When you’re yearning for Michelin-starred cuisine, Britain’s air hubs might not be your first port of call.
But nevertheless, airport food has come a long way from the soggy sandwiches and warm beer which was too often their staple fare in days of yore.
Nowadays, you’ll find something to perk up the most refined palate — so with that in mind, here are five excellent UK airport eateries that fuel culinary flights of fancy.
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Flutes and Tails, Edinburgh
If you’ve got some spare time for fab food and drink in Scotland’s busiest airport, Flutes and Tails serves up fine champagne, wines, beer, spirits and cocktails — accompanied by dishes like caviar, smoked Scottish salmon or cullen skink (a delicious smoked haddock and potato soup).
The only downside of this delicious outlet is never having enough time to sample everything that’s on offer.
Top tip: one of the most convenient ways to reach the city is by taking an Edinburgh Airport tram.
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Trattoria Milano, Manchester
Foodies departing from Manchester who desperately need an Italian fix should trot straight to Trattoria Milano for the most mouthwatering Milanese food this side of the Med.
You’ll find classic pastas, stone-baked pizzas and a terrific calzone kiev — order from the 15 minutes pronto menu for rapid service.
Top tip: if you’re travelling with a child in a pushchair, Manchester airport offers a security fast track.
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Grain Store, Gatwick
Gatwick’s cuisine offering has been bolstered in recent years by the addition of various outlets from Jamie Oliver’s food empire.
But eating at the Grain Store offers travellers something a little different in the taste stakes. Chef Bruno Loubet’s café and bar has an eclectic menu featuring everything from all-day breakfasts to fish and chips and artisan burgers — get stuck in.
Top tip: if you’re planning a plane picnic, ask to take away your food in a bento box.
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Scotland & Sea, Glasgow
When an airport eating emporium champions fresh local ingredients, savour the chance to sample them — and Scotland & Sea at Glasgow is a great example of a café with chefs who specialise in crafting creative dishes that showcase the best Caledonian food.
Whether you want a light lunch or hearty Scottish breakfast, everything is prepared punctually on the premises.
Top tip: For a private family space away from the hustle and bustle, book access to the Upper Deck Lounge at glasgowairport.com.
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Bottega Prosecco Bar, Birmingham
Prosecco has proven more accessible than its French cousin champagne in recent years and if you’re a fan of this particular fizz, Birmingham’s Bottega won airport bar of the year in 2018.
As well as its signature tipple, this fair approximation of a Venetian Bacaro bar also offers a breakfast menu and sensational Italian snacks — it’s the perfect pre-flight pitstop.
Top tip: Find cheap airport parking at Birmingham BHX at Looking4.com and book early for bargains.
Sample these five awesome airport eateries to start your holiday feeling superbly satisfied — you can thank us later!
What’s your favourite UK airport restaurant? Let us know in the comments section.
