Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)’s Chili’s® Grill & Bar has gotten a makeover. Concessionaire HMSHost (part of the Avolta family of brands) celebrated the reopening of the popular national brand’s JAX outpost, which now boasts over 4,700 square feet with room for 185 guests. The updated Chili’s®, which is located post-security in Concourse A and is open every day from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., also features grab-and-go, self-order kiosks as well as a newly installed Bottoms Up automated draft beer system designed to reduce pour time and eliminate product waste. Chili’s® is the sixth recently opened JAX eatery as part of the airport’s 10-year contract with HMSHost and Florida-based ACDBE operator Lee Wesley.
The restaurant’s transformation is “another prime example of how HMSHost is continuing our work with longstanding partners like Jacksonville Aviation Authority to answer the growing demand among travelers for an airport experience as unique and engaging as the destination,” said HMSHost vice president of business development Stephen Douglas.
“We couldn’t be more excited about being back in JAX, now with double the space to serve travelers their familiar favorites as soon as they step through security,” added Chili’s® vice president of international business and global development David Weston. “When our first location closed to make room for expanded security checkpoints, Chili’s® was the highest-grossing restaurant at the airport. With our new location and added space, we have a perfect opportunity to re-introduce ourselves and to fulfill our purpose of making everyone feel special.”
“Chili’s® is reopening at a perfect time for JAX,” added Jacksonville Aviation Authority CEO Mark VanLoh. “Construction on our third concourse is well underway, forcing several food units to permanently close. Chili’s® ample seating and wide variety of menu options provides passengers a great dining experience before their flight.”
