Beaches Restaurant and Bar, a tropical themed Portland Airport restaurant, is now open

Portland International Airport (PDX)  - June 2010 - Beaches Restaurant and Bar has opened in Portland International Airport in the Oregon Market area, which is pre-security. According to the airport web site, the hours are 6am - 11pm daily. The original Beaches Restaurant and Bar is located in Vancouver, WA. You can learn more about them at their website: http://beaches.simplehelix.com/.

According to the Portland Airport website:

Beaches Restaurant and Bar in Portland International Airport is: "Unique, local casual dining with a tropical theme serving a variety of appetizers, sushi, soups & salads, pizzas, burgers & sandwiches, and dinners along with a full service bar and great breakfast."

For a full listing and brief description of the Portland Airport Restaurants and Bars, you can check out this list at the airport website:  http://www.portofportland.com/Rstnts_Home.aspx

California Pizza Kitchen Opens Maui Kahului Airport Restaurant

CPK Press Release for New Maui Airport Restaurant 

LOS ANGELES, Jun 11, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- California Pizza Kitchen, Inc. (CPK) (Nasdaq:CPKI), home of the Original BBQ Chicken Pizza and other innovative hearth-baked pizzas, made-to-order pastas, creative salads, appetizers, soups, sandwiches and desserts, opened a quick-serve location in Kahului Airport (OGG), the primary airport on the island of Maui, HI, today. The new location, opened by CPK franchise partner HMSHost Corporation, a world leader in travel dining and shopping, is located in the post-security common area, Frank's Food Court.

The new Kahului Airport location, open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., will feature a specialized selection of CPK's most popular pizzas, salads, soups and sandwiches from the full-service restaurant menu. Among the items offered will be the Thai Chicken and Hawaiian Pizzas, Chinese Chicken Salad, Chicken Caesar Sandwich and Dakota Smashed Pea and Barley Soup.

In addition, the new CPK restaurant will offer a full breakfast menu highlighted by a great selection of breakfast pizzas including the Denver Pizza with scrambled eggs, fresh red and green peppers, Canadian bacon and mild onions. The menu will also offer The Works Breakfast Burrito and a variety of egg breakfast sandwiches served on Herb Cheese Focaccia bread.

Source: California Pizza Kitchen Press Release: http://investor.cpk.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=478764

California Pizza Kitchen Express features specialized selection and breakfast, too

Honolulu International Airport (HNL) - June 2010 - California Pizza Kitchen has opened a new "express" airport restaurant at Honolulu International Airport in the Main Terminal Building, across checkpoint #3. According to the CPK website, it will be open from 6am - 10pm daily. 

The following is the press release from CPK about this new Honolulu Airport restaurant:

California Pizza Kitchen Opens in Honolulu International Airport LOS ANGELES, Jun 04, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- California Pizza Kitchen, Inc. (CPK) (Nasdaq:CPKI), home of the Original BBQ Chicken Pizza and other innovative hearth-baked pizzas, made-to-order pastas, creative salads, appetizers, soups, sandwiches and desserts, opened a quick-serve location in the Honolulu International Airport (HNL) in Hawaii today. The new location, opened by CPK franchise partner HMSHost Corporation, a world leader in travel dining and shopping, is located in the Main Terminal Building which hosts eighteen different air carriers including Qantas Airways, Korean Air and American Airlines.

The menu at the Honolulu International Airport location features a specialized selection of CPK's most popular pizzas, salads, soups and sandwiches from the full-service restaurant menu. Among the items offered will be the Works and Thai Chicken Pizzas, Original BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad, Chicken Caesar Sandwich and Sedona Tortilla Soup.

In addition, the new CPK restaurant will offer a full breakfast menu highlighted by a great selection of breakfast pizzas including the Santa Fe Pizza with scrambled eggs, fresh red and green peppers, Italian sausage and three cheeses. The menu will also offer The Works Breakfast Burrito and a variety of egg breakfast sandwiches served on Herb Cheese Focaccia bread.

Source: California Pizza Kitchen press release June 4, 2010 

Hissho Sushi means Fresh, Healthy and Fun Food for Travelers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

BETHESDA, MD (HMSHost Press Release for Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)) - June 4, 2010 – Travelers are enjoying a new menu of Asian cuisine at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). Brought to the airport by HMSHost Corporation, a world leader in travel dining and shopping, Hissho Sushi’s array of authentic, healthy and delicious Japanese sushi is prepared fresh daily and served at the newly renovated First in Flight Bar, located in the Main Terminal’s atrium.

“The exceptional quality of a brand like Hissho Sushi adds variety to our food and beverage program and is another example of how we are listening to the desires of our passengers. HMSHost is an essential partner in our concession program. We would not have been able to do this without them,” said Jerry Orr, Aviation Director.

Hissho Sushi and HMSHost’s chefs created a selection of sushi specials just for the airport’s travelers that will impart a true sense of place—from names such as the CLT Roll (spicy salmon, cucumber and jalapeno, topped with sliced white tuna wasabi aioli and spicy mayo) and the Queen Charlotte Roll (tempura shrimp, green leaf lettuce, avocado, asparagus and capelin roe, served with a masago sauce) to the Outer Banks Roll, Orville & Wilbur’s (Wright Brothers) Roll and Sky Captain. Dishes familiar to sushi lovers include the Nigiri, Sashimi and Maki Rolls.

Adding a sushi option for travelers is part of HMSHost’s goal to offer a variety of contemporary dining choices to airport travelers. In partnership with Hissho Sushi, a nationally recognized purveyor of upscale sushi bars, HMSHost is able to offer the high quality, best tasting sushi to CLT’s national and international travelers who want a choice of interesting and healthy flavors.

