance 2. Allstate Insurance 3. USAA
1. AT&T 2. GCI 3. Verizon
Car Wash
Insurance Agent
Mortgage Broker/Company
1. Splash N Dash East 2. Splash N Dash West 3. University Laser Car Wash
1. Chris Marok 2. Tammy Randolph, State Farm Insurance 3. Dick Randolph, State Farm Insurance
1. Alaska USA Mortgage 2. Mt. McKinley Bank 3. Denali State Bank
Cleaning Service/ Commercial
Interior Designer 1. Joan Stepovich, White Palms 2. Tamara Spaulding, Spaulding Interiors 3. Rebekah Gray, Studio 3Twelve
1. Service Master/Merry Maids 2. SparkClean Janitorial 3. K-Janitorial
Landscaping Company
Cleaning Service/ Residential
1. Labrenz Landscaping 2. Great Northwest 3. Mulcare Lawn Care
1. Maid Marvelous 2. Service Master/Merry Maids 3. OCD Cleaning Service
Terry Busbee, Wells Fargo
Nonprofit Organization 1. Fairbanks Animal Shelter 2. Fairbanks Community Food Bank 3. Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival
Nursery/Garden Center 1. Holm Town Nursery 2. Risse’s Nursery 3. Plant Kingdom
Financial Planner 1. Bobby Weaver 2. Jose Luis Martinez II - Edward Jones 3. Robinson & Associates
Attorney/Lawyer
Heating Fuel Delivery Company
1. Jo Kuchle 2. Amy Tallerico 3. William Satterberg
1. Sourdough Fuel 2. Polar Fuel 3. Fairbanks Fuel
Automotive Service and Repairs
Home Builder
1. Metropolitan Garage 2. Seekins Ford Lincoln 3. University Chevron
Bank Customer Service
PICKS » 22
THANK
YOU
1. Straight Ahead Construction 2. Big Street Construction 3. TS Construction
FAIRBANKS BEST PET SUPPLY STORE
305 Eagle Ave.
452-2459 Open 7 Days a Week “Thank you, Fairbanks. You’re the greatest!”
F13513206
#1 Barbershop
F13506199
Expanded Ser vice 6 chairs - less waiting
July 21, 2015
2015 Readers Choice
21
2015 READERS’ CHOICE 2015 Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race champion Brent Sass makes his way down the trail in February. The Yukon Quest was voted the best sporting event in 2015. NEWS-MINER FILE PHOTO
THANK YOU FAIRBANKS FOR VOTING
Seoul Gate Restaurant #1
PLACE
For a change of pace also visit us at Seoul Sushi in the same location
(907) 456-2060
958 Cowles Street
F11522539
BEST KOREAN FOOD IN FAIRBANKS!
22
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
Teacher
PICKS Continued from 20
Mackenzie Staiger/ Woodriver Elementary
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Taxi Company
Real Estate Company 1. Madden Real Estate 2. Somers & Associates 3. Re/Max Associates of FairbanksÂ
1. Arctic Taxi 2. Eagle Taxi 3. Eco Taxi
HEALTH & MEDICAL Gym/Workout Center
Realtor
1. Anytime Fitness 2. Crossfit Fairbanks 3. Elite Urbank Fitness
1. Wes Madden 2. Zeb Mabie 3. Lori PetersonÂ
Dentist
School
1. Dirk Menard 2. Todd Wentz 3. Andrew Wappett
1. West Valley High 2. Spruce Tree Montessori 3. Lathrop High
Doctor Principal Grant Guy/ Woodriver Elementary
1. Peter Marshall 2. Herb Day 3. Mary MacFarlane
Mt. McKinley Animal Hospital was voted top veterinarian office in the 2015 Readers’ Choice poll. NEWS-MINER FILE PHOTO
Chris Marok 907-452-5664
RE
S
R A NT S E R
DESS RTS E
RE
TA U
EL L
L
LL
A
R
TATA E ER U RURAN VO T V ANT O
AFOOD
RT B EN DER SARA
CE
EE AFD OOI D NIN
SE
BA
IN S
AL
R
SA LAD BAR
AD BA
S RE S
E DINING
AL
RE
FIN
S
PRI E RIB
F
Thank you Fairbanks for placing your trust in my office. I appreciate the award and am looking forward to helping my fellow Alaskans with their insurance needs!
