Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, time spent in an airport isn’t the most fun. Between delays and cancellations it can be quite lengthy. But you can take some comfort knowing that you have some fantastic dining options if you find yourself at the Atlanta airport. The world’s busiest airport has stepped it up quite a bit, at least in the international terminal.
Atlanta Chop House
Fulfilling the need for upscale dining pre-security, is the Atlanta Chophouse. This two-story restaurant has a welcoming bar if you are flying solo, as well as plenty of tables for group dining. There’s even a private meeting room upstairs should you have a business meeting. Don’t miss out on the Buffalo Shrimp appetizer, perfect as a meal for one or a group starter. I was surprised to learn they even source their produce for local Atlanta farms.
Ecco
Got a long layover and hunger is starting to kick in? Head over to swanky Ecco and the time will fly. This is definitely not the kind of upscale spot you would expect to find in an airport. A re-creation of the incredibly popular Midtown Atlanta dinner spot, they serve items like Charcuterie, Short rib stuffed peppers and some exquisite Fried goat cheese. Oh and they even have fantastic craft cocktails like the Gigi Says, made with vodka and ginger.
El Taco
Another locale restaurant addition is El Taco. The original is in the Virginia Highlands. Some of the best items are the Fish tacos with jicama-serrano slaw and toasted pumpkin seeds as well as the shrimp and chickpea soup. Need some in the AM? They are open for breakfast too.
The Pecan
If you’ve got a hankering for a taste of the south, then head on over to The Pecan. Shrimp ‘n Grits are always a good standby and theirs is extra tasty with creamy old-fashioned grits topped with slightly spicy shrimp. Or try the new southern classic: Chicken and Waffles, served up with sweet syrup. And of course, there’s the namesake – Pecan pie. How do you pronounce it? Pee-can or Pe-cahn?
The Varsity
The Varsity, a favorite for decades serving up burgers, dogs and shakes has found a home at the Atlanta Airport too. My favorite meal? The chili dog and onion rings – a gut buster, but worth the calories. Then wash it all down with an Orange Shake.
*Special thanks to HMS Host for arranging a sneak peak at the Atlanta Airport restaurants.
