A pair of cruise tourists this summer fell in love with Skagway and are now getting ready to open a Cajun restaurant at the north end of Broadway. Melinda Munson has this story –
Kathy Phillips of Louisiana came to Skagway on a cruise ship in May. The southern caterer left determined to open an Alaska Cajun restaurant.
Phillips: “So, we did our little cruise, got off in Skagway. Did the train, loved it. I was like, Okay, this is my dream right here.”
When she asked her husband, Wayne, how he felt about the idea, his response was too colorful to quote. He quickly changed his mind because the couple returned to Skagway in the fall, and signed the lease to the old MexiCo, located on Seventh and Broadway, vacant since 2019.
Word spread fast. Phillips said that on their seven-day scouting trip to secure a location, strangers approached her and told her who she was and what she was doing in town.
One thing Phillips has managed to keep a secret is her menu. She didn’t want to divulge the food offerings just yet, but she promised there is only one fried item and several gluten-free options available.
The couple plans to come to town in March with their three young adult children and support staff.
According to Phillips, they have found housing, spoken to the fire marshal, secured a food vendor, and are working with the Historic District to approve their sign for “Skagway Kajun Spice”.
Phillips said they’ve lived in North Dakota, so Skagway weather should be bearable.
Phillips: “We were there in May, the end of May. Oh my God. I thought the wind was gonna kill us. But other than that, we’re gonna be all right.”
The restaurant seats 50-60 patrons inside, with an option for 40 to 50 outside. Phillips is eager to get to work.
Phillips: “I know I’m excited. Like I said, I wish it was next month…”
