[{"id":"236627","fieldLayoutId":"11","uid":"4fa688db-6dcc-40ab-b57f-6fa0969edcf9","enabled":"1","archived":"0","dateCreated":"2025-06-25 12:34:06","dateUpdated":"2025-06-25 12:34:06","siteSettingsId":"236627","slug":"hmshost-and-rock-roll-hall-of-famer-sammy-hagar-open-sammys-beach-bar-grill-at-charlotte-douglas-international-airport","siteId":"1","uri":"news\/press\/hmshost-and-rock-roll-hall-of-famer-sammy-hagar-open-sammys-beach-bar-grill-at-charlotte-douglas-international-airport","enabledForSite":"1","sectionId":"6","typeId":"7","authorId":"209943","postDate":"2025-06-24 17:53:00","expiryDate":null,"contentId":"228460","title":"HMSHost and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Sammy Hagar Open Sammy\u2019s Beach Bar & Grill at Charlotte Douglas International Airport","field_accessibilityText":null,"field_address":null,"field_body":"\n<figure><img src=\"{asset:236589:url||https:\/\/www.hmshost.com\/images\/SammysBeachBarGrill_RibbonCutting1_courtesy-Charlotte-Douglas-International-Airport.jpg}\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n<p><strong>BETHESDA, Maryland <\/strong>(June 25, 2025) \u2013 Global restaurateur <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hmshost.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HMSHost<\/a>, part of <a href=\"https:\/\/avoltaworld.com\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Avolta<\/a> AG (SIX: AVOL) and a world leader in creating dining for travel venues, announced the expansion of their successful partnership with Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Famer <strong>Sammy Hagar<\/strong> with the opening of their newest Sammy\u2019s Beach Bar &amp; Grill restaurant at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, located in Concourse D. Sammy flew in to join executives and staff from HMSHost and the airport, as well as fans and media to celebrate the grand opening on June 24. Sammy\u2019s Beach Bar &amp; Grill at CLT is their fifth outpost in U.S. airports.<\/p>\n<p>CLT travelers now have an opportunity to experience Sammy\u2019s favorite things \u2014 great food and music, in a casual full-service restaurant that seamlessly blends rock &amp; roll vibes with a laid-back beach environment. <\/p>\n<p>\u201cBringing my Beach Bar &amp; Grill to Charlotte is all about sharing good times, great food and music with travelers,\u201d said Hagar. \u201cThis isn\u2019t just a place to grab a bite \u2014 it\u2019s a place to kick back, enjoy a killer cocktail, and soak in some island and rock and roll vibes. I\u2019m especially proud that through the Hagar Family Foundation, we\u2019re also able to give back to the Charlotte community, like we do at all of our locations.\u201d <br \/> <br \/>Sammy\u2019s Beach Bar &amp; Grill at CLT, which seats 113 guests, features vibrant colors, an electric atmosphere, and photos and mementos from Hagar\u2019s illustrious career. The extensive menu offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner \u2014 including \u2018Start Me Up\u2019 appetizers, like baja quesadillas and beach nachos; \u2018Sam Wiches,\u2019 like tacos, burgers, and barbeque brisket; and a variety of delicious entr\u00e9es. The restaurant also features a full bar that serves beer, wine, signature cocktails, and spirits \u2014 including Hagar\u2019s own award-winning premium Sammy\u2019s Beach Bar Rum and Santo Tequila, along with his new beer, Red Rocker Lager. <\/p>\n<p>The opening of Sammy\u2019s Beach Bar &amp; Grill at CLT marks the fifth Beach Bar restaurant for the singer, songwriter, guitarist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist in collaboration with HMSHost, which operates four other locations in Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), and Kahului Airport (OGG). <\/p>\n<p>Along their journey through CLT, travelers dining at Sammy\u2019s Beach Bar &amp; Grill also can make a positive impact on the Charlotte community as Hagar will donate a portion of his profits from the restaurant to two local charitable organizations, the Levine Children's Hospital and the Hope Street Food Pantry, through the Hagar Family Foundation. <\/p>\n<p>\u201cSammy\u2019s positive energy is apparent in every aspect of his Beach Bar &amp; Grill, which will bring a fun and exciting vibe to Concourse D, especially for those embarking on flights to the Caribbean who want to get a head start on enjoying the relaxation and island life,\u201d said Stephen Douglas, Vice President of Business Development, HMSHost. \u201cWe\u2019ve had a wonderful partnership with Sammy and Charlotte Douglas International Airport for many years, and are very happy to have had this opportunity to collaborate on a dining venue that will undoubtedly make the traveler\u2019s journey through CLT happier. It\u2019s also a unique chance for visitors to CLT to have a positive impact locally through the Hagar Family Foundation simply by doing what they love: enjoying a great meal during their travels.