Jazmin Li
The Philadelphia International Airport offers a variety of dining options for travellers, ranging from quick bites to leisurely sit-down meals. The airport's award-winning food program includes over 160 national and local restaurants and shops, ensuring that travellers have access to quality food during their time at the airport. While some travellers bring their own food, it's important to be aware of customs regulations and declare any food items, especially fresh produce and meats, to avoid penalties. With a range of options available, travellers can enjoy a satisfying dining experience while waiting for their flights at the Philadelphia International Airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bringing food into the airport | Allowed |
| Bringing food into the country | Declare specialty cheese, chocolate, fresh food items like meats or produce |
| Food options at the airport | More than 160 national brand and popular local shops and restaurants |
| Examples of food options | Auntie Anne's pretzels, Hudson News Cafe, CIBO Express, La Colombe, Yards Brewing Company, Jack Duggan's Pub, Chickie's & Pete's, Mezzogiorno, Vino Volo, Geno's Steaks, Gachi House of Sushi, Jim's South St. |
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What You'll Learn
Bringing food through customs
When travelling through Philadelphia Airport, it's important to be aware of the regulations regarding bringing food through customs. The rules are in place to protect American agriculture and prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Declaration:
Firstly, it is essential to declare any food items you are bringing into the country. This is done through a Customs Declaration Form, where you list all items that need to be declared. Failing to declare items can result in penalties, fines, or confiscation.
Allowed Food Items:
Processed and packaged foods are generally allowed through customs. This includes items such as chocolate, coffee, bakery items, certain cheeses, condiments, vinegars, oils, packaged spices, honey, and tea. These items are considered low-risk for carrying pests or diseases.
Prohibited Food Items:
Fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats are typically prohibited from being brought into the country. This is because they may carry plant pests or foreign animal diseases. Other restricted items include plants, seeds, soil, and products made from animal or plant materials. It is also important to note that bringing rice is not recommended, as it can often harbour insects.
Restricted Items:
Some food items are restricted and require special licenses or permits from federal agencies before they can be brought into the country. These include certain fruits and vegetables, animal products, and animal by-products. It is always best to check with customs officials before travelling if you are unsure about specific items.
Inspection:
All declared food items are subject to inspection by a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Agriculture Specialist. This inspection ensures that the items do not pose a risk of introducing plant pests or foreign animal diseases into the country.
Additional Considerations:
Even if an item is generally permitted, it may still be subject to additional screening and could be prohibited if it triggers an alarm, appears tampered with, or raises security concerns. It is also worth noting that bringing food gifts or purchases exceeding $800 in total value will need to be reported and may be subject to duties or taxes.
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Fresh food restrictions
When travelling through Philadelphia International Airport, it is important to be aware of the restrictions on bringing fresh food items into the airport and onto the plane. While processed and packaged foods such as chocolate or coffee are usually allowed, there are specific restrictions on fresh foods, especially when entering the country.
- Fruits and vegetables: Fresh fruits and vegetables are generally not allowed when entering the country through Philadelphia International Airport. This is a common restriction at airports and customs areas.
- Meats: Fresh meats are also prohibited when entering the country. This is a standard food restriction at customs and is implemented for safety and security reasons.
- Declaration: It is important to declare any food items you are bringing into the country, especially fresh food items. This includes specialty cheeses, meats, or produce. Failing to declare food items can result in penalties, fines, or confiscation, so it is always better to be transparent with customs officers.
- Additional screening: Even if a food item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening by TSA officers. If a food item triggers an alarm during screening, appears tampered with, or raises security concerns, it may not be allowed through the checkpoint.
- International arrivals: If you are arriving from an international destination, you will need to go through customs and declare any food items. Philadelphia International Airport offers Global Entry kiosks to facilitate this process, making it faster and less stressful for travellers.
It is important to note that these restrictions are in place to maintain safety and security standards at the airport and to prevent the introduction of potentially hazardous food items. While fresh food options may be limited when travelling, Philadelphia International Airport offers a variety of decent restaurant and food options, both before and after security, to cater to different preferences and dietary needs.
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Pre-flight dining options
Philadelphia International Airport has a wide range of dining options for travellers looking to satisfy their cravings before their flight. The airport has worked to improve its food and beverage offerings in recent years, partnering with popular local eateries. From quick bites to leisurely sit-down meals, travellers can find something to suit their preferences and time constraints.
For coffee lovers, La Colombe is a local small chain that serves coffee and draft lattes. It has multiple locations throughout the airport. Another option for coffee is the Hudson News Café, which also offers pastries, muffins, and light snacks.
