British airports are known for having great restaurants, and with so many choices, it can be hard to know which ones to choose from. This blog post will recommend the best airport restaurants in the UK based on personal experience. Whether you're looking for something quick and easy or a more luxurious dining experience, there's sure to be a restaurant that fits your needs. So read on to find out where you should eat when traveling through the UK!
Pros and Cons of Airport Restaurants:
Airport restaurants are restaurants that are located in, you guessed it, airports. They can be found before or after the security checkpoint, and they vary in terms of size and menu.
Some airport restaurants are fast-food chains, while others are independent establishments. The quality of airport restaurants can vary, but most offer a decent selection of food and drinks to choose from.
Airport restaurants typically have a wider variety of menu items than fast-food chains. They also offer healthier options, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, and grilled chicken instead of fried chicken.
Airport restaurants also offer more convenience for travelers. Most airports have several restaurants located in the terminal, so finding a restaurant that meets your needs is easy. And some airport restaurants offer online ordering, so you can place your order before you even leave home. This way, you can avoid the hassle of standing in line at the airport.
There are a few things to consider when looking for the best airport foods in the UK. First, think about your budget. Some of the best airport foods can be a bit pricey, so make sure you have enough money set aside.
Second, think about what type of food you're in the mood for. There are all sorts of different restaurants and food stalls at airports these days, so you're sure to find something to your taste.
Finally, take into account how much time you have before your flight. If you're short on time, it might be better to go for something quick and easy rather than spending time browsing through all the options.
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Pros:
- First and foremost, airport restaurants are typically open 24 hours a day. This is important for travelers who have late-night or early-morning flights.
- Second, Often have wider menus than nearby restaurants. This is helpful for travelers who want to get a quick meal before their flight or who want to find something specific to eat.
- Third, Typically offer lower prices than restaurants in the surrounding area. This can be helpful for budget-minded travelers.
- Fourth, Often have better service than nearby restaurants. They are used to serving hurried travelers who are in a hurry, so it won't be a problem for them to serve you when you are in a rush.
Cons:
Some of the disadvantages of airport restaurants include the following:
- Limited choices: Usually have a limited selection, compared to regular restaurants. This can be a problem for people who have specific dietary restrictions or allergies.
- High prices: Often charge higher prices than regular restaurants, because of the captive audience and the convenience factor.
- Poor quality food: Often serve poor-quality food, due to the rushed atmosphere and tight turnaround times.
- Limited seating: Often have limited seating, which can be a problem during busy periods.
Now you know about all the pros and cons of airport dining. Let's start with our list!
Best Airport Foods in the UK: Our List
Are you one of those people who is always catching a flight out of the country and needs to find a good place to eat before your boarding time? Or maybe you're someone who just likes trying out new foods, even if they're in an airport. Either way, we've got you covered with our list of the best airport foods in the UK. From traditional fish and chips to international cuisine, we've got something for everyone. So, whether you're about to embark on a new adventure or are looking for a delicious meal before your flight, be sure to check out our A to Z list of restaurants!
1- Heathrow Airport (LHR) Restaurants:
Caviar House & Prunier:
Caviar House & Prunier is a high-end seafood restaurant and caviar shop located in Heathrow Airport (LHR). If you're looking for an exquisite seafood experience, look no further – this is the place for you.
The restaurant offers a wide selection of fresh seafood, as well as a variety of champagne and wine. The highlight of the menu, of course, is the caviar. You can order caviar by the gram or choose from one of their luxurious tasting menus.
Prices are understandably on the higher side, but this is definitely an experience you'll never forget. I would highly recommend Caviar House & Prunier for a special occasion or intimate dinner party but when you consider that you are in an airport, a quiet meal will do.
Gordon Ramsay’s Plane Food:
I had the opportunity to try Gordon Ramsay's Plane Food restaurant at Heathrow Airport (LHR) in London. The restaurant is located airside in Terminal 5, and it specializes in modern European cuisine. The menu is limited but includes some interesting dishes like truffle mac & cheese and pork belly with blackberry jus.
Overall, I was very impressed with the food. The presentation was beautiful, and the flavors were fantastic. My only complaint would be that the portions were a bit small, but that's to be expected at an airport restaurant. Overall, I would definitely recommend Gordon Ramsay's Plane Food if you're on a quest of tasting the best airport foods in the UK.