“Working closely with HMSHost and the Charlotte Airport, we developed an innovative concept that stresses convenience for busy travelers on-the-go,” comments Hissho Sushi Director, Aaron Petrosky. “The custom bar contains a built in grab-and-go refrigerated sushi case providing a wide variety of sushi and maximum convenience for travelers to dine-in or enjoy fresh sushi on the plane.”

“We are always looking for ways to make the traveler’s day better with delicious and healthy menu options. Judging by the enthusiastic reception, Hissho Sushi is fast becoming a favorite of Charlotte Douglas travelers,” said Pat Banducci, senior vice president of business development for HMSHost.

First in Flight Bar featuring Hissho Sushi is located post-security in the main terminal atrium and is open daily for lunch and dinner.

About Hissho Sushi Hissho Sushi (pronounced hē - shō sushi in Japanese meaning ‘certain victory’) is a nationally recognized leader in providing the highest quality sushi and superior customer service for its customers at sushi bars across the United States. Hissho Sushi provides turn-key sushi bar solutions to upscale supermarkets, cafes, hospitals, universities and foodservice locations. Hissho searches the world markets for only the highest quality ingredients which are procured and tested in Hissho’s state-of-the-art distribution facility based in Charlotte, NC. With more than a decade in the industry, Hissho’s proven program and committed sushi professionals are recognized as the “best of the best”. Everyday, Hissho’s talented chefs prepare delicious sushi that keeps customers happy and healthy. Hissho’s passion for the sushi business coupled with its hand-in-hand dedication to its partners and customers have made Hissho the #1 choice for sushi in America today. Visit www.hisshosushi.com for more information.

Source: http://www.hmshost.com/Newsroom/Releases/312.pdf

Legal Sea Foods opens Saturday May 15, 2010 at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) 

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) - May 14, 2010 - The Philadelphia Business Journal has reported that Legal Sea Foods will open at Philadelphia International Airport this Saturday, May 15, 2010. It will open in the food and shops area of the Terminal B/C Connector. I have always been a fan of Legal Sea Foods, and love their clam chowder, so I look forward to visiting this new Philadelphia Airport restaurant on my next trip though PHL.

On another note, on a recent trip through the Philadelphia airport I have noticed new small Cibo and Vino Volo wine bars opening up at additional locations throughout the airport. Some of them seem to be as of yet undiscovered, as they seem to be less crowded than their larger counterparts can be, at least while I was there. 

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Source:  http://www.bizjournals.com/philadelphia/stories/2010/05/10/daily36.html

A Marriage of Southern Italian and Peruvian Cuisine to be Featured in the Dine Boston Visiting Chef Program at the AIRMALL(R) at Boston's Logan International Airport (BOS)

Chef Jose Duarte of Taranta Restaurant to Serve Delectable Dishes at Dine Boston in Terminal E Landside Beginning Wednesday, May 5, 2010

BOSTON, April 26 /PRNewswire/ -- A hybrid of the savory flavors from southern Italy and the unique fare of Peru are coming to the AIRMALL® at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS). BAA Boston, developer and manager of the AIRMALL® at BOS, and Dine Boston are pleased to welcome Jose Duarte, chef and owner of Taranta Restaurant, as the latest headliner for the Dine Boston Visiting Chef Program. The program showcases New England chefs' specialties for a three-month period at the airport restaurant.

Dine Boston is conveniently located pre-security in the AIRMALL® in Terminal E, which means airport visitors and airline passengers alike can sample the delicious fare created by Chef Duarte.

"Chef Jose Duarte has created a spin-off of traditional southern Italian and Peruvian cuisine with tastes that have certainly intrigued and appealed to restaurant goers in the Boston area," said Mike Caro, vice president of development for BAA Boston. "BAA Boston and Dine Boston are pleased to introduce his dishes to the traveling passengers through the Dine Boston Visiting Chef Program."

A native of Peru, Duarte opened Taranta Restaurant in 2000, and was awarded with "Boston's most gracious host" by Stuff magazine in 2006 and 2007. Taranta Restaurant, located in Boston's historic North End, is a marriage between Southern Italian and Peruvian cuisine that uses unique Peruvian ingredients. A leader in the green movement in regard to sustainability and green business, Duarte received the Green Business Award from the City of Boston in 2008.

At Dine Boston, Chef Duarte's menu includes pan roasted mussels and an organic baby arugula salad; Cassava Root Gnocchi with a Peruvian Style slow braised "Chica de Jora" green lamb ragu with spicy shaved parmesan; Macadamia crusted Atlantic Salmon fillet over herbed risotto cake, Peruvian Asparagus and a Pisco-Sicilian Blood orange with an Organic Incan Golden berries sauce; and dessert consisting of guava and ricotta mini cannolis with pistachio brittle.

The Dine Boston Visiting Chef Program, founded by Dine Boston, enables renowned New England chefs to "moonlight" at the restaurant and create a special menu for visitors. Past chefs featured in the Dine Boston Visiting Chef Program include Camilo Diaz and Sari Abul-Jubein from Casablanca; Chris Douglass from ICARUS; Erwin Ramos from Ole Mexican Grill; BJ Salazar of Sel de la Terre and Marisa Iocco from Spiga.