\u201d <\/p>","field_body2":null,"field_body3":null,"field_caption":null,"field_careersWebsite":null,"field_corporatePhone":null,"field_customerSupportPhone":null,"field_eyebrow":null,"field_form":null,"field_form2":null,"field_fullName":null,"field_googleAnalyticsId":null,"field_icons":null,"field_interiorStageHeight":null,"field_internationalWebsite":null,"field_jobTitle":null,"field_legacyEntryId":null,"field_localPhone":null,"field_modalLink":null,"field_modalText":null,"field_modalTitle":null,"field_partnerDatabaseId":null,"field_publishedDate":"2025-06-25 04:00:00","field_seo":"{\"titleRaw\":[],\"descriptionRaw\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\",\"keywords\":[],\"score\":\"\",\"social\":{\"twitter\":{\"handle\":\"\",\"title\":\"HMSHost and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Sammy Hagar Open Sammy\u2019s Beach Bar & Grill at Charlotte Douglas International Airport - HMSHost\",\"imageId\":\"\",\"description\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\"},\"facebook\":{\"handle\":\"\",\"title\":\"HMSHost and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Sammy Hagar Open Sammy\u2019s Beach Bar & Grill at Charlotte Douglas International Airport - HMSHost\",\"imageId\":\"\",\"description\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\"}},\"advanced\":{\"robots\":[],\"canonical\":\"\"}}","field_showBody2":null,"field_showBody3":null,"field_interiorShowScrollDownIndicator":null,"field_showScrollDownIndicator":null,"field_showSocialIcons":null,"field_showSustainabilityImagesSec2":null,"field_socialLeader":null,"field_stageHeight":null,"field_stageText":null,"field_strategicAlliancesEmail":null,"field_newsSubtitle":"Featuring an extensive menu of beach-inspired fare, Hagar\u2019s line of premium rum and tequila, and memorabilia from the legendary musician\u2019s storied career","field_expresssummary":null,"field_newsSummary":"Featuring an extensive menu of beach-inspired fare, Hagar\u2019s line of premium rum and tequila, and memorabilia from the legendary musician\u2019s storied career","field_sustainabilitySubtitle":null,"field_expressurl":null},{"id":"236358","fieldLayoutId":"11","uid":"cc307b3b-0738-4548-aa30-9879774cc2d2","enabled":"1","archived":"0","dateCreated":"2025-06-23 16:49:43","dateUpdated":"2025-06-23 16:49:43","siteSettingsId":"236358","slug":"avolta-inducts-five-team-members-into-its-prestigious-north-american-hall-of-fame","siteId":"1","uri":"news\/press\/avolta-inducts-five-team-members-into-its-prestigious-north-american-hall-of-fame","enabledForSite":"1","sectionId":"6","typeId":"7","authorId":"53482","postDate":"2025-06-23 16:31:00","expiryDate":null,"contentId":"228191","title":"Avolta Inducts Five Team Members into Its Prestigious North American Hall of Fame","field_accessibilityText":null,"field_address":null,"field_body":"<figure><img src=\"{asset:236353:url||https:\/\/www.hmshost.com\/images\/2025.Hall.of.Fame-121-Copy.jpg}\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n<p><strong>BETHESDA, Maryland, and EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey (June 23, 2025) \u2013 <\/strong>Avolta celebrated its 2024 Hall of Fame inductees at its North America Support Center \u2013 Maryland, honoring five team members from across its travel retail and food &amp; beverage operations in the U.S. and Canada. Its prestigious Hall of Fame recognizes team members who provide the most memorable of experiences to travelers and to their colleagues, with their efforts not only enriching the lives of those around them, but also serving as a shining example of what it means to go the extra mile.<\/p>\n<p>This year\u2019s Hall of Fame honorees hail from throughout North America, representing Avolta\u2019s food &amp; beverage, duty-paid, and duty-free business. To earn their place among the company\u2019s service superstars, each inductee had been repeatedly recognized by their manager and peers for their outstanding service throughout 2024 and then subsequently nominated for the Hall of Fame by Operations leadership in their region.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIt is my favorite day of the year. It\u2019s a day where we get to pause and celebrate our people, hear their stories, and help them cement a lasting legacy within our company,\u201d said Steve Johnson, President &amp; CEO, North America, Avolta. \u201cWorking in this industry can be challenging, but every day our Hall of Fame winners demonstrate their passion and do the right thing for travelers and their fellow team members. And that is something to applaud.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The 2024 Avolta Hall of Fame inductees are:<\/p>\n<ul><li><strong>Aida Berhen<\/strong><strong> <\/strong>\u2013 Bartender, Raleigh-Durham International Airport \u2013 HMSHost<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul><li><strong>Mariia Protas<\/strong><strong> <\/strong>\u2013 Operations Office Admin, Vancouver International Airport \u2013 Hudson<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul><li><strong>Charles Thring<\/strong><strong> <\/strong>\u2013 Stock Manager, Toronto Pearson International Airport \u2013 Dufry<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul><li><strong>Monique Santos <\/strong>\u2013 HR Specialist, Palm Beach International Airport \u2013 HMSHost<\/li><\/ul>\n<ul><li><strong>Chi Wai Chow <\/strong>\u2013 Shift Supervisor, Vancouver International Airport \u2013 Dufry<\/li><\/ul>\n<p>\u201cOur Hall of Fame is the pinnacle of our robust employee recognition program and each year our honorees represent the very best in guest service,\u201d said Laura E. FitzRandolph, Chief People &amp; Culture Officer, North America, Avolta. \u201cTheir extraordinary contributions and dedication truly set these five team members apart. They embody our values, inspire their peers, and make a lasting impact on both travelers and team members every day. We are tremendously grateful for all they do to put the traveler at the center, committing themselves to making the journey the best it can be.