Classy Airport Food

Forget the stale peanut and overly salty pretzels of the past — airports are getting a gourmet makeover. Trendy new restaurants are popping up in terminals across the globe; these tasty new finds may encourage you to actually get to the airport early.

From wine bars to locavore fare, airports are shifting from fast food to more conscious and upscale options. Many new restaurants offer local foods and give each airport a distinct personality — you’ll find BBQ in the South, wine in California and bagels in New York.

The vegan sensation Real Food Daily serves breakfast, brunch and lunch at LAX while Ink.Sack serves more meat-based fare. Other notable stops include the freshly baked goodies from La Brea Bakery and Pink’s hotdogs (an iconic fixture in Hollywood).

Hop over to JFK (New York City) for Aeronuova an upscale Italian restaurant created by chef Mark Ladner. Try the nearby Piquillo for Spanish tapas and sandwiches. These Zagat-worthy restaurants will whet your appetite for a stay in the Big Apple.

It seems airports are finally responding to travelers’ needs to unwind, have a nice glass of wine and enjoy a meal on their way from place to place. There’s no reason the vacation can’t start the minute you step in the airport.