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Mike Dodge is a lifelong Alaskan, but in the kitchen he's a citizen of the world. Dodge is executive chef and partner in Anchorage's two Hott Stixx Restaurants, and his menus take diners to Jamaica, Japan, China, Thailand, Israel and Indonesia, among other destinations. One popular stop is Alaska - salmon, halibut, scallops, crab and produce pack the menu.
Slippery Salmon Bar and Grill offers great prices, service
Swimming upstream -- it's an apt description for opening a restaurant in the competitive downtown Anchorage dining scene. Sure, you'll get your fair share of seasonal diners in the summer, but locals are more discerning when they head into the heart of the city. You've got to have a hook.
Wine of the week: The Honey Pot, 2011
This is one of my favorite sauvignon/semillon bottles. It's from Stellenbosch, South Africa, and this juice rivals wines from anywhere in the world. It's called The Honey Pot and the 2011 just arrived on our shores.