We’re pretty serious about our food in the DFW metroplex, so don’t be surprised to be greeted with some delicious food options when you land at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport on your way to or from Irving. If you’re planning to fly in or out from the airport, here are some dining and drinking options to keep in mind before you can let loose and stuff your belly at Irving’s amazing eateries.
Terminal A
The Salt Lick BBQ | Gate A16
No visit to Texas is complete without trying some barbecue, and this Hill Country barbecue joint is the place to go for some great barbecue. From meat platters to savory sandwiches, you’re sure to get your ‘cue fix here.
Dallas Cowboys Club | Gate A21
Equal parts chic and sporty, Dallas Cowboys Club celebrates America’s Favorite Team. But you don’t have to be a football fan to stop by. Travelers will find typical game day food with an elevated twist, from Texas-sized burgers to wings, but the star of the show is the Chili Tejano, served Texas-style (no beans). The club also has plenty of TVs, so you don’t miss a second of the game while waiting for your flight.
Twisted Root Burger - Gate A29
There’s just something about a good burger and fries, and this local burger chain does not disappoint. Travelers are sure to find something on the menu they love with the restaurant’s gluten-free and vegan menu items. What’s even better? They pride themselves in quick service (approx. 8 minutes), which is crucial when you’re running on airport time.
Coffee Options
Need a morning boost while waiting for your flight? Terminal A has plenty of options to choose from, from Starbucks (A37), Dunkin’ Donuts (A13), Whisk and Bowl (A14), and La Creme Coffee and Tea (A34).
Terminal B
Cousin’s BBQ and Cousin’s Back Porch | Gates B12 and B47
A DFW staple for almost 40 years, Cousin’s BBQ will make you feel right at home. You can’t go wrong with the brisket sandwich or baked potato. For those looking for a bar atmosphere, Cousin’s sister restaurant, Cousin’s Back Porch a few gates away has several TVs to catch a game while enjoying some NOLA-style barbecue.
Hickory | Gate B25
Four-time Beard award nominee Kent Rathbun is the chef behind Hickory. This barbecue spot is known for its ribs and pork shoulder smoked on-site. You’ll want to get there as early as possible since smoked meats are available daily until they are sold out.
Cantina Laredo | Gate B29, additional location in Terminal D
Craving Mexican food? Cantina Laredo is just the place to get your fix with menu items like beef and chicken fajitas, top-shelf guacamole prepared tableside, tacos and enchiladas. You’ll want to pair your dish with their award-winning margarita, the Casa Rita.
Rodeo Bar | Gate B32
With a full bar ranging from beer, spirits and wines, Rodeo Bar has the perfect setup for a quick drink before your flight. Travelers can also find an array of sandwiches and light bites to pick up on the go.
Terminal C
Pappadeaux Seafood | Gate C14
This local-based chain is part of the Pappas family of restaurants and is known for its Cajun fare like fried alligator, crawfish etouffee and seafood gumbo, giving travelers a small taste of The Big Easy.
Pappasitos Cantina | Gate C19
Come for the Tex-Mex and stay for the margaritas. Pappasitos Cantina is another restaurant part of the Pappas family. Breakfast is served until 10 a.m. with items like breakfast tacos and bloody Marys.
Beer Union | Gate C27
Beer lovers can sample a wide selection of local brews, from local breweries like Dallas’ Deep Ellum Brewing or Fort Worth’s Rahr and Sons. If craft beer is not your thing, Beer Union has plenty of domestic and import beers to choose from, as well as a selection of wine and spirits. Pair your favorite concoction with a flatbread pizza or pork Cubano melt.
Terminal C is home to some chain favorites
Stick with some tried and true chain favorites like Chick-Fil-A, Pizza Hut Express, McDonald’s or Shake Shack for a quick bite for boarding.
Terminal D
Trinity Groves Kitchen and Bar | Gate D1
Dallas’ popular foodie destination has made DFW Airport its second home. Travelers here will find some of Trinity Groves’ favorite dishes from restaurants like Beto & Son: Next Generation Mexican Food, Holy Crust Pizza, Avoeatery and The Hall Bar & Grill.
Whataburger | Gate D14
This Texas fast-food chain has long been a staple for a reason. You can’t go wrong with a burger and fries or the breakfast taquitos. Make sure to ask for their special spicy ketchup.
Flying Saucer Draught Emporium | Gate D20
Another great watering hole at DFW Airport is Flying Saucer Draught Emporium. The local chain boasts 2 floors with 40 craft beers on tap on each level. Pair your brew with bar staples like wings, flatbreads or sandwiches.
Brewed | Gate D27
A local brunch favorite, Brewed is a must-stop for breakfast or lunch. Popular menu items include the fried egg sandwich, mac and cheese and burger.
The Italian Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck | Gate D34
For a more upscale vibe, head to The Italian Kitchen, where you’ll find Italian classics like chicken piccata, Bolognese and ravioli.
Terminal E
Drew Pearson’s Sports 88 | Gate E5
You don’t have to be a Dallas Cowboys fan to grab some grub and beer at this sports bar, owned by Hall of Famer Drew Pearson.
Love Shack | Gate E12
Grab a burger to-go on the way to your gate at this local burger joint by chef Tim Love. The Dirty Love Burger is a must: a burger with all the fixins’, a fried quail egg on top, and Love Shack’s signature Love Sauce.
Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse | Gate E13
What can I say, we really love our barbecue here. Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse has been a Dallas-area favorite since 1958 and is known for its smoked brisket. For folks catching a morning flight, we recommend the brisket, egg and cheese sandwich.
2.0 Taco and Tequila | Gate E31
This farm-to-table restaurant is known for its locally sourced ingredients. You can’t go wrong with their tacos or Texas-sized burritos that pair well with their classic margaritas or any of their hand-crafted cocktails.
Uno Due Go | Gate E36
Who doesn’t love pizza? This family-friendly restaurant is sure to satisfy everyone in the family with its Chicago deep-dish pizzas, paninis and salads.
For a full list of restaurants, visit the DFW International Airport site.
