Last week we had the chance to eat out at Knick River Lodge’s Raven’s Perch and we were impressed by the menu and the chef’s commitment to buying locally grown produce.
The executive chef, Michigan native and descendent of potato farmers, Lars Larson brings his Finnish roots and love for local farming communities into his menu.
“I think it is important to highlight the importance of local food,” said Larson, “We do have an agricultural community we hold dear here and a restaurant that can show visitors this agriculture.”
The back of the menu contains a comprehensive list of the farms that Raven’s Perch works with and the quality and taste of the entrees shows how fresh local ingredients really add to the quality of the food.
“There is not many places you can eat where a chef can point out where their food came from, and I think that is a cool experience,” said Larson. Every time they look for a new local ingredient, Larson goes out and visits the farm and works with the farmer on seasonal availability and how to incorporate it into his menu.
But what of the food? Does it pass muster, does it hold up to other top Anchorage restaurants?
Yes and yes. There are two dishes in particular you must try as stand out dishes.
Scallops with Wild Mushroom Risotto
Delicate, buttery, perfectly spiced and complimented with a to-die-for risotto that has all all the earthy blend of mushrooms, these scallops are a perfect comfort food. Typically, scallops are overcooked into little rubber hockey pucks, but not at Raven’s Perch at Knik River Lodge. Try them, you’ll like them.
Lohikeitto (Lo-He-Kay-Toh) Soup
This Creamy salmon soup for Nordic origin features local carrots, Vanderweele farms potatoes and leeks, topped with fresh dill and grilled Alaskan salmon. This is not your standard Salmon potato chowder. It is a revelation on how you can rethink and reimagine standard ingredients and make them balanced with each other. This soup tastes like home, but a better home that you didn’t even know you were missing. The salmon was perfectly grilled and added a layer of caramelization that contrasted with the creamy wonder that was the creamy leek potato base.
Raven’s Perch is A Bird’s Eye View of the Valley
Located the end of Knik River Rd. Raven’s Perch at Knik River Lodge’s has a beautiful view of the Knik valley overlooking the Chugach range and the distant Talkeetna Mountains. One hour from downtown Anchorage, you won’t find a more remote, or scrumptious river valley view.
You can check on their availability at TripAdvisor or call the front desk for reservations 877-745-4575
They also take reservations at Open Table
Want to visit the farms you’ll be eating at.
This summer we’ll be offering pickup at Knik River Lodge for the morning Palmer Farm and Food Tour. You’ll get to visit a few of the choice farms that work with Knik River Lodge. This is perfect for those looking to do a culinary vacation in Alaska and want a memorable farm-to-table experience.
Quick Look at the Menu:
