Food in the Field gives a sneak peek into what CNN's team is eating, and the food culture they encounter as they travel the globe. Today's contributor, photojournalist Jeremy Harlan is based in Washington D.C., but he travels. A lot.
It’s a simple math problem. You may want to grab a calculator. You will have to show your work.
If my United flight from Washington-Dulles into O’Hare arrives at Gate C6 at 2:15 PM CST and my connection to Des Moines departs Gate B4 at 3:10PM CST, how much time (if any) do I have to haul myself and my belongings all the way to Gate C22, where my all-time favorite airport food, a Chicago-style hot dog, awaits me?
And even if I make it to C22, is there enough time for the vendor to apply all of the necessary toppings? Or Will I have to make the difficult decision to forego the nuclear-green relish in favor of an extra shake of celery salt?
These are the dilemmas I face as a constant air traveler. Where can I find the best food at airports I'm lucky to spend an hour or two in, at most?
For a CNN cameraman, food while flying is essential. I promise you there is never time for us to grab grub once we land at our final destination. What precious time we have between the plane to pressing record is devoted to pulling our multiple equipment cases off the luggage carousel, lugging those cases onto a cart, pushing the cart to the arrival curb, throwing the cases onto a rental car shuttle, throwing them off the rental car shuttle, playing Tetris with them in the back of a rental vehicle, slapping the GPS onto the windshield, and finally making our way to the shoot location - if we are lucky enough to know in advance where that may be.
Do you see any time in there for a baguette with cheese and a glass of wine? You don’t need a slide rule to figure that one out.
So, to help others who might find themselves in a similar crunch, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite food spots in airports around the country. These are spots where I or my colleagues must stop at if we get a chance to eat.
Are these the most elegant food choices? No. Will everyone agree with me? Certainly not. Could trying these spots leave you with indigestion? Sure, there are a few likely offenders on the list.
Hopefully, though, some of these suggestions will prove helpful when you find yourself in a Philly pinch or a Detroit delay.
Note: The airports I’ve included are hubs of major airlines. Consequently, these are places where you’d most likely have a layover between connecting flights.
Albuquerque (ABQ) – La Hacienda
Between Concourse A and B you’ll find this little place that serves great New Mexican food on the go. On your inbound Southwest flight, you’ll have time to make up your mind: red or green? We're talking chiles, of course.
Atlanta (ATL) – Chick-fil-A
It’s not flashy, and it’s a chain, but I always make a beeline for this Hartsfield-Jackson institution and its waffle fries. It’s located across from Gate A11 - and you usually can see the line somewhere around A22.
Baltimore (BWI) – Obrycki's
Baltimore. Crab cakes. Concourse B. Enough said.
Boston (BOS) – Legal’s Test Kitchen
The weather is chilly most of the time you find yourself in Beantown. There’s not much better to warm the insides than a warm cup of "chowdah." You can find this and some oyster crackers in Terminal A between Gate 4 and 5.
Charlotte (CLT)
I don't know as much about the fare in Charlotte because I spend most of my layover time in the NASCAR store at Douglas Airport, They do, however, have Jamba Juice. For me, Jamba is the easiest breakfast, energy pep, make-me-think-I’m –ingesting-something-healthy item at an airport. If you are looking for actual food, I suggest one of the various BBQ joints.
Chicago-O’Hare (ORD) – Reggio’s
This is the one food I will go out of my way for EVERY time I’m in O’Hare. I love Chi-dogs. If you’re not feeling the tomatoes, hot peppers, celery salt, relish, mustard, and other toppings, Reggio’s offers the Windy City’s other food staple: Italian beef sandwiches. Reggio's have a few spots at O'Hare (I know of the one at Gate C22). Bonus points: If your expecting wife is with you or waiting at home, it’s best to stop at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate store at Gate B14 and get her a caramel apple. Trust me, I know this from experience.
Cincinnati (CVG) – Gold Star Chili
Don’t trust Webster and his dictionary cronies. You can’t spell Cincinnati without C-H-I-L-I. After you hop off your Delta regional flight, run to Gold Star in Terminal 3. If you’re up to the challenge and don’t care about the well being of your fellow passengers on the next flight, go with the 5-Way. [Cincinnati-raised editor's note: That'd be Greek-style chili over spaghetti with shredded cheese, onions and beans. YUM.]
Dallas (DFW) – The D Terminal
I had to ask our CNN Dallas correspondent, Ed Lavandera, for help on this one. He didn’t have any specific places in mind, but he did say the new Terminal D has a lot of good options. Maybe try the Reata Grill or the La Bodega Winery - and let us know your findings in the comments below.
Denver (DEN) – New Belgium Brewing Hub
Denver International Airport is my native airport. I'll admit I am completely biased about this great structure on the plains of the Rocky Mountain Front Range. But back to food - or, rather, beverage. New Belgium has excellent craft beers. I love, really love, the Sunshine Wheat. Their monarch is Fat Tire, but the rest of the king’s court is pretty darn good, too. The hub is a little out of the way, around Gate B80, but it’s worth the walk.
Detroit (DTW) – National Coney Island Express
They take their Coney Island dogs seriously in Motown. Families have gone to war with each other over the best recipe in the city. Fortunately for us passing through, we can grab a quick bite of the battle near Gate A46.
Houston (IAH) – Pappadeaux
The quarter of Cajun blood running through my veins always leads me to crave some Southern comfort food. The gumbo and other Cajun delights in Terminal E are hard to pass up.
Kansas City/Milwaukee (MCI/MKE)
I’ve combined these two airports for a reason. These are both hubs for the former Midwest (recently merged with Frontier) Airlines. You should never be hungry flying into these airports because you should have devoured several of their amazing fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies on the inbound flight. No one can argue with warm chocolate chip cookies.