Source:  http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/a-marriage-of-southern-italian-and-peruvian-cuisine-to-be-featured-in-the-dine-boston-visiting-chef-program-at-the-airmallr-at-bos-92102999.html

HMSHost opens fun dining spot for traveling sports fans at ELP

BETHESDA, MD - April 29, 2010 – HMSHost, a world leader in travel dining and shopping, continues to delight El Paso International Airport (ELP) travelers with fresh local and international restaurant brands. The company announced today the addition of a Varsity Grill & Sports Bar to the airport’s outstanding new food and beverage concessions program.

Expressing her pleasure with the airport’s concession program enhancements, Director of Aviation, Monica Lombraña, A.A.E, said, “On behalf of El Paso International Airport, I thank HMSHost for delivering on its promise to ’make the traveler’s day better’ at ELP.”

Varsity Grill is now serving travelers post-security on Concourse A and celebrating local college and university sports teams with a festive atmosphere. Guests can watch their favorite sporting events and news on flat screen TVs while enjoying fresh deli sandwiches and salads, appetizers and soups, along with a cold beer, wine and premium cocktails.

Later this year, 12th Fairway Bar & Grill will join the dining options at ELP. Catering to the golf aficionado, this full service restaurant will offer the sophistication of a traditional golf clubhouse combined with the ambience of an American bar and grill. The menu includes a selection of breakfast, lunch and dinner items including traditional sandwiches, entrées and salads, plus a full bar specializing in unique Dewar’s scotch selections.

“We’re very pleased that travelers are enjoying the new Varsity Sports Bar & Grill along with the other exceptional local and national dining brands we opened recently at El Paso International Airport," said Stephen Douglas, Vice President, Business Development for HMSHost.

For additional information about El Paso International Airport Restaurants and Bars, see the eXpectdelaYs.com article: http://expectdelays.com/cblog/archives/482-Three-New-Restaurants-Open-At-El-Paso-International-Airport.html

Source: http://www.elpasointernationalairport.com/2009/documents/PR_Varsity.pdf

Registered Traveler program iQueue to open in Indianapolis International Airport (IND)

May 10, 2010 - Indianapolis International Airport (IND) will be the first U.S. airport to restore the Registered Traveler program, which expedites airport security for pre-screened members. Customers can start signing up for the new program — called iQueue and run by Cogent — now, but the company has yet to name a start date.

The company that operated the program previously, Verified Identity Pass, ceased operations last year, leaving its members with no service. IQueue says it will provide former members of the defunct CLEAR program six months of complimentary membership as credit for the time remaining on their previous plans.

Registered Traveler customers have their biometric data recorded and stored on a membership card. Airport screeners verify their identity and give them front-of-the-line privileges at security checkpoints.

A one-year membership in iQueue costs $149, with discounts for early enrollment and multiyear and family plans. Get more information or sign up at flyiqueue.com.

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Registered Traveler to Take Flight Again: Indianapolis Airport Authority Selects iQueue Team for Re-Launch

May 6, 2010 Indianapolis, IN – The Indianapolis Airport Authority (IAA) has selected iQueue to re-launch Registered Traveler (RT) at Indianapolis International Airport (IND). iQueue is a partnership of Cogent, Inc. (NASDAQ: COGT), ARINC, FLO Corporation and International RAM Associates. iQueue will provide members with expedited access to the screening checkpoint enabling greater predictability in travel schedules.

IND is the first airport to re-establish RT services for travelers since the RT program shut down last June when former RT provider Verified Identity Pass, Inc. (CLEAR ) ceased operations. iQueue begins pre-enrollment for travelers today at http://www.flyiqueue.com and will commence operations at IND at a date to be announced shortly. iQueue is also currently in discussions with several other airports for re-launching RT services.

“We selected iQueue based on their extensive RT experience and Cogent’s successful implementation of similar programs,” said John Clark, IAA’s Executive Director & CEO. "RT is consistent with our commitment to deliver exceptional customer service," added Mr. Clark.

"Cogent and the iQueue team are excited that Indianapolis is the first airport to re-launch RT services," said Jim Jasinski, EVP of Cogent. "We're delighted to be working with IAA to provide this valuable customer service and look forward to providing this benefit to travelers across the nation."

After completing an easy online application, an iQueue member proceeds at their convenience to an in-person enrollment at IND or one of Cogent’s enrollment locations in the Indianapolis area to provide biometric data (fingerprint and iris images) and approved documents. Once processed, a traveler’s biometric information is stored on their iQueue Card. When arriving at the security checkpoint, the member presents their card for verification at either of the iQueue lanes at IND Concourses A & B to receive expedited access to the screening checkpoint. Additionally, iQueue plans to provide convenient, local enrollment for members utilizing Cogent’s over 1,000 biometric enrollment sites across the U.S.

“iQueue will be another value-added service for our passengers as we continue to explore innovative new ways to provide our passengers with a superior airport experience,” noted Mark Hedegard, IAA’s Senior Director of Business Development.

iQueue’s national RT program will offer benefits beyond the airport lanes including preferred parking, airport club access and airport retail discounts as well as local restaurant, golf, spa, tennis, health club, mortgage and auto lease/purchase discounts. A future iQueue Platinum Membership level will also include identity theft protection and enhanced travel insurance as well as worldwide travel assistance, medical services, lounge access and concierge services.

Annual iQueue membership is $149 with discounts for families, multiple-year memberships and negotiated volume corporate purchases. iQueue will offer a special introductory annual membership rate of $99 during the first 90 days of lane operations at IND.

iQueue will also provide former members of the defunct CLEAR and Preferred Traveler Programs an additional six months of complimentary membership in the iQueue RT program as credit for the time remaining on their previous memberships.

“With the re-launch of RT, 200,000 former RT members, as well as many prospective new members can enjoy the predictable checkpoint experience that had previously been in place,” said Fred Fischer, iQueue’s Managing Partner.

