Picture this: you’re stuck at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) with a frustratingly long layover. The minutes are ticking by, your stomach is rumbling, and the overwhelming array of airport food options stares back at you. Navigating the culinary landscape of an airport can feel like a gamble – will you end up with a tasteless, overpriced sandwich, or will you stumble upon a hidden gem that makes your travel day a little brighter? While MSP is often lauded as a well-organized and efficient airport, the sheer number of dining choices can still leave travelers feeling bewildered.
Fear not, weary traveler! This article is your definitive guide to the best food MSP Airport has to offer. We’ll navigate the terminals, uncovering the restaurants, cafes, and quick bites that stand out from the crowd. Whether you’re on a tight budget, craving a gourmet meal, or simply need a caffeine fix to power through your next flight, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to transform your airport layover into a delicious adventure!
Navigating MSP: A Quick Orientation
Before we dive into the culinary delights, a quick word about MSP’s layout. Understanding the terminals will save you precious time and prevent you from sprinting across the airport in search of sustenance. MSP primarily consists of two main terminals: Terminal One, also known as the Lindbergh Terminal, generally caters to domestic flights, and Terminal Two, the Humphrey Terminal, typically handles international and some budget airline flights. Keep in mind that all the restaurants we’ll be discussing are located *inside* the security checkpoints, so be sure to clear security before you embark on your food quest.
Exceptional Sit-Down Dining Experiences
Sometimes, a layover calls for more than just a quick snack. When you have time to relax and enjoy a proper meal, these sit-down restaurants in MSP offer a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of the airport.
Ike’s Food & Cocktails: Midwest Comfort with a Twist
Ike’s Food & Cocktails brings a touch of Midwest charm to the airport dining scene. This restaurant boasts a menu filled with elevated comfort food classics, prepared with locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Think juicy burgers, flavorful sandwiches, and hearty salads, all crafted with a focus on quality and freshness. The ambiance is inviting and modern, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a leisurely meal. The cocktail menu is equally impressive, featuring creative concoctions and classic favorites. Ike’s is not the cheapest option, but the superior quality of the food and drinks makes it well worth the investment. You’ll find Ike’s in Terminal One, near the C gates. It’s perfect for a relaxed lunch, a business meeting, or simply treating yourself to a well-deserved break before your next flight.
Surly Pizza Upstairs: Craft Beer and Gourmet Pizza Heaven
Calling all pizza lovers and craft beer enthusiasts! Surly Pizza Upstairs brings the acclaimed Surly Brewing Company’s passion for quality and innovation to MSP. Located in Terminal One, this restaurant offers a unique selection of wood-fired pizzas with creative toppings and a chewy, flavorful crust. The menu changes seasonally, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Of course, no visit to Surly Pizza Upstairs would be complete without sampling their impressive selection of Surly beers on tap. The atmosphere is lively and modern, making it a fun and engaging dining experience. Expect to spend a bit more here, but the combination of exceptional pizza and craft beer makes it a must-try for those seeking a memorable meal. The location is near the skyway, providing easy access within terminal one.
Shoyu: Authentic Ramen Experience
For a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine, look no further than Shoyu. Situated in Terminal Two, this restaurant specializes in ramen, the popular noodle soup dish. The ramen broth is rich and flavorful, simmered for hours to extract maximum umami. The noodles are perfectly cooked, and the toppings are fresh and authentic. Shoyu provides a calming and modern atmosphere and will surely transport you away from the travel stress. You can savor many different varieties of ramen from traditional Tonkotsu to Spicy Miso. While not the cheapest option, the authentic flavors and quality ingredients make Shoyu a worthwhile splurge for ramen enthusiasts and those seeking a satisfying and comforting meal.
Quick Bites and Casual Delights for the Traveler on the Go
When time is of the essence, these quick bites and casual options provide a delicious and convenient way to fuel up without sacrificing quality.
Mill City Tavern: Elevated Comfort Food Made Fast
Mill City Tavern offers a satisfying blend of comfort food classics and contemporary flavors, all served with efficiency and speed. This restaurant excels in crafting delicious sandwiches, crisp salads, and delightful pastries, perfect for a light lunch or a quick snack before your flight. Committed to using fresh and high-quality ingredients, Mill City Tavern ensures that every bite is full of flavor. The location in Terminal One, near gate C16, makes it very accessible. The price is mid-range, which is appropriate for the quality and portion size.