The Darwin:
The Darwin is a pub located in the Heathrow Airport (LHR) Terminal 3. It's a great place to catch up with friends, have a couple of drinks, and enjoy some good food.
The pub has a really cozy and relaxed atmosphere, and the staff is super friendly and welcoming. The menu is really varied, with something for everyone, and the prices are really reasonable. I would definitely recommend The Darwin to anyone looking for a great night out in London!
👉 If you are a traveler to the United States, the following content may interest you: The Best United States Airport Restaurants
2- Stansted Airport (STN) Restaurants:
The Windmill:
The Windmill is a chain of British pubs. As with other chain pubs, the quality of the food and drinks can vary greatly from location to location.
That being said, I've had some decent experiences at The Windmill at Stansted Airport (STN). The food is generally affordable and kid-friendly, which is a plus. The food is generally pretty good - they have a wide selection of dishes to choose from, and the prices are reasonable. The service can be a bit hit-or-miss, but when you think about the crowded airport restaurants, it's not too bad. They also have a good selection of beers on tap. Some of the locations can be pretty noisy and crowded, so it's not always the most relaxing place to spend an evening but that is not a problem with this pub.
Giraffe:
If you've never been to Giraffe in Stansted Airport (STN), then you're in for a real treat! The atmosphere is trendy and cool, and the waitstaff are extremely knowledgeable and attentive. I had the salmon dish, and it was cooked to perfection. My only complaint is that the portions were a bit small, but overall, I was very impressed with Giraffe and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a great dining experience.
Burger King:
Burger King in Stansted Airport (STN) is a great airport restaurant to get your fast-food fix. The restaurant is clean and well-lit, and the staff is friendly and efficient. You cannot go wrong with a fast-food giant like Burger King.
I ordered a double burger with cheese and fries, and it was cooked perfectly and tasted great. The portions were generous, and the price was very reasonable. I would definitely recommend Burger King in Stansted Airport to anyone looking for a good meal on the go. It is not among the best airport foods in the UK, but it will not disappoint you either.
3- Gatwick Airport (LGW) Restaurants:
Wagamama:
Wagamama is a Japanese restaurant chain with locations all over the world. I visited their airport restaurant at Gatwick Airport (LGW) in London and was very impressed!
The restaurant has a modern, sleek design and is very spacious. There is a large sushi bar as well as a full kitchen where you can watch the chefs prepare your food. The menu features both traditional and contemporary Japanese dishes, and there is something for everyone.
I ordered the chicken katsu curry, which was absolutely delicious. The chicken was cooked to perfection and the curry sauce was flavorful and spicy. The rice was also cooked perfectly and went great with the curry. No wonder people claim that their chicken katsu curry is one of the best airport foods in the UK. Overall, I had an amazing experience at Wagamama and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Gatwick Airport.
The Nicholas Culpeper:
The Nicholas Culpeper is an airport restaurant and bar in Gatwick Airport (LGW). I had the pleasure of dining here on my recent trip through the airport. The food was excellent, the service was great, and the atmosphere was perfect for a relaxing meal before a flight. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone traveling through Gatwick Airport. 5 stars!
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Jamie's Diner:
Jamie's Diner in Gatwick Airport is a must-visit for anyone traveling through the airport. The food is top-notch and reasonably priced, and the staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming. I had the pleasure of dining here earlier this week, and I was thoroughly impressed.
The restaurant has a casual atmosphere, with bright colors and cheerful decor that makes you feel right at home. The menu offers a variety of classic diner fare, including sandwiches, burgers, salads, and breakfast items. I decided to order the bacon cheeseburger with fries and onion rings, and it was absolutely delicious. The burger was cooked to perfection, with a nice char on the outside and a juicy pink center. The fries were a little bit over seasoned for my taste but otherwise, it was great. It is what you expect from Jamie Oliver's name.
4- Luton Airport (LTN) Restaurants:
Frankie & Benny's:
Frankie & Benny's is a popular chain of family-friendly restaurants in the United Kingdom. The Luton Airport location is no exception and offers a wide range of classic American comfort food items like burgers, pasta dishes, and pizza.
The restaurant is bright and spacious, with plenty of seating for large groups. The menu features something for everyone, and the prices are very reasonable. The waitstaff are friendly and attentive, and the food arrived hot and fresh. Overall, a great option if you're looking for a good meal near Luton Airport. I would definitely recommend Frankie & Benny's!
Benugo:
Benugo in Luton Airport is a café that serves a variety of food and drink items.