Los Angeles (LAX) – In ‘n Out
This entry differs from my other suggestions because it's actually not in the airport. But go with me here. If you are connecting through LAX, odds are good that you’re flying international - which often means a several hour wait. So hop in a cab, hit up this California icon on Sepulveda Blvd., and thank me later. [Editor's note: Fries well-done, and ask for the burger "animal style."]
Memphis (MEM) – Interstate BBQ
BBQ, barbecue, bar-b-que is a no-brainer in Memphis. Get off of your Delta flight and follow your nose to Gate B14.
Miami (MIA) – La Carreta
Every connection I’ve made through Miami leads me to Latin or South America. Cuban food is the perfect way to get me in the mood for these trips. Do yourself a favor and have a Cubano sandwich - ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard - at La Carreta in Terminal D Gate 37.
Minneapolis (MSP) – Dairy Queen, A&W, Axel’s Bonfire
This is a great airport: friendly folks, clean, and just a good feel to the place. Throw in a Dairy Queen chocolate banana shake or A&W root beer float and I might just have to volunteer my seat for the next flight. If you’re in MSP and want something fancier, in the comments below, let me know what Axel’s has to offer. It looks intriguing and located in the Mall area of the airport.
Newark (EWR) – Gallagher’s Steak House
We’re talking about Newark here. If my original layover is 45 minutes, I plan on being there for three hours (and not being happy about it). A nice juicy steak is just what I need to extinguish my flames of fury - and I know I’ll have plenty of time to eat one. Terminal C, Gate 121.
New York LaGuardia (LGA) – Tagliare
See Baltimore above. Substitute large slice pizza for crabcakes. Terminal D.
Philadelphia (PHL) – Chickie and Pete’s
Did someone say crab fries? That cannot be a bad thing. These guys serve them alongside cheesesteaks and a whole slew of other foods that will make you want to love your brother, or the stranger sitting next to you at the bar. Terminal A, C, E.
Phoenix (PHX) – El Bravo
When it comes to tamales…Bravo, indeed. Terminal 4, Gate D.
Pittsburgh (PIT)
I can’t say if I’ve actually ever flown through Pittsburgh. Nothing comes to mind. I looked on the airport’s website and it looks like there are several pubs, grilles, and brewhouses to try from. Please assist your fellow passengers in the comments below.
St. Louis (STL) – Budweiser Stadium Club
Back when I was in college at Mizzou, I flew out of Lambert a lot, when it had a cool replica of the bar from Cheers. I’m pretty sure it’s as long gone as some of the homers Sam Malone gave up in his career. So, if you can find a place that serves the St. Louis-staple of toasted raviolis, I’d go there. If not, you can’t go wrong with a cold Bud from the city in which it's brewed. Near Gate E10.
Salt Lake City (SLC) – Dick Clark’s Grill
It had me at “Not Your Mom’s Meatloaf.” Listen for the oldies rocking between Concourse C and D.
San Francisco (SFO) – Boudin
I can only speak to the domestic terminal at SFO, but the chance to order a fresh sourdough round in San Francisco earns this my nod. It’s located in a food court in Terminal 3. I’ve heard the Burger Joint in the International Terminal is pretty tasty as well.
Seattle/Tacoma (SEA) – Anthony’s
If, say, you're on the way up to Alaska for a fishing trip, Anthony’s in the Central Terminal is a solid place to stop for good seafood. Plus, it may just give you extra motivation when you’re trying to reel in that 35-lb. halibut from the ocean floor.
Washington DC-Dulles (IAD)/ Reagan National (DCA) – Five Guys
Dulles and National are my base airports. Five Guys hamburger chains have exploded across the country, but the first store was in northern Virginia, so Dulles and National can both claim it as their own. The Terminal A location in Dulles provides a welcome respite en route to the far-outlying gates of the United regional flights. At National, look for it tucked around the left-corner on Concourse A. Their bacon cheeseburgers are tough to beat.
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sorry sir your taste buds have just not matured yet! anthonys is one of the worst choices of seafood on the west coast.
i would eat at a hotdog stand before there!
Yes there should realize the opportunity to RSS commentary, quite simply, CMS is another on the blog.
DFW, for those who fly Delta/NW, check out the Dickie's BBQ. Dickie's is a Dallas BBQ standard and you can't go wrong with the hot-links sandwitch. Enjoy.
For local flavor in Charlotte, go down the B concourse and get some spicy fried chicken and a big delicious homemade biscuit at Bojangles. It is a chain that started in Charlotte. Even the hot sauce is made in NC. But the biscuits are awesome. Not real good for your arteries, but delicious.
DFW: Right on about Terminal D – great food available there, both compared to rest of DFW and to other airports too. I'll speak up for Cantina Laredo (outpost of a small Tex Mex chain from outside the airport) and Blue Mesa (ditto) in Term D. FWIW, Urban Taco is over in Terminal C - great food compared to fairly big-chain-heavy choices.
PS – There's a great pizza place in Charlotte, but I can't recall the name.
I appreciate this article as well. I usually have to connect in either DTW or MSP to fly internationally, and I always end up choosing the worst places to get a meal or snack. Due to security, it's difficult to bring your own food from home or from a hotel. Most of the time you have to throw it out before passing through security. On top of it all, if I'm flying internationally, I like to load up on good snacks and food to save and bring with me on the plane. Like most, I am not a fan of the hot food served on board. When you're flying overseas for 13 hours, you're going to want something tastey to hold you over. I sure begin to miss a pizza (even if it's cold!) when I am 6 hours into my flight and they start serving chicken slop. :)
Best deal in DFW is Auntie Anne's Pretzels – I always get a pretzel dog – they're great, and for airport food, you can't beat the price!
Appreciate the article. I will look for some of these places to eat when I travel. I have to say though, I was born and raised in the Chicago Land area and if all of these airports had a Vienna Beef Hot Dog stand, that would be my first choice!