Source: www.flyiqueue.com/news 

The Hudson Valley Wine Bar opened Wednesday May 12 at Albany International Airport (ALB)

Albany International Airport (ALB) - May 13, 2010 - The Hudson Valley Wine Bar has opened on Concourse B in Albany International Airport. The airport wine bar is located post-security and offers local New York wines as well as wines from other regions of New York state, as well as food. Featured wineries include Millbrook Vineyards, Brotherhood Winery and Whitecliff Winery. Bottled wines are not yet available for travelers to purchase and take with them, but this may be available in the future. The opportunity to sample local wines at the airport gives travelers the chance to taste wines they might not ordinarily have the opportunity to try. Another great regional airport wine bar is the Yadkin Valley Wine Bar in the Charlotte airport (CLT).

More details are available in the article in the Albany Times Union at :
http://blog.timesunion.com/business/wine-bar-opens-at-albany-international-airport/19724/

For more details about airport wine bars, check out: Airport Wine Bars - There's No Need To Drink Bad Wine At The Airport Anymore at expectdelays.com :
http://www.expectdelays.com/cblog/archives/358-Airport-Wine-Bars-Theres-No-Need-to-Drink-Bad-Wine-at-the-Airport-Anymore.html

As European airports and airspace reopen as the volcanic ash cloud clears, delays and disruptions continue

If you were, or still are, unfortunate enough to be stranded or have your travel plans disrupted by the recent eruption of Eyjafjallajokull, the volcano on Iceland, it is some solace that flights are taking to the skies again. However disruptions in air travel will continue as the recovery from all the cancelled flights progresses. The alert posted on the home page of London's Heathrow Airport is good advice for all travelers during this period of flight disruption:

Important flight information Last updated: 11:00 BST, Wednesday 21
April Heathrow airport is open but it will take some time for flying schedules to return to normal after the recent closure of UK airspace. It is therefore extremely important that passengers do not travel to the airport unless they have contacted their airline to confirm that their flight is operating. If you do not have a confirmed reservation for a flight that is operating then do not travel to the airport. Flights are full and will not be accepting stand-by passengers.

Some web sites, in addition to those of your airline and airport, that can provide useful information about air travel during this time are:

http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2010/04/15/world/europe/airport-closings-graphic.html?ref=europe - this interactive map from the NY Times reports the status of airports affected by the volcanic eruption

http://www.airlineindustryreview.com/list-of-european-airport-closures-and-status - List of European Airport Closures and Status – Live Updating - from Airline Industry Review

http://www.auc.org.uk/ - The Air Transport Users Council - the "The UK's Consumer Watchdog for the Aviation Industry" - provides information on air travelers' rights in the UK and EU

http://www.caa.co.uk/ - The UK Civil Aviation Authority Web Site - provides the latest information regarding air travel and the ash cloud

Before leaving for the airport, be sure to check on the status of your flight. Some airlines, such as British Airways, are requesting that travelers with flexible travel plans reschedule their flights so that stranded passengers can be transported. For more information, see the British Airways website, or check with your airline about rescheduling options. 

Ufood Grill opens its second location in Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)

Source: Ufood Grill Press Release - http://www.ufoodgrill.com/about-us/press/Boston%20Logan%202nd%20unit%20Press%20release%2041210%20Final.pdf
Boston, MA: April 12, 2010 - UFood Restaurant Group opens its new location at Boston Logan Airport Terminal C. It marks a new franchise relationship with Midfield Concession Enterprises of Romulus, Michigan. Midfield is a multi-unit food and beverage operator that operates national brands such as Cantina Laredo, Max & Erma’s, Champps Americana, The Coffee Beanery and Quiznos. Midfield also operates its own award-winning brands, Sora Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar and the Mediterranean Grill.

The Terminal C location of the Boston-based quick-serve restaurant chain UFood Grill marks the company’s second location in Boston’s Logan International Airport and third airport location overall. Andrea Hachem, CEO and president of Midfield Concession Enterprises, said: “We are excited about our new partnership with UFood Grill. We like the concept of UFood Grill, as it provides travelers with great comfort food that not only tastes great, but is actually healthful and good for you.

UFood Grill will be a great addition to Logan Airport Terminal C, as well as a hit with travelers.” George Naddaff, Chairman and CEO of UFood Grill said, “This will be our second location to open in Logan Airport. Several more locations will soon be under construction across the country. We are very excited to expand our business in airports and other nontraditional locations throughout the United States. Airports, colleges, and hospitals are a natural fit for our concept, where delicious meets nutritious. UFood Restaurant Group is a franchisor and operator of fast-casual food service restaurants, headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts. The company is led by franchise innovator George Naddaff, who founded Boston Market and led the franchising of several companies.

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In case this press release leaves you wondering what Ufood Grill actually is, we'll help you. You can learn more by visiting their website, http://www.ufoodgrill.com. The introduction from the web site is quite informative:

"Real food—it’s that simple. We use the finest quality ingredients and healthy cooking techniques to make delicious tasting, better-for-you versions of old favorites like burgers and fries, and innovative original creations like our Tofusion UBowl or our Portable Portabella Sandwich. Our food is fresh, fun, and most of all, delicious.

What you can expect from UFood:
-We bake, we grill, we steam. We never fry - ever
-Natural and organic ingredients whenever possible
-Whole-grain brown rice and breads
-Lite dressings and lower-fat cheeses
-No added trans fats ever
-Lots of vegetarian items that are tasty enough for meat eaters too
-Food that is easily customizable to meet individual tastes and dietary needs
-Everything on our menu makes it easy for you to make choices that work for the way people like to eat today. You don’t have to make sacrifices or worry about “right” and “wrong.” On this menu, it’s all good."

