Lucky Wishbone
A beloved Anchorage institution since 1955, serving classic American comfort food, especially renowned for its perfectly seasoned pan-fried chicken.
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Lucky Wishbone
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved Anchorage institution since 1955, serving classic American comfort food, especially renowned for its perfectly seasoned pan-fried chicken.
"The Lucky Wishbone's pan-fried chicken is spectacular, cooked to golden perfection with impeccable seasoning."
Try the pan-fried chicken
It's the signature dish and highly recommended by reviewers.
Visit during off-peak hours
To avoid potential wait times due to limited seating.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American Diner
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spectacular Pan-Fried Chicken
Golden perfection with impeccable seasoning. Juicy meat and crispy coating make this a must-try.
Nostalgic Diner Ambiance
A beloved local eatery with a warm atmosphere and friendly, attentive service. A true throwback to years gone by.
Iconic Milkshakes
Old-fashioned milkshakes and floats that are described as phenomenal and the best around. A sweet treat!
Plans like a pro.
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Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Try the pan-fried chicken
It's the signature dish and highly recommended by reviewers.
Visit during off-peak hours
To avoid potential wait times due to limited seating.
Check takeout orders
Ensure accuracy on sauces and items before leaving.
Consider outdoor seating
For a more private dining experience if available.
Tips
from all over the internet
Try the pan-fried chicken
It's the signature dish and highly recommended by reviewers.
Visit during off-peak hours
To avoid potential wait times due to limited seating.
Check takeout orders
Ensure accuracy on sauces and items before leaving.
Consider outdoor seating
For a more private dining experience if available.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lucky Wishbone is a highly-rated, long-standing American diner known for its exceptional pan-fried chicken and nostalgic atmosphere. Reviewers praise the friendly service, delicious comfort food, and fantastic milkshakes, though some have noted issues with order accuracy or chicken preparation.
"The Lucky Wishbone stands out as a beloved local eatery, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious comfort food. One of their signature dishes that truly deserves the spotlight is the pan-fried chicken. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted by the enticing aroma of fried goodness, setting the stage for an enjoyable dining experience.
The pan-fried chicken at The Lucky Wishbone is nothing short of spectacular. Cooked to golden perfection, each piece boasts a crispy, seasoned coating that gives way to tender, juicy meat inside. The balance of flavor is impeccable; the seasoning enhances the natural taste of the chicken without overwhelming it. Served with your choice of sides, the dish offers a hearty meal that satisfies even the most discerning palates.
What sets The Lucky Wishbone apart is not just the food but also the service. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that each diner feels valued and welcomed. Whether you're there for a casual meal with friends or a family gathering, the ambiance is always inviting.
For those seeking a taste of traditional American comfort food, The Lucky Wishbone’s pan-fried chicken is a must-try. It's a dish that embodies nostalgia and familiarity while exceeding expectations in flavor and quality. I highly recommend visiting The Lucky Wishbone to indulge in this delightful culinary experience—your taste buds will thank you!"
J Frank (JF1973)
"The fried chicken was amazing. But the chowder was close to perfect. The chicken sandwich was good but the fried chicken took the prize. The corn nuggets were sweet little bites of delicious gold."
Steven B
"I really think that this is a place that everyone who comes to Anchorage needs to check out!
The place is definitely a throwback to years gone by and they have mastered the fare they specialize in (just check out the reviews)
I ordered the 4 piece Famous Pan-Fried Chicken (and let me tell you the pieces were absolutely gigantic - breast, leg, thigh and wing) cooked to absolute perfection! The fries were salted well and were thin and crunch! and their cornbread that came with it can not be understated... warm and perfect!
The Wishbone Buffalo Chicken Salad was extremely fresh and plentiful and more meat than salad - is that even possible???
I honestly could not finish everything as the portions were massive.
I regret not trying their milkshakes because they looked absolutely phenomenal as did the floats and I was impressed with the steady flow both in the restaurant and for takeout.
There is tons of parking.
The serving staff who were predominantly female were great - knowledgeable, efficient and pleasant!
I just enjoyed this meal on so many levels!
The place is completely old school - maybe from the 80's (and it has character!
They also have some really cool apparel!
This year is their 75 anniversary and it doesn't surprise me one bit that they have been around that long!
They just operate with a pretty simple recipe - good customer service and great burgers, chicken and milkshakes!
Would love if they would franchise lol and am definitely looking forward to coming back again the next time I am in town!"
Christian Nadavallil
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Lucky Wishbone is most famous for its spectacular pan-fried chicken, which is consistently praised for its golden perfection and impeccable seasoning.
As a casual diner, reservations are generally not required. It's recommended to visit during off-peak hours to avoid potential wait times.