\u201d<\/p>","field_body2":null,"field_body3":null,"field_caption":null,"field_careersWebsite":null,"field_corporatePhone":null,"field_customerSupportPhone":null,"field_eyebrow":null,"field_form":null,"field_form2":null,"field_fullName":null,"field_googleAnalyticsId":null,"field_icons":null,"field_interiorStageHeight":null,"field_internationalWebsite":null,"field_jobTitle":null,"field_legacyEntryId":null,"field_localPhone":null,"field_modalLink":null,"field_modalText":null,"field_modalTitle":null,"field_partnerDatabaseId":null,"field_publishedDate":"2025-06-23 04:00:00","field_seo":"{\"titleRaw\":[],\"descriptionRaw\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\",\"keywords\":[],\"score\":\"\",\"social\":{\"twitter\":{\"handle\":\"\",\"title\":\"Avolta Inducts Five Team Members into Its Prestigious North American Hall of Fame - HMSHost\",\"imageId\":\"\",\"description\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\"},\"facebook\":{\"handle\":\"\",\"title\":\"Avolta Inducts Five Team Members into Its Prestigious North American Hall of Fame - HMSHost\",\"imageId\":\"\",\"description\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\"}},\"advanced\":{\"robots\":[],\"canonical\":\"\"}}","field_showBody2":null,"field_showBody3":null,"field_interiorShowScrollDownIndicator":null,"field_showScrollDownIndicator":null,"field_showSocialIcons":null,"field_showSustainabilityImagesSec2":null,"field_socialLeader":null,"field_stageHeight":null,"field_stageText":null,"field_strategicAlliancesEmail":null,"field_newsSubtitle":"Representing teams across all specialized brands \u2014 HMSHost, Hudson, and Dufry \u2014 in the U.S. and Canada, these outstanding colleagues were chosen from over 31,000 team members across 110 travel venues, representing the very best of travel service excellence","field_expresssummary":null,"field_newsSummary":"Representing teams across HMSHost, Hudson, and Dufry in the U.S. and Canada, these outstanding colleagues were chosen from over 31,000 team members across 110 travel venues, representing the very best of travel service excellence.","field_sustainabilitySubtitle":null,"field_expressurl":null},{"id":"229326","fieldLayoutId":"11","uid":"aa8fdc5f-0e5a-4a90-9848-58a92ab5a24d","enabled":"1","archived":"0","dateCreated":"2025-05-05 16:30:06","dateUpdated":"2025-05-05 16:30:24","siteSettingsId":"229326","slug":"hmshost-unveils-plans-to-bring-a-fresh-era-of-dining-to-terminal-5-of-john-f-kennedy-international-airport-through-newly-awarded-10-year-contract","siteId":"1","uri":"news\/press\/hmshost-unveils-plans-to-bring-a-fresh-era-of-dining-to-terminal-5-of-john-f-kennedy-international-airport-through-newly-awarded-10-year-contract","enabledForSite":"1","sectionId":"6","typeId":"7","authorId":"53482","postDate":"2025-05-05 13:18:00","expiryDate":null,"contentId":"221171","title":"HMSHost Unveils Plans to Bring a Fresh Era of Dining to Terminal 5 of John F. Kennedy International Airport through Newly Awarded 10-year Contract","field_accessibilityText":null,"field_address":null,"field_body":"<p><strong>BETHESDA, Maryland (May 5, 2025) \u2013 <\/strong>Global restaurateur HMSHost, part of <a href=\"https:\/\/avoltaworld.com\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Avolta<\/a> AG (SIX: AVOL) and a world leader in creating dining for travel venues, today announced it has won an 10-year contract at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to bring a new era of dining to Terminal 5 \u2014 one that will offer travelers a special taste of New York through a mix of familiar brands, hidden gems of the community, and locally inspired concepts.<\/p>\n<p>Fraport USA, the concessions developer and manager selected by JetBlue for its award-winning flagship terminal, awarded HMSHost the contract to open six restaurants across more than 7,800 ft<sup>2<\/sup> beginning in 2025. The new contract, which was approved by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, is HMSHost\u2019s third awarded at JFK in recent months.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe have a bold vision for the future of dining in JFK Terminal 5. New York City is one of the most iconic cities in the world, known for a culinary scene that attracts visitors from across the globe, and we believe that the dining experience in T5 should represent the diverse tastes of such a unique place. We appreciate the confidence that the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Fraport USA, and JetBlue have in us and our joint-venture partners and that they share in our excitement to transform the traveler experience,\u201d said Steve Johnson, President and CEO, North America, Avolta. \u201c2025 will be an exciting year for HMSHost as we expand our food and beverage operations in numerous terminals at JFK, one of the busiest airports in North America.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\u201cJetBlue and Fraport USA\u2019s commitment to delivering world-class amenities and concessions to our customers aligns with the Port Authority\u2019s goal of transforming JFK into one of the world\u2019s great global gateways,\u201d said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. \u201cCreating a uniquely New York sense of place at JFK through the additions of iconic local businesses, art and design will make this terminal a memorable part of the passenger journey through our region.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\u201cJetBlue customers traveling through Terminal 5 will soon enjoy authentic products and dining experiences that represent the best of what our region has to offer,\u201d said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O\u2019Toole. \u201cThese improvements by JetBlue and Fraport USA embrace our vision of a world-class passenger experience that will serve as the front door of this region to the rest of the world.