Travel Alerts for Nashville International Airport (BNA) for Late April 2010

If you are traveling to BNA, please note the following updates related to parking and terminal access.

Friday, April 16 - At 9:30 am, the Short-Term Garage entrance will be closed for approximately 2-3 minutes to mobilize construction equipment into an adjacent work area. In the afternoon, another 2-3 minute closure of the entrance will occur.

Monday, April 19 - The Short-Term Garage entrance will be closed from 1:30 a.m. to 3 a.m. - Blasting of rock for utility trenches will begin Monday. These blasts will not result in any roadway or pedestrian path closures; however, warning sounds 5 minutes prior to each blast will be heard. Blast times are tentatively scheduled for 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday, April 20 - Vehicular access to the Terminal will be stopped on Terminal Drive at 9:25 a.m. for approximately 10 minutes to allow for a scheduled blast. Please note that no flights will be delayed because of blasting or other construction work. Parking areas will also remain open.

Terminal Renovation Updates

Beginning Sunday, April 18, the restroom on the north end of Baggage Claim level will be closed for approximately 14 weeks. The south restroom will remain open at all times during this period.

The evening of Sunday, April 25, the north entrance vestibule on the Ticketing Level and the north entrance vestibule on the Baggage Claim Level will close for renovation construction and remain closed for 10 days.

For more articles and information see the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority Website, which is the source of this information.

A new LAX airport restaurant - Daniels Bistro + Bar - now open at the LAX International Terminal

(source: LAX News release, April 9, 2010 - www.lawa.org/newsContent.aspx?ID=1270)
Los Angeles, California – April 8, 2010 - Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) and CMS Hospitality Corporation today celebrated the opening of Daniels Bistro + Bar – a full-service restaurant offering California inspired cuisine – at Los AngelesInternationalAirport (LAX).

Daniels Bistro + Bar is located at the newly renovated Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) on the Lower/Arrivals Level. Daniels Bistro + Bar offers a California menu with breakfast, paninis, sandwiches, pizza, salads and handmade crepes in a bar, restaurant, and lounge atmosphere. The Bistro’s espresso bar features “Velvet Hammer” and other specialty coffees made from beans roasted exclusively for Daniels Bistro + Bar. The bar offers premium wines, draft and bottled beers, and signature cocktails.

Adding to the Bistro atmosphere is a 20-foot by 20-foot video public arts wall highlighting scenes of California and abstract art and panoramic views created by local artists.

“CMS Hospitality Corporation brings a unique concept to our growing selection of dining options at LAX,” said Gina Marie Lindsey, LAWA executive director. “It’s great to offer our travelers a taste of California inspired-cuisine when they arrive at our airport or for family and friends waiting for arriving travelers.” “Daniels Bistro + Bar offers an oasis where travelers can relax, enjoy good food and drinks in a comfortable and friendly environment,” said Clarence A. Daniels Jr., CMS Hospitality Corporation president and CEO. “The Bistro is here to welcome travelers and family and friends waiting for arriving travelers.”

Daniels Bistro + Bar is the latest addition to the food service offerings at LAX. The Bistro joins other dining options including local Los Angeles favorites: Pinkberry, Gladstone’s 4 Fish, La Brea Bakery, and On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina. 

For more information, visit the LAX Daniels Bistro + Bar website at: http://danielsbistroandbar.com 

US Airways no longer accepts cash for in-flight purchases on domestic flights (except on US Airways Express)

US Airways - April 2010 - You may now only use credit or debit cards to shop from the MarketPlace Menu on US Airways flights within North America (including Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean). It seems that this rule includes non-complimentary beverages as well. US Airways will continue to accept cash, credit and debit cards on flights between the U.S. and Europe, the Middle East and South America. To keep things confusing, only cash is accepted on US Airways Express.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport Security Checkpoint B closed for April 2010 for expansion and renovation

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) - April 2010 - CLT security checkpoint B is closed from April 5 - April 30 for upgrades and renovations.  The checkpoint will expand by 2000 square feet and increase from 3 lanes to 4. Full body scanner technology will also be installed during the upgrade. Checkpoints A, C and D will remain open. The airport will close security checkpoint A in June for similar expansion and updating. For more information, see the Charlotte airport's website at charlotteairport.com.

Airport Wine Bars are opening at airports across the country, providing the opportunity to sip a nice wine while waiting for a flight or during an airport layover

So you're looking for a nice glass of wine at the airport while you wait for your flight, or a few glasses of wine during a layover or other flight delay? Well, depending on where you are flying from, we may be able to put a glass of decent, if not excellent wine in your hand in no time. Airport Wine Bars are not as plentiful as airport brewpubs (which I am happy to say have proliferated quite rapidly) however, they are starting to become more prevalent. They are generally of two types: either providing a sampling of wines from around the country or world, such as Vino Volo, which also may feature some local offerings, or specializing in only local or regional wines, possibly operated by the winemakers themselves, such as the Yadkin Valley Wine Bar in the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. We have listed all the airport wine bars that we could find, as well as a few that are “in progress”, in alphabetical order by airport name with a couple of wine bars that have a presence at multiple airports listed at the end. Please let us know of any that we may have omitted. (originally published July 2008, updated November 2008, March 2009, December 2009, March 2010, May 2010)

Alphabetical Listing of Airport Wine Bars by Airport

Albany International Airport (ALB)

