Airports With The Best Restaurants & Food
We may be compensated when you click on links from one or more of our advertising partners. recommendations and opinions are ours alone. See our Advertiser Policy for more details.
Traveling is not just about the destination, it’s about the journey. In our opinion getting a good meal while you are on the road can make or break the experience.
While usually we are ranking airlines with the best food in the sky, we should also be considering the airport experience.
Airports have traditionally been places to get a quick cold sandwich or a forgettable fast food meal (because we all know that eating McDonald’s at the airport doesn’t count towards breaking our diets).
However, in recent years, that has dramatically changed with many more airports investing in better food selection.
Airports worldwide have upped their game, providing conveniences and facilities and aiming to satiate the taste buds of millions of travelers. From gourmet dining, street-style food, to fast casual chains opening up, airports are now becoming culinary hotspots.
While we are not including lounges in this breakdown, we will embark on a journey, spotlighting some of the airports with the best food offerings that give a taste into a local cities cuisine.
1. Narita International Airport (NRT), Japan
A gateway to the country, Narita International Airport reflects Japan’s rich culinary culture from the moment you step inside. The airport has many dining options, from traditional to modern, including a must-visit is Sushi Kyotatsu, where travelers can indulge in authentic sushi rolls prepared by skilled chefs. For those craving a warm bowl of noodles, Tentei offers heavenly udon and tempura.
Narita’s food offerings show a commitment to authentic Japanese flavors, making it stand out and providing a taste of the country before you leave the airport. With each dining spot, there’s an emphasis on quality ingredients and meticulous preparation, truly capturing the essence of Japanese cuisine. All of this contributes to making Narita one of the airports with the best food in the world.
In total, Narita has about 86 different restaurants mostly consolidated into Terminals 1 and 2 with a full list can be viewed here.
2. Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), Singapore
Singapore Changi Airport is not just an airport; it’s a food lover’s paradise. Widely recognized as one of the world’s best airports, Changi takes culinary offerings to another level. One can embark on a gastronomic journey through Asia without even leaving the terminal. Kinetic Garden is popular, providing a range of Singaporean dishes like Hainanese chicken rice and laksa. The Peranakan Gallery offers a glimpse into the Peranakan culture, pairing it with mouthwatering Nyonya cuisine.
For travelers with a penchant for fine dining, O’Learys delivers a luxe experience. Its range, reflecting Singapore’s multicultural heritage, makes Changi exceptional. Whether you’re craving spicy Indian curries, sumptuous Chinese dim sum, or rich Malay rendang, Changi has the ideal pre-flight meal, making layovers an experience to look forward to.
3. Incheon International Airport (ICN), South Korea
Incheon International Airport, often praised as one of the best airports globally, is a testament to South Korea’s fast advancement, evident in its culinary offerings. Here, travelers can dive deep into the flavors of Korean cuisine without venturing outside— which makes it one of the airports with the best food in the world. A standout choice is Bibimbap Jeongsik, perfect for those eager to try the iconic Korean dish, bibimbap, with its perfect blend of rice, vegetables, meat, and spicy gochujang.
Then there’s Myung Ga, a place where traditional Korean stews and grills come alive, reminding one of the streets of Seoul. For a twist on classics, Paik’s Noodles offers quick yet flavorful takes on beloved noodle dishes. This airport has a traditional and contemporary balance, mirroring South Korea’s blend of history and modernity. It’s not just about filling your belly before a flight but also indulging in a cultural experience.
4. Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), USA
In the heart of the southern United States, Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport offers a culinary spread that is as diverse and expansive as the country it serves. The Southern charm is palpable in dining spots like Paschal’s, where travelers can indulge in classic Southern fare, such as crispy fried chicken, creamy collard greens, and luscious peach cobbler. But the airport’s offerings aren’t limited to Southern cuisine. The Varasano’s Pizzeria is a must-visit for pizza lovers, boasting a Neapolitan crust that receives lots of praise.
One Flew South stands out as a refined dining spot, blending flavors from around the world while still paying tribute to Southern roots. The diversity at this airport is its strength, ensuring that whether you’re in the mood for sushi, tacos, or a classic American burger, you’re in for a treat. It captures the American melting pot spirit, all under one roof.
5. Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), USA
At Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Texas is mirrored in sprawling terminals and diverse culinary offerings. To begin, Cousin’s Bar-B-Q encapsulates the essence of Texas with its slow-smoked meats and classic southern sides, serving up hearty dishes reminiscent of a Texan backyard barbecue. Whiskey River offers a mix of gourmet meals and an impressive selection of whiskies for those craving a more refined dining experience. And if you’re in the mood for authentic Tex-Mex, Pappasito’s Cantina is the go-to, with its sizzling fajitas and legendary margaritas.
