After a smooth check-in and a swift pass through security, you find yourself with a couple of hours to spare before boarding. What better way to enjoy this time than indulging in a memorable meal?
Though airport food has long been criticized for high prices and uninspiring menus, select international terminals are now redefining the travel dining experience. The days of lackluster options are behind us—at least at some leading airports.
To identify the world’s top airports for culinary excellence, RewardExpert—a trusted authority on travel rewards and loyalty—conducted an extensive analysis of the 15 busiest non-U.S. airports. Their methodology included thousands of consumer reviews from platforms like Yelp and TripAdvisor, alongside detailed menu and price comparisons, delivering a comprehensive ranking based on quality, value, and variety.
According to the International Dining Scorecard, Narita International Airport in Tokyo continues to set the standard for airport cuisine. Renowned for its authentic Japanese fare—think expertly prepared sushi, steaming bowls of udon, and fresh onigiri—Narita impresses both in taste and affordability, though its focus remains primarily on local specialties.
Asian airports consistently lead the pack, securing four out of the top five places: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Hong Kong International Airport, and Singapore Changi Airport join Narita and Amsterdam Schiphol in this elite group. These hubs are celebrated for their wide range of high-quality culinary options, from street food-inspired bites to Michelin-recommended restaurants.
Conversely, many European hubs still struggle to elevate their food offerings. Four of the five lowest-ranked airports are in Europe, with limited variety, inconsistent quality, and premium pricing. Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport in Rome ranks lowest, while London Gatwick stands out positively, earning the sixth spot for its improved gourmet selections.
According to the report, the top three international airports for food in 2025 are:
- - Narita International Airport
- - Taoyuan International Airport
- - Hong Kong International Airport
The three lowest-ranked airports for dining are:
- - Charles de Gaulle Airport
- - Barcelona-El Prat Airport
- - Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport
To view the full list and detailed rankings, visit the official RewardExpert International Dining Scorecard.