ME RIB
G
P
RI
VI CE
59 College Rd., Ste. 205 Fairbanks, AK 99701 chrismarok@allstate.com
ST S T E A K VI AU RANT SER
Thank you for voting for the Turtle Club ... always a favorite choice for smoke-free fine dining... Always a favorite choice for sourdoughs and cheechako’s alike.
Turtle Club
It’s our pleasure to serve you. 2098 Old Steese Hwy. Fairbanks, Alaska
OPEN 7 DA:4 " 8&&, .PO 4BU t 4VO
F12517995
Š 2015 Allstate Insurance Co.
143989 F13512838
The
July 21, 2015
23
2015 Readers Choice 2015 READERS’ CHOICE Chena Hot Springs Resort was named the Best Place to Take Tourists in the 2015 Readers’ Choice poll.
THANK YOU, FAIRBANKS!
12 YEARS! BEST BURGER IN TOWN!
VE TERI ARIAN N
AND TOP AWARDS EVERY YEAR %XUJHUV ‡ %XUJHUV 6WHDNV ‡ %XUJHUV 6WHDNV ‡ %XUJHUV ‡ %XUJHUV 6WHDNV %%4 5LEV ‡ %XUJHUV 6WHDNV ‡ ‡ %XUJHUV ‡ %XUJHUV )ULHV ‡ %XUJHUV )ULHV
Thank you again to the best Pet Owners in the Interior!
2014
2009
2013
2008
2012
2007
2011
2006
2010
2004
2003
+DUROG %HQWOH\ $YH ‡ )DLUEDQNV $.
BREWSTER’S TWO LOCATIONS
“GREAT FOOD, GREAT ALASKAN SPIRITS�
2OG 6WHHVH ‡ 1RUWKJDWH 6TXDUH ‡ $LUSRUW :D\ ‡ 7HGG\ %HDU 3OD]D ‡
F11523038
Dr. DeLeon Dr. Bacon Dr. Kuhn Dr. Chen Dr. Nevill Dr. Flamme Dr. Warner
F12519901
907-452-6104
24
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
PICKS Continued from 22
Nurse Dee at FMH Emergency
Eyeglasses/Contacts 1. Eye Clinic of Fairbanks 2. West Valley Vision Clinic 3. Golden North Optics
Eye Care Professional
Physical Therapy Office
Veterinarian
1. Michael Mavencamp 2. Barbara Keys 3. Damien Delzer
1. Equinox Physical Therapy 2. Adient Physical Therapy 3. Fairbanks Physical Therapy
1. Mark May 2. Dee Thornell 3. Scott Flamme
Pharmacy
Veterinary Office
Chiropractor
1. Fred Meyer 2. Safeway 3. Professional Pharmacy
1. Mt. McKinley Animal Hospital 2. Aurora Animal Clinic 3. Golden Heart Veterinary Clinic
1. Bill Tewson 2. Billy D. McAffee 3. Todd Lovell PICKS Âť 27
We love what we do and appreciate the support of our community.
505 Old Steese Highway, Suite 120, Fairbanks, AK 99701 907-457-8639
F13512843
Thank You Fairbanks!
F12517996
Thank you Fairbanks for making us your #1 Tanning Salon!
BEST SANDWICH BEST FAST FOOD Thanks for making Speedy Subs your #1 sandwich and favorite Fast Food in Fairbanks. We appreciate your business.
