Airports have traditionally been viewed as necessary but uninspiring transit areas where travelers endure long waits and subpar food and drink options. However, a burgeoning trend is shaking up this perception by introducing sophisticated bars and lounges that aim to elevate the airport experience. These establishments offer not just exceptional cocktails but also premium service and unique ambiances, effectively transforming airports into destinations worth visiting in their own right.
The Evolution of Airport Bars
Historically, airports have lagged behind in embracing the global craft cocktail renaissance. While it’s easy to find meticulously crafted drinks in urban settings worldwide, airports have taken longer to catch on to this trend. This gap in the mixology market is gradually narrowing thanks to upscale airport lounges that incorporate top-shelf liquor selections and employ renowned bartenders. For example, passengers at the British Airways Club in London Heathrow (LHR) can enjoy a bespoke gin, thyme, and elderflower cocktail by famed mixologist Ryan Chetiyawardana. Beyond these exclusive lounges, numerous bars accessible to all travelers are ushering in a new era of airport mixology.
Key elements in this transformation include the infusion of local culture and flavors, exceptional service, and the redesigning of airport spaces into stylish, enjoyable venues. Across different airports, these newly established bars and lounges stand out for their ability to integrate regional spirits, employ knowledgeable bartenders, and foster inviting atmospheres. This is a far cry from the dull, utilitarian spaces of yore, and it sets a new standard for what travelers can expect during their layovers.
One Flew South at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
One of the standout examples of this new wave of airport bars is One Flew South at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Since its debut in 2009, it has set a new benchmark for airport dining and drinking. Notable for its fresh sushi rolls and cocktails made with high-quality base spirits, One Flew South’s menu features the Golden Ticket cocktail, which blends Four Roses Bourbon with Canton Ginger liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup. The service is equally commendable, earning multiple James Beard Award nominations and drawing considerable patronage during peak dining hours.
The bar’s success lies in its ability to offer a fine dining experience within an airport setting, something that was virtually unheard of a few years ago. The ambiance is sophisticated yet welcoming, making it a popular choice for travelers looking to unwind before their flights. The combination of high-quality food, expertly crafted cocktails, and exceptional service has made One Flew South a standout in the world of airport bars, setting a high bar for others to follow.
Bar Sazerac at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
Bar Sazerac at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) brings the rich drinking culture of New Orleans to travelers. Opened in 2019 as part of the new airport, it showcases local beverages such as the French 75, Hurricanes, and Vieux Carres, with a strong emphasis on the iconic Sazerac cocktail. Patrons are treated to a warm, convivial atmosphere with consistently high-quality drinks, making the transition out of New Orleans a bit easier.
Designed to pay homage to the city’s vibrant cocktail scene, Bar Sazerac offers travelers a taste of New Orleans even as they prepare to leave. The bartenders are knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, ensuring that each drink is made to perfection. This commitment to quality and authenticity has made Bar Sazerac a favorite among travelers who appreciate a genuinely crafted cocktail and a hospitable environment right before they board their flights.
The Sunken Lounge at TWA Hotel at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
The Sunken Lounge at TWA Hotel at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) offers a nostalgic return to the Golden Age of Aviation. The venue’s menu features jazzed-up takes on classic cocktails like the Mile High Margarita and the Paper Plane, served with replica swizzle sticks reminiscent of the 1960s. Additionally, between 4 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., guests can experience the Connie Cocktail Lounge, housed in a refurbished 1958 Alaskan bush plane, providing a unique and intimate setting for enjoying a drink.
The retro design and unique setting of the Sunken Lounge make it a standout destination within JFK. The attention to detail in both the decor and the drink menu creates an immersive experience that transports guests back in time. This blend of nostalgia and modern mixology has made the Sunken Lounge a must-visit for travelers passing through JFK, proving that airport bars can offer much more than just convenience; they can offer a memorable experience.
Dutch Kitchen, Bar & Cocktails at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) presents Dutch Kitchen, Bar & Cocktails, easily recognizable by its distinctly Dutch-themed seating arrangements modeled after Delft blue teapots and teacups. This establishment offers visually appealing Instagram-worthy settings and intriguing drinks inspired by local ingredients like Bols genever and fruit liqueurs. Patrons can enjoy creative variations that include using genever in place of gin in cocktails, as well as noteworthy espresso martinis.
The bar’s design and menu celebrate Dutch culture, offering travelers a unique and memorable experience. The use of local ingredients and creative cocktail variations set Dutch Kitchen, Bar & Cocktails apart from other airport bars. This focus on local flavors and aesthetics has made it a popular choice for travelers looking to experience a taste of the Netherlands before their flight, proving that an airport stopover can be a culturally enriching experience.
Delta Sky Club at Haneda Airport (HND)
The Delta Sky Club at Haneda Airport (HND) is lauded for its outstanding selection of Japanese whiskys, including Hibiki, Yamazaki, and Hakushu. The favored approach is to savor these whiskys neat or in a highball with soda, accompanied by the lounge’s daily ramen offerings. The Delta Sky Club provides these excellent beverages inclusively with admission, making it an irresistible stop for travelers with the appropriate access.
Located in one of the busiest airports in the world, the Delta Sky Club at HND offers a tranquil escape with its exceptional selection and serene setting. The bartenders are well-versed in their craft, often providing insights into the intricacies of Japanese whisky to interested patrons. This combination of premium beverages and expertly delivered service ensures that visitors leave with a deepened appreciation for Japanese mixology, setting a high standard for airport bars worldwide.
The World is Flat Bar at Changi Airport (SIN)
Airports have long been seen as necessary but uninspiring places where travelers must endure long waits and unimpressive food and drink options. However, a growing trend is changing this perception by introducing sophisticated bars and lounges that aim to enhance the airport experience. These establishments not only offer exceptional cocktails but also provide premium service and unique atmospheres. This transformation is effectively making airports more than just transit points—they are becoming destinations worth visiting in their own right. Travelers now have the opportunity to enjoy high-quality beverages, relax in stylish settings, and experience outstanding hospitality while waiting for their flights. This shift is revolutionizing the way people view airports, turning them into desirable places to spend time, even making a layover something to look forward to. With more airports adopting this trend, the days of boring, uncomfortable airport waits could soon be a thing of the past.