\u201d <\/p>\n<p><strong>New York City\u2019s Culinary Spirit and Innovation Take Flight at JFK T5<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Representing a cross-section of New York\u2019s food and beverage scene, from authentic Italian fare and Mexican flavors to a locally inspired restaurant and bar created exclusively for T5, the new dining venues will make the journey as exciting as the destination for JetBlue customers. Throughout the terminal, customers will enjoy a better, seamless dining experience through technology including digital waitlists, QR code order and pay, self-order kiosks, self-checkout, and order confirmation boards, along with all the benefits of the Club Avolta loyalty program, including exclusive offers and cross-promotions.<\/p>\n<ul><li><em>Benateri\u2019s <\/em>\u2013 Renowned for its delectable Italian deli sandwiches, Benateri\u2019s is a community staple of Queens. Benateri\u2019s at T5 will offer travelers a taste of New York City\u2019s deli culture through its signature creations and an expanded breakfast menu available only at JFK.<\/li><li><em>Big Bourbon Bar NYC <\/em>\u2013 This proprietary restaurant concept created for T5 will blend the bold, pioneering spirit of award-winning, New York-made Hudson Whiskey, accompanied by a chef-curated menu of elevated bar snacks, sandwiches, and pizzas.<\/li><li><em>Eataly <\/em>\u2013 An emblem of Italian culinary artistry that has cemented its place in New York City\u2019s gastronomic culture, Eataly will offer travelers a taste of the authentic Italian lifestyle, serving iconic Italian dishes from antipasti to pasta and pizza with a wide selection of Italian wine.<\/li><li><em>Dos Toros Taqueria <\/em>\u2013 Born in Union Square and inspired by the taquerias of the Bay Area, Dos Toros brings fresh ingredients and bold flavors to 19 locations across NYC, redefining fast-casual Mexican.<\/li><li><em>Chopt <\/em>\u2013 Chopt brings creativity to every bite, combining high-quality, thoughtfully sourced ingredients, and original dressings to their lineup of salads, wraps and warm bowls.<\/li><\/ul>\n<p>\u201cWe\u2019re thrilled to collaborate with HMSHost to bring an extraordinary dining experience to Terminal 5. These innovative culinary concepts and standout offerings are a perfect fit for our vision of delivering world-class dining experiences, elevating the customer journey and reflecting the vibrant energy of Terminal 5,\u201d said Jose Cuevas, Vice President of Operations for JFK T5, Fraport USA.<\/p>\n<p>Through extensive outreach events and in partnership with Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and Fraport USA, HMSHost is proud to operate its new T5 concessions with six New York-based entrepreneurs and certified Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) partners: Neir\u2019s Tavern, Inc., Neat Rules Hospitality Group, LLC, Sugar Hill Creamery, LLC, Ranchito Salvadore\u00f1o, Inc., Nana\u2019s Love, LLC, and Brooklyn Tea Seller Inc.<\/p>\n<p>HMSHost currently operates numerous dining venues throughout JFK in Terminals 1, 4, 5, and 8. <br \/>\n<\/p>","field_body2":null,"field_body3":null,"field_caption":null,"field_careersWebsite":null,"field_corporatePhone":null,"field_customerSupportPhone":null,"field_eyebrow":null,"field_form":null,"field_form2":null,"field_fullName":null,"field_googleAnalyticsId":null,"field_icons":null,"field_interiorStageHeight":null,"field_internationalWebsite":null,"field_jobTitle":null,"field_legacyEntryId":null,"field_localPhone":null,"field_modalLink":null,"field_modalText":null,"field_modalTitle":null,"field_partnerDatabaseId":null,"field_publishedDate":"2025-05-05 04:00:00","field_seo":"{\"titleRaw\":[],\"descriptionRaw\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\",\"keywords\":[],\"score\":\"\",\"social\":{\"twitter\":{\"handle\":\"\",\"title\":\"HMSHost Unveils Plans to Bring a Fresh Era of Dining to Terminal 5 of John F. Kennedy International Airport through Newly Awarded 10-year Contract - HMSHost\",\"imageId\":\"\",\"description\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\"},\"facebook\":{\"handle\":\"\",\"title\":\"HMSHost Unveils Plans to Bring a Fresh Era of Dining to Terminal 5 of John F. Kennedy International Airport through Newly Awarded 10-year Contract - HMSHost\",\"imageId\":\"\",\"description\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\"}},\"advanced\":{\"robots\":[],\"canonical\":\"\"}}","field_showBody2":null,"field_showBody3":null,"field_interiorShowScrollDownIndicator":null,"field_showScrollDownIndicator":null,"field_showSocialIcons":null,"field_showSustainabilityImagesSec2":null,"field_socialLeader":null,"field_stageHeight":null,"field_stageText":null,"field_strategicAlliancesEmail":null,"field_newsSubtitle":"Leader in travel dining will enhance the sense of place at JFK, infusing the vibrant flavors of New York into Terminal 5 \u2014 from New York City\u2019s most beloved community eateries.","field_expresssummary":null,"field_newsSummary":"Leader in travel dining will enhance the sense of place at JFK, infusing the vibrant flavors of New York into Terminal 5 \u2014 from New York City\u2019s most beloved community eateries.","field_sustainabilitySubtitle":null,"field_expressurl":null},{"id":"226844","fieldLayoutId":"11","uid":"b39b1773-f8de-4996-8fa1-41aa0ddff967","enabled":"1","archived":"0","dateCreated":"2025-04-17 16:01:19","dateUpdated":"2025-04-17 16:01:19","siteSettingsId":"226844","slug":"hmshost-dominates-newsweeks-2025-airport-dining-awards-with-whisky-river-at-clt-voted-no-1-best-full-service-airport-restaurant","siteId":"1","uri":"news\/press\/hmshost-dominates-newsweeks-2025-airport-dining-awards-with-whisky-river-at-clt-voted-no-1-best-full-service-airport-restaurant","enabledForSite":"1","sectionId":"6","typeId":"7","authorId":"53482","postDate":"2025-04-17 