Introduction
Ever find yourself staring blankly at a sad-looking airport sandwich, regretting every life decision that led you to that point? We’ve all been there. Airport food often gets a bad rap, and rightfully so. But what if I told you that your Orlando International Airport (MCO) experience didn’t have to include culinary despair?
Orlando International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the United States, is more than just a gateway to theme parks and sunshine. It’s also home to a surprisingly diverse and delicious dining scene that goes far beyond the usual fast-food suspects. Forget the soggy fries and questionably fresh salads. This guide will lead you on a culinary journey through MCO, uncovering the hidden gems and well-known favorites that will make your travel experience significantly more palatable. We’ll explore various terminals and cuisines, highlighting the best spots to grab a quick bite, enjoy a leisurely meal, or simply satisfy your caffeine cravings before your flight takes off. So, buckle up, because we’re about to take off on a gastronomic adventure!
Fueling Up Before Security: Pre-Security Dining Delights
Before you brave the TSA lines, you have access to a range of dining options that are often overlooked. The pre-security areas in Terminal A and Terminal B both house bustling food courts, each offering a mix of familiar chains and local favorites.
Terminal A: A World of Flavors Awaits
The Terminal A food court is a hive of activity, a melting pot of aromas and culinary possibilities. The atmosphere is often lively, with travelers grabbing last-minute meals and families preparing for their adventures. Here, you’ll find everything from classic American fare to international flavors.
One standout is Zaza Cuban Comfort Food. This local gem serves up authentic Cuban cuisine that will transport you straight to Little Havana. Their Cuban sandwich, pressed to perfection and oozing with melted cheese, is a must-try. The ropa vieja, a tender shredded beef dish simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce, is another popular choice. Prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a satisfying and affordable meal.
For something a little different, consider correctly entered text.. This spot offers fresh and flavorful Asian-inspired bowls and wraps. Their customizable menu allows you to create the perfect dish to suit your taste, with options ranging from teriyaki chicken to spicy tofu. The ingredients are always fresh, and the portions are generous. Expect to pay a bit more than you would at a fast-food chain, but the quality is well worth it.
Terminal B: More Culinary Adventures
The Terminal B food court mirrors the energy of its counterpart in Terminal A, offering a similar mix of options. However, you’ll find some unique gems here as well.
If you’re craving something sweet, head straight to Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC. This bakery specializes in vegan and gluten-free treats that are surprisingly delicious. Their cupcakes are a particular highlight, moist and flavorful despite being free of common allergens. They also offer a range of other baked goods, including muffins, cookies, and donuts. It’s a perfect place to indulge in a guilt-free treat before your flight.
For a taste of the Big Apple, check out Sbarro. While it’s a chain, it’s a solid option for a quick and satisfying slice of New York-style pizza. Their pizzas are made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection. It’s a great option for families with picky eaters, or anyone who just wants a classic comfort food fix.
Beyond the Food Courts: Discovering Hidden Gems
Beyond the bustling food courts, you’ll find some stand-alone restaurants that offer a more relaxed and refined dining experience before security.
Cask & Larder located in the Hyatt Regency Hotel inside the airport, offers a true taste of Southern comfort food. This restaurant serves up hearty dishes like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and biscuits with gravy. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the service is top-notch. It’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy a delicious meal before your flight. It’s a little pricier than the food court options, but the quality and atmosphere are well worth it.
Dining in the Departure Halls: Post-Security Culinary Delights
Once you’ve cleared security, your dining options expand significantly. Each airside (basically, each concourse) boasts a variety of restaurants and cafes, catering to different tastes and budgets.
Terminal A: Airside One and Two
Airside One and Airside Two in Terminal A offer a diverse selection of dining choices. Airside One, in particular, is known for its more upscale options.
