Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), commonly referred to as ABIA, is the second-fastest-growing mid-size airport in the United States and it serves the Greater Austin metropolitan area. As of 2018, ABIA connects the City of the Violet Crown with over 70 destinations across North America and Europe. In 2019, Austin Airport was recognised as Runner Up for Best U.S. Airport by Fodor Travel Guide. There’s some excellent food and shopping at Austin Airport!
Whether you are traveling through Texas or heading home to Austin, chances are that you may spend some time at this impressive airport. There are plenty of excellent dining options to check out here, including cozy cafes, grab-and-go eateries, fine restaurants, dessert shops, and everything in between. The retail scene is no less impressive, offering a plethora of options ranging from artisan jewellery to luxury electronics.
ABIA airport has two terminals. The Barbara Jordan Terminal is accessible from SH-71 and there are 15 airlines servicing it. The smaller South Terminal is serviced by two domestic airlines. Most places of interest, however, are located in the former.
Best Places for Food & Shopping at Austin Airport
Quick Bites
Fara Cafe
Coffee lovers should head to Fara Café for freshly roasted gourmet coffee. There are quite a few varieties, flavors, and roast options available to suit every taste. Their menu includes sandwiches, pastries, snacks and other beverages to pair with your caffeine hit. You can also buy beautifully packaged roasted coffee here as gifts for friends and family.
Location – Barbara Jordan Terminal, Pre-Security
Amy’s Ice Creams
For some cool refreshment before your flight, visit Amy’s Ice Creams. They offer more than 350 flavors in rotation of super-premium ice creams, all made using local ingredients. You can also get dairy-free fruit ices, delightful ice cream cakes, and frozen yogurts to satiate your sweet tooth. They are also the pioneers of the world-famous Mexican Vanilla Ice Cream.
Location – Barbara Jordan Terminal, Gate 21
Hippies & Hops
Hippies and Hops is a bar serving local craft beer from Live Oak Brewing Company as well as other nationally recognised beer brands and wines. You can also grab a sandwich or a burger here for lunch or dinner.
Location – Barbara Jordan Terminal, Gate 17
Ruta Maya
Ruta Maya serves organic, shade-grown Arabica coffee that is harvested in the highlands of Chiapas in Mexico. People swear by their aromatic flavours and the brand is known for its consistency and quality. The café also serves smoothies, teas, sandwiches, and other snacks.
Location – Barbara Jordan Terminal, Gate 14
Sit Down Dining
The Saxon Pub
If you are looking for a place to relax and stretch your legs a bit while having a casual lunch or dinner, the Saxon Pub should be your go-to. The pub offers guests a lively atmosphere and comfortable seating arrangements. But more importantly, their sumptuous dishes, tasty appetizers, and well-stocked bar will have you smiling as you walk to your gate.
Location – Barbara Jordan Terminal, Gate 19
The Peached Tortilla
For some great fusion food, The Peached Tortilla is a must-try. Their delicious JapaJam burger with fried egg and tempura onion strings and BBQ Brisket Taco and cauliflower bowl are both absolutely drool-worthy.
Location – Barbara Jordan Terminal, Gate 17
The Salt Lick BBQ
The Salt Lick BBQ has been featured in Huffington Post’s list of 10 Great Airport Restaurants as well as in the Daily Mail’s list of the World’s Best Airport Restaurants. And it lives up to its fame. You can gorge on some mouthwatering barbecue and sandwich combos including smoked turkey and pulled pork, before washing it all down with some cold beer.
Location – Barbara Jordan Terminal, Gate 22
Second Bar + Kitchen
The Second Bar + Kitchen is an Austin eatery that serves a variety of sandwiches, steaks, burgers, pizzas, starters, snacks, and salads. They also have a specialty cocktail menu for the grownups and a kid’s menu for the little ones under 10 years called the ‘Little Pilot’s Menu’.
Location – Barbara Jordan Terminal, Gate 16
Hut’s Hamburgers
Relish a hearty hamburger paired with fries, onion rings, and a milkshake at Hut’s Hamburgers. This restaurant, serving classic American fare, has been in the business for over eighty years and doesn’t disappoint.
Location – Barbara Jordan Terminal, Gate 14
Shopping at Austin Airport
James Avery Artisan Jewelry
If you’re looking to get a present for a special someone, James Avery is where travellers can splurge on exclusive artisanal jewellery from charming pendants to gemstone rings and bracelets. Their impressive collection is sure to dazzle even the pickiest of customers.
Location – Barbara Jordan Terminal, Checkpoint 1 after Security
EJE Travel Retail
EJE Travel Retail stocks luxury brands like Givenchy, Hilfiger, Cartier, and Montblanc. Depending on when you go, you might be able to take advantage of their amazing deals. They often offer up to 15% discount on the most premium of items. You will find everything from leather goods to watches, perfumes, tobacco, and liquor here.
Location – Barbara Jordan Terminal, Gate 1
iStore
If you’re a gadget lover, this store carries all your electronic needs. Whether you’re looking for accessories like air pods, phone chargers, headphones, or even wanting to buy brand new iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks, the iStore has got you covered. It is open 24/7.
Location – Barbara Jordan Terminal, Gate 11
Book People
Book People is the largest independently-owned book store in Texas. You will be amazed by their selections of bestsellers, novels, autobiographies, and magazines. If you’ve got a long flight ahead of you, why not grab a paperback to keep you entertained en route? They also sell souvenirs, toys, and other travel necessities.
Location – Barbara Jordan Terminal, Gate 20
Fifth & Congress
This is a premium store selling high-quality luggage, handbags, sunglasses, watches, and jewellery, among other things. They mainly showcase products from local Austin and Texan designers and artisans. In case you forgot to buy a gift for a loved one, you can quickly make amends here.
Location – Barbara Jordan Terminal, Gate 28