13:50:00","expiryDate":null,"contentId":"218689","title":"HMSHost Dominates Newsweek\u2019s 2025 Airport Dining Awards with Whisky River at CLT Voted No. 1 Best Full-Service Airport Restaurant","field_accessibilityText":null,"field_address":null,"field_body":"<p><strong>BETHESDA, Maryland (April 17, 2025)<\/strong><strong> \u2013 <\/strong>Global restaurateur HMSHost, part of <a href=\"https:\/\/avoltaworld.com\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Avolta<\/a> AG (SIX: AVOL) and a world leader in creating dining for travel venues, announced today that travelers have named six of its dining venues among the top 10 Best Full-Service Airport Restaurants in the U.S. in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.newsweek.com\/readerschoice\/best-full-service-airport-restaurant-2025\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>Newsweek<\/em>\u2019s 2025 Readers\u2019 Choice Awards<\/a>. Whisky River at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), a partnership with famed stock-car racing champion Dale Earnhardt Jr, earned the top spot on the ranking for its honky-tonk hangout vibe, great food, and live music from local musicians.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe celebrate our team\u2019s passion for hospitality every day, and being recognized by the travelers we serve makes it even more meaningful,\u201d said Steve Johnson, President &amp; CEO, North America, Avolta. \u201cWe\u2019re proud to deliver great dining experiences across the country and grateful to our airport and brand partners for helping make each journey memorable.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWhisky River\u2019s recognition as the number one Best Full-Service Airport Restaurant highlights the power of strong partnerships and innovative concepts that not only elevate the passenger experience but also reflect the unique spirit of our region. We congratulate HMSHost on this well-deserved honor,\u201d Ted Kaplan, Chief Business and Innovation Officer at Charlotte Douglas International Airport.<\/p>\n<p>HMSHost operates two additional Whisky River locations at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU).<\/p>\n<p>Five more HMSHost restaurants were named to the top 10 in <em>Newsweek<\/em>\u2019s 2025 Readers\u2019 Choice Awards, demonstrating HMSHost\u2019s leadership in making the journey as exciting as the destination for travelers. The dining venues spotlight numerous cuisines ranging from Mexican fare and Southern comfort food to sushi and flavors of the American Southwest, and also represent HMSHost\u2019s unmatched portfolio of celebrity chefs, local brands, and its own exclusive, proprietary concepts.<\/p>\n<ul><li><strong>Barrio Cafe<\/strong> (Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport), an extension of the celebrated Mexican restaurant from Chef Silvana Salcido Esparaza.<\/li><li><strong>White Horse Spirits and Kitchen<\/strong> (Salt Lake City International Airport), a modern American brasserie in downtown Salt Lake City.<\/li><li><strong>Chelsea\u2019s Kitchen<\/strong> (Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport), an outpost of the Phoenix roadhouse celebrating the cuisine of the great American Southwest.<\/li><li><strong>Wicker Park Seafood &amp; Sush<\/strong>i (O\u2019Hare International Airport), an award-winning concept created by HMSHost and named after Chicago\u2019s famed Wicker Park neighborhood that brings authentic, made-to-order sushi and seafood favorites to the terminal.<\/li><li><strong>Blanco Tacos + Tequila<\/strong> (Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport), a restaurant from Chef Sam Fox serving traditional Mexican fare inspired by Baja and Sonora.<\/li><\/ul>","field_body2":null,"field_body3":null,"field_caption":null,"field_careersWebsite":null,"field_corporatePhone":null,"field_customerSupportPhone":null,"field_eyebrow":null,"field_form":null,"field_form2":null,"field_fullName":null,"field_googleAnalyticsId":null,"field_icons":null,"field_interiorStageHeight":null,"field_internationalWebsite":null,"field_jobTitle":null,"field_legacyEntryId":null,"field_localPhone":null,"field_modalLink":null,"field_modalText":null,"field_modalTitle":null,"field_partnerDatabaseId":null,"field_publishedDate":"2025-04-17 04:00:00","field_seo":"{\"titleRaw\":[],\"descriptionRaw\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\",\"keywords\":[],\"score\":\"\",\"social\":{\"twitter\":{\"handle\":\"\",\"title\":\"HMSHost Dominates Newsweek\u2019s 2025 Airport Dining Awards with Whisky River at CLT Voted No. 1 Best Full-Service Airport Restaurant - HMSHost\",\"imageId\":\"\",\"description\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\"},\"facebook\":{\"handle\":\"\",\"title\":\"HMSHost Dominates Newsweek\u2019s 2025 Airport Dining Awards with Whisky River at CLT Voted No. 1 Best Full-Service Airport Restaurant - HMSHost\",\"imageId\":\"\",\"description\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\"}},\"advanced\":{\"robots\":[],\"canonical\":\"\"}}","field_showBody2":null,"field_showBody3":null,"field_interiorShowScrollDownIndicator":null,"field_showScrollDownIndicator":null,"field_showSocialIcons":null,"field_showSustainabilityImagesSec2":null,"field_socialLeader":null,"field_stageHeight":null,"field_stageText":null,"field_strategicAlliancesEmail":null,"field_newsSubtitle":"Travelers across the U.S. voted for their favorite airport eateries in Newsweek\u2019s 2025 Readers\u2019 Choice Awards, crowning