Sept. of this year on our way to Disney World we had a layover in Chicago and I must say the food and service sucked big time. I bought chinese food from the main food court and found a big long black hair (mine is short and brown) in my food. After I brought it back since I had to pay an exhorbitant price for it... I went over a few stalls down and bought a slice of pizza for my son. The people there were so rude to me it wasn't funny. A security guard standing at the register chatting it up with the employees had to remind them to give me my food and drink as they seemed to have forgotten to give it to me after I paid my money... never again will I consider eating at that airport. A waste of my time and money. BTW the chinese rest. didn't even apologize and they didn't want to give me back my money... but alas I won once I told the crowded line of potential patrons that I had a hair in my food and showed it to them as I waited the managers decision. Not nice I know but hey... $20 for a hairy plate of chow mein is a lot of money if you ask me. They didn't lose any customers because of the hair... still stayed in line to get the delicious concoctions.
In Pittsburgh Airport (PIT), O'Brien's Grille & Pub is the best place to eat if you have at least an hour.
Yeah, this is really a superb list. Believe me, I know. And who better to compile it than an intrepid CNN cameraman? Great work; I love it.
Geeeze... what happened to the grey turkey, jellied gravy, "steamed" broccoli (which next step would be soup), hard (I could use this as a weapon) rolls and a Brownie that had enough caffeine in it to keep you awake all of your flight served on a melmaline plate that was good for a soap dish at home? I really miss those days... the eatery foods in the airports pale by comparison.
Wow, thanks for the lively conversation this morning. I will be flying to Orlando from the White Plains Airport and stopping through Dulles in January. I look forward to the layover so I can eat loads of crap!
If you are at Reagan National, try Matsutake Sushi in front of terminal BC. Good enough to visit even if you aren't flying!
thanks for the article!
In baltimore (BWI) i enjoy DuClaw, strange name but great craft beer(get the 8 shot glass sampler) and decent food.
money is a issue for me, so i try to stay away from crab cakes!
Totally agree about Chicago. I once asked a travel agent for a *longer* layover so I could get a chili dog. (She thought it was hilarious). The fish chowder at Legals in Boston is also to die for. In New York, however, go for Nathans.
(While I'm at it, if you're taking Amtrak between Boston and NY there's a Rosie's Bakery in South Station on the Boston side, and a floating Sushi Bar in NY that are both notable).
There's a pub/grill in PIT that I always seem to end up eating at whenever I'm there before a flight - the name escapes me at the moment, but it's off the central shopping area. It's not bad. Not stellar, but not bad. My bigger weakness in PIT is the Godiva shop, just because chocolate is infinitely portable and I can get some goodies for later and stuff 'em in my carryon and have chocolatey bliss wherever I roam.
Anthony's in SEA is actually part of a local chain, but that doesn't change that I love the place. I always try to get to the airport early enough to sit down and enjoy a light meal and a glass of wine before subjecting myself to the vagaries of air travel. I seriously recommend planked salmon if you can get it. Alder- or cedar-planked salmon is one of the great food treasures of the Pacific Northwest, and Anthony's does this absolutely stellar roasted red-pepper beurre blanc sauce...damn it, now I'm hungry. Is it the best thing for you? Nah. Does it taste amazing? OH yes.
Get to the airport early, leisurely check-in, nice pre-flight meal, make sure a big bottle of water and some light snacks are easily accessible in-flight (I like dried fruit and salted peanuts, personally), and I'm generally quite happy and relaxed by the time I get to my destination.
New Belgium is a good choice at DEN. The food is good and filling, and the beer is first-rate. If you go there, see if they have any 1554. Absolutely, positively the best brew they make, and that's coming from someone who loves his Fat Tire and also enjoys the Sunshine.
If you need something quicker on B, Itza Wrap Itza Bowl, in the center core just off the main thoroughfare, is quite good. They're affiliated with Que Bueno (there's even some cross-pollenation in the menus), for those of you who like Que Bueno. Quick, cheap, and incredibly tasty, not to mention healthy as airport food goes.
If you want something more upscale, go to the Denver Chop House in the A Concourse.
If you're on the C Concourse, La Casita is wonderful. Their tamales are outstanding with either the red or green chile sauce, and the portions are actually human-sized. Their breakfasts are very tasty, as well.
Nice idea for an article, but the follow-through begs for this headline: "Sure-fire ways to have diarrhea at 35,000 feet."
Best place to eat in MSP (Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport) is not DQ or A&W...how boring. French Meadows – it has a nice ambiance with healthier dinning options – a true rarity these days!
I cant believe the author posted Chick Fil A as the place to go for the best regional food at Atlantas Hartsfield-Jackson airport. Granted its good chicken, but I can get that at the drive thru. I go thru ATL several times a year and make a beeline for Paschal's Southern Cuisine, there are 2 in the airport, I always go to the one in the Atrium. Wonderful fried chicken, mac and cheese, but the thing I crave are the sweet potatoes, they are unlike any I have ever had,after the 1st time I had them, thats the only thing I order, I even emailed them once asking what the spice was I couldnt identify, but of course got no reply. If you get a chance go to Paschals, have some sweet potatoes for me.
San Jose International Airport in California now has MOJO BURGER! A Mojo with Cheese meal is the standard. You'll get a good old fashioned burger, thick shake and great fries. They are a local favorite! For Vegetarians they have Boca Burgers too!
In DTW, my suggestion is the Sushi restaurant near the center of the Delta (mid-field) terminal. It's quite good and almost qualifies as regional food, given the automotive connection between Detroit and Japan.
In MSP, my restaurant of choice is Ike's, which has a local connection.
Tigin Irish Pub in Terminal D at DFW ... the Irish breakfast is fantastic!
You'd better not be hungry when you fly through Kansas City (MCI). In the Delta terminal, all the restaurants are OUTSIDE of the security area. Even then, it's slim pickings. The only thing inside security (at least at the Delta gates) is a little kiosk that sells yogurt parfaits, a few salads and a few sandwiches.
