Best Restaurants in America’s Busiest Airports

Traveling can be a stressful experience, and between the packing and security checks, finding good food can be a daunting task. Fortunately, many of America’s busiest airports have stepped up their culinary game by offering a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and preferences. In this article, we will take a closer look at the best restaurants in America’s busiest airports and highlight what makes them stand out from the rest. So, whether you are a foodie or just looking for a quick bite, read on to discover the hidden gems in America’s airport dining scene.

Why Airport Food Matters 🍴

For many travelers, airport food is just a necessity to get through the long hours of waiting before a flight. However, with the rise of culinary tourism and a growing demand for high-quality dining experiences, airports have become the new battleground for top chefs and restaurateurs. More and more people are looking for ways to make their airport experience more enjoyable, and having access to good food can make all the difference.

The Criteria for Choosing the Best Restaurants 🏆

Choosing the best restaurants in America’s busiest airports was not an easy task, as there are many factors to consider. We looked at a variety of criteria, including menu variety, quality of ingredients, presentation, atmosphere, and reviews from customers. We also took into account the uniqueness of each restaurant and its ability to offer a memorable experience to travelers. After much research and deliberation, we have come up with a list of the best restaurants in America’s busiest airports:

1. The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck – Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) 🥘

The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck offers a unique dining experience that combines high-quality ingredients with a casual atmosphere. The menu features a variety of dishes, including pizzas, pastas, and salads, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant also has a full bar and a selection of fine wines to complement your meal.

2. One Flew South – Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) 🍱

One Flew South is a fusion restaurant that offers a mix of Southern and Asian cuisines. The menu features dishes like Korean Fried Chicken and Shrimp and Grits, and the restaurant has an extensive selection of sushi and sashimi. The atmosphere is upscale and sophisticated, with a full bar and a variety of signature cocktails.

3. Shake Shack – John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) 🍔

Shake Shack is a popular fast-casual chain that offers a variety of burgers, fries, and shakes. The airport location is no exception, with a menu that features all the classics, as well as some airport exclusives. The restaurant also offers a selection of beer and wine to enjoy with your meal.

4. The Salt Lick Bar-B-Que – Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) 🍖

The Salt Lick Bar-B-Que is a Texas institution that has been serving up delicious barbecue since 1967. The airport location offers a variety of smoked meats, including brisket, sausage, and ribs, as well as classic sides like potato salad and coleslaw. The restaurant also has a full bar and a selection of local beers.

5. Legal Sea Foods – Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) 🐟

Legal Sea Foods is a seafood restaurant that has been serving up fresh, sustainable seafood for over 60 years. The airport location offers a variety of dishes, including clam chowder, lobster rolls, and fish and chips. The restaurant also has a full bar and a selection of craft beers and wines.

6. LaGuardia Airport Central Terminal Food Hall – LaGuardia Airport (LGA) 🍴

If you are looking for a variety of dining options, the LaGuardia Airport Central Terminal Food Hall is the place to go. The food hall features over 10 vendors, offering everything from sushi to burgers to artisanal pizza. The space is open and airy, with plenty of seating and a full bar to enjoy while you wait for your flight.

7. Portobello Road – Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) 🥂

Portobello Road is a gastrobar that offers a variety of small plates, sandwiches, and burgers. The restaurant also has a full bar, with a selection of craft beers and a cocktail menu featuring classic and signature drinks. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, making it the perfect spot to relax before your flight.

8. La Tapenade Mediterranean Café – Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) 🍴

La Tapenade Mediterranean Café is a French-inspired cafe that offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and wraps. The restaurant also has a selection of desserts and pastries, as well as a full bar with a variety of wines and beers. The cozy atmosphere is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the airport.

9. Longhorn Steakhouse – Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) 🍖

Longhorn Steakhouse is a Texas-based chain that offers a variety of steaks, burgers, and salads. The airport location also has a selection of breakfast options, as well as a full bar with a variety of beers, wines, and cocktails. The casual atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for a quick bite.

10. The Varsity – Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) 🍔

The Varsity is an Atlanta institution that has been serving up classic American fare since 1928. The airport location offers a variety of burgers, hot dogs, and fries, as well as classic Southern sides like fried okra and onion rings. The atmosphere is casual and fun, with plenty of memorabilia to admire while you wait for your flight.

11. Cibo Express Gourmet Market – San Francisco International Airport (SFO) 🍴

If you are in a hurry and need to grab something on the go, Cibo Express Gourmet Market is the perfect spot. The market offers a variety of pre-packaged sandwiches, salads, and snacks, as well as a selection of gourmet foods and wines. The space is small and cozy, with plenty of options to choose from.

12. The Pouterie – George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) 🥧

The Pouterie is a French-inspired bakery that offers a variety of pastries, cakes, and pies. The airport location also has a selection of sandwiches and salads, as well as a full bar with a variety of wines and beers. The cozy atmosphere and delicious pastries make it a great spot to relax before your flight.

13. Bon Appétit Café – Miami International Airport (MIA) 🍴

Bon Appétit Café is a French-inspired cafe that offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and pastries. The airport location also has a selection of coffees and teas, as well as a full bar with a variety of wines and beers. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot to relax before your flight.

FAQs

1. What is the best restaurant at LAX?

The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck is the best restaurant at LAX, offering a unique dining experience that combines high-quality ingredients with a casual atmosphere.

2. What is the best restaurant at ATL?

One Flew South is the best restaurant at ATL, offering a fusion of Southern and Asian cuisines in an upscale and sophisticated atmosphere.

3. What is the best fast food restaurant at JFK?

Shake Shack is the best fast food restaurant at JFK, offering a variety of classic burgers, fries, and shakes.

4. What is the best barbecue restaurant at AUS?

The Salt Lick Bar-B-Que is the best barbecue restaurant at AUS, serving up delicious smoked meats and classic sides.

5. What is the best seafood restaurant at BOS?

Legal Sea Foods is the best seafood restaurant at BOS, offering fresh, sustainable seafood and a variety of craft beers and wines.

6. What is the best food hall at LGA?

The LaGuardia Airport Central Terminal Food Hall is the best food hall at LGA, offering a variety of dining options to suit different tastes and preferences.

7. What is the best gastrobar at ORD?

Portobello Road is the best gastrobar at ORD, offering a variety of small plates, sandwiches, and burgers in a casual and laid-back atmosphere.

8. What is the best French-inspired cafe at EWR?