Airport Update

Eat Like a Local

Stop by these airport restaurants for the best hometown flavors. BY MARY MELNICK

Travelers today often arrive at the airport extra early to avoid crowded TSA lines or make sure they get through security checkpoints with enough time to reach their gate before their flight. If you are one of these early birds, kick back and enjoy some local fare at these delicious airport restaurants.

Passengers going through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport are in for a treat. For something on the quicker side, head to Paschal’s Southern Cuisine, dating back to a 30-seat luncheonette that opened in 1947 and which quickly became a gathering place for leaders in the civil rights movement. Now you can enjoy all the classics in Concourse B. Over in Concourse A visit Piece of Cake, a longtime Atlanta bakery, for a delicious sweet indulgence.

Denver International Airport offers a couple of local eats throughout its concourses. For a sit-down meal, check out Root Down at the C Gates. The restaurant remains a local favorite for American comfort food like breakfast burritos and burgers as well as vegetarian and gluten-free choices. For a graband-go option, family-owned Snarf’s Sandwiches at the A Gates serves sandwiches like French dip and artichoke and feta as well as salads, soups, desserts and kids’ items. Guests in the know can even order from the “not on the menu” menu for unique dishes. For those looking to just grab a cold drink, stop by Great Divide Brewing in the C Gates for a taste of local brews.

At Chicago O’Hare International Airport, travelers can sample a Chicago-style hot dog with all the toppings at Gold Coast Dogs in Terminal 3, Concourse L. Typically, a Chicago-style hot dog includes yellow mustard, chopped white onions, a pickle spear, tomatoes, sweet pickle relish, pickled peppers and celery salt. Customization is, also, always an option.

Legal Sea Foods started as one of Massachusetts’ best seafood restaurants, and now travelers can find them throughout New England. At Boston Logan International Airport, stop by Legal Sea Foods for some of the best dishes before you go. Whether you get the lobster roll or the fisherman’s platter, you won’t be disappointed, but the main feature is the clam chowder — don’t skip this must-have.

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport underwent big renovations this year, resulting in a boost to its food scene. One addition to the Main Terminal — Leah’s Kitchen — serves delicious soul food and pays homage to the late, legendary chef Leah Chase, who ran the kitchen at the iconic Dooky Chase’s. Enjoy traditional fried chicken, exceptional gumbo and yummy shrimp.

LEGAL SEA FOODS STARTED AS ONE OF MASSACHUSETTS’ BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANTS, AND NOW TRAVELERS CAN FIND THEM THROUGHOUT NEW ENGLAND.

Fresh Catch:

Legal Sea Foods’ lobster roll and clam chowder

PHOTO: © LEGAL SEA FOODS