I recently went through Austin TX, about 4 miles from the airport is a place called Ray's, looks like a questionable neighborhood, but I got a 1/2 pound of brisket at 10:45 AM with two sides of BBQ sauce and walked the BBQ through security at the Austin airport. Got to my gate with an hour to spare and dang my belief in one off BBQ places stands firm, they know brisket. I can't get it that good up north.
PIT has like 5 Friday's and that's pretty much it. If you are there in the morning, don't waste an hour standing in line at McDonnalds or Au Bon Pain.....there is never a line at Sabarros! lol
Portland, ME airport! VERY good lobster roll! Small airport, but great restaurant!
Pittsburgh- Stop by Quaker, Steak and Lube- excellent wings.
You left out New Orleans... or is the only reason you go there is for the food?
Peeps – remember this article is about what "regional" foods to eat when on a layover!! We all know what's healthy to eat (fruit, bagel, water, etc.), but how often do you visit that you can't try something known to the area. Everything in moderation! (BTW, I'm still bummed that I missed out on Skyline Chili when I was in Cincy for a weekend a few years ago!)
all the airports have fresh fruit – i stick w/ that and a pack of pretzels.
If you would like to try a true Pittsburgh experience then you have to go to Primanti Brothers. Cheesesteak "No 2" bestseller complete with cole slaw and french fries in/on the sandwich. Also many more varieties all the better with the fries and slaw. There is not a Primanti's in Pittsburgh airport (yet) but there is a location relatively close by in the Moon Township business district near Robert Morris University. If you miss them in Pittsburgh they also have three locations coveniently located in the Fort Lauderdale area for those of us who need our fix before or after the beach. Of course Primanti's in the strip district in Pittsburgh is the best place to be around 2 am just after the bars close.
Fat, fat, and more fat. Are you sitting in first class where the seats are bigger? Write this column again in ten years when you are diabetic and on expensive prescription drugs.
I love the Philly pretzels at the Philly Airport.
CORKY'S Is the BEST BBQ in MEMPHIS . . . and, it's at the airport and around town!
That was a fun read, many of my favorites were on this list. I'd have to recommend to the author, however, that Squatter's Brewpub in SLC is much better (and my home base).
And now I'm hungry for Cincinnati chili!
If you're looking for a nice, relaxing sit-down restaurant between flights, MSP's Axel's Bonfire Is great! Grandma's Potroast is definitely a dish to write home about! Definitely try the Walleye Fingers, too. They'll melt in your mouth!!!
If you don't have quite as much time, try one Surdyk's Flights nice variety of panini sandwiches!
When in STL Lambert, go to Terminal 1 for Pasta House Company. They not only have the toasted ravioli, but they have an amazing house salad and pasta con broccoli. Also, try to get a taste of provel cheese – you can only get it in STL! If you have time, try to get to Ted Drewes for frozen custard – another STL tradtion!
I once had the pleasurable experience of waiting out a long layover in the tiny Nofolk, VA airport. Mostly military, but also commercial, the airport is separated into Military and non-Military wings. And once I figured THAT out and found my gate, I dashed back to the lil homegrown restaurant I passed earlier in the day. I was treated to an absolutely amazing she-crab bisque along with a simply perfect honey baked Viginia ham and swiss cheese melt. Also, their onion rings were to DIE for! The waitstaff were friendly, charming and amazingly effeicient as the place was bustling. I have no idea the name of the restaurant, but it was one of only 2-4, the others being major fast food chains. If, for whatever reason, you find yourself spending time in the Norfolk, VA airport (Civilian Wing!!) check the place out. Great food, amazing staff. I have yet to have another delightfully homecooked meal like that at another airport and try as I might, I can't seem to get another layover there! :(
EWR: Terminal C has a Jersey Diner. I've had breakfast and lunch there and it's a pretty decent version of a typical diner.
LGA now has many options, including Todd English's place Figs and an "outpost" of Brooklyn's DiFara pizza (it's run by the owner's son).
I almost thought the begining of this article was about me. :) I fly out from Norfolk and have a layover in O'hare before flying in to Des Moines. I always stop and get the ChiDogs (just no onions for me.) then there is a great little store right across from them ( I can't remember what it's called off the top of my head) and they have a little bit of a healthier selection. If I have a long layover I'll get some hummus and pretzels to snack on later. It's definitely one of my favorite places in O'hare.
Hey KB! I just posted about the Norfolk airport! Do you ever eat there? I had a phenominal meal at the airport's own restaurant and was blown away by yhe food and sevice. It was a while ago and I have yet to visit that airport again. Is that restaurant still there? The she-crab soup was heaven on EARTH!!
california tortilla at BWI/DCA/IAD is amazing. try the honey lime burrito...
Thanks for sharing your favorites! Would love to see a follow up with top airport healthy picks and top vegetarian picks. I can almost always find an Au Bon Pain or a Cosi (veggie sandwich, fresh-cut fruit cups, baby carrots), but it would be fun to hear about other options.
This guy is gonna be dead of a heart attack soon.
TM
If you're in the Jet Blue Terminal go to chipotle in the morning for the best breakfast burrito outside of Texas.
Axl's Bonfire in Plymouth and in the MSP airport are pretty awesome. Excellent walleye and steaks. The bull bites are fantastic as a meal in themselves! The Axl's in the airport serves breakfast, too, which is hard to jack up.
Dulles Airport. Five Guys is the best for burgers but if you want to go a little more upscale suggest you try Vino Volo.
Concourse C United Airlines and Concourse B – Gate 62. Great food and excellent choices for wine. the specialize in carrying a good selection of local wines as well as the standards, and the food is designed to be sourced locally to insure freshness. You can't go wrong.
