15 Comments
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Lewis Erhart's avatar

Jens was a dear friend of mine, from his time for Wally at the Cook to opening EATING WITH FRIENDS. I would get off shift breaking legs at Koots and we would meet at his townhouse/condo off of 33rd around 0530 and tell lies for hours. His talent and skill live on through the many successful Chefs he trained and the great fine dining he brought to in Anchorage.

Lynn Brautigam Boots's avatar

Love Jens! Terrific article.

Mary Barber's avatar

I feel like I’m there reading your story. I can taste the food. Thank you for the trip back. To a simpler time.

Gary Miller's avatar

Jens new owners? we loved your writing about a favorite place, but concerned new owners keeping all the traditions alive, what do you think of the new couple's work in the kitchen and service? we liked Nancy Alip's ownership, where did she move on to? thanks for writing about such wonderful places and tastes...

Julia O’Malley's avatar

I think they are great

Gary Miller's avatar

where has Nancy Alip moved to cook?

Julia O’Malley's avatar

I think she’s doing some independent things. But she’s still involved some at Jens

Teri Penn's avatar

Where did you find the yellow chartreuse for the Alaska Cocktail? I have looked everywhere.

Julia O’Malley's avatar

I think it’s gotten harder to find. If you are in Anchorage: Brown Jug warehouse, La Bodega

Teri Penn's avatar

Oh believe me, my husband and I both checked all liquor stores and even asked an owner of a restaurant to see if he could order some. Nope! I went online to see what a good substitute would be and “Strega” was recommended. Again we are hitting a wall. Onward we go in search of another substitute. :)

Julia O’Malley's avatar

Or a “Sputnik”

Julia O’Malley's avatar

Make a Vesper instead

Gina Ottinger's avatar

I miss Daniel at LaC, Saturday afternoons are a bit different there now without him. He is an awesome person and I can attest that what he says he will do. I tend to stick close to home, but I know I need to visit Jen’s again. There was a time when he would lock the doors and do some insane partying with those of us still around after closing. But I will have to visit again, thanks for the reminder…WAY over in midtown. 😆😆.

Pam's avatar

A true dining experience like you have at Jens is rare! Thank you for writing about it and sharing the history!