About Us

History

The Homestead Restaurant was established in 1961 by Karlie Baier as a local bar and grill. In 1992 Lisa and Steve Nolan bought the Homestead and Sean Maryott developed a menu that focused on the abundant Kachemak Bay seafood with a southwest twist, culminating in an award-winning Sonoran Seafood Stew. And so the little roadside bar that served meals in red plastic baskets was transformed into a nationally acclaimed fine dining restaurant — "worth walking to if necessary" according to the tastebuds of National Geographic Traveler Magazine.

In the spring of 2005, after working for the Nolans for almost 10 years, Rick and Sharlene Cline had the good fortune to purchase The Homestead Restaurant. A highly experienced and skilled staff came along with the reputation and the building. For over a decade wait staff Janet Mayforth and bartender Vern Alberts have bestowed their charm at the front of the house.

The energy of new ownership is pushing our beloved little log restaurant in exciting directions. Regional specials with paired wines and the “Dinner at the Vineyard” series showcase our chefs’ creative and delicious interpretation of flavorful Alaskan cuisine.

The Homestead Restaurant has faithfully served the growing Homer community since 1961. Whether you have already helped contribute to our success or if you happen to become fortunate enough to find us one fine day, we warmly say “thank you” and “bon appétit.”

Chef Biography

Chef Chad Kaliher

Chef Chad began his career at the Ritz-Carlton in Coconut Grove, Florida as a dishwasher. He quickly worked his way up the ranks and was mentored by many chefs seeing his potential, creativity and motivation. He soon attended culinary school to deepen his skills and understanding at Johnson & Wales in Denver, Colorado. He then embarked on the challenge to help open five restaurants from Miami to Denver, from Whitefish, Montana to Fairbanks, Alaska. It was in Fairbanks, then in Juneau, that his love for Alaska began. Chef Chad's main influences are North Africa, Middle Eastern, Cuban and French which he so eloquently weaves into our menu.

Recognition

Recipient of the Wine Spectator Restaurant Award of Excellence for 2004-2010. We are the only recipient on the Kenai Peninsula, and 1 out of 10 recipients throughout Alaska. As well as recipient of the Wine Enthusiast Award of Unique Distinction for our wine list, feature wines, wine dinners and classes.
Featured in numerous newspaper and magazine articles, most notably the New York Times and the National Geographic Traveler.
The Kenai Peninsula's only restaurant awarded Four Stars and the coveted Bear Paw Best Places Alaska by Sasquatch Press Seattle.
Alaska's only recipient of the Wine Enthusiast Award of Unique Distinction; Wine Enthusiast Award of Distinction.

• Homer's only recipient of Fodor's Choice

Award.