San Diego International Airport (SAN) offers a surprisingly diverse range of dining options to satisfy travelers’ appetites before, during, or after their flights. From quick bites to sit-down meals featuring local flavors, navigating the culinary landscape of SAN can enhance your travel experience. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist exploring Southern California, understanding the San Diego Airport Food scene is key to a smooth and enjoyable journey.
For those looking for a fast and convenient option, Farmer’s Fridge vending machines are now available across seven locations in both pre- and post-security areas. These innovative machines offer fresh, chef-prepared salads, grain bowls, wraps, sandwiches, and snacks, with most items priced at $10 or less when ordered through their app. It’s a healthy and affordable choice for travelers on the go.
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Adding to the airport’s premium offerings, the Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club in Terminal 2 West provides a luxurious escape. This 10,000 square-foot space, opened in December, features a wellness area with private rest pods and a menu curated with local San Diego favorites. Travelers can indulge in a la carte dishes from Oscar’s Mexican Seafood, known for its fresh and vibrant flavors, alongside coffee from California’s Groundwork Coffee and a selection of wines from Parcelle.
Exciting developments are on the horizon for San Diego airport food enthusiasts. The highly anticipated new Terminal 1, scheduled to open at the end of Summer 2025, promises to introduce even more culinary hotspots from renowned San Diego brands. Imagine enjoying meals from popular establishments like Puesto, known for its gourmet tacos, and Cutwater Spirits, famous for its craft cocktails, all within the airport. This expansion will significantly elevate the dining experience at SAN.
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To help you navigate the current San Diego airport food options, here’s a breakdown by terminal:
Terminal 1 Dining Options
Terminal 1 offers a range of choices, from quick service to sit-down restaurants:
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The Counter: Custom Built Burgers (Gate 4): Burger lovers can rejoice at The Counter, where customization is key. Create your perfect burger with a wide array of toppings and sauces. Adding a local touch, skateboarding legend Tony Hawk is a partner in this location. Open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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San Life Market/Illy Coffee (Pre-Security Level 1): A convenient spot for grabbing coffee and market-style snacks or light meals before heading through security.
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Jack in the Box (T1 West Pre-Security Level 1): A familiar fast-food option for those seeking classic burgers, fries, and breakfast items.
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Pacifica Breeze Café (T1 Pre-Security): Offers a relaxed café setting with breakfast, lunch, and snack options.
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Urban Crave (T1 West, Gate 14): Provides a variety of American comfort food favorites.
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Jetbox (T1 West): Ideal for travelers needing grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
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Peet’s Coffee & Tea (T1 West Level 2, Gate 11): A popular coffee chain serving a range of coffee drinks, teas, and pastries.
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Ciao Gourmet Market (T1 East, Gate 4): Offers gourmet sandwiches, salads, and snacks for a more upscale grab-and-go experience.
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Bankers Hill Bar & Restaurant (T1 East Level 2, Gate 7): A full-service bar and restaurant offering a more substantial dining experience with a focus on American cuisine.
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Einstein Bros. Bagels (T1 East): A go-to for bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee.
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Dark Horse Coffee Roasters (T1 East): A local San Diego favorite, Dark Horse offers specialty coffee and a unique coffee shop experience.
Terminal 2 West Dining Options
Terminal 2 West presents a diverse selection, including the celebrated Phil’s BBQ:
- Phil’s BBQ (Gate 46): A San Diego institution, Phil’s BBQ is a must-try for meat lovers. Known for its baby back ribs, chicken dinners, and signature sandwiches like the BBQ Broham (pulled pork) and El Toro (barbecue tri-tip). Open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., expect potentially long but worthwhile lines.
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Urban Crave (Gate 48): Another location for American comfort food classics.
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Club 42 – Sunset Cove: Offers a bar and casual dining experience within the Sunset Cove area.
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Tommy V’s Pizzeria – Sunset Cove: Serves pizzas and Italian-inspired dishes in the Sunset Cove food court.
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Asian Kitchen – Sunset Cove: Provides a selection of Asian cuisine, including rice bowls and noodle dishes, in Sunset Cove.
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Red Mango – Sunset Cove: A frozen yogurt and smoothie option for a sweet treat or lighter meal.
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Qdoba Mexican Grill – Sunset Cove: Offers customizable burritos, bowls, tacos, and salads with a Mexican flair.
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Camden Food Co. (Before Gate 36 and 47): Features grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, and snacks with a focus on fresh ingredients.
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Peet’s Coffee & Tea: Another convenient Peet’s location for coffee and tea needs.
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Stone Brewing Company (Between Gates 35 and 36): Enjoy local craft beers from Stone Brewing, a San Diego favorite, along with pub fare.
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PGA Tour Grill (Between Gates 35 and 36): A sports bar and grill offering American classics and a relaxed atmosphere.
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Starbucks (Gate 37): The ubiquitous coffee chain for familiar coffee drinks and snacks.
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Elegant Desserts (Gate 38): Indulge in a variety of desserts, pastries, and sweet treats.
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Pannikin Coffee & Tea (Gate 38): A local San Diego coffee shop known for its quality coffee and tea selections.
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Beaudevin Wine & Tapas Bar (Gate 42): A sophisticated option for wine, tapas, and small plates.
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Einstein Bros. Bagels (Pre-Security): A pre-security location to grab bagels and coffee before your flight.
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Terminal 2 East Dining Options
Terminal 2 East offers a mix of sit-down and quick-service options:
- Prado at the Airport (Gate 26): An extension of the renowned Prado at Balboa Park, this restaurant and bar from the Cohn Restaurant Group offers a more refined dining experience with a diverse menu. Open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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San Life Market/Illy Coffee (Near Gate 22): Another location for coffee and market-style grab-and-go items.
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Panda Express (Gate 26): A popular fast-food chain serving American Chinese cuisine.
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Jack in the Box (Gate 26): Another convenient Jack in the Box location within the airport.
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Artisan Market (Near Gate 22): Offers a selection of artisanal snacks, sandwiches, and beverages.
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Peet’s Coffee & Tea (Gate 26): A further Peet’s Coffee location for Terminal 2 East travelers.
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California Pizza Kitchen (Gate 26): Serves a variety of pizzas, salads, and pasta dishes.
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Jetbox (Grab & Go): A quick option for sandwiches, salads, and snacks on the go.
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Fresh Attraction (Grab & Go): Focuses on fresh and healthy grab-and-go options like salads and wraps.
Before you fly, remember that operating hours can change. It’s always a good idea to check the airport’s official website for the most up-to-date information on San Diego airport food and dining options. Enjoy your meal and your travels through San Diego!