French Meadow Bakery & Cafe: Organic and Wholesome Goodness
For travelers seeking organic and wholesome options, French Meadow Bakery & Cafe is a must-visit. This cafe offers a wide array of freshly baked goods, sandwiches, salads, and soups, all made with organic and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The coffee is excellent, and the pastries are simply divine. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast, a light lunch, or a sweet treat, French Meadow Bakery & Cafe has something to satisfy every craving. Located in Terminal One, this cafe is the perfect spot to grab a quick and delicious bite while feeling good about what you’re eating.
Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza: Better Than Average Airport Pizza
While airport pizza can often be a gamble, Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza stands out from the crowd. This pizzeria uses a coal-fired oven to create pizzas with a crispy crust, smoky flavor, and high-quality toppings. The menu features a variety of classic and creative pizzas, as well as salads and appetizers. The price point is relatively affordable, making it a great option for a fast and filling meal. You can find Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza in Terminal One. While it’s still airport pizza, it’s a definite step up from the average slice.
Caffeine Fix and Breakfast Bliss: Best Coffee and Breakfast Spots
Start your day off right or refuel during a long layover with these exceptional coffee and breakfast spots in MSP.
Caribou Coffee: A Minnesota Staple
No visit to Minnesota is complete without a stop at Caribou Coffee. This beloved coffee chain offers a wide variety of coffee drinks, teas, pastries, and breakfast sandwiches. The coffee is consistently good, and the atmosphere is welcoming and comfortable. Caribou Coffee is located throughout both terminals, making it easy to find a location no matter where you are in the airport. It’s the perfect spot to grab a morning pick-me-up or a quick caffeine boost before your next flight.
The Blue Door Pub: Breakfast with a Local Flair
The Blue Door Pub provides an authentic Minnesota experience with breakfast, especially with its creative take on traditional breakfast items. Renowned for its delicious burgers and pub fare, The Blue Door Pub also offers a morning menu. Located in Terminal One, travelers can enjoy breakfast sandwiches with eggs cooked to perfection, waffles with various sweet or savory toppings, and their well-known tater tots. Not only does the restaurant offer local food, but it also is a popular local restaurant, creating a fun environment for airport travelers.
Budget-Friendly Bites: Eating Well Without Breaking the Bank
Airport food can be notoriously expensive, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing flavor. Here are some strategies and recommendations for budget-friendly eats in MSP:
Bring Your Own Snacks: This is the most obvious way to save money. Pack granola bars, nuts, fruit, or other non-liquid snacks in your carry-on. TSA regulations allow you to bring most solid foods through security.
Fill Your Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and save money by bringing an empty water bottle and filling it up at a water fountain after you clear security.
Look for Happy Hour Deals: Some airport restaurants offer happy hour specials with discounted drinks and appetizers. Check with individual restaurants for details.
Consider Splitting a Meal: If you’re traveling with a companion, consider splitting a larger meal to save money.
Specific Recommendations: For affordable options, consider grabbing a slice of pizza at Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza or opting for a simple sandwich or salad at Mill City Tavern. These options offer a good balance of price and quality. Also, the smaller cafes usually have good prices on pastries.
Catering to Specific Dietary Needs: Options for Everyone
MSP Airport offers a variety of options for travelers with specific dietary needs.
Gluten-Free: French Meadow Bakery & Cafe has several gluten-free options, including pastries, breads, and sandwiches. Many restaurants, like Ike’s and Surly, also offer gluten-free options upon request.
Vegetarian/Vegan: French Meadow Bakery & Cafe has vegetarian and vegan options, including salads, soups, and sandwiches. Shoyu also has some vegetarian ramen options.
Healthy Options: Mill City Tavern and French Meadow Bakery & Cafe offer a variety of healthy options, such as salads, grilled items, and fresh fruit.
Final Thoughts: A Delicious Departure
Navigating the food scene at MSP Airport doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With a little planning and this guide in hand, you can transform your layover into a culinary adventure. Whether you’re craving a gourmet meal, a quick bite, or a caffeine fix, MSP has something to satisfy every taste and budget. So, next time you find yourself with time to kill at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, skip the sad airport sandwich and explore the delicious options that await! A good meal can make all the difference in your travel experience, so bon appétit and happy travels!
