Anchorage has all the national pizza chains, and the “Pizza” listing in the Yellow Pages includes some 60 different places. Among these, Pizza Olympia (2809 Spenard Rd., across from REI, 907/561-5264) is a personal favorite. Four generations of the Maroudas family run this place with authentic affection, rolling out such unique offerings as garlic and feta cheese pizzas and all the standard Greek specialties.

Two excellent pizza options are Moose’s Tooth Pub and Pizzeria (3300 Old Seward Hwy., 907/258-2537, www.moosestooth.net) and L’Aroma Bakery & Deli (in New Segaya stores, 3700 Old Seward Hwy. in Midtown, and 900 W. 13th Ave. close to downtown, www.laromabakery.com). Other good pizza places include Sorrento’s (610 E. Fireweed Lane, 907/278-3439), with the best southern Italian food in Anchorage, and Fletcher’s (in Hotel Captain Cook, 5th Ave. and K St., 907/276-6000), where Anchorage waiters and cooks go after work.

For delicious northern Italian dinners with an Alaskan twist, visit the small CampoBello Bistro (601 W. 36th Ave., 907/563-2040, Mon.–Fri. 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Tues.–Sat. 5–9 p.m., $16–24). This is a relaxing and romantic spot for lunch or dinner; try the seafood crepes.

For creative Tuscany-inspired food in the heart of town, you won’t go wrong at Ristorante Orso (737 W. 5th Ave., www.orsoalaska.com, 907/222-3232, lunch and dinner, $25–38). This popular restaurant exudes energy, and the menu includes wild mushroom ravioli, lamb osso bucco, and cashew-crusted halibut, along with a dessert selection that stars a wonderful molten chocolate cake. Reservations are recommended.