Hudson Valley Wine Bar

Located in Terminal B, post-security

The Hudson Valley Wine Bar features regional and other New York State wines, as well as food, and opened on May 12, 2010. See the full article on eXpectdelaYs.com for more details at http://expectdelays.com/cblog/archives/528-Hudson-Valley-Wine-Bar-Opens-At-Albany-International-Airport-ALB.html

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

Vino Volo

Located in Terminal A

Read description below

Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)

Cisco Brewpub

Terminal B, post security

Don't let the name fool you as Cisco Brewpub serves food, as well as the beer of Nantucket's Cisco Brewery as well as wines from sister companies Nantucket Vinyards and spirits from Triple Eight Distillary. It is open from 5am to 9pm daily. It is located on the American Airlines side of Terminal B. Visit the Cisco Brewers web site for more information about their beer, wine and spirits.

Charlotte Douglass International Airport (CLT)

Yadkin Valley Wine Bar

Located on the D/E connector between the Harley Davidson Store and Destination Charlotte and Starbucks, just before the corridor to concourse E.

The Yadkin Valley Wine Bar offers sales and tastings of Wines from the Yadkin Valley Winegrowers Association (YVWA). Wines can be purchased by the bottle, by the taste or by the glass. When I visitied they also had tasting flights available, allowing you to put together your own wine flight of red, white or reserve wines. The price is quite reasonable compared with some of the other airport wine bars since this store is a promotional venue for the wineries themselves. The member winemakers and winery owners work a few days a month at the store. The prices for bottles are the same as if purchased elsewhere. Visitors can also obtain information on visiting the member wineries. Wineries represented are Hanover Park Vineyard, RagApple Lassie Vineyards, RayLen Vineyards, Round Peak Vineyards, Shelton Vineyards, Stony Knoll Vineyards, and Westbend Vineyards. A nice extra touch is a small monitor in the wine bar that lets you check on your flight status while you are enjoying your wine.

Dallas - Ft. Worth International Airport (DFW)

La Bodega Winery and Tasting Bar

Located at Terminal A Gate A15 and Terminal D Gate D14

La Bodega Winery and Tasting Bar is a quiet and relaxing place to spend time during a trip through DFW Airport. The atmosphere is a wine connoisseur's dream, complete with a grand selection of fine wines and decorative ornaments. Sit among the beautiful surroundings of grapevines and polished silver accessories while tasting a sample from the winery's large selection. Wine merchandise and accessories include delicate sterling silver and glass decorations that would compliment any living room and make charming gifts. Be sure to stop at La Bodega Winery when traveling through DFW Airport for a peaceful and enjoyable experience. (description from DFW website)

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)

Vino Volo

Located at McNamara Terminal, on Concourse A by Gate A45

Read description below

Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Vino Volo

Located on Concourse C

Read description below

El Paso International Airport (ELP)

El Paso Vineyards

Located on the Ground Floor, Inside La Placita

Featuring vintages of the Zin Valle Vineyards, this watering hole carries a full bar and selection of beers. Healthy salads, delicious sandwiches and sweet & salty snacks round out the menu. Wine connoisseurs will enjoy true tastes of the region through these superb spirits and soak up the enticing West Texas sunshine in the Wine Bar’s relaxing landside setting. (Description from HMSHost) (opened March 19, 2008)

Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)

Le Grand Comptoir

Located in Terminal C South, post security

Le Grand Comptoir is an authentic French brasserie and, with over 80 styles of wine available by the glass, it is truly unlike any other airport wine bar. Fresh, upscale and contemporary, its rich wood finishes are balanced by vibrant green hues, stonework accents, posh leather stools and a long, elegant brass bar dressed with modern pendant lighting. Its bistro-inspired fare includes signature crab bakes and tempting strawberry crepes, transforming a layover from tedious to delicious. Le Grand Comptoir also offers a premium bar, selection of handcrafted beers, and range of specialty coffees. (SSP America Description)

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Napa Valley Wine Bar

Located in Terminal 1, Gates 1-3, post security

Operated by Anton Airfoods. Presumably they feature Napa Valley wines, but it is impossible to tell since neither the JFK or Anton Airfoods websites offers any description of this place. Let's hope they put more effort into their wine selection than they do into their web presence! If you have been here, please share your experience with us!

Idlewild Wine Bar

Located in Terminal 1

Idlewild emulates a sidewalk cafe and offer wines from America's top producing regions, with an emphasis on Hudson Valley varietals. (HMSHost description)

Vino Volo

Located in Terminal 8, post security

Read description below

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

Cibo Bistro and Wine Bar

Located in the US Airways Terminal

Read description below

Lambert – St. Louis International Airport (STL)

Missouri Wine Bar

Main Terminal, Upper level, post security

The Missouri Wine Bar offers travelers the luxury of wine tasting at the airport. Local boutique vineyards and award-winning varietals anchor the selection of tastings by the glass. Designed to complement the featured wines, the menu includes artisanal breads and salads of fresh greens, nuts, cheeses, olives and fruits. For those with an appetite, Missouri Wine Bar also serves food from nearby Brioche Dorée Café. (description from HMSHost press release)
Hours: Mon-Fri 11AM-7PM--Sat 11AM-7:00PM--Sun 11AM-7PM

Memphis International Airport (MEM)

Memphis City Blues

On B concourse near gate B-5, post-security

This wine bar just opened at the end of February 2009. 38 wines are available by the glass. Some food items such as appetizers and breakfast as well as beer and mixed drinks are served. Hours are  reported to be from 7 am - 7:30 pm, but details are unconfirmed as the Memphis International Airport website has no details about this wine bar.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Vino Volo

Located in Terminal C on Concourse C1 (Continental)

Read full description below

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

Cibo Bistro and Wine Bar

Located on Concourse A-west & Concourse B (also at New York's LaGuardia Airport and Washington's Reagan National Airport)

Upscale Italian bistro with 32 wines by the glass from around the world.

