If you’ve ever wanted to slow down and make your time at the airport part of your journey, turns out you’re not alone.
Yelp recently released its 2025 Most Loved Airport Brands list, and while some familiar fast food chains rank in the top 25, the No. 1 restaurant defies the convenience factor in a “calm, upscale alternative to airport dining.”
Yelp’s comprehensive analysis draws on reviews and ratings from travelers across the U.S. — weighing pageviews, searches, photo uploads, reviews and average star ratings. Each qualifying brand needed at least five airport locations to make the cut.
The results reveal a clear shift. Today’s passengers aren’t just rushing to their gates anymore. They’re arriving early to savor the journey.
The top performers
Wine takes the crown at America’s airports this year, according to Yelp’s ranking, and food and beverage brands dominate the rankings overall.
Here are the top 25 most loved airport brands:
- Vino Volo
- Chick-fil-A
- Shake Shack
- Potbelly Sandwich Shop
- Starbucks
- Einstein Bros. Bagels
- QDOBA
- Dunkin’
- The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
- XpresSpa
- McDonald’s
- Panda Express
- Chili’s
- Smashburger
- Garrett Popcorn Shops
- Burger King
- Jamba
- California Pizza Kitchen
- Peet’s Coffee
- Wendy’s
- Panera Bread
- Hudson News
- Bruegger’s Bagels
- Wow Bao
- Pei Wei Asian Diner
What sets Vino Volo apart
Winner Vino Volo is a wine bar located in 25 major U.S. airports that serves curated wine selections and gourmet small plates in a lounge atmosphere that offers respite from typical terminal chaos. Diners can select from wine flights, craft beers and cocktails, and menus include vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
According to Yelp reviewers, it’s the knowledgeable staff, trained to educate guests about regional wines, who turn a quick drink into a memorable experience.
One reviewer said, “The vibe was very welcoming and upbeat.” Another raved that the outstanding offerings were mood-altering.
Yelp says the trend shows a shift in traveler mentality:
“Today’s airport experience is no longer just about convenience — it’s about quality, wellness, and premium service.”
Premium lounges gain altitude
While restaurants dominate the public spaces, another trend is taking flight: members-only airport lounges.
Yelp data shows searches for these exclusive havens jumped 18% year-over-year when comparing 2024 to 2023. Here are the top five lounges attracting travelers seeking premium experiences:
- American Express’ Centurion Lounge (tied for No. 1 and the only ranking credit card lounge)
- Delta Sky Club (tied for No. 1)
- United Club
- American Airlines Admirals Club
- Minute Suites
This shift toward upscale airport experiences reflects changing priorities. Passengers are voting with their wallets for brands that deliver both quality and convenience.
For many travelers, airports aren’t just transit points anymore. They’re destinations worth exploring.
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