Crush Wine Bistro & Cellar

If you want a respite from frontier ambiance, this urbane spot in downtown Anchorage offers a tempting mix of contemporary European charm. Granted, tapas and premier cru French wines were fairly rare in these parts before Crush Wine Bistro & Cellar opened but it's become a locals' favorite.

Crush features over 40 wines by the glass and a cellar of some 600 bottles, as well as a full bar offering craft cocktails. Small plates and entrees are equally tempting, with selections from a Smoked Beet Salad to Bacon & Egg Ramen. You can also stop in at the wine and spirits store right next door to pick up a favorite bottle or get introduced to something new.

Highlights:

• Casual but urbane setting
• Full bar with craft cocktails
• Signature wine flights
• Excellent small plates and entrees
• Great wine and spirits store right next door