Discover a Taste of Alaskan History in the Heart of Copper Valley
What if you could taste a piece of Alaskan history—fluffy, golden brown, and sizzling on your breakfast plate? At Nummy’s, nestled in the heart of the Copper River Valley, that’s exactly what you’ll get. This isn’t just a place to eat—it’s where generations of stories, flavors, and frontier spirit come alive with every bite of sourdough pancakes made from a miner’s 1865 starter.
Set against a backdrop of sweeping wilderness and steeped in tradition, the Old Town Copper Center Inn & Restaurant offers more than just a meal—it’s a nostalgic step into Alaska’s gold rush past, complete with warm hospitality and hearty flavors that have stood the test of time.
The building housing the restaurant is a rustic gem—a historic log communications station originally brought in from Thompson Pass. Purchased by the current owner’s family in 1948, the structure has stayed in the family for generations, adding a deep sense of heritage and warmth to every corner.
Of all the hearty dishes served, it’s the sourdough pancakes that steal the show. Made from a sourdough starter dating back to 1865—carried to Alaska by a hopeful miner from Pennsylvania—these pancakes are the heart and soul of the menu.
Light, fluffy, and infused with a mild tang, these pancakes have earned their place as a local favorite. Once a special request, they’ve become a beloved staple, thanks to their unique flavor and rich history.
What sets these pancakes apart even further is the house-made rhubarb sauce—a tart, vibrant topping that tastes like spring in Alaska. It’s a family recipe handed down from owner Kim’s grandmother, who ran a café along the Glenn Highway during the ’60s and ’70s.
Rhubarb is one of the first plants to burst through the soil each spring in the Copper River Valley, and the tangy sweetness of this sauce captures that seasonal awakening in every spoonful.
But pancakes are just the beginning of the breakfast experience at Nummy’s…
From savory Eggs Benedict to crispy hash browns and sizzling reindeer sausage, the menu is filled with comforting classics and regional twists. It’s the kind of breakfast that warms you up from the inside out—perfect for a chilly Alaskan morning.
The dining room, affectionately nicknamed Nummy’s, honors Tom’s grandmother, who ran the Copper Center Lodge and its original restaurant for decades. Her legacy lives on in the inviting ambiance and heartfelt hospitality you’ll find here.
Although the original building tragically burned down in 2012, it rose again in a new form. George Ashby’s old tavern, Club 96, was lovingly transformed into the current restaurant. Now updated with touches like a hand-built fireplace crafted from stones gathered along the Chitina River, the space exudes rustic charm.
Step outside and you’ll find a cheerful outdoor patio—perfect for those endless summer days when the sun barely sets.
Shaded by colorful umbrellas and framed by Alaskan skies, this cozy nook is ideal for savoring a long, leisurely breakfast in the fresh air without worrying about sunburn, even on the brightest mornings.
You’ll find Nummy’s tucked inside the Old Town Copper Center Inn & Restaurant, a place that feels more like visiting family than dining out.
They welcome guests seven days a week during the summer, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., making it easy to stop by whether you’re an early riser or rolling in for a late brunch.
Address: Mile 101 Old Richardson Highway, Copper Center, AK 99573
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