Editor’s note: We live in uncertain times, with multiple travel warnings and bans in place. For those who still choose to fly, we hope you exercise every precaution to stay healthy. And for those who need to eat at the airport, these local eateries could all use our support.
For the average traveler, airports aren’t normally associated with fun. Flying can mean early mornings, late nights, waiting, and stressful hours spent packing. Although these realities are sometimes unavoidable, the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport has done an amazing job of creating a more relaxed and, dare I say, even fun environment for waiting passengers. It has become a reflection of Austin itself, brimming with live music and art. In a way, it is its own hub of culture and creativity.
Another huge way the airport creates a fun environment for guests is by filling the corridors with local Austin eateries we know and love. Everywhere you turn, you can find an Austin neighborhood classic. Look out for any of the following next time you fly.
1/ Berry Austin
It’s in the name: Berry Austin is proud to have roots in Austin. This shop serves frozen yogurt, smoothies, juices, and açaí bowls, all of which are perfect for hot Texas days. Although the airport is kept at a comfortable climate, you may still find yourself wanting one of these refreshing treats.
Gate 17 — Website
2/ 24 Diner
24 Diner’s amazing chicken and waffles are now available at the airport! This restaurant has been serving Austin for more than a decade at its North Lamar location. And now, 24 is making its scrumptious “diner” food right at the airport. I put diner in quotes because, although it follows a traditional diner’s model of serving classic American food, it puts a sophisticated twist on the dishes.
Gate 12 — Website
3/ Briggo Coffee
Luckily for coffee lovers, Briggo is open 24/7 and that’s because Briggo is a robot. There are actually two locations in the airport, so if Briggo is what you want, you don’t have to go running like a madman all the way to the other side.
Briggo is focused on delivering high-quality coffee using sustainable practices. If you’ve been in Austin awhile, you may have also seen a dispenser at Austin Convention Center.
Gate 11 and 17 — Website
4/ Second Bar + Kitchen
Tucked away from the bustling halls of the airport, you can feel a bit more relaxed with a table at Second Bar + Kitchen. It offers an amazing selection of American food, breakfast, pizza, and drinks.
Between Gates 15 and 16 — Website
Keep reading: Second Bar + Kitchen Flourishes Downtown, Adapting to Changing City
5/ Amy’s Ice Creams
Amy’s Ice Creams is definitely an Austin staple. Grabbing a treat here will make waiting for your flight a little sweeter. Amy’s is all over Austin and has expanded to other cities, and the airport location is no exception to the quality you’ve come to expect. You’ll find delicious handcrafted ice cream, with frozen yogurt and vegan fruit ice options.
You can also call ahead to the airport location at (512) 530-2918 to have Amy’s team prepare packaged ice cream for your flight!
Gate 21 — Website
6/ The Peached Tortilla
The Peached Tortilla is another Austin food-truck-to-restaurant success story. There are limitless options for taco joints, but one of the ways The Peached Tortilla is unique is its strong Asian influence. One of the popular options is the Banh Mi taco. There’s also a cauliflower bowl, and other vegetarian and vegan options.
Gate 16 — Website
7/ Parkside
Parkside has been in Austin since 2008 and was a pioneer in the farm-to-table concept of dining. The restaurant is named after Parkside Projects, a public housing unit in the Bronx. The cuisine is inspired by the diverse restaurants in New York, as well as the farming lifestyle of Arkansas.
Between Gates 3 and 5 — Website
8/ JuiceLand
We already know JuiceLand is everywhere, so it only makes sense it would exist at the airport to greet passengers or bid them farewell. What started as a grab-and-go fridge for those wanting a refreshing juice for the plane became a full fledged shop–albeit different from your typical JuiceLand menu.
Gate 16 — Website
Keep reading: How Austin’s Own JuiceLand Blends Freshness Every Day
9/ Hippies & Hops
Hippies & Hops is a full-service beer and wine bar, so you can sit and enjoy, or take it to go. The bar feature beers from Live Oak Brewing Company, a local Austin favorite. Luckily, if you want some food with your drinks, you can order from next door neighbor The Peached Tortilla!
Gate 17 — Facebook
@theAustinot wants to know:
What’s your favorite Austin-based eatery at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport?