F Street Station
True pilots’ retreat
Opened originally in 1944 as the Mur-Mac Lounge, F Street Station has long been a fixture of the community and the history on its menu claims it as the second oldest bar in Anchorage. In its previous form, the Mur-Mac was an Irish pub “frequented by all the aviators serving the bush community.” After the March 1964 Good Friday earthquake, which was an estimated 9.2 magnitude, the building had to be torn down and rebuilt before reopening. In 1983, the name changed to F Street Station, and the owners added a grill five years later. If you’re visiting Alaska, you likely flew into Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC). From ANC, drive downtown and find street parking, or take a taxi. If you’re local, Merrill Field or Lake Hood are your closest options.
The murmuring conversation from each table is nearly all aviation-related, with cargo pilots, airline pilots, and general aviation pilots tucked together in this cozy home for burgers and brews (and, because you’re in Alaska, delicious seafood as well). Every surface without aviation art is covered in stickers—Thunderbirds on top of Blue Angels on top of Thunderbirds, decals of every aircraft type you could imagine, and even a few classic AOPA wings.
At one of the two bars, a perpetual block of Tillamook Sharp cheese rests with a metal sign above it saying, “For display only do not eat.” An inviting cheese grater and stack of napkins sit next to it and are part of the fun of a visit. A beloved spot, be prepared to wait for a table, although turnover is relatively quick. All are welcome, “especially you aviators.” With a sentiment like that, how can you miss it? 
Related Articles
