Navigating Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) can be a bustling experience, especially during peak travel seasons. Ranked among the world’s busiest airports, CLT offers more than just rocking chairs to ease your journey – it boasts a diverse culinary scene that caters to every palate. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a relaxing sit-down meal, this guide highlights the best Clt Airport Food options to satisfy your hunger before you take off.
Top Food Picks at Charlotte Douglas Airport
For travelers seeking delicious meals within CLT, here are some standout restaurants and eateries that promise a satisfying dining experience:
Casual Bites and Quick Meals
Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar: Originating in Charlotte, Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar is a local favorite that you can conveniently find inside CLT. Known for its indulgent burgers, the signature bacon cheeseburger is a must-try, featuring a generous helping of bacon and their special “Baconaisse.” Beyond burgers, explore their menu for tasty fried pickles and the Buffalo chicken sandwich for a flavorful and quick CLT airport food option.
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Bojangles: A staple in the Carolinas, Bojangles offers a taste of Southern comfort food right in CLT. For those unfamiliar with this regional chain, it’s the perfect opportunity to grab a Cajun chicken biscuit, a side of their uniquely seasoned fries, and a refreshing sweet tea. It’s a quintessential Southern meal and a convenient CLT airport food choice.
Shake Shack: For a familiar and reliable fast-food experience, Shake Shack delivers high-quality burgers, crispy fries, and creamy shakes. It’s a solid choice when you’re craving classic American fare and need a quick and satisfying CLT airport food fix.
Sit-Down Dining Experiences
1897 Market: More than just a restaurant, 1897 Market provides an engaging experience. This modern market is ideal for browsing while waiting for your flight, offering gourmet food items, DIY cocktail kits, and unique gifts. The restaurant section features a diverse menu, from wood-fired pizzas and fresh oysters to Southern-inspired dishes like shrimp and grits. 1897 Market is a great place to relax and enjoy a more substantial CLT airport food experience.
Chalice Cafe: This petite and sophisticated spot provides a quieter atmosphere within the bustling airport. Chalice Cafe is a Stella Artois bar, but also offers a curated menu of wines and cocktails. The food menu, though small, is thoughtfully crafted, featuring options like a Greek wedge salad, chicken pesto flatbread, and a grilled chicken and marinated artichoke baguette sandwich. It’s a refined option for CLT airport food if you’re looking for something beyond the typical airport fare.
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Midwood Smokehouse: Bringing the flavors of Texas, the Carolinas, and Saint Louis barbecue together, Midwood Smokehouse is a must-visit for BBQ lovers at CLT. Their pulled pork sandwich with vinegar sauce is highly recommended, offering an authentic taste of Carolina barbecue as part of your CLT airport food journey.
Summer House: Offering a bright and airy ambiance, Summer House provides a refreshing escape within the airport. Inspired by California cuisine, the menu features lighter and healthier options like fish tacos, grilled salmon, avocado toast, and a variety of fresh salads. If you’re seeking a lighter and more health-conscious CLT airport food choice, Summer House is an excellent option.
Whisky River: For a lively and energetic dining experience, Whisky River, a honky-tonk style spot, provides a fun atmosphere. Pulled pork dishes are a highlight here, with the pulled pork sandwich and tater tot nachos topped with queso and pulled pork being popular choices. It’s a flavorful and hearty CLT airport food stop for those looking for a casual and spirited meal.
Best Spots for Drinks at CLT Airport
Whether you’re in the mood for wine, beer, or cocktails, CLT has some excellent options to quench your thirst:
Beaudevin: Setting a sophisticated tone with its wine glass chandeliers, Beaudevin is a dedicated wine bar offering a selection of wines from around the world. Paired with small plates, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind with a glass of wine before your flight. Beaudevin is a premium CLT airport drinks destination.
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Captain Jack’s Tavern: This tavern stands out with its floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a view that helps you forget you’re in an airport. Captain Jack’s Tavern features beers from Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, crafted according to traditional German purity standards. Enjoy a local brew and the open ambiance at this CLT airport bar.
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Commonspace: For coffee lovers seeking something beyond the typical airport coffee chain, Commonspace serves Durham-based Counter Culture Coffee. In addition to coffee, Commonspace also offers a selection of cocktails, making it a versatile spot for both coffee and alcoholic beverages as part of your CLT airport experience.
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Great Wagon Road Distilling Company: Charlotte’s oldest distillery, Great Wagon Road Distilling Company, has an outpost in CLT. If you’re in the mood for whiskey, this is the place to sample a local spirit while waiting for your flight. It’s a unique CLT airport bar option for whiskey enthusiasts.
Noda Brewing Company & Sycamore Brewing: Experience Charlotte’s vibrant beer scene without leaving the airport by visiting Noda Brewing Company and Sycamore Brewing. Noda Brewing, a local favorite since 2011, and Sycamore, Charlotte’s largest brewery, both have locations in CLT, offering a taste of local craft beer culture. These are essential stops for beer lovers seeking CLT airport drinks.
Wicked Weed: While Wicked Weed beers are widely available now, having an Asheville brewery on tap in CLT is a treat. Consider pairing a burger from Shake Shack with an IPA from Wicked Weed for a satisfying airport meal and drink combination. Wicked Weed provides a familiar and enjoyable CLT airport beer experience.
Enjoying Your Culinary Journey at CLT
Charlotte Douglas International Airport provides a surprisingly diverse and satisfying range of food and drink options. From Southern comfort food to international flavors, and from quick bites to relaxing sit-down meals, CLT airport food has something for every traveler. Next time you’re passing through CLT, take the time to explore these dining destinations and enhance your travel experience.
