Are you embarking on a journey from JFK Terminal 5 and wondering where to find the best dining options? Look no further! When it comes to airport dining, Terminal 5 at John F. Kennedy International Airport has an array of culinary delights waiting to satisfy your taste buds.
Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal before your flight, this guide to the Best Restaurants in JFK Terminal 5 will help you navigate your dining choices seamlessly.
Which Terminal in JFK Airport Has Food?
When at JFK, your food options will depend on which terminal and airline you're using. Terminal 5 is home to Aer Lingus, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue, TAP Portugal, Cape Air, and other international airlines.
Along with this, there is also a domestic side, so we are sure you might just wind up in this terminal if you fly through here.
Every terminal has food choices available, but for those looking for JFK terminal 5 food choices, there is a wide range of variety from traditional American Food to Asian gourmet. The food court is filled with delicious options.
19 Best Restaurants in JFK Terminal 5
Many restaurants are available at JFK airport, but a few stand out amongst the crowd. We thought we'd take an in-depth look at them to help you if you are looking for food in that terminal while on a layover at JFK airport.
From a famed Manhattan steakhouse to a burger joint to a place that allows you to pick up fly-by bagels, there is something for everyone.
Though there are a lot of great dining options available to you, whether you are in the arrivals area or the departures level, these are some of the best restaurants for you in this terminal:
1. CIBO Express Gourmet Market at JFK Terminal 5
Photo credit: The Dairy Free Traveler
CIBO Express Gourmet Market, located in various spots in JFK Terminal 5 including opposite the security checkpoint, baggage claim 4, gates 4 and 9, and in the food hall post-security, serves as a convenient stop for grab-and-go fare.
This market is known for its variety of options, catering to travelers looking for quick and easy food choices.
While the overall experience is generally positive, there have been instances that detracted from customer satisfaction.
2. Custom Burger at JFK Terminal 5
Photo credit: Foursquare
Custom Burger, a grab-and-go burger shop in the food hall post-security at JFK Terminal 5, has unfortunately garnered a significantly negative reputation among patrons.
The primary issues reported include both the quality of the food and the service. Customers have expressed strong dissatisfaction, suggesting that this restaurant may not be the best choice for those seeking a quick and satisfying meal.
Additionally, complaints about stale fries indicate a lack of freshness in the food served. The overarching consensus is that the food offered falls short of even the most basic quality standards expected from a burger joint.
3. New York Sports Bar and Grill
New York Sports Grill, a bar offering burgers and sandwiches located near Gates 9-10 post-security at JFK Terminal 5, provides a mixed dining experience for travelers.
While some aspects of the service are commendable, other elements, particularly the ordering system and food quality, have drawn criticism from customers.
The QR code ordering system, though modern, has been a source of inconvenience for customers.
The requirement to select a tip percentage before receiving service has been particularly contentious, especially given the self-service nature of the ordering process.
The pricing, ranging from $20 to $30, is on the higher side, which is expected at an airport location. However, the value for money is questioned, especially considering the overall quality of food and service.
The cost of beverages like beer has been highlighted as particularly steep, with a pint of Stella costing around $19 when including taxes and tips.
4. Piquillo at JFK Terminal 5
Photo credit: The Dairy Free Traveler
Piquillo, a Spanish tapas spot located in the central concourse post-security at JFK Terminal 5, unfortunately appears to have significant issues with customer service based on recent feedback.
Despite its promising concept as a place to enjoy Spanish cuisine, the overall experience is marred by consistent reports of rude and inattentive service.
With a price range of $20 to $30, Piquillo falls into the mid-to-high price bracket for airport dining. Given the dissatisfaction with service, the value for money is called into question by patrons.
5. Deep Blue on the Fly
Photo credit: OTG
Deep Blue Sushi at JFK Terminal 5 is noted for providing a high-quality dining experience in the confines of an airport terminal.
Reviews generally commend the restaurant for its tasty sushi and Asian dishes, highlighting the fresh flavors and well-prepared meals that stand out among typical airport fare.
The menu features a variety of Japanese, sushi, and Asian cuisines, with vegetarian-friendly options available, ensuring a broad appeal to different dietary preferences.
Customers have expressed their delight with dishes such as the pork gyoza, chicken pad Thai, and various sushi rolls, praising the food's quality and the reasonable portion sizes given the airport location.
The ambiance of Deep Blue is noted for being quiet and spacious, offering a more relaxed dining atmosphere compared to the bustling airport environment.
However, opinions on the value and service vary, with some reviews pointing out that while the food is good, it can be on the expensive side.