The food options are pretty standard for an airport cafe - you can get sandwiches, salads, pastries, etc. The menu also has a few hot meal options. I ordered the chicken shawarma hot wrap, which was pretty good.
The drinks menu has coffee, tea, soft drinks, beer, wine, etc. They also have some healthy smoothie options. The café is nicely decorated and it's a great place to relax before your flight. The staff were friendly and helpful. I would definitely recommend this place if you're looking for somewhere to eat at Luton Airport.
Pret A Manger:
Pret A Manger is a great place to stop for a quick bite to eat if you're at Luton Airport. I had a sandwich and a drink, and it was very tasty and reasonably priced. The atmosphere inside the restaurant was pleasant, and the staff was friendly and helpful. I would definitely recommend this place if you're looking for a good meal on the go.
5- Manchester Airport MAN Restaurants:
Bar MCR:
Bar MCR at Manchester Airport (MAN) is a place I would definitely recommend to anyone traveling through the airport. The bar is spacious with plenty of seating, and the staff are super friendly and welcoming. They have a great selection of drinks on offer, as well as some light snacks. The restaurant's wide menu features everything from a Full English to a quick and delectable Breakfast Bap, as well as fresh pastries and nutritious breakfast alternatives like wholesome porridge and delicious granola. The prices are very reasonable, especially for an airport bar, and it's a great place to relax before your flight. Thanks for a great experience, Bar MCR!
Trattoria Milano:
If you're looking for a quick and easy Italian airport restaurant at Manchester Airport (MAN), Trattoria Milano is worth checking out. The food is nothing spectacular but it's affordable and satisfying. I ordered the Margherita pizza, and it was pretty good - definitely better than your average airport pizza.
The atmosphere is a bit cramped and noisy but that's to be expected at an airport restaurant. Overall, I was happy with my experience at Trattoria Milano and would recommend it if you're on a budget or just want something easy to eat.
The Grain Loft
The Grain Loft is a great place to grab a bite before your flight out of Manchester Airport (MAN). The menu features a variety of healthy options like sandwiches, salads, and wraps. I ordered the roasted vegetable wrap, and it was delicious! The wrap was filled with plenty of fresh vegetables and the dressing gave it a great flavor. The Grain Loft also offers a variety of drinks, including coffee, tea, smoothies, and juices. I would definitely recommend this place if you're looking for something quick and healthy to eat before your flight.
6- Bristol Airport (BRS) Restaurants:
Warrens Bakery:
If you're looking for a great bakery at Bristol Airport (BRS), look no further than Warrens Bakery. They have an amazing selection of pastries, cakes, and cookies - and the best part is that they're all fresh and delicious.
I really like the fact that they have such a wide variety of choices - there's something for everyone. And the staff is super friendly too - they always go out of their way to help you find what you're looking for. Overall, I would definitely recommend Warrens Bakery if you're looking for a sweet treat at Bristol Airport.
Barburrito:
Barburrito is a Mexican restaurant located at the Bristol Airport (BRS). The food was okay, not great. The atmosphere was nice and clean. I would recommend this place if you are looking for something quick and easy to eat while you are in the airport.
All in all, Barburrito is a decent spot for Mexican food—especially if you're looking for something fast and fuss-free. The flavors could be more exciting, but it's a good option to have when passing through Bristol Airport.
3.5/5 Stars!
Costa Coffee:
Costa Coffee at Bristol Airport (BRS) is a great place to get your caffeine fix while waiting for your flight in Bristol Airport. The coffee is delicious, and the staff is friendly. I would definitely recommend this spot if you're looking for a quick caffeine fix! It is what you expect from a coffee house giant.
7- Glasgow Airport (GLA) Restaurants:
Caledonia Bar & Restaurant:
I had a little layover in Glasgow Airport (GLA), and I was looking for an airport restaurant. I found a Caledonia Bar & Restaurant and I'm so glad that I did! The food was excellent. I had stout smoked salmon fishcakes, and it was really good. The service was great, too. The employees were friendly and helpful. Overall, I would definitely recommend this place if you're looking for a good meal near the airport.
Tennent’s Pier Bar:
Tennent’s Pier Bar in Glasgow Airport (GLA) is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink before your flight. The bar has a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits, as well as soft drinks and snacks. The view from the bar is stunning, and it’s the perfect place to watch the planes take off and land.
