Mt. McKinley Expedition: Burns & Team Enjoy Fine Dining at 11,200’ in Denali National Park
Posted by: Seth Burns, Jackson Breen, Raymond Holt
Categories: Expedition Dispatches Alaska Mt. McKinley
Elevation: 11,200'
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The hottest new restaurant in Alaska is Maureen’s, currently located at the 11K camp on Denali. Started by a trio of up-and-coming chefs (Jackson, Ray, and Seth), who also happen to moonlight as mountain guides, Maureen’s serves up delicious Tex-Mex fare with Asian and Creole inspirations, reflective of the chefs’ diverse backgrounds. “Corn is pretty much my greatest inspiration; I can turn a tortilla into just about anything,” says Chef Jackson, citing his Iowan roots. The pop-up restaurant is small, seating 9 and squatting 1.
On a busy night of service, guests can hear Chef “Sweet Baby” Ray rapping to OutKast with an inexplicably thick Eastern European accent while whipping up a jambalaya in the open kitchen. The portions are generous, much appreciated on big efforts such as caching heavy packs of gear up to 13K ft.
When not working the breakfast shift, Chef Seth runs front of house, chatting up the regulars and offering sweet words of affirmation, which they desperately need to wake up each morning. There is relatively little to complain about, except maybe the limited beverage list (despite the chefs’ weird insistence on tasting the glacial terroir — it’s just hot water), the overpowering red polyester decor (reportedly Maureen’s favorite color), and the ever-present undertones of body odor. Dress code is casual, although insulated down is highly recommended. Gluten-free options are available upon request.
– Jason
Comments (3)
Congratulations to all on the success so far! Love reading all the updates! Prayers continued for the journey! Love you bro!
Posted by: Elizabeth Wenzel on
Keep climbing and prayers for a safe journey! Proud of you bro! We love you!
Posted by: Elizabeth Wenzel on
This is amazing! Love it sooo much!
I need a back story on the name Maureen’s at some point, Jackson!
Just keep climbing, be safe, and have fun!!
Go team!
Posted by: Amy Breen on