Labrenz Landscaping, Inc 2759 College Road www.labrenzlandscaping.com
We build carports, decks and gazebos. Drainage work, Concrete slabs, walls, and curbing, Erosion control solutions and products
0ME 4UFFTF )XZ 4VJUF t *OUFSOBUJPOBM 4U t
F13512829
Speedy Subs Deli & Sandwich Shop
P.O. Box 60338 Fairbanks, AK 99706 labrenz@mosquitonet.com
Jeff Labrenz Phone: (907) 479-9396 fax: (907) 479-9455
F12519002
Leach pits, Land clearing, Parking barriers, Residential construction, fabic and ground covers, Driveway, paving and fence work, Car ports,Tank installation and removal, Hydroseeding
July 21, 2015
2015 Readers Choice
25
2015 READERS’ CHOICE
Wolf Run known for its eclectic dishes, divine desserts EDITOR’S NOTE: This Business Spotlight was first published in the News-Miner on Dec. 15, 2013. By Jeff Richardson JRICHARDSON@NEWSMINER.COM
Dr. Essam Shihadeh is in the business of restoring patients back to health, so it’s probably fitting that his first taste of the restaurant business was no different. When the Fairbanks oncologist and his wife, Lina Motawe, bought Wolf Run restaurant in February, they didn’t quite know how much help the longtime West Fairbanks restaurant needed. The floor sagged, the ceiling leaked and the carpets were worn. Shihadeh said two contractors recommended tearing it down and starting from scratch. But the thought of demolishing the 50-year-old building didn’t seem right. Shihadeh heard tales of memorable meals at Wolf Run and felt that history needed to be preserved.
“It just clicked,” he said. “It was really a mission to take it in and bring it back to life.” A lot has changed in the past few months. After a summer of renovations, the restaurant reopened Saturday with an overhauled building and a new menu. Wolf Run, which had become known primarily for its desserts and coffees, returns with a new executive chef, Joshua Broda, and a menu based on fresh, local ingredients. It includes an eclectic group of dishes, including Levantine chicken kabob, seared pork tenderloin and cedarplanked tofu. The wine list includes more than 20 selections. Motawe is in the final stages of a University of Alaska Fairbanks culinary degree — Broda and restaurant manager Danielle Flaherty also went through the program — and is looking forward to specializing in desserts. “We’re not trying to be just another restaurant on the block,” Shihadeh said. “We’re trying to be unique and distinct.”
Broda and Flaherty said a commitment to local foods helped draw them into the venture. Produce will come from Fairbanks-area farms whenever possible, the beef is from Nenana-area cattle, and Alaska salmon, halibut and scallops are on the menu. “It’s a little extra work to source that stuff, but we feel it’s worth it,” Broda said. The emphasis on fresh foods was part of the early vision for the reborn restaurant. Shihadeh and Motawe grew up in Jordan, where they were raised on a flavorful Mediterranean diet of olive oils and vegetables. They developed a passion for food that never faded, Shihadeh said. “A lot of boys liked being in the garage,” he said. “I like cooking.” The new-look menu is mirrored by a freshened environment. The restaurant spent a month encased in scaffolding this summer, and the interior went through an almost complete overhaul. Carpets were replaced, plywood panel-
ing made way for light wood accents and the massive fireplace was polished to a new luster. The working basement got such an extensive remodel that an old refrigerator full of beer kegs is the only holdover. The ceiling was raised, new equipment was brought in and the old dirt floor has been replaced with white tile. Shihadeh said it was like building a new structure inside the existing shell. “We thought we’d close down for two weeks,” Motawe said. “But when you start, sometimes you can’t stop.” As she surveyed the scene on Friday, Motawe said she couldn’t wait for opening day. “I’m so excited,” she said with a broad smile. “It’s going to be a big day for us.” Wolf Run will be open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Contact staff writer Jeff Richardson at 4597518. Follow him on Twitter: @FDNMbusiness.
Thank you,
! s k n a b r Fai
F12517990
F11523036
nanookdental.com
26
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
Interior Alaska breweries celebrate the taste of summer EDITOR’S NOTE: We asked readers to suggest additional categories for the 2016 Readers’ Choice poll. By far, the one mentioned most frequently was best Interior Alaska beer. It’s on the list for 2016. In the meantime, here’s a look at some of the local brews, previously published on our Food page.