Whisky River champion and five more HMSHost restaurants among their top 10","field_expresssummary":null,"field_newsSummary":"Travelers across the U.S. voted for their favorite airport eateries in Newsweek\u2019s 2025 Readers\u2019 Choice Awards, crowning Whisky River champion and five more HMSHost restaurants among their top 10","field_sustainabilitySubtitle":null,"field_expressurl":null},{"id":"224202","fieldLayoutId":"11","uid":"9fcbbf90-5a94-473d-b887-739b281d93a8","enabled":"1","archived":"0","dateCreated":"2025-04-02 16:30:19","dateUpdated":"2025-04-02 16:31:44","siteSettingsId":"224202","slug":"hmshost-named-best-overall-restaurateur-among-large-operators-at-2025-airport-experience-awards","siteId":"1","uri":"news\/press\/hmshost-named-best-overall-restaurateur-among-large-operators-at-2025-airport-experience-awards","enabledForSite":"1","sectionId":"6","typeId":"7","authorId":"53482","postDate":"2025-04-02 14:36:00","expiryDate":null,"contentId":"216329","title":"HMSHost Named Best Overall Restaurateur among Large Operators at 2025 Airport Experience Awards","field_accessibilityText":null,"field_address":null,"field_body":"<figure><img src=\"{asset:224176:url||https:\/\/www.hmshost.com\/images\/YYC-Summit-House-2024-02-1200x800-5b2df79_web3.jpg}\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n<p><strong>BETHESDA, Maryland (April 2, 2025) \u2013 <\/strong>Global restaurateur HMSHost, part of <a href=\"https:\/\/avoltaworld.com\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Avolta<\/a> AG (SIX: AVOL) and a world leader in creating dining for travel venues, earned the esteemed title of Best Overall Restaurateur among large operators at the 2025 AX Awards hosted by <em>Airport Experience News<\/em> during its 21<sup>st<\/sup> annual Airport Experience Conference in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n<p>Best Overall Restaurateur is awarded to a restaurateur who excels in every phase of operations, customer service, creativity, food quality, and marketing. <em>Airport Experience News <\/em>recognized HMSHost for its success in making a traveler\u2019s journey as rewarding as their destination through its innovative concepts, notable brand portfolio, high-quality food, and exceptional service.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cEach day, our team members put the traveler at the center of everything they do to make the journey the best it can be, and last night our industry applauded that commitment,\u201d said Steve Johnson, President and CEO, North America, Avolta. \u201cThis award is a testament to their dedication to serving travelers, from the early morning hours to the last flight of the night, and I could not be more proud of how they demonstrate that passion every day. I look forward to celebrating this recognition with our thousands of team members across North America.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>At this year\u2019s awards gala, numerous HMSHost dining concepts were celebrated among North America\u2019s best, earning recognition as finalists across several categories: Best Bar Experience, Best Quick-Serve Restaurant Concept, Best Local-Inspired Restaurant, and Best Casual Dining Concept. Additionally, <em>Airport Experience News <\/em>recognized HMSHost as a finalist for the Restaurateur with the Highest Regard for Customer Service and the Avolta team at Calgary International Airport (YYC) as a finalist for Best Local Management Team for building a foundation of trust and credibility and its collective commitment to addressing the needs of modern travelers to create a welcoming atmosphere at YYC and boost traveler satisfaction.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cYYC Calgary International Airport is proud to nominate our local Avolta management team for this award,\u201d said Chris Niergarth, General Manager of Retail and Development, The Calgary Airport Authority. \u201cTheir unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and guest experience has truly raised the bar for airport hospitality. From their thoughtful attention to detail to their passion for service, Avolta consistently delivers elevated travel experiences that leave a lasting impression on our guests. We\u2019re grateful for their partnership and the collaborative spirit they bring to everything we do. Together, we\u2019re redefining what world-class travel looks like\u2014right here in Calgary.\u201d<\/p>","field_body2":null,"field_body3":null,"field_caption":null,"field_careersWebsite":null,"field_corporatePhone":null,"field_customerSupportPhone":null,"field_eyebrow":null,"field_form":null,"field_form2":null,"field_fullName":null,"field_googleAnalyticsId":null,"field_icons":null,"field_interiorStageHeight":null,"field_internationalWebsite":null,"field_jobTitle":null,"field_legacyEntryId":null,"field_localPhone":null,"field_modalLink":null,"field_modalText":null,"field_modalTitle":null,"field_partnerDatabaseId":null,"field_publishedDate":"2025-04-02 04:00:00","field_seo":"{\"titleRaw\":[],\"descriptionRaw\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\",\"keywords\":[],\"score\":\"\",\"social\":{\"twitter\":{\"handle\":\"\",\"title\":\"HMSHost Named Best Overall Restaurateur among Large Operators at 2025 Airport Experience Awards - HMSHost\",\"imageId\":\"\",\"description\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\"},\"facebook\":{\"handle\":\"\",\"title\":\"HMSHost Named Best Overall Restaurateur among Large Operators at 2025 Airport Experience Awards - HMSHost\",\"imageId\":\"\",\"description\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\"}},\"advanced\":{\"robots\":[],\"canonical\":\"\"}}","field_showBody2":null,"field_showBody3":null,"field_interiorShowScrollDownIndicator":null,"field_showScrollDownIndicator":null,"field_showSocialIcons":null,"field_showSustainabilityImagesSec2":null,"field_socialLeader":null,"field_stageHeight":null,"field_stageText":null,"field_strategicAlliancesEmail":null,"field_newsSubtitle":"At prestigious annual industry awards, leader in travel dining recognized for excellence in operations, customer service, creativity, food quality, and marketing","field_expresssummary":null,"field_newsSummary":"At prestigious annual industry awards, leader in travel dining recognized for excellence in operations, customer service, creativity, food quality, and marketing","field_sustainabilitySubtitle":null,"field_expressurl":null},{"id":"217432","fieldLayoutId":"11","uid":"2244690f-5578-4bdd-8a9c-b9b3ea990aa7","enabled":"1","archived":"0","dateCreated":"2025-02-19 18:17:11","dateUpdated":"2025-02-22 20:48:56","siteSettingsId":"217432","slug":"hmshost-will-grow-its-presence-at-john-f-kennedy-international-airport-through-a-new-15-year-contract-to-operate-in-terminal-4","siteId":"1","uri":"news\/press\/hmshost-will-grow-its-presence-at-john-f-kennedy-international-airport-through-a-new-15-year-contract-to-operate-in-terminal-4","enabledForSite":"1","sectionId":"6","typeId":"7","authorId":"53482","postDate":"2025-01-22 18:03:00","expiryDate":null,"contentId":"209684","title":"HMSHost Will Grow Its Presence at John F. Kennedy International Airport through a New 15-year Contract to Operate in Terminal 4","field_accessibilityText":null,"field_address":null,"field_body":"<p><strong>BETHESDA, Maryland (Feb. 19, 2025) \u2013 <\/strong>Global restaurateur HMSHost, part of <a href=\"https:\/\/avoltaworld.com\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Avolta<\/a> AG (SIX: AVOL) and a world leader in creating dining for travel venues, today announced it has been awarded a new 15-year contract at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) by JFK International Air Terminal (JFKIAT), operator of Terminal 4, to open nine new restaurants across more than 16,500 ft<sup>2<\/sup> of concessions space. The partnership with JFKIAT marks HMSHost\u2019s first operations in T4, significantly growing the company\u2019s presence at one of the busiest airports in North America and among the most active air terminals in the New York area.<\/p>\n<p>Beginning this year, HMSHost will open an exciting lineup of dining venues that will offer travelers a taste of three of New York City\u2019s iconic boroughs \u2014 Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens \u2014 showcasing the rich culinary diversity of the surrounding community. Local concepts will include Manhattan\u2019s <strong>Bessou<\/strong>, <strong>FIELDTRIP<\/strong>, <strong>Dos Toros Taqueria<\/strong>, <strong>Eataly<\/strong>, <strong>Boqueria<\/strong>, and <strong>Chopt<\/strong>; <strong>Brooklyn Tea &amp; Market<\/strong>; and <strong>Villa Russo Caf\u00e9 <\/strong>of Queens. Additionally, HMSHost will also evolve its partnership with the James Beard Foundation<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> (JBF) to bring the Foundation\u2019s <strong>Good To Go by JBF\u2122 <\/strong>fast-casual concept to the terminal \u2014 which will debut in T4 with a menu by New York\u2019s <strong>Due Madri<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIn a city so renowned for its culinary scene as New York, JFK has evolved into a dining destination in itself,\u201d said Steve Johnson, President and CEO, North America, Avolta. \u201cWe embraced the opportunity to partner with JFKIAT, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and our joint-venture partners to be a part of the evolution of JFK and make the journey as exciting as the destination for travelers passing through Terminal 4. These new food and beverage offerings will more than double our presence at JFK, which we are tremendously proud of.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe transformation of T4 and JFK Airport has given us a new opportunity to work with local businesses and provide gateways for meaningful local investment,\u201d said JFKIAT Chief Executive Officer Roel Huinink. \u201cI am looking forward to the arrival of our new local partners at T4, and I am pleased that we will be able to offer our customers even more authentic New York flavors and experiences.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>HMSHost currently operates dining venues throughout JFK in Terminals 1, 5, and 8.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Arriving Soon at JFK Terminal 4<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The new food and beverage options landing soon at T4 will represent the culinary playground of Manhattan, the passionate creatives of Brooklyn, and the international flavors of Queens. Throughout the terminal, travelers will enjoy a better, seamless travel experience through technology like reservations and digital waitlists, QR codes, self-order kiosks, and self-checkout, along with all the benefits of the Club Avolta loyalty program.<\/p>\n<ul><li><em>Bessou<\/em> \u2013 A beloved neighborhood restaurant known for its bold Japanese flavors and a warm communal spirit, Bessou was founded by Maiko Kyogoku and reflects her love of Japanese comfort food through specialties like karaage fried chicken sandwiches, onigiri rice balls, and a new line of craveworthy popcorn.