You push open the door, and immediately your eyes are drawn to the walls. Hundreds of photographs fill the space: commercial fishing boats, weathered captains, and proud shots of prize catches. For decades, patrons have brought in 8x10 photos, and the collection continues to grow. Rita, who’ s been pouring drinks here since 1982, carefully swaps out only the most faded images, keeping the history alive for the next generation of patrons.
The P-Bar, as Sitkans affectionately call it, has been a gathering place for generations. It first opened as Art’ s Cocktail Lounge in the late 1940s before being purchased by a local family in 1970, who still own and operate it today. Open 365 days a year from 8 a. m. to 2 a. m., mornings often start with old timers sipping coffee, swapping stories, and easing into their day. By evening, the crowd shifts to fishermen, locals, and visitors all looking for a place that feels like Sitka itself, authentic and full of character.
If you want to make friends with your fellow patrons anywhere in Sitka, ring the nautical brass bell. Just note, you’ ll owe the whole bar a round! When that bell goes off, every person inside gets a chip to cash in for their drink, and locals have been known to sprint in from outside to snag one.
Over the years, the P-Bar has become known for more than its photo collection. It hosts community-loved events like the annual Ugly Sweater Party and the Great Guinness Toast each February. It also recently featured an art show by local fisherman Stephen Lawrie. The P-Bar participates in fundraisers to help bring in the Seattle Firefighters Pipes and Drums, the bagpiping firefighters who perform during Sitka’ s Alaska Day Festival each year on October 18th, by far the busiest day of the year for the bar.
While most people come for the stories on the walls, many stay for the food. The P-Bar’ s halibut and chips are a Sitka staple: generous, no-frills, and known as the most affordable in town. It’ s the kind of meal that feels like comfort and community with every bite.
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