LaGuardia Airport, particularly its Terminal B, often conjures up images of hurried travelers, long lines, and perhaps, less-than-stellar dining options. However, the narrative surrounding Terminal B has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. The extensive renovations have not only modernized the terminal’s infrastructure but have also revolutionized the culinary landscape within its walls. Forget the days of limited choices and uninspired meals. Terminal B at LaGuardia now boasts a diverse and impressive array of dining options, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets. Whether you’re craving a classic New York slice, a comforting bowl of pasta, a quick caffeine fix, or a pre-flight cocktail, you’ll find it here. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the culinary scene and discover the perfect meal, snack, or drink before your departure, ensuring a more enjoyable and satisfying travel experience. For those seeking quality food in Terminal B LaGuardia, your search ends here.
Pre-Security Dining: A Brief Overview
Before delving into the expansive post-security options, it’s important to acknowledge the limited dining possibilities available prior to clearing security checkpoints. While Terminal B’s transformation has largely focused on the post-security environment, pre-security options remain somewhat scarce. You might find a cafe serving coffee and pastries or a grab-and-go outlet offering sandwiches and salads, but choices are generally confined to quicker, more basic fare. If you are looking for a substantial meal before heading through security, it’s best to plan ahead. Consider enjoying a meal before arriving at the airport or packing your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages to bring with you. This will allow you to bypass the limited pre-security offerings and save room for the tempting options awaiting you once you’ve passed through security. Finding desirable food in Terminal B LaGuardia prior to security is difficult, plan accordingly.
Post-Security Dining: A Culinary Adventure
Once you’ve navigated the security lines, prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the breadth and quality of dining options available in Terminal B. To help you navigate this culinary landscape, we’ve organized the options into categories: sit-down restaurants, quick service eateries, bars and lounges, and grab-and-go outlets.
Sit-Down Restaurants: Relax and Indulge
For travelers seeking a more leisurely dining experience, Terminal B offers a selection of sit-down restaurants where you can unwind and savor a meal before your flight.
Artichoke Basille’s Pizza
A New York City staple, Artichoke Basille’s Pizza is famous for its decadent and unconventional pies. Their signature artichoke pizza, a creamy and cheesy masterpiece, is a must-try for any first-time visitor. Beyond the artichoke pizza, they offer a variety of other unique and flavorful combinations, along with classic pizzas and appetizers. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy a slice. The price point is moderate, reflecting the quality ingredients and generous portions. Hours of operation generally align with flight schedules.
Junior’s Restaurant
Another New York institution, Junior’s Restaurant is renowned for its authentic New York-style cheesecakes and classic American comfort food. From juicy burgers and hearty sandwiches to creamy macaroni and cheese, Junior’s offers a satisfying and familiar menu. Of course, no visit is complete without indulging in a slice of their signature cheesecake. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a classic diner, providing a comforting and nostalgic dining experience. Prices are reasonable, and service is typically efficient. It’s an ideal choice for a pre-flight meal that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
Dos Toros Taqueria
Craving authentic Mexican flavors? Dos Toros Taqueria offers a customizable and delicious selection of tacos, burritos, bowls, and salads. Choose from a variety of flavorful fillings, including grilled steak, braised chicken, carnitas, and vegetarian options. The ingredients are fresh and high-quality, and the portions are generous. The atmosphere is lively and casual, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal. The price point is moderate, and the service is typically fast and efficient. It’s a perfect option for those looking for a flavorful and customizable Mexican meal.
Quick Service/Fast Casual: On-the-Go Goodness
For travelers with limited time, Terminal B offers a wide array of quick service and fast-casual eateries that provide delicious and convenient meals and snacks.
Shake Shack
This beloved burger chain, known for its juicy burgers, crispy crinkle-cut fries, and creamy shakes, is a Terminal B favorite. Shake Shack offers a classic American menu with a focus on quality ingredients and satisfying flavors. The service is quick and efficient, and the price point is moderate. It’s an ideal choice for a quick and tasty meal before your flight. Popular items include the ShackBurger, Shack Stack, and the signature frozen custard shakes.
