49th State Brewing Co. launches redesigned restaurant, new menu

After months of being sort-of-open, the 49th State Brewing Co. in downtown Anchorage is finally serving full-time.

The brewing company and restaurant had its soft opening Monday, serving up a number of beers from the Healy-based brewery and a full menu of salads, sandwiches, barbecue and wood-fired pizzas. Until Monday, the venue had been sporadically open during the winter and spring for special events.

The brewery takes over the space formerly occupied by the Snow Goose Restaurant and Sleeping Lady Brewery. Owners of 49th State, David McCarthy and Jason Motyka, said in December they planned to do extensive renovations on the space over a three-year period.

[Related: Snow Goose Restaurant sold to 49th State Brewing Co.]

Since the December purchase the space has transformed. Moose and caribou shedded antlers decorate wine barrel-covered walls next to new long, wooden tables and sleek leather booths. A new rail lines the edge of the popular rooftop deck — adding even more space for those looking to get a beer along with an impressive view of Knik Arm.

McCarthy said the menu — which includes everything from elk meatballs to halibut fish and chips — is mix of the owners' other restaurants: Prospectors Pizzeria and Alehouse and the original 49th State Brewing Co. in Healy.

There's also plenty of beers — 40 taps downstairs and an additional 20 upstairs — as well as a full bar. McCarthy said whiskey will be a focus too, with a planned list that includes 300 different varieties.

Starting Friday the restaurant will begin operating from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m., seven days a week.