Jazmin Li
Eating at the airport can be a gamble, with some airports offering a wide range of dining options, while others provide limited choices. However, with a bit of research and planning, travellers can enjoy a satisfying meal before boarding their flight. Various sources recommend specific airport restaurants, such as La Carretta in MIA for Cuban food, The Salt Lick in Austin, and One Flew South in Atlanta. Some airports, like Nashville, offer a variety of unique dining options, while others, like Denver and Chicago Midway, receive mixed reviews. It's always a good idea to verify information about airport dining establishments, as they may change frequently.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Variety of food options | Greek/Mediterranean, Cuban, Japanese, burgers, sandwiches, coffee, pastries, etc. |
| Quality of food | Varies, but some notable mentions include La Carretta in MIA, Root Down, One Flew South, Nashville airport, and the Greek/Mediterranean place in BNA |
| Convenience | Some airports have quick options for those in a hurry, while others may have limited choices or require a longer wait time |
| Price | Varies, but some users have mentioned high prices relative to regular restaurants outside of the airport |
| Location | Eating spots may be inside or outside the airport, with some being a short distance away |
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What You'll Learn
Quick bites vs sit-down meals
When it comes to airport dining, there are generally two options: quick bites and sit-down meals. Each has its own advantages and can cater to different traveller needs.
Quick bites are ideal for those who are short on time, whether due to a tight connection, a preference for not wanting to spend too much time at the airport, or simply wanting to maximise their time at their destination. Grab-and-go options can include sandwiches, salads, and snacks, which can be conveniently eaten while walking to the gate or even on the plane. For example, a traveller at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Seatac) might opt for a croissant sandwich or veggie quiche from Lou Lou Market, or a bagel sandwich from Bambuza Vietnam in Terminal N.
Sit-down meals, on the other hand, offer a more relaxed dining experience. This option is perfect for travellers with longer layovers or those who want to unwind before their flight. It's an opportunity to savour local cuisine or indulge in a favourite meal. For instance, a traveller with time to spare at Seatac could visit Africa Lounge for some tasty sambusas, plantains, and salmon fillet over Jollof rice. Similarly, Root Down and One Flew South are highly recommended sit-down restaurants at Nashville Airport.
While quick bites offer convenience and speed, sit-down meals provide a more substantial and leisurely dining experience. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences, time constraints, and the specific food options available at the airport.
It's worth noting that some quick bite options can also be enjoyed as sit-down meals, depending on personal preference. For example, a traveller could opt for a quick bite at a burger joint or decide to savour their burger and fries at a table without feeling rushed. Additionally, some airports offer unique dining experiences, such as Catalina, which offers local buffalo burgers with a thrilling takeoff experience due to the runway hump.
Whether it's a quick bite or a sit-down meal, travellers can certainly find satisfying and memorable dining options at airports worldwide.
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Eating at smaller airports
While many large airports in the US have undergone significant renovations, including upgrades to their dining options, smaller airports have also stepped up their game when it comes to food and beverage offerings.
Take, for example, the Jackson, Mississippi airport. While the dining options within the terminal are limited, with only a newsstand offering a salad with mustard dressing, there is a bar in the other terminal that might offer a more substantial dining experience. Similarly, the Des Moines, Iowa airport may have limited food options, but the nearby Waffle Bar in the food court before security could be a good alternative.
For those seeking a more unique dining experience, smaller airports with on-site restaurants can be a great option. The Jekyll Island Club, just a short walk from the SSI airport in Georgia, offers a unique dining experience with bike rentals and Red Bugs for getting around the island. Another option is the Runway Cafe at GMU, which has been a popular spot for pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike.
In addition, some smaller airports have become known for their local specialties. For instance, the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) showcases the best of Texas barbecue and burger eateries, with mega-sized portions of ribs, chicken, and sausages. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) also highlights Texas barbecue, with Salt Lick BBQ as a popular choice for travellers craving a tomato-free barbecue sauce.
So, while smaller airports may not have the same extensive dining options as their larger counterparts, they can still offer a variety of unique and local dining experiences for travellers to enjoy.
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Airport cafes
For those with a longer layover, a sit-down restaurant like Root Down might be a perfect choice. Root Down has been praised by travellers for offering amazing meals, potentially making it the best airport meal one could have. Similarly, Nashville International Airport (BNA) offers a great Greek/Mediterranean dining experience, where travellers can choose between feta or American cheese and tzatziki or ranch dressing.
If you're looking for a quick bite, most airports offer a variety of grab-and-go options. For example, Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI) offers a take-n-go counter where travellers can grab a ham and cheese sandwich and chips. Denver International Airport also seems to be a popular choice for layovers, with travellers recommending spots like Flying Dog for a bite and a beer.