Cibo Bistro & Wine Bar, authentic Italian cuisine served fresh. A distinctly themed, upscale facility within the OTG portfolio. Guests experience Italy with our fresh pasta, perfectly seasoned meats and exquisite seafood, all professionally prepared. Our saute are further enhances your experience with an open view of your Cibo Chef!

Following in the tradition of a classic Italian trattoria our staff is thoroughly trained in the culinary arts. Assisting our patrons with entree selection and beverage is our pleasure. Our menu provides more than 32 select wine from around the globe in constant rotation. Served by the bottle or glass. (Description from parent company OTG website)

Vino Volo

Located on the B/C Connector

Read description below

Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)

California Vintages

This refreshing, seasonal location draws traveling wine connoisseurs an enthusiasts alike to its outdoor setting to enjoy their favorite vintage by the glass or other superb spirits. (company description) This wine bar reportedly opened on March 25, 2010 according to an HMHSHost press release. The exact location in the airport was not mentioned.

Portland International Airport (PDX)

The Rose City Cafe & Wine Bar

Located just inside the Portland International Airport on the Ticket Lobby Level, pre-security checkpoint. [This wine bar was schedule to be closed around June 30, 2009 however the PDX web site still lists it as open as of December 2009]

All the time in the world or no time to waste. Rose City Café operates on your schedule. Have a minute? Sit back, relax and enjoy a selection from our upscale wine bar and service as warm as the surroundings. Savor our steaks, sandwiches, pasta and other specialties so delicious you'll lose an hour or two. In a bind? Order the freshest hand-rolled sushi and get moving. Where grab-and-go meets great little café. (Company description) The Rose City Cafe wine bar serves a selection of Oregon and Northwest fine wines.

Reagan National Airport (DCA)

Cibo Bistro and Wine Bar

Located in the National Hall, South (outside security)

Read description below

Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

Vino Volo

Located in Terminal A

Read description below

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

Vino Volo

Located in the Central Terminal Marketplace

Read description below

Vintage Washington Wine Bar

Located Pre-securty in the Main Terminal behind the Continental Airlines Ticket Counter

Offers a sampling of Washington State wines by the glass or bottle as well as a full service restaurant. There is also a Vintage Washington Wine Bar at the Spokane International Airport

Spokane International Airport (GEG)

Vintage Washington Wine Bar

Located post-security in the central area between Concourses A and B

This full-service bar and casual dining restaurant celebrates the heritage and growing legacy of Eastern Washington's wine industry. Showcasing wines from seven prominent wineries in the Spokane area, Vintage Washington will feature local wine-tastings along with a variety of beers, spirits and a full casual-dining menu from Chili's, one of America's favorite restaurants. (Company Description)

Airport Wine Bars Coming Soon, to an airport near you!

Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport (MSP)

Surdyk's Flights is schedule to open post-security in May 2010.

Raleigh Durham International Airport

The Vintage North Carolina Wine Cellar Café  Will be located in the new Terminal 2 and was originally scheduled to be opened December 2008, however it now appears to have changed its name to North Carolina Vintages, and it is part of the Phase II construction slated to be completed in 2011. It was originally planned to be a full service bar and restaurant showcasing wines from three of the state’s wineries: Biltmore Estate Winery, Childress Vineyards and Shelton Vineyards. We'll have to wait and see if this is still true. The café's menu was originally planned to feature salads, sandwiches and desserts. A full bar was also in the original plan.

Airport Wine Bars with Multiple locations

Cibo Bistro and Wine Bar

At Philadelphia International Airport (PHI), New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and Washington's Reagan National Airport (DCA)

Upscale Italian bistro with 32 wines by the glass from around the world.

Cibo Bistro & Wine Bar, authentic Italian cuisine served fresh. A distinctly themed, upscale facility within the OTG portfolio. Guests experience Italy with our fresh pasta, perfectly seasoned meats and exquisite seafood, all professionally prepared. Our saute are further enhances your experience with an open view of your Cibo Chef!

Following in the tradition of a classic Italian trattoria our staff is thoroughly trained in the culinary arts. Assisting our patrons with entree selection and beverage is our pleasure. Our menu provides more than 32 select wine from around the globe in constant rotation. Served by the bottle or glass. (Description from parent company OTG website)

Vino Volo

(read the full story at eXpect delaYs here: http://expectdelays.com/cblog/archives/343-Vino-Volo-Expands-National-High-End-Wine-Tasting-Concept-to-Detroit-Metropolitan-Airport.html)

Company description: Each Vino Volo store combines a cozy wine lounge and restaurant, a tasting bar, and a boutique wine retail area into a sophisticated, post-security retreat for air travelers. “Vino Volo is a completely new concept in wine retail and travel. We provide a unique wine tasting opportunity for air travelers looking for a place to spend their time before boarding,” said Doug Tomlinson, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Vino Volo. “We have completely reinvented the pre-travel experience at the airport by offering our guests a comfortable refuge while allowing them to taste and buy extraordinary wines at all price points. We select what we think are the best wines in each price category and organize them into tasting flights.”