Popular sides include french fries, onion rings, and corn muffins. The clam chowder is also highly recommended.
Yes, they are known for their old-fashioned milkshakes and floats, which are described as phenomenal and the best.
Yes, Lucky Wishbone is described as having a great family atmosphere and is a good place to take family and friends for comfort food.
Lucky Wishbone has been serving Anchorage since 1955 and is a recipient of the James Beard America's Classics Award, celebrating its long-standing dedication to quality.
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The Best Burgers In Anchorage, Alaska
This diner has been around for over fifty years, and it’ll be no surprise if it’s around for many, many more. Lucky Wishbone is an old-school establishment that serves comfort food and typical American grub, and their burgers, fries, salads, milkshakes, and chicken are especially popular. Taste their yummy Swiss bacon burger, and if you have enough room left in your stomach, take a few bites of their delicious crispy fried chicken served with a side of homemade ranch.
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Almost everyone loves fried chicken, and anyone who loves fried chicken will adore the fried chicken at Lucky Wishbone. This is perfect southern cuisine all the way up in the north, and you’ll feel like you are at a table in Alabama or Mississippi instead of Alaska until you notice no one has accents and there are snow-covered peaks outside. Get the chicken, eat the chicken, and love the chicken, and maybe get some corn muffins, mashed potatoes, and coleslaw to wash it all down.
The Top Restaurants in Anchorage
Lucky Wishbone has been serving pan-fried chicken (on or off the bone), burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes to Anchorage residents since 1955. The coleslaw is notably made with a house-made pineapple dressing, and nostalgic diners can indulge in old-fashioned ice cream sodas, smothered fries, or onion rings alongside their orders.
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If you’re taking a vacation, there’s no reason not to go ahead and indulge yourself in some fast food. One of the locally-owned chains that feature delicious battered fish, chicken, and fries is the Lucky Wishbone. The extensive menu features all your favorite cheat day eats, including wings, malts, and ice creams.
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If you are looking for the best place to take your family, then you need to go to a lucky Wishbone. They offer nonalcoholic drinks such as milkshakes that will leave your kids happy and satisfied. If you have a sweet tooth then you are bound to enjoy their Oreo cookie and the sweet drinks served.
The 7 Best Burgers In Anchorage, Alaska
A local establishment that’s been serving burgers and milkshakes to hungry Alaskans for over 50 years, the Lucky Wishbone specialises in American diner food. Travellers seem to especially love their Swiss bacon burger. Pair it with a peanut butter milkshake for a truly American experience.
7 Best Fried Chicken Joints in Alaska for 2024!
Lucky Wishbone has been an Anchorage institution for more than six decades. A family-friendly quick-serve joint, Lucky Wishbone’s fried chicken is easily among the best in Anchorage—and often is voted to the top. They also happen to serve up some of the state’s favorite milkshakes.
Anchorage Dining & Restaurant Guide
A self-proclaimed "chicken joint," Lucky Wishbone is the Anchorage go-to for casual chicken meals. This is not just any old chicken joint, however. Lucky Wishbone has been in continuous operation since 1955 and is widely considered the best fried chicken in the area.
Highest-rated Restaurants in Anchorage, According to Tripadvisor
- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (391 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.5/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5)- Type of cuisine: American, Diner- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 1033 E 5th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501-2738- Read more on Tripadvisor
Best of 19 diners in Anchorage
A classic diner serving up hearty meals and nostalgic vibes. This diner offers a genuine, classic experience with friendly service and a cozy atmosphere. The menu features delicious comfort food, with the chicken being a standout.
Restaurants in Anchorage
A 1950's timewarp of a classic diner, this is comfort food central. We highly recommend the fried chicken, which comes with a biscuit in a basket atop a pile of fries. Many come here to splurge on a dessert from the fountain.
Taste The World's Best Fried Chicken Scone In Anchorage, Alaska
Lucky Wishbone is one of the first restaurants you see when driving into the city, it’s a place a lot of people eat at when they arrive in Anchorage,” he said. “My wife and I have even celebrated our anniversary there.
Eating My Way Through Anchorage
Old-school fried chicken seems easy to make until you’ve tried a place that screws it up. Lucky Wishbone doesn’t do that. Their chicken has been pan-fried since 1955.
Fried Chicken : anchorage
Lucky wishbone has good chicken but unfortunately they don’t have the best fries/sides. I wish we had a restaurant that had great fried chicken and great sides!
Searching for Alaska’s finest bites? Start with seafood
You’ll hear about Tommy’s Burger Stop, Lucky Wishbone, and Arctic Roadrunner, where the loyal locals have gotten their burger-and-fries fixes for decades.
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