<\/li><li><em>FIELDTRIP \u2013 <\/em>Created by James Beard Award-winning chef and popular TV personality JJ Johnson, Fieldtrip\u2019s \u201cRice is Culture\u201d approach to fast casual eating connects global cuisines through a grain of rice and offers the ideal place for disparate groups to converge. <\/li><li><em>Chopt<\/em> \u2013 Chopt brings creativity to every bite, combining high-quality, thoughtfully sourced ingredients, and original dressings to their lineup of salads, wraps, and warm bowls.<\/li><li><em>Dos Toros Taqueria<\/em> \u2013 Born in Union Square and inspired by the taquerias of the Bay Area, Dos Toros brings fresh ingredients and bold flavors to 19 locations across NYC, redefining fast-casual Mexican.<\/li><li><em>Boqueria<\/em> \u2013 Named for Barcelona\u2019s most famous market, Boqueria merges authentic Spanish cuisine with Manhattan sensibilities. The sleek, sophisticated tapas bar brings the communal, congenial vibe of its renowned namesake to T4.<\/li><li><em>Eataly<\/em> \u2013 An emblem of Italian culinary artistry that has cemented its place in New York City\u2019s gastronomic culture, Eataly at JFK T4 will offer travelers a taste of the Italian lifestyle via a full-service restaurant serving authentic Italian dishes from antipasti to pasta and pizza, blended with a wine bar, grab-and-go items, and a curated retail selection.<\/li><li><em>Brooklyn Tea &amp; Market<\/em> \u2013 Tea enthusiasts will savor the buzzy essence of Brooklyn at this grab-and-go market highlighting the diverse cultures of tea.<\/li><li><em>Villa Russo Caf\u00e9 <\/em>\u2013 Villa Russo Caf\u00e9 will offer travelers a slice of New York's rich cultural and culinary heritage they rarely get to see and a culinary experience that reflects the diversity and vibrancy of Queens. In 1954, the Russo family opened a small neighborhood pizzeria in Queens, minutes away from JFK, and began serving their authentic Italian dishes. Through a proud tradition of offering old-world family recipes over generations, their legacy grew and transformed into one of New York's premier catering venues and recognizable hospitality brands.<\/li><li><em>Good To Go by JBF\u2122 <\/em>\u2013 Go To Go by JBF\u2122 is a fast-casual concept located in New York\u2019s Market 57 that brings the James Beard Foundation\u2019s Good Food for Good<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> mission to life through chef-crafted food and beverage offerings. The JFK location will host the best of the Foundation\u2019s chef partnerships at T4 through a chef-in-residence program, beginning with Erika Nakamura and Joclyn Guest, the talented duo behind New York\u2019s Due Madri.<\/li><\/ul>\n<p>Through extensive outreach events and in partnership with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and JFKIAT, HMSHost is proud to operate these new T4 concessions with a diverse group of local entrepreneurs and certified Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) partners: Chef Grace Ram\u00edrez (Owner, Tamalito, Inc.); Allison Dunn (Owner, Hibiscus Brew); Petrushka Bazin Larsen (Co-founder\/Co-owner, Sugar Hill Creamery, LLC); Maiko Kyogoku (Founder, Kintaro Foods, LLC); Tara Merdjanoff (Co-founder, Kismet Cocktails, Inc.); Brian Martinez (Owner, Fresco\u2019s Cantina, LLC); and Corliss Stone-Littles (Owner, Corliss Stone-Littles, LLC).<\/p>","field_body2":null,"field_body3":null,"field_caption":null,"field_careersWebsite":null,"field_corporatePhone":null,"field_customerSupportPhone":null,"field_eyebrow":null,"field_form":null,"field_form2":null,"field_fullName":null,"field_googleAnalyticsId":null,"field_icons":null,"field_interiorStageHeight":null,"field_internationalWebsite":null,"field_jobTitle":null,"field_legacyEntryId":null,"field_localPhone":null,"field_modalLink":null,"field_modalText":null,"field_modalTitle":null,"field_partnerDatabaseId":null,"field_publishedDate":"2025-02-19 05:00:00","field_seo":"{\"titleRaw\":{\"1\":\"HMSHost Will Grow Its Presence at John F. Kennedy International Airport through a New 15-year Contract to Operate in Terminal 4\"},\"descriptionRaw\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\",\"keywords\":[],\"score\":\"\",\"social\":{\"twitter\":{\"handle\":\"\",\"title\":\"HMSHost Will Grow Its Presence at John F. Kennedy International Airport through a New 15-year Contract to Operate in Terminal 4 - HMSHost\",\"imageId\":\"\",\"description\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\"},\"facebook\":{\"handle\":\"\",\"title\":\"HMSHost Will Grow Its Presence at John F. Kennedy International Airport through a New 15-year Contract to Operate in Terminal 4 - HMSHost\",\"imageId\":\"\",\"description\":\"HMSHost is a world leader in creating dining for travel venues. HMSHost uses its experience and global reach to ensure that travelers are feeling good on the move by bringing a unique mix of local, regional, national and international food and beverage amenities to travel venues around the world.\"}},\"advanced\":{\"robots\":[],\"canonical\":\"\"}}","field_showBody2":null,"field_showBody3":null,"field_interiorShowScrollDownIndicator":null,"field_showScrollDownIndicator":null,"field_showSocialIcons":null,"field_showSustainabilityImagesSec2":null,"field_socialLeader":null,"field_stageHeight":null,"field_stageText":null,"field_strategicAlliancesEmail":null,"field_newsSubtitle":"HMSHost will begin operations in JFK T4 in 2025, bringing nine restaurants to the terminal that will offer a taste of the rich culinary diversity of three New York City boroughs","field_expresssummary":null,"field_newsSummary":"HMSHost will begin operations in JFK T4 in 2025, bringing nine restaurants to the terminal that will offer a taste of the rich culinary diversity of three New York City boroughs","field_sustainabilitySubtitle":null,"field_expressurl":null}]