What’s your pick for best beer in Fairbanks? You’ll have a chance to vote in the 2016 Readers’ Choice poll.
By Glenn BurnSilver FOR THE NEWS-MINER
It goes without saying (though we have confirmation) that 49th State Brewing Company’s Smoked Marzen has not been the most popular choice as the recent smoke tickles Interior Alaskan throats. Yet, summer — in the normal sense — never fails to inspire brewers to create special seasonal beers, whether using seasonal ingredients or simple inspiration from the midnight sun. With three breweries in the Interior — Silver Gulch, HooDoo and 49th State — there are plenty of specialty brews on tap right now for every palate.
Silver Gulch
Silver Gulch, the oldest of the Interior’s three breweries, is the first to offer a “99 percent” gluten-free beer with Tundra Apple Ale. Traces of gluten in the yeast and possible brew tank contamination keep the brew from being truly gluten-free. “But chances are it’s less than 100th of a percent,” explained Silver Gulch media liaison Matt Toonies. Crisp, tart, effervescent and refreshing, this pale-colored ale has a bright apple nose and subtle fruity after taste. Cider-like in many ways, the recipe calls for a 49 percent ratio of apples, balancing the typically flat flavors of the glutenless sorghum wheat. “It’s legally a beer,” Toonies confirms. Dry, crisp, light, almost clear in color, Northern Lights is an easy-drinking craft beer alternative for Bud, Coors and Miller drinkers. “It’s kind of a gateway beer,” Toonies said with a laugh. Non-beer drinkers or those who dislike most beer will want to try this gentle introduction to craft beer. Red Flag Ale is the latest seasonal soon to become a regular taproom addition. A red-hued American IPA made with a touch of rye, this slightly hazy (unfiltered) brew features a rich maltiness, fruity hoppiness (and floral nose) of Citra, Cascade and Columbus hops, and subtle spiciness from the rye. A mid-July Silver Gulch taproom addition is a yet-unnamed dark lager. Brewed
as a traditional lager, dark malts offer a super light roasted overtone among the usual crisp, dry lager aspects.
HooDoo Brewing Company
HooDoo owner and headbrewer Bobby Wilken blends the skills picked up brewing in Germany, Chicago and at Alaskan Brewery with an inherent creativeness to create some interesting summer sippers. In addition to the flagship kölsch, stout and American IPA, Wilken has brought back his UK IPA. The IPA — India Pale Ale — was originally created by British brewers shipping beer to soldiers in India. Heavier in malt and hops for the long journey, British IPAs are less pungent and citrusy compared to American styles with full mouthfeel and subtle, smooth hop finish. Wilken use all English ingredients to get this one right. Like bready bananas? Hoodoo’s German hefeweizen fills the bill. A traditional German weissbier, this is “one we’ve brewed that every summer since we’ve opened,” Wilken said. Perfect for a hot day, the earthy goodness and yellow haze offer a summery feel in a glass. A first time addition to HooDoo’s rotating beer lineup, the rye saison is sweet,
spicy, tangy and dry all at once. “Rye can be spicy in beer, so we use all pilsner malt, then some malted rye,” Wilken said, adding that HooDoo derives any spiciness in its Belgian-style beers without spices. “We just try to get it out of the rye, which works pretty well,” he explained. Making a summer encore performance — and using the same yeast as the saison — is the Belgian Golden Strong. Bright, gold-colored and cloyingly sweet with a subtle hint of clove and banana, this beer sports a high alcohol content bolstered by the addition of candy sugar in the boil.
49th State Brewing Company
Head brewer Jay Bullen talks excitedly about 49th State’s White Peach Wheat — an American wheat base pumped up with white peach puree flown in from California’s Napa Valley. The beer is dry, bright and snappy with a subtle breadiness and the lingering allure of white peach. “It’s not sweet and artificial like a lot of fruit beers that add flavoring or extract,” Bullen said. “It doesn’t have that false candy flavor.” True, the sweetness is subtle on the classic wheat base — perfect for cutting the heat or smoke.