The staff are friendly and welcoming, and they made me feel at home. I would definitely recommend Tennent’s Pier Bar to anyone traveling through Glasgow Airport.
The Sandpiper:
The Sandpiper, which is another Wetherspoon, is a great place to eat in Glasgow Airport (GLA). The food is fresh and tasty, and the staff are super friendly and welcoming. The Wetherspoon menu includes familiar favorites like traditional breakfasts, Scottish pub grub, and freshly cooked Paninis. Look out for dishes that are currently only available at the Airport pubs. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone traveling through Glasgow Airport. 5 stars!
8- Birmingham Airport (BHX) Restaurants:
All Bar One:
All Bar One is a great place to go for a drink or a meal in Birmingham Airport (BHX) if you are looking for an airport restaurant. The atmosphere is really cozy and inviting, and the service is great. I had the chicken, avocado & bacon burger, which was really tasty, and the portion size was just right. Overall, I would definitely recommend this place if you're looking for somewhere to eat or drink in Birmingham Airport.
Wetherspoons:
Wetherspoons is one of my favorite places to eat. The food is always fresh and delicious, and the prices are unbeatable. I was really pleased with the Birmingham Airport (BHX) location. It had all the same great food as the regular Wetherspoons restaurants, but it was also conveniently located right in the airport. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone traveling through Birmingham Airport.
5/5 stars!
Bottega Prosecco Bar
I had a great experience at the Bottega Prosecco Bar in Birmingham Airport (BHX)! The staff was super friendly and knowledgeable, and they made me feel welcome right away. The bar has a really cozy and intimate atmosphere, and it's the perfect place to relax after a long flight. They have a great selection of Proseccos, and I highly recommend the Bottega Gold Prosecco with an Italian Antipasti Board. The service was excellent, and the prices were very reasonable. I would definitely visit this bar again next time I'm in Birmingham Airport. Five stars!
9- Edinburgh Airport (EDI) Restaurants:
YO! Sushi:
If you're looking for a quick and tasty sushi fix, YO! Sushi in Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is the place to go. The restaurant is small, but the menu is extensive, with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options. My favorites are the salmon nigiri and California rolls. The service is quick and efficient, and you can't beat the price - most dishes cost around £4.
The only downside is that it can be a bit noisy here - but that's all part of the fun, right?
Starbucks:
Starbucks in Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is a great place to stop for a quick caffeine fix before your flight. The store is large and has plenty of seating, and the staff are friendly and helpful. They have a good selection of drinks and snacks, and the prices are reasonable. I would definitely recommend this Starbucks if you're traveling through Edinburgh Airport.
5/5 stars. I mean, what did you expect from Starbucks?
Bar Burrito:
I had a great experience at Bar Burrito in Edinburgh Airport (EDI). The food was flavorful and fresh, and the atmosphere was fun and festive. They also provide traditional Mexican breakfast foods, should you want to try something new. The staff was super friendly and accommodating. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone visiting Edinburgh Airport. It is one of the best choices for pre-flight airport foods in the UK.
10- Newcastle Airport (NCL) Restaurants:
Bar 11:
If you're looking for a place to grab a drink or a quick bite before your flight in Newcastle Airport (NCL), Bar 11 is definitely worth checking out. The bartenders are knowledgeable and passionate about their drinks, and the food is tasty and affordable. I would definitely recommend the chicken curry wrap - it's my favorite item on the menu!
Overall, I've had a great experience at Bar 11 every time I've visited. The staff are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is cozy and relaxed. If you're looking for a place to spend some quality time before your flight, Bar 11 is definitely worth considering.
The Beer House:
The Beer House in Newcastle Airport (NCL) is a great place to stop for a beer before your flight. They have a good selection of beers on tap, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. I would definitely recommend this place if you're looking for a good pint before your flight. You must try their Brown Ale!
Greggs:
If you're looking for a great place to get your hands on some delicious pastries and snacks, Greggs in Newcastle Airport (NCL) is the place for you! The staff are friendly, and the selection is great, so you can find something to satisfy any craving. I definitely recommend giving this spot a try if you're in the area!
- Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a great meal before your flight or even just a quick snack, the airport restaurants in the UK will not disappoint. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best airport foods in the UK so that you can decide where to eat depending on your needs and preferences. No matter what type of food you’re in the mood for, we have you covered – and if you need help deciding which restaurant is right for you, our team is here to assist. Bon voyage!
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