Must eats 2024: Insider tips for gourmets at international airports
Welcome to our culinary guide to the world of airport restaurants! When preparing for a journey, many people don’t necessarily think about culinary delights, especially during an airport stopover. However, the world of airport restaurants often hides hidden gastronomic gems and first-class culinary experiences that can tantalise your taste buds. In this article, we will not only present the hidden gems, but also the best restaurants in the categories of sandwiches, sushi and pizza at international airports. Dive into the world of indulgence and discover how airport restaurants can be more than just a quick bite to eat between flights. We also take a look at tipping habits in different continents to give you a comprehensive insight into international catering.
Discover the top restaurants and culinary experiences at international airports that have become a “must eat” by 2024:
- Gordon Ramsay’s Burger – Doha International Airport: Savour the culinary art of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, even during a short stopover. https://www.gordonramsayrestaurants.com/gordon-ramsay-burger-doha/
- Obrycki’s – Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI): This legendary restaurant is known for its first-class crab dishes and offers passengers an unrivalled selection of fresh seafood in a cosy atmosphere. https://www.obryckis.com
- The Perfectionists’ Café – London Heathrow Airport: Heston Blumenthal’s innovative cuisine ensures an unforgettable flavour experience.https://www.heathrow.com/at-the-airport/restaurants-a-z/hestons-the-perfectionists-cafe
- Bubbles Seafood & Wine Bar – Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS): This stylish restaurant offers a selection of exquisite seafood and fine wines from around the world for passengers to enjoy in an elegant atmosphere. https://www.schiphol.nl/en/at-schiphol/eat-and-drink/facilities/bubbles-seafood-and-winebar/
- Airbräu – Munich Airport (MUC): As Germany’s only brewery in the airport, Airbrau offers an authentic Bavarian experience with freshly brewed beer and traditional dishes such as pork knuckle and pretzels. https://www.munich-airport.de/airbraeu/de
More must-eat restaurants at international airports
- One Flew South – Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: Known for its fusion of Southern and international cuisine, this restaurant offers a sophisticated menu ranging from sushi to Southern fried chicken. https://oneflewsouthatl.com
- Caviar House & Prunier Seafood Bar – Zurich Airport: This oasis for seafood lovers presents fresh caviar and first-class fish dishes that add a touch of luxury to the journey. https://www.flughafen-zuerich.ch/de/passagiere/einkaufen-und-geniessen/essen-und-trinken/alles-essen-und-trinken/seafood-bar
- Salt Lick BBQ – Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, US: Enjoy authentic Texan barbecue at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport with succulent meat and delicious side dishes that will make your mouth water. https://saltlickbbq.com/airport-locations/
- Kitchen by Mike – Sydney Airport, Australia: This Sydney Airport restaurant offers a selection of fresh and healthy dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients to tantalise your taste buds. https://www.sydneyairport.com.au/eat/kitchen-by-mike/
- Marché Restaurant – Zürich Airport, Switzerland: The Marché Restaurant at Zurich Airport offers a variety of fresh, high-quality dishes prepared before your very eyes, providing you with a unique culinary experience. https://www.flughafen-zuerich.ch/de/passagiere/einkaufen-und-geniessen/essen-und-trinken/alles-essen-und-trinken/marche-restaurant
- Tortas Frontera – Chicago O’Hare International Airport, US: At Tortas Frontera at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, you can look forward to authentic Mexican cuisine, including savoury tortas, tacos and fresh guacamole that will delight your taste buds. https://www.rickbayless.com/restaurants/tortas-frontera/
Favourite authentic delicacies: The favourite food of airport passengers
The most popular food options for passengers at airports are often quick, convenient and easy to consume. But does speed also mean reduced quality? Not always, which is why we have picked out the favourites among sandwiches, pizza and sushi restaurants for you.