Summer at 49th State also marks the return of Summerfest Lager. Unfiltered, this hazy German-styled lager is hopped like an American pale ale with a healthy dose of Magnum and Mandarina Bavaria hops. The latter imparts an amazing orange-like finish and citrus rush in the initial nose. Seward’s Folly Imperial Stout returns too, updated with cocoa nibs and vanilla beans. “It’s a special treatment over the usual version,” Bullen explained. Black as night, creamy, thick and rich, hints of chocolate from both the nibs and roasted malts slip to the forefront, while a vanilla sweetness sneaks up from behind. Bullen added that this beer is being poured with nitrogen (“Nitro”) instead of normal CO2, bolstering the head retention and accentuating “that chocolate malt and roastiness without it tasting like burnt coffee.” Finally, Solstice IPA celebrates the longest day of the year (and summer in general) with a great session brew made for sunshiny days. Glowing gold with 2-Row and Crystal malts and riding a hefty triple-hop infusion, this IPA is a citrusy, lip-smacking easy-drinker. Pondering these fine creations levies one important question: Where to start? There is no wrong answer. Glenn BurnSilver is a former News-Miner features editor now living in Arizona.
July 21, 2015
Thank you Fairbanks for all your support in making
PICKS Continued from 24
Kelsey Enochs
Massage Therapist 1. Kelsey Enoch 2. Kerry Platzke 3. Erin Tilly
Hearing Aid Professional 1. Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic 2. Northland Hearing
Have a category you would like to see in the 2016 Readers’ Choice poll? Email your suggestion to editor@newsminer.com.
Your #1 Massage Therapist!
C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S Principal
School
The school district congratulates all of the winners in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
Ă€UVW
Mackenzie Staiger Woodriver Elementary
Principal
Ă€UVW
Grant Guy Woodriver Elementary
School
Ă€UVW WKLUG
West Valley High Lathrop High
k 1 2 n o r t h s t a r. o r g
Notice of Nondiscrimination: The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District is an equal employment and educational opportunity institution.
Call Woodland Wellness today to schedule appointments for Massage, Chiropractic and Physical Therapy
907-456-1571
F17518832
Teacher
or visit our website: www.woodlandwellnesscenter.com
F12517993
Teacher
$PMMFHF 3E t t (BMMPT", DPN
S
MARGAR
F13512826
BE
T
IT A
Proudly serving the #1 Margarita in Fairbanks!
28
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
Congratulations! Congratulations to the Daily News-Miner GOLD RUSH BINGO winners for June. Pictured from left to right: FDNM circulation customer service manager Sam Crabtree, Jeanine Doxey $150 winner, Doreen Hayward $100 winner, and Rachel Moses $75 winner. Not present are the employees from Kelly’s Alaska Country Inn $25 winner.
Special thanks to Mayor Luke Hopkins for lending his Chief of Staff Jeff Jacobson (pictured left with DNM Director of Audience Development Rebekah Rose) for conducting the drawing.
If you’d like a chance to play and win in the Daily News-Miner’s GOLD RUSH BINGO, simply stop by our office at 200 N. Cushman Street during regular business hours and pick up a free bingo game card while supply lasts. You could be our next lucky winner!