Some smaller airports also offer unique dining experiences. For example, travellers recommend Catalina, known for its local buffalo burgers, where the runway hump adds a touch of excitement to the dining experience. If you're flying through Santa Barbara Airport (SBA), you can take the crew car for a quick trip to Finch & Fork for a bite and then to Andersen's Danish Bakery for some delicious pastries.
Whether it's a quick bite or a leisurely meal, airport cafes and restaurants offer a range of dining options to suit every traveller's needs and preferences.
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Local airport restaurants
When it comes to local airport restaurants, there are a variety of options to choose from, depending on your location and preferences.
Boston Logan Airport
Boston Logan Airport offers a range of dining options, including grab-and-go food, sit-down pre-flight meals, and order-ahead services through their BOS2GO program. You can find various options, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee, espresso, bakeries, and more, catering to different dietary needs.
Nashville Airport
Nashville Airport has been praised for its diverse and unique dining options. It features a highly-rated Greek/Mediterranean restaurant, offering a combination of traditional dishes and American twists.
Denver Airports
Denver seems to be a popular layover location, with travellers praising the food options available. The Perfect Landing Restaurant, located near Centennial Airport, is co-owned by a father-son duo and offers a combination of aviation-themed ambiance and delicious food. The menu includes a wide range of options, such as huevos rancheros, chile relleno and eggs, chicken fried steak, and Mediterranean chicken breast.
Columbus Municipal Airport
Blackerby's Hangar 5, located in the terminal building at Columbus Municipal Airport, is a popular spot for a made-from-scratch breakfast. It's a favourite among pilots and locals who enjoy plane-watching, so be prepared for potential waits during peak times.
Santa Barbara Airport
For a unique dining experience near Santa Barbara Airport, head to Finch & Fork, located on the downtown strip. After your meal, take a stroll to the arts district or the pier. For dessert, Andersen's Danish bakery is a must-visit for delicious pastries.
Remember, airport restaurants may change over time, so it's always a good idea to verify the information before planning your meal.
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Best airport food
When it comes to airport food, travellers have a wide range of options to choose from, depending on their preferences and the airport they are in. Here is a list of some of the best airport food options from around the world:
Changi Airport, Singapore
Singapore's Changi Airport has been consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the world for its food options. With over 200 food vendors, a hawker street market, robot bartenders, and an impressive variety of dining options, it's no surprise that Changi Airport takes the top spot. From local delights to international cuisines, there is something for every taste and preference.
Istanbul Airport, Turkey
Istanbul Airport, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, offers a diverse range of dining options that reflect its unique geographical position. With 117 dining venues, travellers can indulge in traditional Turkish delights like gözleme, manti, and mezze, as well as a variety of other cuisines. The Turkish Airlines Business Lounge is especially renowned for its culinary offerings.
Heathrow Airport, London, UK
Heathrow Airport, London's proud flagship airport, offers a quintessential British experience. Terminal 5, in particular, is known for its exceptional dining options, including the famous Gordon Ramsay Plane Food, which offers gourmet meals. Other notable mentions include the Fortnum & Mason bar and luxurious sit-down meals at Caviar House & Prunier Seafood Bar.
Munich's International Airport, Germany
Munich's International Airport embraces Bavarian culture and offers a unique dining experience. Travellers can enjoy a beer at Airbräu, the world's first airport brewery, or indulge in Michelin-starred cuisine at the Mountain Hub Gourmet Restaurant. The annual Christmas Market and Oktoberfest celebrations within the terminal add to the airport's culinary appeal.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, USA
As the busiest airport in the US, Atlanta International Airport offers a variety of dining options to cater to the masses. For fine dining, One Flew South is a James Beard-nominated restaurant that stands out. For a more casual Southern fare, Ludacris’s Chicken and Beer, paired with The Varsity’s signature Frosted Orange soda, is a perfect choice.
Honourable Mentions
Other airports that deserve an honourable mention for their food options include Vancouver International Airport, known for its sustainable seafood at Globe@YVR; Tokyo-Narita International Airport, where you can sample Japan's culinary delights; Hamad International Airport in Qatar, which offers exemplary food and service; and Detroit Metropolitan Airport, which offers a variety of dining options, including Italian, Japanese, and pizza vending machines.
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Frequently asked questions
Some airports in the US with good food options include Nashville, Atlanta, Denver, Austin, Boston Logan, Washington National, DFW, La Guardia, and MIA.
Some popular choices include Root Down, One Flew South, The Salt Lick, Legal's, Matusake, Dickey's BBQ, Fig's, and La Carretta.
Yes, there are often good dining options near airports as well. For example, in SoCal, Finch & Fork and Andersen's Danish Bakery are close to the SBA airport and are great options for food and dessert.
The best places to eat at the airport depend on personal preferences and dietary restrictions. It's recommended to check online for the latest information as airport restaurants can change frequently.