Sandwiches
- Pret A Manger – Heathrow Airport, London, UK: Enjoy fresh and varied sandwiches, wraps and salads at Pret A Manger in Terminal 5 at Heathrow Airport for a healthy and delicious snack before or after your flight. https://www.heathrow.com/at-the-airport/restaurants-a-z/pret-a-manger
- Café Versailles – Miami International Airport, Florida, US: Located in Terminal D of Miami International Airport, Cafe Versailles offers authentic Cuban cuisine, including delicious grilled pork, ham and cheese sandwiches that delight with traditional Cuban flavours. https://www.shopmiamiairport.com/directory/cafe-versailles-north-terminal-d-5/
Sushi
- Sushi Kyotatsu – Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT), Japan: Sushi Kyotatsu is a renowned sushi chain that can be found at several locations in Narita International Airport. It is known for its fresh ingredients, traditional preparation and high-quality sushi. https://www.narita-airport.jp/en/shop/shop-search/t2mn02_sushikyotatsu_j7/
- Sushi Tei – Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), Singapore: Sushi Tei is a prestigious sushi restaurant at Changi Airport, known for its wide selection of sushi and Japanese dishes. It offers fresh and high quality ingredients and an elegant atmosphere. https://sushitei.com
- Itacho Sushi – Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), Hong Kong: Itacho Sushi is a well-known sushi chain with several locations in Hong Kong International Airport. It is known for its fresh and high-quality ingredients as well as its varied sushi menu. https://www.hongkongairport.com/en/shop-dine/dining/sushi-sake
Pizza
- Pizza Flor – Mailand Malpensa Airport, Italy: Pizza Flor at Milan Malpensa Airport offers an authentic Italian pizza experience with crispy crust and delicious toppings. Enjoy a variety of traditional and creative pizzas in this cosy restaurant that will delight your taste buds.https://milanomalpensa-airport.com/en/airport/bar-restaurants/detail?id=2257000002127173
- Pizza Chef – Rome Airport: The Pizza Chef restaurant in Rome is a favourite destination for pizza lovers at the airport. With its cosy atmosphere and wide selection of delicious pizzas, it offers travellers an ideal opportunity to indulge in a traditional Italian speciality before or after their flight. https://www.rome-airport.info/food-and-drink.html
- Carluccio’s – London Heathrow Airport, UK: This restaurant offers a wide selection of authentic Italian dishes, from homemade pasta to traditional antipasti.https://www.carluccios.com/restaurants/london-marriott-heathrow/
- Vino Volo Wine Bar – Toronto Pearson International Airport: As part of the renowned Vino Volo chain, this elegant restaurant and wine shop offers travellers a wide selection of first-class wines from all over the world. But Vino Volo is not just about wine – the menu also impresses with a variety of delicious dishes that pair perfectly with the wines. Among these delicacies, the pizza is a real highlight. https://www.torontopearson.com/en/while-you-are-here/toronto-airport-restaurants/vino-volo-wine-bar
Tipping in international restaurants
It is important to find out about local customs and practices regarding tipping before travelling internationally in order to avoid misunderstandings and to behave respectfully towards the local culture.
- Europe: In many European countries, a small tip of around 5-10% is appreciated as a sign of appreciation. In some restaurants, the tip is already included in the bill and noted as a service charge.
- United States: Tipping is widespread in the USA and is generally expected in restaurants, bars and other service areas. A typical tip is around 15-20% of the total bill.
- Asia: In some Asian countries such as Japan, tipping is not customary and can even be considered rude. In other countries such as China and South Korea, tipping is not expected, but it is accepted in tourist areas or international hotels.
- Arab countries: Tipping is common in many Arab countries and is usually expected in restaurants, hotels and other service areas. The amount of the tip can vary, but it is usually around 10-15% of the total bill in restaurants and bars. However, in some countries in the Arab region, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, tipping may be considered inappropriate or undesirable in some situations, especially in luxurious environments where a high level of service is already expected.
- Africa: Tipping is common in African countries and is usually expected in restaurants, bars, hotels and other service industries. The amount of the tip can vary, but it is usually around 10-15% of the total bill in restaurants and bars. In some countries it may also be customary to tip for other services such as porters, taxi drivers and tour guides.
- Oceania: In Australia and New Zealand, tipping is not as common as in some other countries, but it is appreciated in some situations, especially in high-end restaurants and hotels. The amount of the tip is usually around 10% of the total bill in restaurants and bars. In other countries in Oceania such as Fiji, Samoa and Tonga, tipping may also be expected or appreciated in some situations, especially in tourist areas.
Overall, international airports offer an impressive variety of culinary experiences that go far beyond a quick meal. From exquisite sushi restaurants to savoury sandwiches and delicious pizza, there’s something for everyone. We hope this article has inspired you to go off the beaten track on your next trip and discover the gastronomic treasures that await you at airports around the world. And remember to leave an appropriate tip at the end of your meal to respect local customs and cultures. Enjoy your meal and have a pleasant journey!