July 21, 2015
2015 Readers Choice
29
2015 READERS’ CHOICE
Pita Place a favorite spot for a quick, healthy lunch EDITOR’S NOTE: This Business Spotlight was first published in the News-Miner on Jan. 26, 2014. By Sam Friedman SFRIEDMAN@NEWSMINER.COM
It’s now well established that Fairbanksans have a near-insatiable appetite for falafel. During Pita Place’s summer lunchtime rush, the College Road falafel stand attracts a long line of customers. But when Nadav Weiss and Teri Gross opened Pita Place at the Tanana Valley Farmers Market in 2007, the couple didn’t know if Fairbanksans had a taste for the Middle Eastern fried chickpea dish, or would even know what it was. “We thought we’d have to set up a website to explain what it was,” Weiss said last week outside the kitchen of the recently expanded food stand. In the kitchen, chickpeas were boiling and onions were being cut for the day’s falafels. This year, Pita Place is doing its first-ever winter business. It began selling falafel at the University of Alaska Fairbanks student union last week. The menu at Pita Place is simple and has changed little since the business opened: half-size falafels, full size falafels, Turkish coffee and soft drinks. They’ve recently experimented with whole-wheat pita and a falafel egg scramble. Some of the spices and a specialized pita oven come from Israel. In the summer, vegetables including cabbage, lettuce and cucumber come from Interior farms. The goal has been to keep it simple and authentic. It’s gotten the stamp of approval from visiting Israelis, Weiss said with some pride. “When Israelis come they say, ‘Wow, just like home,’” he said. Thirteen years ago, Weiss was an Israeli backpacker. He completed his military service and set out to see the world, specifically Alaska. In Anchorage, he met Gross, who grew up in Fairbanks. The two later got married and moved to Israel, where Weiss got a job with an organic seed manufacturer. The idea for the falafel stand came during their honeymoon, because they wanted to move back to Alaska, but needed work to replace Weiss’ seed job. They liked falafel and had noticed Fairbanks lacked a pita place. One problem: They’d never cooked falafel. Nor had either ever owned a business, except for a warm bun and hot chocolate stand — the Israeli version of a
Pita Place was voted Best Place for a Healthy Lunch in the 2015 Readers’ Choice poll.
The menu at Pita Place is simple and has changed little since the business opened: halfsize falafels, full size falafels, Turkish coffee and soft drinks. ... Some of the spices and a specialized pita oven come from Israel. ... The goal has been to keep it simple and authentic. lemonade stand — Weiss had growing up. They started small, cooking many batches of falafel to perfect their recipe,
and selling two days a week at the Tanana Valley Farmers Market before setting up their stand a few blocks away.
NEWS-MINER FILE PHOTO
In general, everything has been more complicated than they would have thought, Weiss said. Last summer, for example, the Fairbanks market unexpectedly ran out of chickpeas. To keep up production without their main ingredient, they had people go store-to-store in Anchorage buying chickpeas — also known as garbanzo beans — and overnighting them to Fairbanks. They’ve since found a more reliable chickpea supplier. Despite being at the end of the world’s supply chain, Fairbanks has usually been a good place to do business. “Fairbanks people want to support Fairbanks businesses,” Gross said. “We have become friends with a lot of other small-business owners, and it’s been helpful and encouraging.” Contact staff writer Sam Friedman at 459-7545. Follow him on Twitter: @FDNMcrime.
30
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
Alaska Coffee Roasting serves up a genuine brew EDITOR’S NOTE: This Business Spotlight was first published in the News-Miner on Sept. 7, 2014. By Sam Friedman SFRIEDMAN@NEWSMINER.COM
Water is an important coffee ingredient, which is why Alaska Coffee Roasting Co. is trucking water to its new coffee stand location inside the Museum of the North. The coffee house began operating a coffee stand July 1 inside the museum. Unlike their predecessor at the museum, the business hasn’t been satisfied with using a filter to remove the minerals from the university water. They’ve been bringing water up the hill from their main location on Geist Road, although they are considering installing a purification system at the new location, said general manager Sarah Posma.
