Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) has recently unveiled its brand-new Terminal A, a stunning $2.7 billion upgrade designed to transform the travel experience for millions. This state-of-the-art terminal is not just about flights; it’s also a culinary destination in itself, boasting a wide array of dining options to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite before your flight or a relaxing sit-down meal, Terminal A has something for you. This guide will walk you through the diverse food scene at EWR Terminal A, ensuring you find the perfect meal to kickstart your journey.
Terminal A is a gateway for major airlines like United, Air Canada, American, JetBlue, and Delta, and with it comes a dining experience that matches its modern architecture and ambitious scale. Forget bland airport food of the past; Terminal A is packed with outposts of popular local eateries and well-known national chains, offering everything from gourmet burgers to fresh sushi, and from hearty Italian to healthy smoothies.
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Dining at Garden State Diner in EWR Terminal A, Newark Airport, offering classic American diner fare.
Terminal A: A Food Lover’s Paradise
Terminal A at Newark Airport is thoughtfully designed, dividing its dining and shopping experiences into distinct areas like Central Plaza, South Pier, East Pier, and Hammerhead, making it easy to navigate and find exactly what you’re craving. Let’s explore the exciting food vendors you’ll find in this impressive new terminal.
Quick Bites & Casual Dining in Terminal A
For travelers on the go or those seeking a fast and tasty meal, Terminal A offers a plethora of quick bite options:
- Bang Cookies (Central Plaza): Indulge in oversized, decadent cookies from this Jersey City favorite. Perfect for a sweet treat or a quick sugar rush before boarding.
- Burger Fi (Central Plaza East): Enjoy sustainably raised beef burgers, crispy fries, hot dogs, and more from this popular Florida-based chain. A solid choice for classic American fast food.
- Carlito’s Barbecue Taqueria (Hammerhead near Gate 15): Spice things up with tacos, flavorful sides, and barbecue plates. Don’t forget to try their churros for a sweet finish.
- D’Taco Joint (Central Plaza Food Court): Dive into a variety of tacos, breakfast burritos, and customizable bowls. Ideal for a quick and satisfying Mexican-inspired meal.
- Dunkin’ (East Pier, Gate 23): Your go-to for coffee, donuts, and breakfast sandwiches. A reliable option for a caffeine fix and a quick bite.
- Ess-A-Bagel (Hammerhead, Gate 15): Experience authentic New York-style bagels with a wide range of spreads and sandwiches. A must-try for bagel lovers.
- Jersey & Co. Gelato (Central Plaza): Cool down with artisanal gelato from this Jersey City gelateria. Perfect for a refreshing treat.
- Mediterranean Grill (Central Plaza Food Court): Grab affordable and delicious falafel sandwiches, chicken shawarma, and vegan options. A healthy and flavorful choice.
- Playa Bowls (Central Plaza Food Court): Enjoy vibrant and healthy smoothies and juices from this New Jersey-based chain. A perfect option for a nutritious and refreshing meal.
- Shake Shack (South Pier): Savor the famous ShackBurgers, crinkle-cut fries, and creamy shakes from Danny Meyer’s beloved burger chain. A classic American indulgence.
- Smokehouse BBQ (Central plaza, Gates 26 and 27): Sample burgers, brisket, and barbecue sides. Be adventurous and see if it lives up to the mixed reviews.
- Sora Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar (Central Plaza Food Court): Get your sushi fix at this casual counter offering rolls, ramen, and even burgers. A diverse menu to cater to different tastes.
- Starbucks (Central Plaza North): Another dependable coffee option for your caffeine needs, along with pastries and snacks.
- Tonnie’s Minis (Central Plaza): Indulge in adorable and tasty cupcakes in a cup from this Newark bakery offshoot. Perfect for a quick and cute dessert.
- W.B. Law Coffee (South Pier): Enjoy locally roasted coffee and fresh pastries from this Newark-based company. Support local while getting your caffeine fix.
- Zaro’s Bakery (Central Plaza East): Pick up classic bakery treats and breads from this New York-based chain. Great for pastries and grab-and-go snacks.
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A Shake Shack meal at Newark Airport Terminal A, featuring their signature ShackBurger, fries, and a drink.
Sit-Down Restaurants in Terminal A
If you have more time to relax before your flight, Terminal A features excellent sit-down restaurants offering a more leisurely dining experience:
- Felina Cucina (Central Plaza, Gates 7 and 8): Enjoy a sophisticated Italian dining experience with pizzas, pasta, and cocktails. Perfect for a pre-flight upscale meal.
- Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Kitchen and Bar (North Pier): Experience the bold flavors of celebrity chef Guy Fieri, with wings, pulled pork sandwiches, and his famous “trash can nachos.” Expect a lively and fun dining atmosphere.
- Kitchen Step (Hammerhead Central): Savor dishes from the offshoot of a popular Jersey City restaurant by chef Ryan DePersio. Offers a more refined and local dining experience.
- The Office Tavern Grill (Central Plaza South): Relax at this tavern with a New Jersey presence, serving up classic American fare like burgers and Buffalo wings. Good for a casual sit-down meal and drinks.
- Town Bar + Kitchen (South Pier): Enjoy a varied menu with options ranging from shrimp cocktail and Caesar salad to pizza and short rib mac and cheese. A versatile option for different cravings.
Coffee & Snacks in Terminal A
Beyond the major coffee chains, Terminal A also offers unique spots for coffee and quick snacks:
- Bluestone Lane Coffee (South Pier, Gates 5 and 6): Experience Australian-style coffee and tea in a chic setting. Known for its flat whites and avocado toast.
Navigating EWR Terminal A Food Options
With so many choices, deciding where to eat in EWR Terminal A can feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you navigate:
- Plan Ahead: If you know your terminal and have time, browse this guide or the Newark Airport website beforehand to get an idea of your options.
- Consider Location: Terminal A is divided into piers and plazas. Check the location of your gate and choose a restaurant in a convenient area to avoid rushing.
- Time Management: Quick bites are perfect for short layovers, while sit-down restaurants are better for longer waits.
- Dietary Needs: Terminal A offers diverse cuisines, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Check menus or ask staff for specific dietary accommodations.
- Explore Local Flavors: Terminal A features many New Jersey and New York based eateries, offering a taste of local cuisine before you even leave the area.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Travel Experience with EWR Terminal A Dining
The revamped Terminal A at Newark Liberty International Airport is more than just a travel hub; it’s a destination for food lovers. With its wide variety of dining options, from quick snacks to full-service restaurants, EWR Terminal A ensures that your culinary experience is as satisfying as your journey. So next time you’re traveling through Newark, take advantage of the impressive food scene in Terminal A and make your airport experience a delicious one!