The Anchor Bar in the Buffalo airport is classic – home of the buffalo wing! Gordon Biersch in both Washington airports is delish... their garlic fries are to die for, even though you seat mate will hate you and your stinking breath. I also love airports with Cibo/Cibo Express stations as their proscuitto and mozzarella with fig spread on super skinny baguette is my go-to item.
I bet you are fat as a pig and I pray I don't get stuck sitting next to you on the plane.
DFW: It's Urban Taco. It's not tacos like Taco Bell. It is this incredible Mexican food that you have to eat to believe. I will jump terminals at DFW to eat here. It even has a Bon Appetit rating. I fly 100+K miles a year and this is the best place to eat at an airport I have found. I would go there as a regular restaurant outside of an airport.
Totally agree – found Urban Taco on my last trip through DFW, and it was fantastic. Also great that they have healthy and vegetarian options. Amazed that it had no line while the McDonald's next to it had at least 20 people in line, ugh.
I fly through DFW at least once a month, and the food options have really improved in the last few years...used to be a vast wasteland of fast food like McDonald's, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell. Terminal D does have some of the best choices – wine bars, more expensive sit-down restaurants that cater to international travelers, etc. Oh, and Pappadeaux (listed under IAH) and Pappasito's have both recently opened locations in Terminal A.
Urban Taco, absolutely! Good enough I'd consider routing through DFW just to eat there.
There is a small place opposite Gate T3 at Atlanta-Hartsfield Airport. Sandwiches, and some hot food, as well. The Bourbon Chicken over rice is the best I've had anywhere!! (and I'm from New Orleans!)
DTW: Fox Sports Bar main entrance to "A" concourse – the Mexican cheese, egg and Sausage breakfast platter on a big soft taco shell is great but only up to about 10 AM; MSP – Sbarro off the moving walk between D and A/B/C has great pizza and they give 2 for 1 at the end of the night. MSP's DQ just off "D" seems to be one of the last to close at night; ATL – their Sbarro in A has well done baked Ziti. MEM? Does anyone actually fly through there? Your recommendation for BBQ @ Interstate? Not so much. Had that 2 weeks ago and it was far from memorable. SEA – this isnt in the airport, but just off Interstate Blvd @188TH ST is DAVES Diner – hidden behind the 7-11 and the Enterprise rental lot. Well worth the visit, 50's vintage with home cooking, home-made bread pudding and prime ribs served by wait staff all of whom are named "Flo."
Sbarros? Really?
Who are you, Michael Scott?
Gotta get me some Eli's Cheesecake when holed up in O'hare
Minneapolis (MSP) Airport – Ike's for great burgers and French Meadow Bakery Cafe for great healthy food and D'Amico & Sons for good Italian.
I don't eat when I fly. No airport food means my stomach will never get upset in-flight.
I've been through Reagan, Charlotte, Atl, and Memphis and everyplace he listed i've ate at and would high recommend them all. Especially Memphis's BBQ and Fiveguys. My flight gate out of DC was right beside Fiveguys. So it was real quick and simple to get it and get on.
French Meadow Bakery Cafe in Minneapolis. Cobb salad is awesome and bakery is fantastic. A slightly healthy twist but very flavorful.
Nonna's in Milwaukee. Awesome Italian food and run by the Bartolotta family who know their business. Unfortunately its only on 1 concourse.
Legal Seafood in Boston.
Too bad this has turned into social commentary instead of a listing of eateries in airports.
in SEA it has to be Ivar's. Best clam chowder anywhere!!
Anthony's in Sea-Tac has a quicker and cheaper delicious option right next to the sit-down restaurant. Grab a fish taco (the fish is grilled, not fried) and chips with fresh salsa! Less than $10 (closer to $6 but my memory fails me). I always try to get there early so I can indulge.
Dallas Fort Worth Airport
UFOOD Grill at terminal B-8
I'm a huge fan of food and this is by far one of the tastiest "healthy-foods" I have ever had!! The Turkey chipotle burger is awesome!!!
LAX
IN & OUT
You can not go wrong with it!
Acme Oyster House at New Orleans Louis Armstrong Airport. Great oysters and no hour wait like you get at the Acme in the Quarter. Only restaurant I ever stop in at the airport I ARRIVE at.
I'm not in the U.S. but my hometown airport has the worst food ever it's just chain store crud. If you ever get stuck at YOW...I'm sorry. I don't care if someone eats next to me on a flight...even an elbow to elbow WESTJET coach flight. Someone made a great point that it may be a dietary issue and someone needs to eat for their health. Like a diabetic...hypoglycemic etc.
The only thing worse than the general selection of food at the Ottawa International Airport (YOW) is the even more limited selection in YOW's U.S. Departures area. Once you pass through U.S. Customs at YOW, your culinary options are truly few and dismal.
It isn't exactly a meal, but you have to get Garrett's Popcorn at O'Hare (ORD). They have some of the best, most buttery little kernels you will ever find. The caramel and cheese are my favorite.
Minneapolis-St. Paul also has a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory store in their terminal. You can get delicious, huge mint truffels.
...oh, and Miami! Nothing to eat that's worth the time, money or calories in the entire place. I had a disgusting fish meal in some Caribbean-themed eatery there. I had an empanada at La Careta, and it was leaden.
Yeah, right, in a city as culturally diverse and culinarily sophisticated as Miami, there isn't a thing to eat. Four million people, and they all eat poop. Brilliant observations. Remind me to friend you for your insightful and urbane food critique.
Probably had a McD's feast teh rest of the time you were there, right? Another moron.
Miami may be culturally diverse, but it is certainly not diverse when it comes to food. Unless your idea of diverse only includes the western hemisphere. There may be 4 million people, but I've yet to find a Korean restaurant, there are possible THREE Indian restaurants, and lacking a whole bunch of other ethnic cuisines as well.
Sounds like the Michigan Upper Peninsula. If all you like is burgers and fries or pizza, that place is for you.