Within Airside One, you can find Hemisphere Restaurant, with its location inside Hyatt Regency Hotel. It offers passengers American cuisine prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The location has a full bar, happy hour specials, and offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
For a quick and casual bite, check out Chick-fil-A. While it’s a chain, it’s a consistently popular choice for its delicious chicken sandwiches and waffle fries. It’s a great option for families and anyone looking for a quick and satisfying meal. Be prepared for a line, though, as it’s often busy.
Moving on to Airside Two, you’ll find Wendy’s. Offering burgers, fries and shakes to get you on your way to your destination.
If you are in the mood for Mexican, Qdoba Mexican Eats is a great choice for burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and much more.
Terminal B: Airside Three and Four
Airside Three and Airside Four in Terminal B offer a similar mix of options to Airside One and Two.
Airside Three offers multiple choices. McCoy’s Bar and Grill offers a casual pub atmosphere with a menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more. They also have a full bar with a wide selection of beers and cocktails.
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is great for those with a need for caffeine before your flight.
In Airside Four you have the option of Panda Express if you want an easy and fast Asian-inspired meal. Or if you want a quick sandwich, you can visit Jersey Mike’s Subs.
Finding the Right Bite: Specific Food Category Recommendations
Sometimes, you’re not just looking for *any* food, you’re looking for something specific. Here are some recommendations based on common dining needs.
Quick Bites for Travelers on the Go
When you’re short on time, you need something fast, convenient, and still satisfying. Places like Zaza Cuban Comfort Food (for a grab-and-go sandwich), Chick-fil-A (for a quick chicken fix), and Qdoba Mexican Eats (for a burrito) are all excellent choices. You can get food quickly and eat it while walking to your gate.
Relaxing and Enjoying a Meal: Best Sit-Down Restaurants
If you have more time to spare, consider a sit-down restaurant like Cask & Larder or McCoy’s Bar and Grill. These restaurants offer a more relaxed atmosphere and a chance to savor your meal before your flight.
Caffeine and Carbs: Coffee and Pastries
For a pre-flight caffeine boost and a sweet treat, head to The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf or Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC. These spots offer a range of coffees, teas, pastries, and other baked goods to satisfy your cravings.
Family-Friendly Feasts: Options for Kids
Traveling with kids can be challenging, especially when it comes to food. Chick-fil-A, Wendy’s, and Sbarro are all great options for picky eaters. They offer familiar favorites that kids are sure to enjoy.
Healthy Options for the Health-Conscious Traveler
If you’re trying to eat healthy while traveling, consider the customizable bowls and wraps at properly filled text or salads and sandwiches at McCoy’s Bar and Grill. These spots offer fresh ingredients and lighter fare that won’t leave you feeling sluggish.
Making the Most of Your MCO Dining Experience: Essential Tips
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable dining experience at Orlando International Airport, keep these tips in mind:
Download the MCO Airport App: The official MCO airport app is a valuable resource. It provides information on restaurant locations, hours of operation, menus, and even wait times.
Allow Ample Time: Airport restaurants can get busy, especially during peak travel times. Be sure to allow plenty of time for dining, especially if you’re planning to eat at a sit-down restaurant.
Consider Mobile Ordering: Many restaurants at MCO offer mobile ordering, which can save you time and allow you to skip the line.
Look Out for Specials: Check for special deals and promotions offered by restaurants at MCO. You might be able to snag a discount or a free appetizer.
Stay Aware of Gate Changes: Gate changes can happen at any time. Be sure to keep an eye on the monitors and listen for announcements to ensure that you don’t miss your flight.
Travel in the Off-Season: During off-season travel it can be easier to get a table as well as better service due to lower volumes of passengers.
A Delicious Departure: Final Thoughts
So, there you have it: a comprehensive guide to the best food in Orlando International Airport. As you can see, MCO offers a surprisingly diverse and delicious dining scene that goes far beyond the usual airport fare. Next time you’re traveling through Orlando, take some time to explore the culinary offerings and discover your own hidden gems.
Don’t settle for another sad airport sandwich. With a little planning and this guide in hand, you can transform your MCO experience from a culinary chore into a delightful treat. Bon appétit, and happy travels!
