Holiday travel: Best places to eat and drink at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Best places to eat and drink at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Andrew Thomas Lee

At Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, pre-flight dining options range from fast food to fine dining and everything in between. After all, it is the busiest airport in the world, and there is no doubt that it offers a diverse range of food options to accommodate all its passengers.

If you’re going on vacation or heading back home for the holidays, check out some of the many great places to eat and drink as you pass through Hartsfield-Jackson. There’s something for everyone, whether you want a quick bite as you run to your gate, a sit-down dinner with a delicious cocktail before a long flight, or coffee and a sweet treat. Some of these may not be near your gate, but we guarantee they’re worth a trip on the plane train.

Note: The list below is in order, starting with the atrium, then Concourses T, A, B, C, D, E and F, as shown here on the airport map.

Atlanta Chophouse and Brewery

Before going through security, enjoy a hearty and filling meal at this two-story steakhouse with a delicious 12-oz New York Strip, shaved prime rib sandwich, or classic Reuben sandwich paired with a cold draft beer.

Location: Atrium (Pre-security); Website: airport-atl.com/atlanta-chophouse-brewery; Contact: 470-343-7573

Papi’s Caribbean Cafe

This authentic Cuban eatery in Concourse T offers a taste of Havana. Order a Cubanito as a pick-me-up, then try some classics like empanadas, tostones, and, of course, their signature Rey’s Cuban sandwich.

Location: Concourse T; Website: papisgrill.com/hartsfield-jackson; Contact: 404-767-2759

Piece of Cake

Stop by Piece of Cake for a variety of cake slices, cupcakes, cookies and more when you’re in the mood for something sweet.

Location: Concourse A; Website: pieceofcakeinc.com; Contact: 800-922-5390

Varasano’s Pizzeria

Varasano’s is unbeatable for its mouth-watering, airy and fluffy Neapolitan pizza. Take a seat and listen to tunes from the piano bar as you devour the classic Margherita pizza.

Location: Concourse A; Website: varasanos.com; Contact: 404-352-8216

Bobby’s Burger Palace

Check out celebrity chef Bobby Flay’s Burger Palace for fries, milkshakes, burgers and more. Consider trying the brunch burger with the famous sweet potato fries.

Location: Concourse B; Website: bobbysburgerpalace.com/atlanta; Contact: 404-766-3750

Roast Coffeehouse

Visit Roast Coffeehouse in Concourse B if you want a quick cold brew and pastry for a snack. They serve excellent matcha lattes and scrumptious blueberry scones.

Location: Concourse B; Contact: 404-530-2758

Paschal’s Southern Cuisine

One of the airport’s oldest dining establishments, Paschal’s, has a storied Castleberry Hill location where Martin Luther King Jr. once planned marches. With such a rich history, this place has proven to be phenomenal. You’re going to want to try this spot for incredible Southern fried chicken, voodoo fried shrimp, collard greens, peach cobbler, you name it.

Location: Concourse B; Contact: 404-767-0632

Bantam + Biddy

Try Bantam + Biddy for a fast-casual, family-friendly restaurant to try some of their healthier takes on Southern favorites. A great airport find, it offers a wide selection of gluten-free foods.

Location: Concourse C; Website: bantamandbiddy.com/location; Contact: 404-352-8216

Saladworks

Fresh salads and soups. With more than 60 ingredients, there are endless combinations!

Location: Concourse C; Website: saladworks.com/ga

Chicken + Beer

Visit Concourse D to sample Ludacris’ Chicken and Beer. Named after his 2003 album, the menu offers a fantastic assortment of Georgia craft beer and fried chicken items. Try the delicious shrimp and grits or chicken and waffles.

Location: Concourse D; Facebook: @ChickenandBeerATL; Contact: 404-209-3905

Phillips Seafood

Dine at Phillips Seafood for delicious crab cakes, wonderful lobster bisque and all the Maryland-style seafood you could want. They serve excellent drinks like their popular Bloody Mary and offer classic dishes like fish and chips.

Location: Concourse D; Website: phillipsseafood.com/atlanta-airport; Contact: 404-765-0038

Terrapin Taphouse

While you’re waiting for your flight, visit the Athens-based Terrapin Taphouse if you want a tasty craft beer and excellent service. It offers a welcoming atmosphere and delicious menu items, including sliders and sandwiches.

Location: Concourse D; Website: terrapintaproombaratlanta.com

Nature’s Table

Nature’s Table is a must-try if you’re seeking something quick and more nutritious. There are many fresh, light and healthy options available, including salads, soups, sandwiches and smoothies.

Location: Concourse E; Website: naturestable.com; Contact: 404-766-8001

One Flew South

As you dine at this upscale Japanese restaurant in Concourse E, you won’t even feel like you’re at the airport. Since it opened in 2008, it was the first upscale restaurant in the ATL airport and has completely changed the game. They offer carefully-crafted cocktails, a great wine list, sushi and creative menu items like the Dirty South.

Location: Concourse E; Website: oneflewsouthatl.com; Contact: 404-209-8209

Ecco

Ecco, which has locations in Buckhead and Midtown, is in International Concourse F and is worth trying even if you’re only traveling domestically. You’ll be impressed by this place, whether it’s for its cured meats and cheeses, fried goat cheese, wild boar Bolognese, steak frites or panna cotta for dessert.

Location: Concourse F (International Terminal); Website: ecco-atlanta.com/airport; Contact: 404-209-8209

Next:Winter date ideas to make the holidays brighter in metro Atlanta
Prepare to shake things up this holiday season and dazzle your …