Lax Airport's Best Eateries: A Guide To Delicious Pre-Flight Dining

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the second-busiest airport in the US and the fourth-busiest in the world. With nine separate terminal buildings, there are plenty of dining options to suit all tastes. From healthy options like açaí bowls and cold-pressed juices to burgers, pizzas, and tacos, LAX has even the pickiest of eaters covered.

For those looking for a quick bite, there are several fast-food options, including Chick-fil-A, Dunkin' Donuts, and Starbucks. If you're craving a taste of LA's famous food scene, try Cassell's Hamburgers, which offers a range of housemade sauces, or California Pizza Kitchen, known for its pizzas.

For a more upscale dining experience, head to Terminal 3, where you'll find Native by Nyesha, a globally-inspired restaurant by chef Nyesha Arrington, featuring dishes like grilled shrimp & grits, avocado toast, and a Korean-style chicken sandwich.

And if you're looking to grab a drink, there are several full-service bars located throughout the airport, as well as a wine bar by Wolfgang Puck in Terminal 3.

Terminal 1 restaurants

Terminal 1 at LAX, which serves Southwest Airlines, has a variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Here is a list of some of the best places to eat and drink in Terminal 1:

Ace Cerveceria & Tacos

Ace Cerveceria & Tacos serves authentic and flavorful Mexican cuisine. The menu includes tacos, nachos, carne asada fries, chips and guacamole, and more. It is open from 7:00 am – 8:00 pm Monday to Friday, 8:00 am – 7:00 pm on Tuesday and Sunday, and 10:30 am – 9:00 pm on Saturday.

Betcha Burger

Betcha Burger is inspired by the classic roadside burger stalls that used to be common in Southern California. They serve a variety of breakfast foods, as well as hot dogs, poultry, burgers, and sandwiches.

California Pizza Kitchen

California Pizza Kitchen is a popular restaurant known for its crispy flatbread pizzas. They offer a variety of pies, including pepperoni and BBQ chicken. If you're not in the mood for pizza, they also have chicken-topped salads, a chicken avocado club, and a turkey and brie sandwich. California Pizza Kitchen is open from 11:00 am – 8:00 pm.

Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A is a well-known chicken franchise that uses fresh, simple ingredients with no fillers or hormones. Their menu includes fried chicken sandwiches and waffle fries. Chick-fil-A is open from 6:00 am – 7:00 pm.

Deli & Co.

Deli & Co. is a grab-and-go station offering a variety of ready-made sandwiches and snacks.

Einstein Bros. Bagels

Einstein Bros. Bagels serves bagels, specialty sandwiches, gourmet salads, soups, and artisanal beverages. They are open from 4:00 am – 12:30 pm.

Panda Express

Panda Express is a popular choice for Chinese food. They serve time-honored favorites like orange chicken and pork fried rice, as well as a variety of convenient takeout options. Panda Express is open from 9:00 am – 9:00 pm.

Qwench Juice Bar and Wetzel’s

Qwench is a creative juice bar that emphasizes fresh produce, natural flavors, and increased nutrition. They offer a variety of juices and smoothies made with superfoods. Wetzel’s, on the other hand, bakes all their pretzels from scratch using high-quality ingredients.

Reilly’s Irish Pub

Reilly's Irish Pub and sports bar offers a variety of tasty sandwiches, salads, and a full bar. Their menu includes a Short Rib Grilled Cheese, Turkey Wrap, Grilled Chicken Sliders, and a Breakfast Sandwich on Brioche. They also have a wide variety of beers on tap and an extensive whiskey collection. Reilly's is open from 6:00 am – 12:00 am.

Rock & Brews Concert Bar and Grill

Rock & Brews offers American comfort food with a full bar and a rock-and-roll atmosphere. They also provide a "Grab and Go" service for warm and cold food items and coffee. Rock & Brews is open from 7:00 am – 10:00 pm.

The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf

The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf is a Los Angeles institution serving a variety of local and global coffee and tea brews, as well as pastries and baked goods. They are open from 4:00 am – 8:00 pm.

Urth Caffe & Bar

Urth Caffe & Bar is known for selling organic coffee, tea, and farm-to-table snacks. They were the first company in the country to sell only organic and heirloom coffee. They offer a variety of distinctive roasts and mixes, including the Traveler Bend, which is exclusive to LAX. Urth Caffe & Bar is open from 5:00 am – 7:45 pm.

