The first Food Network Kitchen opened in Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL), situated post-security in the airport’s Terminal 3.
Operated by Delaware North Companies Travel Hospitality Services, Food Network Kitchen is a combination gourmet market and fast-casual restaurant. The menu features a selection of meals that will be found in all upcoming Food Network Kitchens while a separate portion will be dedicated to dishes crafted specifically to reflect the culinary tastes of the airport’s home area. For instance, the FLL location offers diners a Florida Shrimp Po’ Boy, a Lauderdale Club, a Cuban sandwich and more. All dishes are made-to-order using local, organic, and all-natural ingredients.
Additionally, the bar will offer South Florida craft beers and locally-inspired cocktails in addition to a variety of wines, coffees and espresso drinks. Baked goods are also locally sourced from prominent South Florida bakeries. Coolers and a center island positioned before registers, offer customers choices of grab-and-go items and a selection of beverages.
“We are thrilled to welcome travelers to our Food Network Kitchen at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, a first-of-its-kind concept offering the newest and freshest alternative in dining-on-the-go,” said Matt King, president of DNC.
The restaurant’s design is inspired by the network’s actual test kitchen with the white tile, stainless steel accents and surfaces and the long butcher block
that serves as the counter for the fully stocked bar. The actual kitchen juts slightly outward from behind the bar and is walled by a lightly frosted glass adorned with the recognizable Food Network logo. Television screens throughout the restaurant feature Food Network programming and customized content for diners.
“For years, fans of Food Network have asked to dine on our New York City test kitchen,” added Sergei Kuharsky, general manager of new business enterprises for Food Network. “We’re excited to serve customers Food Network’s fresh take on South Florida food, and to give them a unique taste of Food Network.
DNC will be opening the second Food Network Kitchen in an airport at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International (ATL) in the summer of 2013.