I was talking about the AIRORT TERMINAL in Miami, you pinhead! You do realize that this is a thread about where to eat in AIRPORTS? No?
Flippin' amazing.
Doghouse is a pinhead. Miami has no ethnic cuisine? In Miami you can find authentic cuisine from every country located in Central and South America, along with every island in the Caribbean. Take your hipster curry and BBQ dog meat and shove it.
I was in the ALBQ airport just recently, and ate enchiladas at La Hacienda. It was Glop in a Pie Tin (really - it's served in a tin pan with a cardboard top, so it looks like plate scrapings form the get-go). The green sauce is, admittedly, delicious. But a pound of mush covered in nice sauce is still a pound of mush. Maybe the burritos are better?
I can't believe that Boudin is all Harlan could come up with for SFO. The pickings are pretty good there, I'd go with Asian food.
I agree, I've had some great Japanese food at Tomokazu in the international terminal at SFO. There's also now decent sushi available at EWR in Terminal C.
If you leave LAX, having to go through that long security line again just to get a burger you're way too fat.
Gone through DFW a couple of times and I've enjoyed Cousin's BBQ and Urban Taco. They were both tasty and reasonably priced.
Pittsburgh has a great mall experience but the food choices are uninspired.
OHare, well Tuscany has a nice salsiccia dish and thin crust pizza. Pretty good but a little pricier than I would like. And it's always hard to pass up a Goose Island brew.
DEN: while I agree New Belgium is good, for any layover longer than two hours you cannot miss Que Bueno. Family-owned, cheap and delicious. Why the two-hour minimum? Order the fuego sauce, watch the entire staff smirk and you will understand.
If you're heading to the Milwaukee (Mitchell Field) airport, the hell with the airline food. Stop at Suburpia on the way to the airport. They have the best subs on the planet!!!!
Really? I like subs, but haven't been to Mitchell Field/Milwaukee in awhile. I will have to remember that. When in Milwaukee, I always make it to Leon's for custard. An old family favorite.
I love how the Memphis airport smells like barbecue! For me it is a welcome home, and I always crave it after a trip because the smell permeates the concourse. I don't usually get it at the airport, but i can hit Interstate or any number of top-notch bbq joints in the city. If you're just passing through, it's a must-have meal!
I fly back and forth between Pittsburgh and Baltimore constantly. It's a 37-minute flight. The next time some big fatty sits down on the plane with his or her giant, greasy cheeseburger or faux-Chinese food, I am going to punch said person in their throat. Can you pork chops not sit through a 30-minute flight without stuffing food in your fat faces? What is the obsession with eating at airpoirs and on planes? With the exception of insanely long layovers or weather delays, you should never be at an airport long enough to eat, anyway!
Mad at the world much?
Nope, not at all. . .just at those of you who take up twice as much of it as the rest of us, hambone!
I'm 5'9", 160 pounds. I agree with your thoughts, you just sound like you went off the deep end on us for a minute.
I am 6'1" 170 and I run marathons in my spare time. Until you know who it is you are angry at, may I suggest a hot cup at the STFU cafe on level one.
Your comment is ignorant in the extreme. First of all you need to be at the airport 90 minutes before your flight so that you can go through security. Second, lots of people don't live right next door to the airport, as you seem to. I think the plane noise is getting to you.
My BMI is 18, just this side of being underweight btw.
Sheeze, dring a beer, smoke some Jane, lighten' up....
Made me smile! Thanks!
Wow, you sound a little cranky. Has it been a long hectic day? Maybe you need to eat something.
Hey, Amish, you are a very cruel person. I agree that the smells of airport food brought aboard airplanes is offensive and is a problem for other passengers (and crew). But why the hateful comments about people's weight? I've had enough full-day, multi-airplane trips to know that the 40-minute flight you regularly infest might not be the first or even the second flight of the day for those hamburger eaters. Not long ago, I had to leave my home at 4:30 am to catch a 7 am flight, flew for a couple hours, changed planes with just a 30-minute layover, had another hour and a half of flying, got a rental car at my destination and drove for about an hour and a half. Neither of those flights served food, and there was barely time to get to the connection in the middle. And I had no time to eat before getting into the rental car. I can go a long time without eating, but someone with less tolerance of hunger (or a health issue that necessitated regular eating) would have had to grab a burger to take on the plane. Try working on your capacity for empathy and compassion, buddy.
... wow
I hope I sit next to you someday. Moron.
I am 6'5" 280. I hope I sit next to you on our next flight. I want to see you punch me in the throat.
^ LOL
ABQ may be smaller but it's one of the nicest, cleanest, most pleasant airports I've ever flown in and out of. I didn't eat at La Hacienda but was able to ship home bottles of red and green chiles that were amazingly good.
Ever visit the bathroom? Only airport I've ever been to with gang signs and and other graffiti carved into the stalls.
Really? ABQ is the only airport with gang signs and graffiti in the bathroom stalls? I beg to differ. I've seen same at PHX, LAX, SAN and LAS.
And further, what did ABQ ever do to you to make you so angry? Tell us where YOU live, buddy.
cool article.... Provided you have the time, eating at the airport is the best part of the layover.
Atlanta – Chik-Fil-A....really! The Atlanta Bread Co. is so much better! Chik-Fil-A????
Serious. I'd even take Popeye's to Chik-Fil-A. Blah.
By the way, a 35 pound halibut is what's called a "chicken". You can easily nab one in the 150-200 pound range. World record is 400+ pounds. 459, I think.
No that Austin is a huge layover spot but the food in that airport is better than any other one I've been in. All the vendors are locally owned and serve tex-mex, asian, bbq, "comfort" food, and have many options for vegetarian and vegan travelers. The only chain restaurant is Schlotzsky's which was started in Austin. For the drinkers, they serve Texas and local microbrews along with the typical stuff. Pretty sure it is the only airport that you can get a brisket breakfast taco before your morning flight.