If you're looking for a quick bite, CIBO Express has snacks and healthy options like fresh fruit, salads, sandwiches, wraps, and gluten-free and vegan choices. Auntie Anne's Pretzels is another popular choice for a quick snack, with classic salted pretzels and sweet options like cinnamon sugar pretzels, which can be paired with their signature cheese dip.
When it comes to sit-down dining, travellers have a variety of options to choose from. Chickie's & Pete's, with several locations in the airport, is known for its seasoned fries, often referred to as "crab fries." Vino Volo is a wine bar that offers charcuterie boards, while Mezzogiorno serves Italian cuisine, including pizza. For travellers craving sushi, Gachi House of Sushi offers sushi, udon, and ramen at their bar. If you're in the mood for a hearty meal, try Geno's Steaks for cheesesteaks or Tony Luke's for roast pork. Jack Duggan's Pub is the place to go for pre-flight martinis and pub food.
Philadelphia International Airport also has lounges like the Amex Centurion Lounge and the Chase Sapphire Lounge, which offer dining options for travellers looking for a more exclusive experience.
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Quick bites in Terminal E
If you're rushing through Philadelphia International Airport's Terminal E, you'll be glad to know that it offers several solid dining options, from quick bites to leisurely sit-down meals. Here are some recommended spots for quick bites:
- CIBO Express Gourmet Market: CIBO Express is a great choice if you're looking for snacks and healthy options. They offer a wide range of gluten-free and vegan snacks, including pre-packaged fruit cups, wraps, salads, sandwiches, and protein bars. You can also find fresh fruit, smoothies, and other semi-healthy options here. CIBO Express has multiple locations throughout Terminal E, making it convenient for a quick grab-and-go meal.
- Dunkin': Located near Gate E4, Dunkin' is your best bet for a quick coffee and breakfast fix. They offer affordable caffeine options and breakfast sandwiches to fill you up before your flight.
- Smashburger: For a quick grab-and-go burger option, Smashburger is a recommended choice.
- Geno's Steaks: If you're craving a steak, Geno's Steaks offers fast service and a classic Philly experience. You can find them near Gate E9.
- Auntie Anne's: Indulge in a warm, freshly baked pretzel from Auntie Anne's. They offer both classic salted pretzels and sweet options like the cinnamon sugar pretzel.
- Currito: For something fresh and healthy, head to Currito for build-your-own bowls and salads with protein-packed options.
Remember, even if you're in a hurry, you don't have to settle for subpar airport food at Terminal E. These quick bite options will keep you satisfied and fuelled for your flight!
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Local food and drink
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) has a variety of local food and drink options for travellers to enjoy. With over 100 places to eat and drink, travellers can get a taste of Philly even if they are just passing through.
For coffee lovers, La Colombe is a local small coffee chain that started in Philadelphia. Their draft latte is highly recommended. Local coffee giant La Colombe has several outposts in the airport, offering all the standard coffee options, including cold brew, lattes, and espresso, as well as pastries and breakfast sandwiches.
If you're looking for a quick bite, Chickie's & Pete's, a Philly sports bar chain, serves crab fries, crab cakes, wings, sandwiches, and surprisingly good bloody marys, with TVs for game-watching. You can find them at Gate A21 and A22, with additional locations in Terminals C, D/E Connector, and E. Bud & Marilyn's is another local restaurant with an outpost in the airport. Their menu features American comfort food, including chicken noodle soup, chicken and waffles, cheese curds, and a bacon cheeseburger on brioche.
For a taste of Philly's famous cheesesteaks, Geno's, one of the city's best-known purveyors of fried meat and cheese, can be found in the airport at Gate C18. Jim's South St. Famous Cheesesteaks is another popular option, offering online ordering for added convenience.
If you're looking for something more substantial, Baba Bar serves Mediterranean fare, including meze (hummus, baba ganoush, stuffed grape leaves, roasted veggies), wraps, and kebabs. Good Luck Pizza Co., located near Gate E12, offers oven-baked Neapolitan-style pizzas, as well as other options like a Roasted Pork and Sharp Sandwich and Chicken Parmesan.
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Frequently asked questions
Processed and packaged foods (like chocolate or coffee) are usually allowed, but fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats are not.
You'll need to declare specialty cheese, chocolate, and other fresh food items like meats or produce.
Failing to declare items could result in penalties, fines, or the confiscation of goods.
The Philadelphia International Airport offers a variety of decent restaurants and food options, including La Colombe, Yards Brewing Company, and Chickie's & Pete's.
Yes, you can get coffee at La Colombe and Hudson News Cafe.
