Sample Homer's eateries

You may have come to fish, view wildlife and soak in some magnificent scenery, but if you don't go home with memories of some delightful dining you've missed part of the Homer experience.

Delicious food and drink to suit your tastes, your budget and your schedule can be found in eateries of all sorts — grocery stores, coffee shops, bakeries, diners and, of course, restaurants.

Even visitors from big cities marvel not only at the variety of restaurants and coffee shops found on the southern Kenai Peninsula, but also at the quality of the food and drink served. It's not uncommon to hear something like "best I've ever had" after a visitor samples the fare at any number of Homer's eateries.

Of course, you can't visit the "Halibut Capital of the World" without eating halibut. Even people who think they don't like seafood enjoy this tasty white-fleshed fish, and you'll find it prepared in more ways than you could ever imagine. Ditto for salmon. Some say oysters are an acquired taste, but it's an easy taste to acquire if you sample the oysters from Kachemak Bay. You won't find any fresher.

Local restaurants take pride in serving local ingredients — not just seafood, but locally grown vegetables seasoned with locally grown herbs. You can even find coffee with a local spin — no, it's not grown here, but it is roasted here.

From traditional fare to trendy fusion foods, Homer restaurants specialize in serving tastes for every palate and occasion, including box lunches for those early-morning fishing charters.

It's recommended to call for reservations at many restaurants, but don't worry about what to wear. Whether you dress up or come as you are after a full day of fishing or sightseeing, you'll be welcomed with a big dose of Homer hospitality.