Pickiness about water is just one of many ways that Alaska Coffee Roasting Co. is particular about its coffee. As the name suggests, the business roasts its own coffee. It also sells roasted beans at the Geist Road store and at the Fairbanks Sam’s Club. But there are no plans to get into the wholesale coffee line more seriously. “We’re really about being vertically integrated and quality centric. We don’t have the structure that Kaladi Brothers (in Anchorage) does where they wholesale to a whole lot of cafes,” Posma said. “We don’t want to do that. We want to make sure we have control of the product and make sure it’s represented properly.” Coffee roasting businesses weren’t nearly as common in Fairbanks in 1993, when Michael Gesser founded Alaska Coffee Roasting Co. down the street from its current home on Geist Road. Gesser is from New York and came to
ar drinks,” she said. “It’s nice to see that people really appreciate a black coffee or an Americano and are steering less towards the white chocolate mochas with extra caramel and whipped cream.” Her own tastes have followed a similar progression. As a student her favorite drink was a raspberry mocha. She now drinks pure espresso. The business buys its coffee from distributor Royal Coffee in California. One of their most popular coffees is usually
Thank you for choosing us as your
THANK YOU
#1 Hearing Aid Professional in Fairbanks
North Pole and Fairbanks for voting Dr. Peter Marshall 1st Place once again in the category of Best Doctor
r
to
Fairbanks during the pipeline boom. He still owns the business, but he is often in Europe traveling with Alexander Rossi, a Formula One race car driver the company sponsors, Posma said. Alaska Coffee Roasting Co. is popular with students at nearby West Valley High School. Posma, one such student, started working as a barista after graduating and was promoted to general manager in 2008. In her experience, Fairbanksans taste for coffee has improved in recent years. “People are embracing more of the coffee drinks rather than the milk and sug-
B
es
t Doctor
Dr. Marshall and Kimberly Bean, office manager, are proud to celebrate our 30th Year of practice in North Pole!
(907) 328-6250 F17518843
t Doc
F18519897
Bes
July 21, 2015
31
2015 Readers Choice 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
COFFEE
Alaska Coffee Roasters was voted Best Cup of Coffee in Fairbanks in the 2015 Readers’ Choice poll.
Continued from 30 Ethiopian Yergoshef, a coffee from a mountainous region in the Horn of Africa where coffee once grew wild and is now cultivated. The expansion on the university campus isn’t the first for ACRC. In 2011, the business expanded in a different direction, to North Miami, Florida. That branch was opened by Gesser’s sister who lives in Florida, and with a few climate-related adjustments to the menu, the store is almost identical to the Geist Road location. Floridians like the Alaska-owned business although they’re sometimes puzzled by the business’ tropical location, Posma said. Occasional vacationing Fairbanksans stop by the Miami location for a taste of home. The new Museum of the North location has been popular so far, although it’s been getting slower at the museum as tourism season winds down, she said. The business hopes to make the museum a popular study spot for students.
NEWS-MINER FILE PHOTO
Contact staff writer Sam Friedman at 4597545. Follow him on Twitter: @FDNMcrime.
i8PSLJOH PO 0VS /FYU YFBSTw
Readers Choice Thank you again Fairbanks, for
Two Years in a Row! Thanks, Fairbanks!
supporting a locally owned business
t """ Top Shop "XBSE o t ### 'BJSCBOLT #VTJOFTT PG UIF YFBS t ### "MBTLB #VTJOFTT PG UIF YFBS
It is such an honor to be voted the number 1 salon! We will continue to strive for exemplary service in order to serve you in the manner in which you’ve come to expect.
Hours: Mon.–Fri., 7:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m. www.universitychevron.com Email: troy@universitychevron.com
Technicians
3245 College Road Fairbanks, AK 99709
907.479.4616
www.elementsavedasalonandspa.com F12517999
“Working on our next 30 years� Mike and Troy Thomas
F12517991
University Chevron
July 21, 2015
Fairbanks Daily News-Miner 2015 READERS’ CHOICE
n a k b & s r i a N F u o o r t Y h k P n ole a h T
CA RA U N R E S TA
for Voting
TACO AZTECA & THE MAYAN PALACE #1 Best Mexican Food!
4BOUB $MBVT -BOF r /PSUI 1PMF 488-8226 $IFOB 1VNQ 3PBE r 'BJSCBOLT 451-8226 "JSQPSU 8BZ r 'BJSCBOLT r .":"
F11523008
NT
M MEE
XI
CE
O AZTEC C TTA A N PA L A A Y
MA
32