HMSHost and Florida-headquartered Southern Grounds this week unveiled a new location at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), to provide travelers with chef-driven items ranging from the Grits Bowl and Avocado Toast to Not Yo’ Mama’s Quesadilla and Baja Ancient Grain Bowl.
This chef-driven coffee house is located on Concourse A will also provide a variety of coffee beverages, including café con leche, turmeric latte and more. The new Southern Grounds location is part of a 10-year contract valued at approximately $60 million that the Jacksonville Aviation Authority (JAA) awarded to HMSHost and the Lee Wesley Group, its Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) joint venture partner.
“At HMSHost, we pride ourselves on bringing food and beverage concepts into the airport that reflect the city’s thriving restaurant culture,” said Steve Johnson, HMSHost president and CEO. “Whether those travelers originate from Jacksonville or are just passing through, we are pleased to partner with the Jacksonville Aviation Authority and Southern Grounds to offer a beloved local brand and the southern hospitality experience.”
The Concourse A location is easily accessible from all gates, making Southern Grounds the new go-to spot to enjoy a freshly prepared meal and beverage. The location offers travelers ample dedicated seating, with options to sit by the concourse for people watching, or near windows overlooking the tarmac for plane spotting. Busy travelers will also find gluten-free, vegetarian, and health-forward options for various eating preferences, as well as a convenient selection of freshly prepared, grab-and-go items.
“Traditionally, being in transit has been the least enjoyable part of travel,” said Southern Grounds owner Mark Janasik. “With our partnership with HMSHost and JAA we aim to change that with a sense of community, a sense of place, a great cup of coffee, and a relaxing customer centric atmosphere.”
