There are several decent restaurants in Barrow. Generally, they stay open very late, always have a TV on, offer free delivery, and don't brew decaffeinated coffee -- people around here run on lots of caffeine and sugar.

Adjoining the Top of the World Hotel, Pepe's North of the Border, 1204 Agvik St. (tel. 907/852-8200), is the most famous place in town, thanks to an appearance owner Fran Tate made with Johnny Carson on The Tonight Show some 20 years ago. They serve large portions of familiar American-style Mexican food, steak, and seafood; lunch is $10 to $20, dinner $20 to $35. It's the only restaurant listed here that serves breakfast. The bus tours come here for lunch, and Tate hands out souvenirs.

Brower's Cafe, 3220 Brower's Hill (tel. 907/852-3456), occupies the most historic building in town, the 19th-century whaling station and store built by Charles Brower, who introduced Yankee whaling techniques to the IƱupiat and sired one of its most illustrious families. The restaurant serves American and Chinese dishes, with a price range of $10 to $47. Big windows look out on the beach, and a famous whalebone arch is just outside.

Northern Lights Restaurant, in Browerville at 5122 Herman St. (tel. 907/852-3300), has a very comfortable, clean dining room and is operated by a charming family. Their menu goes on and on, with the owner's own Chinese food, plus deli selections and burgers, and the best pizza in town. Prices range from $13 to $30.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.