These Are the Best Airport Restaurants, According to Yelpers

Have you ever been to a new airport for the first time, fervently searching for something to eat, but not sure if you wanted to try something new? When your time is short and you’re about to hop on another flight, it can feel like quite the risk. Thankfully, crowd-sourced review company Yelp recently compiled a list of travelers’ favorite airport businesses in its 2025 Yelp Most Loved Airport Brands report.

The company evaluated businesses across several metrics, including ratings, reviews, and photo uploads on its site, as well as other factors like the number of airports the brand has locations at (the minimum was five). Perhaps unsurprisingly, Yelp’s list was made up almost entirely of food and beverage companies. It seems everyone, regardless of where they are going or why, wants a little treat during their travels. 

“Airports are some of the most crowded, high-stress environments, so the brands that stand out understand the modern traveler’s mindset—prioritizing speed without sacrificing experience, and delivering memorable moments,” said Kadecia Ber, senior director of campaign strategy for national brands at Yelp, said in a statement obtained by Travel + Leisure. “Whether it’s a glass of wine before boarding or a protein smoothie between connections, these most loved airport brands are redefining what it means to travel well, and Yelp is proud to help travelers discover them.”

After combing through all the data, Yelp named Vino Volo, a lounge-style stop that offers a slightly upscale experience with things like small plates and wines by the glass on the menu, the best brand that you can find at an airport.

After Vino Volo, chicken sandwich spot Chick-fil-A and East Coast burger chain Shake Shack made the second and third spots, respectively. Here’s the complete top ten:

1. Vino Volo
2. Chick-Fil-A
3. Shake Shack
4. Potbelly Sandwich Shop
5. Starbucks
6. Einstein Bros. Bagels
7. Qdoba
8. Dunkin’
9. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
10. Xpresspa

For those familiar with the airport, you’ll quickly recognize that the last brand in the top 10 doesn’t sell any food—instead specializing in massages and other quick relaxation services. It seems that for people on the go, wellness is still a priority, even if it’s a 10-minute massage during a layover.

Other traveler favorites made appearances in the top 20, such as McDonald’s, Panda Express, Chili’s, Smashburger, Garrett Popcorn Shops, Burger King, Jamba Juice, California Pizza Kitchen, Peet’s Coffee, and Wendy’s. Really, the rule of thumb seems to be that if you’re in an airport, go with a brand you know from the outside world.