Vino Volo newest location is at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). This will add to the list of highly successful locations Vino Volo currently operates. Nationwide you can discover great wines at the Vino Volo in Washington DC’s Dulles International Airport’s (IAD) Concourse C, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s (SEA) Central Terminal Marketplace, Sacramento International Airport’s (SMF) Terminal A, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport’s (BWI) Terminal A, New York’s JFK International Airport’s (JFK) Terminal 8, and Philadelphia International Airport’s (PHL) B/C Connector. Vino Volo also has opened in Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).

Not Really An Airport Wine Bar, but ....

Newark International Airport

Gallagher's Steakhouse

On the Concourse to Gates C120 - C139

While not a wine bar, rumor has it that this airport version of the famed New York steakhouse has a decent wine list, including wines by the glass. (http://www.foodandwine.com/blogs/tasting-room/2007/6/29/The-Wines-of-Newark-Airport)

*****

I hope this article will help you find a decent glass of wine at the airport on your next layover. Please let us know your experiences at any of these establishments, as well as any airport wine bars that we may have omitted.

Remember - if you eXpect delaYs you can beat them! (or you can at least have a decent glass of wine to make your delay more tolerable ;-) )

Happy travels!

-Gus

Use your cell phone or PDA as a boarding pass for your Continental Airlines Flight

Now when you check in for your Continental flight, you can choose to receive your boarding pass electronically on your mobile phone or PDA. Just display your barcode at the security checkpoint and when boarding your flight, and you're on your way.

If you don't have access to a internet enabled cell phone or pda or a computer, you can still check into your Continental Airlines flight. Customers traveling domestically with less than 10 people in their party are eligible for voice check-in. With voice check-in, you can select the bags you want to check, hear your bag fee and arrange for your boarding passes to be delivered by email, fax, or airport kiosk. Also available is baggage policy information, full flight details and more. Call 800.523.FARE (800.523.3273) and say "check in" during the automated menu or reconfirmation phone call to use this feature. After verification, you'll be checked in for your flight.

Mobile Boarding Pass option is currently available for departures from the following cities:

* Albuquerque (ABQ) * Anchorage (ANC) * Atlanta (ATL) * Austin (AUS) * Baltimore (BWI) * Boston (BOS) * Charlotte (CLT) * Chicago (ORD - O'Hare) * Cleveland (CLE) * Columbus (CMH) * Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) * Denver (DEN) * Detroit (DTW) * El Paso (ELP) * Fort Lauderdale (FLL) * Frankfurt (FRA) * Fort Myers (RSW) * Guam (GUM) * Honolulu (HNL) * Houston (IAH - Intercontinental) * Jacksonville (JAX) * Kansas City (MCI) * Little Rock (LIT) * Los Angeles (LAX) * London (LHR - Heathrow) * Las Vegas (LAS) * Memphis (MEM) * Miami (MIA) * Minneapolis/St. Paul (MSP) * New Orleans (MSY) * New York (LGA - LaGuardia) * New York/Newark (EWR - Liberty) * Oklahoma City (OKC) * Orange County (SNA) * Orlando (MCO) * Philadelphia (PHL) * Phoenix (PHX) * Portland (PDX) * Raleigh/Durham (RDU) * Sacramento (SMF) * Salt Lake City (SLC) * San Antonio (SAT) * San Diego (SAN) * San Francisco (SFO) * San Juan (SJU) * Seattle (SEA) * Tampa/St. Petersburg (TPA) * Tulsa (TUL) * Washington, DC (DCA - National) * Washington, DC (IAD - Dulles) * West Palm Beach (PBI)

HMSHost greets travelers with a distinctive mix of national and regional brands at Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)

BETHESDA, MD – Innovative and exciting dining venues are joining the recent addition of Starbucks Coffee at Palm Springs International Airport (PSP). HMSHost, a world leader in travel dining and shopping, today announced the opening of La Brea Bakery, Dewar’s 12th Fairway Bar & Grill, Zia, Celebrity Bistro and a California Vintages Wine Bar, bringing energy and excitement to the airport’s restaurant program.

In addition to a refurbished Celebrity Bistro, the new PSP food and beverage program includes:

• La Brea Bakery, a renowned Southern California favorite for more than 20 years, offers a menu of European-inspired hot and cold sandwiches, soups, salads, and award winning pastries all made with exceptional ingredients. Complementing La Brea Bakery is the adjacent Palm Springs Tap Room, which offers travelers a cold beer and other adult beverages to enjoy with a La Brea Panini or salad.

• California Vintages – This refreshing, seasonal location draws traveling wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike to its outdoor setting to enjoy their favorite vintage by the glass or other superb spirits.

• 12th Fairway Bar & Grill, a welcome respite for the golf aficionado, featuring a full service restaurant incorporating the sophistication of a traditional golf clubhouse combined with the ambiance of an American bar and grill. The menu includes a selection of breakfast, lunch and dinner items including traditional sandwiches, entrées and salads, plus a full bar specializing in unique Dewar’s scotch selections.

• Zia - An exciting new brand created to cater to health conscious consumers, Zia offers an extensive variety of nutritional, high performance, great tasting portable products, including fruit-filled smoothies, soft serve frozen treats, high performance snacks and freshly prepared juice parfaits. Everything Zia serves is designed to energize, enhance and support a healthy lifestyle.

“These brands offer both a welcome respite and an unexpected pleasure to travelers arriving and departing Palm Springs. We’re excited to unveil these outstanding dining and lounge options at Palm Springs International Airport as a delightful first or last impression to passengers and other airport patrons" said Anthony Alessi, Vice President, Business Development for HMSHost.

Source: HMSHost news release March 25, 2010:
http://www.hmshost.com/Newsroom/Releases%5C306.pdf