Starbucks
A global coffeehouse chain, Starbucks offers a wide variety of coffee drinks, teas, pastries, and snacks. It’s a perfect spot to grab a caffeine fix, a quick breakfast, or a mid-day snack. The service is usually quick and efficient, and the prices are consistent with Starbucks locations worldwide. It’s a reliable choice for travelers seeking familiar and convenient options.
Lil’ Sweet Chick
Specializing in Chicken and Waffles, Lil’ Sweet Chick offers a comforting and satisfying meal. The perfect blend of crispy and sweet, it’s a great choice if you want a taste of home on the road.
Irving Farm Coffee Roasters
For a caffeine boost with a bit more local flavor, Irving Farm Coffee Roasters sources and serves high-quality coffee from around the world. They also offer teas, pastries and light bites if you need more than just a drink.
Bars & Lounges: Relax and Unwind Before Takeoff
If you’re looking to unwind with a pre-flight drink, Terminal B offers a selection of bars and lounges where you can relax and enjoy a cocktail, beer, or glass of wine.
Local Tavern
This classic tavern-style bar offers a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, along with a menu of pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it a great spot to relax and socialize. They also feature a solid menu of food, meaning you can grab a meal with your drinks. Happy hour deals may be available, so be sure to check with the bartender.
Bowery Bay Bar
This stylish bar offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a creative cocktail menu, featuring both classic and innovative drinks. They also offer a selection of wines and beers, as well as a limited menu of small plates and snacks. It’s a perfect choice for travelers seeking a more upscale and refined drinking experience.
Grab-and-Go/Snacks/Coffee: Quick Bites on the Fly
For those who need to grab a quick snack or beverage on the go, Terminal B offers a variety of grab-and-go outlets and convenience stores.
Hudson News
This ubiquitous newsstand chain offers a selection of magazines, books, snacks, drinks, and travel essentials. It’s a convenient spot to pick up last-minute items or grab a quick snack for your flight. Options include pre-packaged sandwiches, salads, chips, and candy.
Dunkin’
A favorite for many travelers, Dunkin’ offers a selection of donuts, coffee, and breakfast sandwiches. Perfect for a quick, inexpensive, and familiar pick me up.
Tips and Tricks for Dining in Terminal B
To make the most of your dining experience in Terminal B, consider these helpful tips and tricks:
Time Management is Key: Allow yourself ample time for dining, especially if you plan to visit a sit-down restaurant. Airport security lines can be unpredictable, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution and arrive early.
Mobile Ordering Opportunities: Check if any of the restaurants offer mobile ordering options. This can save you time and allow you to skip the line.
Budgeting for Airport Prices: Be aware that airport prices tend to be higher than those in the city. Set a budget for your meal or snack and choose options that fit within your price range.
Catering to Dietary Needs: If you have any special dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, inquire about available choices before ordering. Many restaurants offer modifications or alternative dishes to accommodate dietary restrictions. Food in Terminal B LaGuardia can accommodate most diets.
Navigating Terminal Locations: Pay attention to the location of restaurants within the terminal. Some restaurants may be located near specific gate areas, so plan your route accordingly to avoid unnecessary walking.
Conclusion
The dining scene at LaGuardia’s Terminal B has undergone a dramatic and positive transformation. The days of limited options and uninspired meals are long gone. Terminal B now offers a diverse and exciting culinary landscape, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From iconic New York institutions to international flavors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, the next time you find yourself traveling through Terminal B, take some time to explore the dining options and discover your new favorite pre-flight meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick coffee, a satisfying snack, or a leisurely dining experience, Terminal B has something to satisfy every traveler’s appetite. This guide should make finding the perfect food in Terminal B LaGuardia an easy and delightful experience. Forget any previous bad experience, today the food in Terminal B LaGuardia shines! Bon appétit and safe travels!
