Dining Before Security
Traveling can be a whirlwind. The mad dash to the airport, navigating security lines, and the general pre-flight jitters can leave you feeling drained and, more often than not, incredibly hungry. The thought of airport food often conjures images of overpriced, uninspired meals. But what if I told you that St. Louis Lambert International Airport, or STL, offers a surprisingly diverse and satisfying culinary landscape? Fear not, weary travelers, because this guide will navigate you through the delicious options available at Lambert Airport, proving that you can indeed find a good meal before you take to the skies. Whether you’re craving a quick bite before boarding or prefer a leisurely sit-down dinner, Lambert Airport has something to offer every palate and budget. This article will serve as your culinary companion, ensuring your pre-flight experience is not only stress-free but also delicious.
If you happen to arrive at Lambert Airport with ample time or are seeing someone off, consider exploring the dining options available before you even pass through security. This can be a great way to relax and grab a bite in a less hurried environment. While options might be limited compared to those inside the terminals, there are usually at least a few choices to choose from, ensuring that you can enjoy a decent meal or a quick snack before heading to your gate. Be sure to check the operating hours of these establishments, especially for early morning or late-night flights, to make sure they are open when you need them.
Terminal One: A Culinary Journey Awaits
Terminal One at Lambert Airport is the airport’s largest terminal, and naturally, it boasts the most extensive array of food options. From quick snacks to hearty meals, Terminal One provides a culinary experience for every traveler.
Quick Bites On the Go
When time is of the essence, Terminal One offers several spots perfect for grabbing a quick and satisfying bite. If you’re looking for a caffeine boost and a pastry, be sure to check out the local coffee shops. Here, you can find a wide selection of coffee drinks, teas, and baked goods, ideal for a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. Another great option for a quick meal is the various grab-and-go kiosks. These kiosks offer a variety of sandwiches, salads, and snacks, perfect for those who need to eat something quickly while heading to their gates. For those with a sweet tooth, Terminal One has options like frozen yogurt shops or candy stores.
Sit Down and Relax
For those with more time to spare, Terminal One features a selection of sit-down restaurants that offer a more leisurely dining experience. You can find several restaurants serving classic American cuisine, from burgers and fries to salads and sandwiches. Some of these restaurants also offer full bar service, making them a great spot to unwind with a drink before your flight. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, Terminal One also has some restaurants serving up delicious Mexican fare. From tacos and burritos to quesadillas and enchiladas, these spots offer a flavorful alternative to traditional airport food.
Caffeinated Delights
Terminal One understands the importance of a good cup of coffee, especially during those early morning flights or long layovers. Numerous coffee shops and cafes are strategically located throughout the terminal, ensuring that you’re never too far from your caffeine fix. These spots typically offer a variety of coffee drinks, from classic drip coffee to specialty lattes and cappuccinos. You can also find a selection of teas, pastries, and light snacks to complement your beverage.
Terminal Two: A More Intimate Dining Experience
Terminal Two, while smaller than Terminal One, still offers a decent selection of food options designed to satisfy travelers. Although it has a smaller variety, there are still enough choices to ensure that travelers find something to enjoy before their travels.
Swift and Savory Bites
If you’re short on time but still want a flavorful bite, Terminal Two has you covered. You will find several options offering sandwiches, salads, and wraps, perfect for a quick and healthy meal. In addition, you can find kiosks offering a variety of snacks, such as chips, nuts, and candy, to satisfy any cravings. For those who need a caffeine boost, Terminal Two has at least one coffee shop where you can grab a cup of coffee or tea.
Relax and Recharge
For those who prefer a more relaxed dining experience, Terminal Two also offers at least one sit-down restaurant. You can savor a leisurely meal with a wide variety of items to chose from while charging your phone before boarding. The bar also has a selection of alcoholic drinks for those who want to unwind before traveling.
Aromatic Coffee and Baked Goodies
Terminal Two may be smaller, but it still caters to the coffee-loving crowd. Even with the smaller size, they have coffee shops located throughout the terminal, making it convenient to grab a cup of coffee or a pastry. These spots usually offer a variety of coffee drinks, teas, and baked goods, perfect for a quick breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack.
Highlight Reel: The Best of Lambert Airport Food
Now that we’ve explored the dining options in each terminal, let’s highlight some of the absolute best spots to grab a bite at Lambert Airport, no matter your needs.
The Best for a Quick Breakfast
For a speedy breakfast that won’t break the bank, head to one of the coffee shops. They are strategically located for convenient access, which allows you to grab a coffee and a quick breakfast pastry while you head to your gate.
The Best Lunch on the Go
For a lunch that’s easy to carry and doesn’t compromise on flavor, grab a sandwich from the grab-and-go kiosks. You can find pre-made sandwiches with a wide variety of ingredients for you to savor while on the go.
The Best Sit-Down Dinner
When you have time to relax and enjoy a full meal, head to one of the sit-down restaurants in Terminal One. Offering a full menu with table service, it’s a great place to unwind before boarding your plane.
The Best Local Flavor
To experience the authentic taste of St. Louis, try some of the restaurants that feature local breweries. With craft beers and delicious food, you can experience St. Louis before boarding your flight.
The Best Value
For those on a budget, you can grab a bite at the numerous coffee shops and grab-and-go kiosks at the terminal. It’s important to review the menu for pricing to ensure that you are staying within your budget.
Essential Tips for Airport Dining at Lambert
To make the most of your dining experience at Lambert Airport, keep these helpful tips in mind:
Verify Opening Hours: Don’t assume all restaurants operate on the same schedule. Always check the hours of operation online or call ahead to avoid disappointment, especially for early morning or late-night flights.
Account for Extra Time: Security lines and restaurant service can sometimes be slower than expected. Factor in extra time to ensure you don’t miss your flight while waiting for your meal.
Explore Mobile Ordering: Some restaurants offer mobile ordering through airport apps. Take advantage of this service to pre-order your meal and avoid waiting in line.
Seek Out Power Outlets: If you need to charge your devices while you eat, look for restaurants that offer convenient access to power outlets.
Utilize Complimentary Wi-Fi: Take advantage of the airport’s free Wi-Fi to browse menus, read reviews, and compare prices before making your choice.
Airline Status: Be aware of airline status, depending on airline, some discounts may be applicable for airport foods
Final Thoughts
Lambert Airport food has drastically changed since the early 2000’s, the expansion of various food choices caters to the wide variety of airline travelers in the airport. Lambert Airport offers a variety of dining options to fit every taste and wallet. From quick snacks to sit-down dinners, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your appetite before your flight. So next time you find yourself at STL, take a moment to explore the culinary landscape and discover the delicious possibilities that await. Bon appétit and safe travels!
