For many of us, the holidays are synonymous with winter travel. And if schlepping through O’Hare International Airport is on your agenda, you’re in luck. While most airports are a wasteland of fast food and intolerable lines, Chicago travelers are treated to gourmet meals to go, fresh sushi and wine bars galore. After you’ve made your way through security and double-checked that your flight hasn’t changed gates, hunker down at one of these nine spots for a bite and some booze. Happy traveling!
Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless (Terminals 1, 3 and 5): Let’s get the obvious choice out of the way first. Rick Bayless gives hangry travelers a reason to smile: griddle-baked tortas, soups, salads, a guacamole bar (ask for all the toppings), breakfast sandwiches and margaritas. With one of their carry-and-go containers, you’ll be the envy of your boarding area.
Wicker Park Seafood & Sushi (Terminal 2): Sushi at an airport? It can be done. If your flight gets delayed, grab a seat for classic maki, sashimi, dessert rolls, saki, wine and a full bar.
Goose Island Beer Company (Terminals 2 and 3): Go for the beer and skip the food with local favorites such as Green Line, Sofie, Matilda and more.
Bubbles Wine Bar (Terminal 3): If champagne is in order for a bachelorette getaway or pre-flight toast, head to this blue-lit bar for bubbles by the glass and a small selection of bites, including a Scottish smoked salmon tartine with feta cheese, tomato, chive cream cheese, onion rings, capers and mini bagels.
Kofe by Intelligentsia (Terminal 5): I can’t promise there won’t be a line, but I can guarantee a caffeine fix that will keep you from dozing off on a stranger’s shoulder. With a selection of teas, fresh roasted coffee and hot chocolate, there’s something for every early-morning traveler.
Goddess and the Grocer (Terminal 5): Bad news: There is no outdoor terrace at this location. Good news: You can pick up fresh sandwiches and wraps, flatbreads, snack packs, pastries and more at the to-go version of the Chicago mainstay.
Billy Goat Tavern and Grill (Terminal 1): A cheezborger, fries and a Bud Light will do away with the hangover you promised yourself wouldn’t happen before your flight. Breakfast plates and omelets are also on tap for morning travelers.
Beaudevin Wine Bar (Terminal 1): For a glass of wine and a light bite (read: small plates, salads, tartine), try to finagle a spot at this walk-up bar with looming wine glass chandeliers. If you must grab and go, there’s a selection of pastries and beverages available, too.
CIBO Express Gourmet Market (Terminals 2 and 3): If it’s gluten-free, vegan-friendly or organic food you’re searching for in the oasis of fast-food joints, head straight to this kiosk for fresh fruit, locally sourced treats and a collection of curated goodies that are fit for any dietary restriction.