The Salt Lick at AUS is THE place for BBQ. Even when the airport is dead (read - Saturday afternoon/evening) there is always a line at The Salt Lick, usually uniformed flight crew and airport personnel. Combined with live music on the concourse and you've got yourself a pleasant layover experience.
The Salt Lick is where it's at!
Mmmmm a brisket sandwich and a Mexican vanilla shake from Amy's=awesomest layover ever.
Some Amy's ice cream will make your wait a little sweeter at AUS.
Also a really pretty airport with local artists' work displayed in cases.
This is international, but Seoul-Incheon has the best international food court I have ever seen. Well worth the time, and you can get virtually anything you can name.
That is a pretty cool airport, minus the cabbies looking for fresh young ignorant American soldiers coming in country. There is a free bus to give them rides to Osan Air Base, but unless you are not informed of this beforehand you could be in for an expensive cab ride. Seen a few tools get shammed this way, lol. The cabbies over there are aggressive!
I LOVE that airport. Oddly, Asiana airlines requires a 8 hour layover on all flights connecting from VN to the US, but we never mind. Do a little shopping, and get some lunch and maybe use one of the sleeping lounges for a nap. Nice way to snooze before the lengthy twip home and get in some people watching.
I agree about the cabbies though. VN is the exact same way. If you are going into Seoul from the airport, the best route is usually the bus. (assuming you are not military)
Also, red lights are a suggestion in S. Korea. Was on more than a few interesting rides.
Never mind the previous 2 boo-hoos, I'm totally with you on this. Miami's La Carreta is awesome Cuban food! Pappadeaux's gumbo at Houston is a truly delicious alternative to airport food. Chi City's hot dogs with the nuclear green relish are not to be missed. The LAX In-N-Out can be reached for free via The Parking Spot shuttle. The Parking Spot is on Sepulveda, right next to the In-N-Out.
Nice tip on the LAX In-N'-Out "shuttle"
OK, two comments for you. #1 I was going to post that In n Out is definitely NOT worth cabfare, but you provided a good solution for that!
#2 What is up with SWISS cheese on a Cuban sandwich? Sounds pretty bad.
Actually, Swiss cheese is the only way to go! These sandwiches are delicious and, if you've never tried one, you're really missing something great! Tip: If it's ice-cold when you get it, pop it in the microwave for 10 seconds. Trust me.
erm, for the uninitiated, Swiss cheese is the PROPER cheese on a Cuban Sandwich. Swiss Cheese, ham, roast pork, mustard, pickles, on Grilled-flat Cuban bread. Delicious.
La Carreta is worth a side trip and an extra half hour early arrival if you're going through MIA. Every time I'm there, I stock up and take some home with me. Best reasonably priced airport food EVER, like abuelita cooked it!
The worst thing ever is to sit in the terminal and see travelers stuffing themselves on greasy takeout like hotdogs, fried chicken, pizza, burgers etc., before boarding a flight. I always hope these eaters are not my seatmates who will end up barfing or running to the bathroom during the whole flight. Do yourself and all of us a favor and eat light while on a layover, a bowl of soup or fruit. Drink orange juice or water on the flight and enjoy eatting your meal when you arrive at your final destination.
You realize that some flights land very late at night, correct? Sorry, not going to starve to suit you.
Really, is that the worst thing EVER? Gosh, if someone eats that fried chicken, you may have to get out of your seat during a flight so they can go to the restroom, how awful for you. I would think some of the worst things ever are war, famine, terminal diseases, rape, starvation, just to name a few.
ah yes, have that soup and juice in the liely event you'll end up sitting next to the person you may want to please, and most likely, never see again! After all, god forbid we upset anybody. Hmmm, should I have the hot dog for myself, or the apple so that I can appease any stranger out there that may be judging me? Tough decision. who gives a crap what others are eating. Certainly, it is annoying when sitting next to somebody when they are noshing away on food that smells disgusting or squirts crap all over–that entails consideration. But you cross the line when you just others on what they are eating. If I want a freaking french fry I'm going to eat one. screw the apple.
Never barfed from Pizza, Chicken, Burgers or Pizza~ Miss Priss!!!
As a frequent flyer who also has Celiac disease, eating in airports can be tough. I am always looking for suggestions and I appreciate these. If you are passing through Las Vegas (LAS) or nursing a hangover while waiting for your flight home, check out Taquerilla in the C terminal. Great mexican food, especially breakfast and they will serve corn tortillas for those of us who cannot have wheat flour. And yes, this is Vegas, you can get a bloody mary to tide you over or a margarita to celebrate your winnings.
My recent layover in Las vegas felt like an exceptionally bad pizza dream Ugly, oddly dressed, coarse people, slot machines), smelly food, noise, overcrowding, inadequate ventilation and heat buildup in the badly designed terminals (all those windows in the desert?). The last think I would ever want is to eat anything there. i wanted OUT, and as quickly as possible.
Not going back? More strippers for me! =D
Reading this, I'm already nauseous.
This sad and sorry chronicle is the reason three-quarters of America is overweight. Hot dogs, for Pete's sake? Do you have any *clue* what goes *into* one of those things? If you take a piece of one to the County Health Department, they'll test it and classify it as toxic *waste*.
I travel nearly 100,000 miles per year on business. I've been to most of these airports, and I can tell you that there are healthier alternatives – but no matter. Here are some hints:
1. Unless you're staying at Motel 6, have the hotel make you a lunch. Most are happy to do so. Guaranteed, you'll get better food, and you won't have to suffer on your layover.
2. On the way to the airport, you can always find a convenience-store, where you can find an apple, a premade-salad, or something similar. In fact, a lot of airport newsstands and coffee-shops now carry such items.
3. One word: Starbuck's. Every airport has one. You can buy the aforementioned apple, plus a bottle of water, right there along with your cappucino-to-go.