Service experiences also seem to fluctuate, with some customers reporting attentive service, while others have had less favorable encounters, mentioning slow service or less-than-satisfactory interactions with staff.
Despite these varied experiences, Deep Blue Sushi remains a notable choice for travelers passing through JFK Terminal 5, especially for those seeking a quality sushi meal before their flight.
It has been recognized by Frommer’s Guides as one of the top 10 airport restaurants in the country, underscoring its reputation for offering a standout dining experience at JFK.
6. Revolucion at JFK Terminal 5
Photo credit: Yelp
Revolucion, offering Mexican food near Gates 11-12 post-security at JFK Terminal 5, has had a range of customer experiences, from highly positive to notably negative.
The restaurant's service and food quality appear to be inconsistent, leading to mixed reviews from patrons.
7. Aunt Butchie's Bakery Café
This restaurant within the JFK airport also has a location in Brooklyn itself. It offers a wealth of pastries and other delicious treats at a fair price.
If you're looking for good food that you can eat while you're on the go, this may be a perfect place.
Whether you're looking for breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner, this restaurant has a good selection, and you're sure to find some comfort food to tantalize your taste buds.
8. Starbucks at JFK Terminal 5
Starbucks, the global coffee chain located at Gate 22 post-security in JFK Terminal 5, offers the familiar coffee experience typical of the brand.
However, customer experiences at this particular outlet have been mixed, largely due to service and operational issues.
9. H & H Bagels
H&H Bagel, a choice for those seeking an authentic New York breakfast experience at JFK airport, has a longstanding reputation dating back to 1972 for offering delicious bagels.
However, recent customer experiences suggest a noticeable decline in quality and service, leading to disappointment for many travelers.
The quality of the bagels, which should be the highlight of this establishment, has been largely disappointing.
Complaints of undercooked bagels, bland and rubbery eggs, and overall unsatisfactory bagel sandwiches are common. Even the more intricate details like toasting preferences and toppings like capers have been mishandled.
With prices ranging from $10 to $20, the cost is on the higher side, typical of airport venues. However, given the reported quality of food and service issues, many customers feel that the prices are not justified.
10. World Bean Coffee Bar & Cafe at JFK Terminal 5
World Bean Coffee Bar & Cafe, situated near Gate 9 post-security at JFK Terminal 5, offers a selection of coffee, pastries, and packaged snacks.
The customer experience at this café varies, with some patrons appreciating the food and exceptional service, while others encounter issues with staff knowledge and attitude.
11. Jamba Juice at JFK Terminal 5
Photo credit: Happycow
Jamba Juice, located in the marketplace post-security near gate 28 at JFK Terminal 5, offers a refreshing respite for travelers with its variety of smoothies and juices.
Known for its fresh fruits and welcoming staff, this outlet stands out as a preferred choice for those seeking a healthy drink or snack before a flight.
While there are some concerns about pricing and portion sizes, the overall customer experience is positive, especially for those looking for vegetarian or vegan options.
Jamba Juice is noted for its extensive selection of vegetarian and likely vegan options, providing a range of choices for those with dietary preferences or restrictions.
12. La Vie at JFK Terminal 5
Photo credit: TripAdvisor
La Vie at JFK Terminal 5 is a Mediterranean and French-inspired restaurant that has garnered attention for its quality offerings and pleasant dining atmosphere.
Customer reviews highlight the restaurant's ability to deliver a fantastic dining experience, with service often described as exceptional.
Wait staff are praised for being kind, friendly, and ensuring that guests' dining experiences are delightful. The overall service is noted to be excellent, contributing positively to the dining experience.
The food quality at La Vie is well-regarded, with dishes like the chicken milanese, breakfast quesadilla, and margherita pizza receiving specific praise.
The chicken milanese is mentioned for its savory taste and nice breading, providing a decent-sized plate for the price. The margherita pizza, in particular, has been highlighted for its light and fluffy dough, flavorful sauce, and delicious cheese, making it a must-try item on their menu.
Pricing at La Vie is perceived as reasonable, especially considering the portion sizes and the quality of the food served.
The restaurant offers a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes, ensuring that there's something for everyone. From breakfast items to pizza and more traditional French and Mediterranean dishes, the variety is ample for an airport dining establishment.
13. Loft at JFK Terminal 5: A Mixed Bag Review
Loft, located opposite gate 26 post-security at JFK Terminal 5, presents a varied experience for those stopping by for a meal.
The restaurant offers a modern ordering system through iPads and phones, which, while convenient for some, has led to confusion for others.
While there are positive aspects to dining at Loft, especially in terms of certain food items and service instances, there are also significant drawbacks that have impacted the overall customer satisfaction.