Terminal 2 restaurants

There are several dining options in Terminal 2 of the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Breeze, a simple coffee shop, offers smoothies, breakfast sandwiches, lunch sandwiches, and pastries. If you're craving a burger, Built Custom Burgers serves customizable burgers and fries. Fresh Brothers Pizza & Sandwiches offers personal-sized pizza, salad, wings, and sandwiches. For a sandwich, you could try Jersey Mike's Subs, which offers Italian subs, Philly cheesesteaks, and more. Starbucks, located at pre-security departures and the downstairs arrival level, is an option for those looking for coffee, breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and espresso drinks.

Terminal 3 restaurants

Terminal 3 is LAX's new food hub, with a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and time constraints.

For those in a rush, there are several grab-and-go options, including Homeboy Cafe, which serves sandwiches and baked goods, and a shop near Gate 31A, which offers light snacks, gifts, travel essentials, and souvenirs. There are also several juice bars, including one near Gate 33, and a coffee shop near Gate 32, which serves hipster coffee drinks, pastries, burritos, beer, and wine.

If you have more time and would like a sit-down meal, Native by Nyesha, located after security near Gate 33A, is a globally-inspired restaurant with room for around 120 people. The menu features Asian-influenced dishes such as grilled Kyokuyo red shrimp, Korean fried chicken sandwiches, and curry cauliflower. For something more familiar, there's also a branch of the popular American chain Panda Express.

Terminal 4 restaurants

Terminal 4 at LAX may not have a wide range of dining options, but there are still some great choices to grab a bite before your flight. Here are some of the restaurants and eateries located in Terminal 4:

Native by Nyesha:

Native by Nyesha, located after security near Gate 33A, is a globally-inspired restaurant led by Chef Nyesha Arrington. The menu features a variety of dishes such as grilled shrimp and grits, avocado toast, hamachi crudo, and a Korean-style chicken sandwich. The restaurant offers speedy service and is perfect for a tasty pre-flight meal.

Chick-fil-A:

Chick-fil-A is a popular fast-food chain known for its delicious chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, and sweet tea. It is located in Terminal 4 near the departures gates.

Einstein Bros. Bagels:

Einstein Bros. Bagels is a great spot for breakfast or a quick bite. They offer a variety of bagels and breakfast sandwiches, located in Terminal 4 near the departures gates.

Qwench Juice Bar x Wetzel’s Pretzels:

Located near Gate 14, Qwench Juice Bar and Wetzel's Pretzels is a perfect spot to grab a healthy juice or a tasty pretzel before your flight. They offer a variety of blended juices and pretzel options.

Urth Caffé & Bar:

Urth Caffé & Bar, located in Terminal 4 near the departures gates, offers a range of options, including coffee, sandwiches, and snacks. It's a great spot to sit down and relax before your flight.

Terminal 5 restaurants

Terminal 5 at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has a wide range of dining options, from quick bites to full dinners, catering to various customer needs and preferences. Here is a detailed list of some of the top restaurants and eateries in Terminal 5:

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

Located near Gate 50B, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf offers a delightful selection of local and global coffee and tea options, along with mouthwatering pastries and baked goods. It's a perfect spot to grab a quick bite and a beverage before your flight.

Farmer's Market To Go

For those seeking healthy options, the Farmer's Market To Go is an excellent choice. Located in the departures area, it offers a variety of fresh and healthy options, including coffee, tea, and healthy snacks to start your day or fuel your travels.

Ford's Filling Station

If you're looking for a heartier meal, Ford's Filling Station is the place to go. With a menu that includes Bar Bites, Tortilla Soup, Warm BBQ Potato Chips, Deviled Eggs, Smoked Pork Taquitos, and more, there's something for everyone. It's a great spot to watch a game and enjoy tasty food.

Lemonade

Lemonade is a trendy eatery known for its seasonal menu, offering a rainbow of fresh and healthy options. Their menu changes with the seasons, ensuring you get the freshest ingredients.

Loteria! Grill

For those craving Mexican cuisine, Loteria! Grill is the perfect spot. They offer regional Mexican dishes, including burritos, tacos, nachos, and more. It's a great choice for a quick, tasty meal.

Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market & Bistro

Monsieur Marcel is a popular gourmet market and restaurant located in the departures area. They offer a variety of healthy organic options, such as sandwiches, grab-and-go snacks, quiche, and salads. It's a great choice for those seeking fresh and healthy food options.

Rock & Brews Concert Bar & Grill

Rock & Brews is a hip and lively restaurant and bar that serves up delicious American comfort food with a twist. They use fresh, locally sourced ingredients and offer a full bar with a wide variety of international and craft beers. It's an excellent spot for breakfast, with a hearty morning menu to accompany sports broadcasts.

These options in Terminal 5 provide a diverse range of culinary experiences, ensuring that travellers can find something to suit their tastes and preferences before their departure from LAX.

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