Happy flying!
nice speech
thanks for the lecture, mom. let us make our own decisions. i bet you are for more government, too. good lord. I bet your are a treat to live with.
I am sure any apple Starbucks sells is probably tasteless. Not like they are getting them from the farmers' market or anything. Also, this article clearly appears to be directed at leisure travelers, where passing through one of these airports would be a rare occurrence. I agree, if you are traveling all the time, by all means save your arteries.
You don't have a lot of room to talk about the sad state of food affairs in the country if you then go on to recommend Starbucks. Apple or no apple, the Starbucks obsession has been equally as detrimental, I'd say, to the country's current obesity epidemic and prevalence of metabolic issues as has people's dependence on fast food. (You know, McDonald's sells apples and bottles of water, too.)
Just because someone opts to take his or her 500+ calories and 53 carbs in the form of a brand name over-roasted grande froofy coffee drink rather than a cheeseburger does not make it a healthier option or establishment. At least the person who eats the hot dog might feel full for a few hours from the protein in the food. The average Frappuccino drinker is just consuming empty calories and carbs that lead him or her to go look for another 550 calories in the form of a scone or bagel to go with it.
LOL, you have a tirade about the unhealthy food mentioned in this article and at the end you mention a cappuccino? Are you kidding, do you know how many calories and fat are in a cappuccino? Your a hypocrite to say the least.
A cup of whole milk has 150 calories. Espresso has about zero. A cappuccino might have half a cup of milk in it. hence, around 75 calories, Kidsmenu.
Or were you thinking of those Starbucks mochachino drinks made with cream and sugar?
Hotdogs at a baseball game rock! You sound like a healthnut. Get a life!
You are a communist idiot. People like you are the reason this country is not as good as it could be. The writer is telling you where to eat if you happen to be flying. Only a loser like you would ask your hotel to make you a little sack lunch like a pre-schooler asking mommy. You are probably the type of person that sends your petit filet back if it is a tad undercooked. Move to China where you have to freedom to eat what you want, you communist.
All of your holier-than-thou tirade about other people's personal eating choices aside, if hot dogs were "toxic waste" as you say, they wouldn't be being made. Nice try with the scare tactic language.
Think politicians and political pundits are bad? People talking about food are just as bad. I love the people who go on and on about eating organic foods (isn't food, by definition, organic?) who have no interest in figuring out why the VERY poverty stricken US can't afford to eat anything but terrible carb-loaded crap. Poverty tends to equal squeezing as much caloric intake into as little dollar value as possible. Should we all eat our fresh veggies from the farmer's market? Of course, but even with making a semi-livable wage, I refuse to pay $3 for a farmer's market cucumber.
Why did you even read this blog? Obviously you are not a foodie.
Wow.....you sound exciting. Live a little.
That capachino is probably worse for you than the hot dog. Do you know how much sugar is in those? How about we just let people eat what they like when they're on travel. Most people don't travel 100000 miles/year and that layover at Ohare might be the only time they ever set foot in Chicago. Let them have a hot dog. And top it off with an Italian beef sandwich and a slice of deep dish.
Choke on your illegal immigrant-picked e-coli-laced lettuce, rabbit boy.
Can we talk about the other "epidemic" destroying our "nation" right "now". Yes, I'm referring the the "gratuitous" "quotation" "marks" epidemic.
Toxic waste and a Starbucks commercial? Really? Are you bi-polar?
Albuquerque sucks. Was stationed there for 3.5 years. If you pay attention, about half of COPS episodes are filmed there.
I lived in Alb for about 17 years. I now watch Cops just to see my old stomping grounds! As for food at the airport, it's a small airport without many options. La Hacienda is the best they have there – and I like the way the lady behind the counter called me 'sweetie.'
she probably felt sorry for you
Oh boy! She called you sweetie! You sound like a loser.
Yeah? Well where do YOU live, bud? Perhaps I might be allowed to make a snap judgement of your hometown or place of residence. More episodes of COPS were filmed in Spokane and Ft Worth and I've visited both cities and had a pleasant experience. Yes, they've filmed a lot of episodes here, but so what? As a 35+ year resident I get really, really ticked off when ABQ is not shown the love. You were here 3.5 years? And how often did you get out to see what we have to offer locally? There's a lot more to do and see than a lot of people would have you think. Yes, La Hacienda is probably the best place on the concourse for food-on-the-go, and I often see Southwest flight crews lined up for some lunch or dinner to take with them. And ABQ is one of the prettiest airports in the country.
My hometown is a famous area for vacationers and fisherman: Kenai, Alaska. You know, that state with a massive tourism industry, cruises, world famous fishing, boating, amongst many other things? I don't recall seeing hookers and drug dealers on OUR Central Avenue.
We had a saying when I was in your hometown: "New Mexico, the Land of Entrapment". I stand by my statement. Albuquerque sucks.
Im with you, I LOVE ABQ. Beautiful city, beautiful airport. Yes it is small, but by golly, just the thought of some green chili stew in ABQ gets my blood pumping.
Agreed. ABQ pretty much sucks in general.
Isn't this article about food in airports? Not about your beef with a particular city? Start your own blog, then you can pretend people care about your opinion.
And I care about your retort for what reason?
You live in Alaska and you say that Albuquerque sucks? I'd much rather be able to hike all year round than be snowbound nine out of twelve months. I'll stay in New Mexico, you can keep Alaska.
You've never been to Alaska, have you? I can tell.
I'm from Alaska. I currently live in Wisconsin. I can tell you the winters in the Mid-West are much more severe than any I've experienced in Alaska. AK is a big state. Anytime you can board a Boeing 737, fly for 5 hours and still be in the same state would indicate there are different climates within said region. Read a book before commenting on things. Alaska stretches from nearly Seattle to the North Pole and is only 23 miles at it's closest point from Russia.
* 3 miles