This Is The Best Airport Food In The U.S.
Travelers going through a terminal at Chicago O’Hare, or even indulgent locals wanting to make a special trip, have a unique culinary opportunity. A restaurant at O’Hare has been named by Conde Nast Traveler as the best airport restaurant in the U.S.
The honor goes to Rick Bayless, specifically his Tortas Frontera, which operates three locations at O’Hare.
The chef acknowledged the recognition with a tweet that responded to a foodie’s congratulations.
Just ate it myself. I agree ? RT @toddjolmstead Thank u for the world’s greatest airport food #realtalk #blessed pic.twitter.com/gUNIYsGEKF
— Rick Bayless (@Rick_Bayless) September 28, 2014
In addition to its locations at O’Hare, Tortas Frontera is also in downtown Chicago and the University of Pennsylvania, according to the chain’s official website. The restaurant promotes the fact that they source their food locally and serve sustainably-produced meats and dairy. Coffees and teas are fair trade.
Airport food has long evolved from a solitary coffee cart in an abandoned wing of an empty terminal or even the vast, unappetizing selection of fast-food fare. While that cuisine still has its place in the nation’s airports, the quality of food and beverage selections is increasing. Travelers can now expect not only good food but a high-scale shopping experience, especially in major cities.
Last week a local ABC News report listed the several new food and retail options that are soon to set up shop at Reagan National and Dulles International airports in Washington. The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is overhauling all offerings for travelers who want to eat or buy while waiting for a flight. Sixty new stores and eateries are planned between the two airports. Officials are “working” to bring in such international luxury brand retailers as Michael Kors, Burberry, and L’Occitane.
Boston’s Logan airport is also using its space to promote local food offerings from Massachusetts. The Boston Globe reported earlier this month that Berkshire Farms Market is selling locally canned preserves and other artisan items from its newly-installed Logan location. Sales are on track to hit $3.7 million this year, far above the $1.7 million predicted. The Berkshire Farms location is one of a few food markets offering local and sustainable food items in airports throughout the U.S.
Upgrades for Reagan International include renovations to the food courts in Terminals B and C, for travelers who want quick but appetizing dining on the go.
Rick Bayless has a number of restaurants under a variety of brand names that serve Mexican cuisine.
[Image: Google]