What’s admirable about DFW is its ability to capture the broad strokes of American cuisine while also dialing into the specific tastes and flavors that make Texas unique. From steaks to tacos and craft beers to fine wines, DFW ensures your belly is full and ready for an in-flight nap.
6. O’Hare International Airport (ORD), USA
In the Windy City’s prime flying gateway, travelers can expect a blast of culinary brilliance reflective of Chicago’s dynamic food scene. No trip through O’Hare is complete without stopping by Tortas Frontera by Chef Rick Bayless. The establishment is praised for its mouthwatering tortas and fresh guacamole, embodying authentic Mexican flavors with a touch of Chicago’s modern flair.
Reggio’s Pizza Express serves up a slice of the city’s cheesy, saucy heritage for those who crave the iconic deep-dish pizza. But if you’re looking for something light and fresh, Wicker Park Seafood & Sushi brings an elevated dining experience with its delicious sushi rolls and seafood dishes. O’Hare is not just a transit point but a microcosm of Chicago’s culinary world.
7. Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), Taiwan
At the crossroads of modernity and tradition, Taoyuan International Airport reflects Taiwan’s cuisines, making it one of the airports with the best food in the world. Here, travelers get an introduction to the island’s vibrant food culture. A highlight for many is Chun Shui Tang, the birthplace of bubble tea, offering travelers a taste of the authentic, creamy beverage filled with chewy tapioca balls. For those craving a heartier meal, Lao Zhang Beef Noodles is a nod to Taiwan’s famous beef noodle soup, simmered to perfection and bursting with flavor.
The airport also showcases various dumplings, from delicate xiao long bao to potstickers, at establishments like DimDimSum. Each meal at this airport tells a story, ensuring that even those just passing through leave with a memory of Taiwan’s rich culinary heritage.
8. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), USA
Like the sprawling city it serves, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a melting pot of cultures, flavors, and cuisines. At LAX, travelers can embark on a gastronomic tour around the world without boarding a plane. Ink.sack by Chef Michael Voltaggio delivers gourmet sandwiches with creative twists, a nod to LA’s contemporary culinary innovation. For those wishing to taste Southern California’s Mexican cuisine, Trejo’s Tacos dishes out tacos with flair and flavor, embodying the spirit of LA’s street food scene.
The elegant Petrossian Caviar & Champagne Bar offers luxury, allowing travelers to indulge in fine caviar and bubbly before their flights. From upscale dining to on-the-go bites, there’s a taste of Los Angeles at every corner of this airport.
9. Haneda Airport (HND), Japan
Located closer to the heart of Tokyo than its counterpart Narita, Haneda Airport provides travelers with a deep dive into Japan’s gastronomic wonders in a convenient and captivating setting. One of its jewels is Edo Koji, a dining and shopping street that mirrors old Edo’s ambiance, offering a range of traditional Japanese dishes. Here, one can savor bowls of rich ramen, fresh sashimi, and perfectly grilled yakitori.
Sushi Iwa promises an authentic experience for sushi enthusiasts, with chefs meticulously preparing each piece with the freshest ingredients. If you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting, Dashi Chazuke En serves up chazuke – a simple yet flavorful dish of rice submerged in a rich broth. Each bite is a journey through Japan’s culinary history, making layovers feel like short culinary trips to the country’s various regions.
10. Jeju International Airport (CJU), South Korea
Jeju International Airport, the main gateway to South Korea’s picturesque island of Jeju, serves as an appetizing introduction to the island’s unique culinary delights. Jeju, known for its beaches and volcanic landscapes, boasts a cuisine influenced by its ocean and fertile land. At the airport, travelers are treated to local specialties that are hard to find elsewhere. Establishments like Haenyeo’s Kitchen offer dishes centered around fresh seafood, particularly abalone and cuttlefish, which are iconic to Jeju’s cuisine.
Jeju Black Pork BBQ joints introduce visitors to the famed Jeju black pork, grilled to perfection and bursting with flavor. Also, don’t miss out on the hallabong juice made from Jeju’s signature tangerines. Jeju International Airport is dedicated to local flavors, giving travelers a delicious taste of the island’s rich gastronomic heritage even before they step outside.
Summary & Takeaways
Airports have long been viewed as mere transit points, spaces to hurry through en route to our final destinations. However, as evident from the culinary wonders in these global hubs, they have evolved into gastronomic destinations in their own right. From the authentic flavors of Jeju’s coastline to the diverse palates of Los Angeles, every airport offers a unique dining experience that reflects the essence of its home city or country.
So the next time you find time to spare before a flight or during a layover, consider it an opportunity. Dive into the rich culinary landscapes these airports offer, and let your taste buds embark on a journey even before takeoff. After all, every moment can be a delicious adventure in the world of travel.
