Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) is not only one of the busiest airports globally but also a culinary gateway. With over 100 dining options, ATL caters to every traveler's needs, including those seeking healthy choices. Navigating these options can be overwhelming, but this guide will help you find the best healthy food at ATL.
Introduction
For travelers passing through ATL, the airport's dining options are an integral part of the journey. Whether you need a quick bite before a flight, a healthy meal to refuel, or a relaxing sit-down experience during a layover, ATL has something for everyone.
General Tips for Dining at ATL
Navigating the dining options at the world's busiest airport can be challenging. Timing is crucial; peak meal hours often coincide with heavy flight schedules, leading to long lines and crowded seating areas. Keep an eye on flight updates to avoid last-minute rushes.
For short layovers, quick-service spots like Dunkin’ or Jersey Mike’s are ideal for grabbing coffee, sandwiches, or snacks. If you have a longer layover, consider sit-down restaurants for a more leisurely experience.
Healthy Dining Options at ATL
Fresh To Order (Concourse B)
Fresh To Order (F2O) is renowned for its fresh, healthy food served quickly. It is a favorite for travelers seeking nutritious options. The grilled salmon in coconut curry is a highly recommended dish. Moreover, F2O stands out for its exceptional service, particularly an employee named "Mr. Ronald," who is adored by travelers.
Read also: Healthy food access with Highmark Wholecare explained.
Bantam & Biddy (Concourse C)
Bantam & Biddy is praised for its flavorful Southern food, including gluten-free options. It is an excellent choice for those seeking healthy alternatives to fast food, with options like grilled chicken and vegetable dishes. Their chicken and homemade sides are consistently praised, making it a go-to spot for tasty Southern food at reasonable airport prices.
Nature’s Table
Nature’s Table offers a variety of dishes, including vegan and vegetarian options. If you click through their menu you'll find some relatively healthy offerings.
We Juice It (Domestic Terminal)
For a refreshing and healthy boost, We Juice It offers a variety of juices. It’s open from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Saladworks
Saladworks allows you to avoid post-flight bloat with fresh and healthy options.
Other Notable Dining Options
One Flew South (Concourse E)
One Flew South offers a gourmet sushi experience with high-quality ingredients and signature cocktails. While expensive, it’s ideal for long layovers or a treat-yourself moment. Be aware that they sometimes run out of key ingredients. They’ve got a menu featuring “southernational” cuisine and a fine dining experience, and it’s totally worth a ride on the plane train for.
Read also: Healthy Eating on the Run
Varasano’s Pizzeria (Concourse A)
Varasano’s Pizzeria is a welcome retreat amidst airport chaos, offering excellent thin-crust pizzas and a relaxing vibe with live piano.
Atlanta Bread
Atlanta Bread is an Atlanta franchise where you can still enjoy their California Avocado sandwich at the ATL airport in Concourse A, Concourse C and Concourse F.
Cat Cora’s Kitchen (Concourse A)
At Iron Chef Cat Cora’s Kitchen, you can dig into some more refined New American cuisine like crab mac and cheese and spicy tomato soup.
Paschal’s Southern Cuisine
Paschal’s Southern Cuisine is perfect for getting one last taste of home before your flight out with this historic soul food spot.
SAVI Provisions
SAVI Provisions is your favorite ATL artisanal grocery spot but so much more! With a cafe and cute cafe seating, grab a quick and delicious bite before your flight.
Read also: Mobile Dining Revolution
Ecco
Ecco is another great dining option with locations in Midtown and Buckhead, and we feel extra spoiled to be able to dine from their menu when at Hartsfield-Jackson, too.
Restaurants by Location
To help you find exactly what you’re looking for, below is a full list of all the food and drink options available at Atlanta Airport. From quick coffee stops to gourmet restaurants, here’s a detailed guide for every culinary need during your journey.
*Operating hours and availability may vary.
Domestic Terminal
- Auntie Anne's: Hours: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm, NE Atrium
- Burger King: Hours: 5:00 am to 2:30 am, SE Atrium
- IHOP Express: Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm, SW Atrium
- LeeAnn Chin: Hours: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm, SE Atrium
- Piemont Park Travel Mart: Hours: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm, opposite baggage claim 3, South area
- Popeye's: Hours: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, SE Atrium
- Starbucks: Hours: 24 hours, NE Atrium
- T.J.'s Sandwiches: Hours: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, opposite baggage claim 2, South area
- Taco Bell: Hours: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, SE Atrium
- TGI Fridays: Hours: 7:30 am to 11:00 pm, opposite baggage claim 3, North area
- The A Bar & Grill: Hours: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, NE Atrium
- We Juice It: Hours: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm, NW Atrium
Concourse A
- Asian Chao: Hours: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm, gate A3
- Atlanta Bread & Bar: Hours: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, gate A12
- Atlanta Hawks Bar: Hours: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm, gate A34
- Boar's Head Café: Hours: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm, northwest from center
- Boar's Head Kiosk: Hours: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, gates A4, A15, A28
- Boardwalk Burgers: Hours: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, west of center
- Brioche Dorée: Hours: 5:30 am to 10:00 pm, east of center
- Caribou Coffee: Hours: 5:30 am to 11:30 pm, gate A2
- Cat Cora's Kitchen: Hours: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, gate A25
- Chick-Fil-A: Hours: 5:30 am to 10:00 pm, west of center
- Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf: Hours: 5:30 am to 10:00 pm, gate A12
- Freshen's: Hours: 7:00 am to 11:00 pm, gate A25
- Goldberg's Bagels: Hours: 4:00 am to 10:00 pm, gate A16
- Gordon Biersch: Hours: 6:30 am to 10:00 pm, Gate A18
- Great Wraps: Hours: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, west of center
- Low Country: Hours: 5:30 am to 10:00 pm, west of center
- McDonald's: Hours: Sunday to Thursday 6:00 am to 11:00 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 24 hours, Gate A11
- **P.F.
Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
Limited Late-Night Options
One of the most significant complaints at ATL is the lack of dining options at night. Most restaurants, including fast-food chains, close between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM. If you have a late flight or an overnight connection, your only choices may be vending machines or newsstand items. It’s highly recommended to bring your own snacks if traveling outside of daytime hours.
Service Quality
Service quality at ATL can be inconsistent. While some places suffer from rude or slow staff, others provide excellent service.
Spot to Watch Out For
Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint (Concourse C): While the ambiance is nice, the service is painfully slow. The QR ordering system often fails, leaving customers waiting long periods without being served.