Dining Delights at Detroit Airport: Your Guide to the Best Food in DTW

Navigating Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) can be a journey in itself, especially during peak travel seasons. But one thing you shouldn’t have to worry about is finding a good meal. DTW boasts a surprisingly diverse range of dining options, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants, ensuring every traveler can find something to satisfy their cravings. Whether you’re flying out of the McNamara Terminal or the Warren Cleage Evans Terminal, prepare your palate for a pleasant surprise.

Both terminals at Detroit Airport offer a consistent selection of food and beverage choices. Beyond the sit-down restaurants, you’ll find numerous retail locations stocked with grab-and-go items like yogurt, sandwiches, and snacks, perfect for a quick refuel. However, for a more fulfilling pre-flight experience, exploring the dedicated dining establishments is highly recommended. Let’s dive into the culinary landscape of DTW and discover the best food options available.

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McNamara Terminal: A Hub for Diverse Flavors

The McNamara Terminal, primarily serving Delta Airlines and its partners like Air France, is a destination in itself when it comes to dining. This terminal offers an extensive array of restaurants, cafes, and bars to suit various tastes and time constraints.

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Top Picks in McNamara Terminal

Andiamo (A30): For a taste of Italy, Andiamo is a local favorite serving up delicious Italian cuisine in an upscale setting. Expect classic dishes, excellent service, and a refined atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing pre-flight meal.
Cat Cora’s Taproom (A24): Celebrity chef Cat Cora brings a gastropub experience to DTW. While known for its wide selection of beers and pub fare, the boozy milkshakes are a must-try for a unique airport treat.
Chili’s/Papa Joe’s Markets (B2): This familiar casual dining chain offers a comfortable sit-down experience alongside a convenient market section for grabbing food and drinks on the go. A versatile option for different needs.
Coffee Beanery (A8): A Michigan-based coffee shop, Coffee Beanery provides a local caffeine fix. Enjoy a range of coffee drinks and light pastries to kickstart your journey.
Corridor Kitchen (A8): Chef-inspired sausages and pasta dishes are the highlights at Corridor Kitchen. This spot offers a step up from typical airport fare with creative and flavorful options.
Detroit Street Lunchbox (A74): If you’re short on time, Detroit Street Lunchbox express offers gourmet sandwiches, salads, snacks, and cold beverages, ideal for a quick and tasty bite.
Embers Lounge (B18): Wine and beer enthusiasts will appreciate Embers Lounge. Featuring an extensive wine list highlighting Michigan vineyards and a curated selection of local craft brews, it’s a great spot to unwind.
Espressamente Illy Coffee & Fountain Bar (Central Link): This modern-looking cafe serves premium Italian Illy coffee and espresso drinks. Adjacent to it, the Fountain Bar offers beers, cocktails, cheese plates, gourmet sandwiches, and salads, catering to various preferences.
Gordon Biersch (A74): Enjoy made-from-scratch food paired with handcrafted German-style beers at this casual chain. Gordon Biersch is a reliable choice for a satisfying meal and a brew.
Grobbel’s Gourmet Deli (A8): Dubbed “America’s oldest corned beef specialist,” Grobbel’s offers a menu that caters to both meat lovers and vegetarians. Expect hearty deli sandwiches and more.
Harvest & Grounds (C11): For a taste of Michigan, Harvest & Grounds features locally sourced food and drink options. Support local businesses while enjoying regional flavors.
Leo’s Coney Island (A46): A Detroit institution, Leo’s Coney Island offers a taste of local culinary tradition right in the airport. Enjoy classic Coney dogs, gyros, and other diner fare at reasonable airport prices. Be mindful of potential wait times during busy periods.
Longhorn Steakhouse (A66): This chain steakhouse is known for consistent quality and decent prices, a pleasant surprise for airport dining. From breakfast to steaks and burgers, it offers a substantial menu. Note that plastic cutlery may be provided.
Max & Erma’s (A18): A casual dining chain with American cuisine and a fun, kitschy atmosphere filled with memorabilia. Max & Erma’s is a family-friendly option with a varied menu.
Mezza Mediterranean Grille (A54): For Mediterranean flavors, Mezza offers dishes like shawarma, kebabs, and hummus. A lighter and flavorful alternative to heavier options.
Palazzolo’s Artisan Gelato & Sorbetto (A6): Indulge in handcrafted gelato and sorbet from this Michigan-based shop. Palazzolo’s is perfect for a sweet treat before your flight.
Plum Market (A36): Offering pastries from Zingerman’s and quality coffee, Plum Market is a step above typical airport cafes. It provides a cafe line for quick bites and a bar area for a more relaxed experience.
Reflections Restaurant and Lounge (inside the Westin Hotel): Located inside the on-site Westin Hotel, Reflections offers a more upscale dining experience with options like flatbreads, salmon, and a full bar. Ideal for a longer layover and a more refined meal.
The Shed Bar (A8): Focusing on Michigan craft brews, The Shed Bar is a great place to sample local beers alongside domestic selections and cocktails.
Sora Japanese Sushi Bar (A35): A reliable airport sushi option, Sora offers a respectable selection of sushi, udon, and ramen. A good choice for Japanese cuisine cravings.
Vino Volo (Gate Central Link): A wine bar oasis in the bustling terminal, Vino Volo provides a calm ambiance to relax with a glass of wine and enjoy cheese plates or light bites.