14. 5ive Steak at JFK Terminal 5
Photo credit: Archinect
5ive Steak offers a variety of American cuisine options, including steaks, burgers, and salads, catering to those looking for a more substantial meal at JFK Terminal 5.
Their menu is designed to offer a comfortable dining experience with classic dishes that appeal to a wide range of tastes.
5ive Steak at JFK Terminal 5 has a range of reviews from travelers. While some appreciate its convenience and option for a sit-down meal before flights, others have criticized the service, food quality, and pricing.
The experiences vary, with some customers enjoying their meals and others facing issues with order and payment processes, as well as food that didn't meet their expectations.
It seems to be a hit or miss experience for many, suggesting that your experience could depend significantly on various factors such as the time of day and what you order.
15. Lucy's Asian Kitchen at JFK Terminal 5
Photo credit: USA Restaurants
Lucy's Asian Kitchen, offering fast-casual Asian fare in the food hall post-security at JFK Terminal 5, is a restaurant with extremely mixed reviews.
While some diners praise the food and service, others have had distinctly negative experiences, leading to a polarized view of this establishment.
16. AeroNuova at JFK Terminal 5
Photo credit: TripAdvisor
AeroNuova, located in the heart of JFK's Terminal 5, offers a slice of Italian cuisine right before your flight. This restaurant stands out for its central location within the terminal, allowing you to keep an eye on departure screens and enjoy some people-watching alongside your meal.
The menu features Italian classics like well-sauced rigatoni and carbonara. For those seeking lighter fare, the beet and farro salad comes highly recommended.
A review from Fly&Dine highlights AeroNuova's commitment to bringing high-quality dining to the airport. The restaurant, part of a movement to improve airport food, was initiated by Mark Ladner of Del Posto.
The menu includes a variety of appetizers, pastas, pizzas, sandwiches, and main entrees described as "Elevated Italian-American classics."
Despite its unassuming appearance, which resembles a mall store from the outside, the service at AeroNuova impresses with attentiveness and quick food delivery.
The review particularly praises the fried calamari for its freshness and light semolina breading, as well as the rigatoni bolognese for its perfect al dente pasta and rich, meaty sauce. The restaurant's effort to maintain landside quality in its dishes is noteworthy, making AeroNuova a commendable dining option at JFK
17. Artichoke Pizza at JFK Terminal 5
Photo credit: Yelp
Artichoke Pizza, located in the food hall post-security at JFK Terminal 5, caters to travelers looking for a quick pizza fix. The experience here tends to be a mixed bag, with the primary concern being the value for money.
At approximately $7.70 per slice, expectations for high-quality pizza are natural, but opinions on whether these expectations are met vary among customers.
The Margherita Pizza and Meatball Parm come recommended, offering a taste of the restaurant's range.
However, first-time visitors should be aware that experiencing Artichoke Pizza at the airport might not reflect the full quality of their offerings at other locations.
18. Baked by Melissa at JFK Terminal 5
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Baked by Melissa, situated in the marketplace post-security at JFK Terminal 5, specializes in mini cupcakes. This spot is known for its tasty, bite-sized treats available in a variety of flavors that often change.
The cupcakes' convenient packaging makes them ideal for travel or immediate enjoyment. While the cupcakes themselves receive consistent praise for their deliciousness, customer experiences with service vary.
19. Caribbean Kitchen at JFK Terminal 5
Photo credit: Yelp
Caribbean Kitchen, a Caribbean-themed restaurant in the food hall post-security at JFK Terminal 5, presents a mixed bag in terms of dining experience.
The restaurant has received a wide range of feedback, from high praise for some of its dishes to severe criticism for others.
The quality of food and service seems to vary greatly, making it a gamble for travelers looking for a reliable meal option.
Among the recommended dishes are the Avocado, Black Beans, and the Pollo Guisado, which has been noted for its large portion size and flavor.
The chicken dish with black beans, avocado, and Moro (similar to Spanish rice) is also mentioned as being filling and tasty, despite the chicken being slightly dry.
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Conclusion
JFK Terminal 5 offers a variety of dining experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences, ranging from Mediterranean and French cuisine at La Vie to the fresh sushi offerings of Deep Blue Sushi, the Italian delights of AeroNuova, and the classic American dishes at 5ive Steak. Each restaurant provides travelers with unique flavors and experiences, making waits more enjoyable despite the higher airport prices. Whether you're craving a hearty meal or just looking for a spot to relax with a drink, Terminal 5's selection ensures there's something for everyone, enhancing the travel experience through culinary delights.
Check out the list of restaurants in NYC below for a delicious dining experience!
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