Jul 23, 2018

HMSHost Wins 10-Year Detroit Metropolitan Airport Dining Contract

Local flavors and nationally-recognized favorites planned

DETROIT — The city of Detroit’s thriving culinary scene is coming to Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW). The Wayne County Airport Authority awarded global restaurateur HMSHost and its partners AJA & Associates, LLC and Ellis Infinity – both part of the Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) program – a 10-year contract valued at $258 million to operate nine new dining options in Detroit Metropolitan Airport’s North Terminal.

“Detroit is America’s comeback city with a hot and happening food scene thanks to its resurgence and local talent,” said HMSHost President & CEO Steve Johnson. “We are honored that the Wayne County Airport Authority has selected HMSHost to enhance the airport experience for its tourists and businesspeople by bringing the authentic energy and tastes of Detroit’s restaurants into this major Midwestern hub.”

“HMSHost is a dynamic company with several years of experience operating at Detroit Metropolitan Airport,” said Wayne County Airport Authority Interim CEO Chad Newton. “We’re pleased to work with HMSHost to offer our customers a variety of options, ranging from unique local brands to familiar national brands. With award-winning restaurants in baggage claim and in the gate area, whether traveling, picking up or dropping off a loved one, every DTW visitor will have the opportunity to enjoy our new food and beverage program.”

“HMSHost is thrilled to present several truly outstanding local brands along with national partners that continue to drive dining innovations within Detroit Metropolitan Airport,” said HMSHost Vice President of Business Development Kent Vanden Oever. “We are proud to work with these local businesses and we thank the Wayne County Airport Authority for the opportunity to provide the fantastic dining experiences they represent to Detroit travelers.”

From beloved local Detroit establishments, to massively popular quick-service favorites and nationally-regarded leaders in quality, the new North Terminal dining scene will give Detroit travelers a lot to get excited about.

Jolly Pumpkin Taphouse showcasing Detroit’s own Jolly Pumpkin Brewing, will give travelers access to award-winning local beers like the Calabaza Blanca in a welcoming atmosphere; this will be the place in the airport to kick back with travel companions and enjoy a beverage along with a hearty burger or mushroom pizza.

Anita’s Kitchen Lebanese Café is known as Southeast Michigan’s premier Middle Eastern restaurant, offering freshly prepared traditional cuisine. Anita’s provides something for every type of traveler, showcasing the beauty and flavors of Middle-Eastern food with the aromas of expertly smoked and spiced meats and authentic fresh ingredients, as well as a vast selection of vegetarian dishes.

Cantoro Italian Market Trattoria is a family owned and operated market and restaurant with a 40-plus year history of a commitment to quality and serving delectable food to Detroit area residents. It was voted best Italian market in Metro Detroit by MLive numerous times and soon these ingredients for authentic dining will arrive in Detroit Metro Airport. The modern corner store-meets-old world Italian market component of this pre-security baggage claim location will also make it convenient to pick up a jar of Cantoro sauce, box of pasta, or bottle of olive oil on the way out of the airport.

Common Grace Coffee Company was born in Detroit’s local farmers markets and established in 2010. This Detroit favorite stands out as a warm gathering place offering specially sourced high-end coffees and organic loose leaf teas. Hungry travelers will appreciate the available fresh sandwiches, pastries, and soups while enjoying this venue’s friendly vibe.

Pei Wei Asian Diner gives travelers the very best Southeast Asian-inspired flavors they crave. The wok is always hot at Pei Wei and each dish is prepared to order in a cutting-edge atmosphere. Exotic grab-and-go fare like Banh Mi sandwiches and Chinese take-out make Pei Wei a fit for the airport environment.

Brioche Dorée is a stimulating bakery, coffeehouse, and sandwich shop built on the concept of freshly-baked homemade products available for quick service. Brioche Dorée gives travelers access to premium, freshly prepared foods with French touches in a casual, modern environment.

Outback Steakhouse is globally recognized for its distinctive down-to-earth style and innovative, approachable menu featuring USDA grade hand-trimmed steaks, fresh salads, and Aussie-tizers. This location will feature Outback’s revamped design and dining experience, giving Detroit travelers a renewed signature Outback experience while they relax and dine.

Chick-fil-A, the brand that leads the industry in the chicken category with a devoted following, will also serve up its premium menu of all-natural chicken, famous waffle fries, salads, and legendary service in the North Terminal.

Starbucks® is the dynamic coffeehouse at the forefront of innovation that provides the beverages and snacks travelers crave. The new North Terminal Starbucks will give travelers a place to refresh with an extensive beverage menu and selection of flavorful pastries, wraps, and sandwiches.

HMSHost currently operates four Starbucks® stores at DTW. A list of existing HMSHost-operated locations at Detroit Metropolitan Airport is available on the HMSHost location finder map.