Other McNamara Terminal Dining Choices

For quick service and familiar brands, McNamara Terminal also includes:

Chick-Fil-A (A72): Known for its chicken sandwiches and waffle fries.
Fountain Bar (near A40): Light Italian cuisine and cocktails.
McDonald’s (Gate Central Link): Classic fast-food burgers and fries.
PF Chang’s (A38): Asian-themed casual dining chain.
Pinkberry (A71): Frozen yogurt for a refreshing treat.
Popeye’s (A60): Louisiana-style fried chicken.
Potbelly (B2): Made-to-order sandwiches and soups.
Qdoba (A72): Mexican-style burritos and bowls.
Starbucks (A61, B8, A18, Gate Central Link): Coffee, espresso, and pastries.
Subway (A60): Customizable sandwiches and salads.

McNamara Terminal Lounges

For travelers seeking a more exclusive experience, the McNamara Terminal offers several lounges:

Delta Sky Clubs: Four locations (gate level across from A38, second level across from A18, second level across from A68, at gate level across from concourse C).
Freedom Center (Armed Services Lounge): Open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., across from A43.

Warren Cleage Evans Terminal: Local Flavors and Quick Bites

The Warren Cleage Evans Terminal, serving airlines like Air Canada, American Airlines, Southwest, and Spirit, offers a different but equally appealing dining landscape with a focus on local Detroit flavors and efficient service.

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Best Bets in the Warren Cleage Evans Terminal

Air Margaritaville (D6): Embrace the island vibes at Jimmy Buffett’s airport bar. Enjoy margaritas, tropical cocktails, and casual fare like guacamole burgers.
Anita’s Kitchen (D23): Experience authentic Lebanese cuisine at Anita’s Kitchen. Known for its flavorful dishes and vegetarian-friendly options, it’s a great choice for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Atwater Brewery (D19): A Detroit-born brewery, Atwater brings its German-style beers to the airport. Sample local favorites like Dirty Blonde Ale and enjoy snacks like beer cheese and chips.
Brioche Doree (D9): A French-inspired bakery and cafe offering soups, sandwiches, salads, and pastries. Brioche Doree is perfect for a lighter meal or a sweet treat.
Common Grace (D16): A coffee shop serving espresso beverages and bottled drinks. Common Grace is a simple and convenient stop for your caffeine needs.
Detroit Street Cafe — Zingerman’s Coffee (D6): Enjoy Zingerman’s renowned coffee and espresso drinks, along with Rishi Teas. A great option for coffee aficionados.
National Coney Island (D18): Another taste of Detroit! National Coney Island provides the classic Coney dog experience. While perhaps not as authentic as downtown locations, it still hits the spot for a local craving.

Other Warren Cleage Evans Terminal Options

The Evans Terminal also offers a range of quick and convenient choices:

Anita’s Kitchen (D23): (Listed in both Best Bets and Other Options as it’s a key feature)
Atwater Brewery (D19): (Listed in both Best Bets and Other Options as it’s a key feature)
Brioche Doree (D9): (Listed in both Best Bets and Other Options as it’s a key feature)
Chick-fil-A (D26): Chicken sandwiches and more.
Common Grace Coffee Co. (D16): Coffee shop.
Detroit Street Cafe — Zingerman’s (D6): Local food products and coffee.
Jolly Pumpkin (D14): Michigan-based brewery.
McDonald’s (D15): Fast food burgers and fries.
MOD Pizza (D8): Pizzeria offering customizable pizzas.
National Coney Island (D18): Coney Island diner.
Outback Steakhouse (D26): Chain steakhouse.
Pei Wei Asian Kitchen (D26): Asian cuisine chain.
Starbucks (Gates D10 & 26): Coffee and snacks.

Warren Cleage Evans Terminal Lounges

Lufthansa Senator Lounge: Second level, Gate D8.
Freedom Center (Armed Services Lounge): Open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., across from D17.

Order Ahead with the Grab App

For added convenience, consider using the Grab mobile ordering app. This app allows you to place orders and pre-pay for meals at select restaurants in Terminal A, including Max & Erma’s, Popeye’s, and Sora. It’s a great way to save time and ensure your meal is ready when you are.

Plan Your DTW Dining Experience

Detroit Metropolitan Airport offers a surprisingly diverse and satisfying culinary experience. From local Detroit favorites to international flavors and familiar chains, you’ll find plenty of options to fuel your travels. For a smoother airport experience, especially during busy times, consider planning your meal in advance and exploring the menus of the restaurants in your terminal. Bon appétit and safe travels!