We’ve got your back, so don’t let the hassle of navigating RDU airport get you down. We know it might be challenging to navigate, let alone locate a place to eat or get a much-needed caffeine fix. But don’t worry; we’ve compiled a thorough list of all the top eateries at RDU to make your subsequent trip a breeze. You can plan and make sure you don’t miss out on any tasty dining selections with our helpful RDU restaurant guide.
Whether you want a quick snack or a sit-down meal, we’ve got you covered. And let’s not forget the coffee because, let’s face it, when we travel, we all need a pick-me-up. So inhale deeply, unwind, and let us handle the rest. Your subsequent trip through RDU will be a breeze because of our planning and foresight (or whatever your snack of choice may be).
Hot tip for RDU Airport dining
Book your RDU parking spot ahead, so you can spend more time indulging your taste buds and less time searching for a parking spot!
Restaurants at RDU Terminal 1
ACC American Café
Terminal 1, Gate A7
Hours: Mon-Fri – 4:30 am – Last Departure; Sat – 11 am – Last Departure; Sun – 9 am – Last Departure
Looking for the perfect spot to catch all the ACC hoops action while indulging in some seriously delicious food? Look no further than the ACC American Café – the Atlantic Coast Conference’s first officially sanctioned eatery!
Step into an elegantly decorated dining room with a full bar and TVs playing current and classic ACC sports. But the show’s real star is the food – with a menu that features everything from seafood to sandwiches, flatbreads to pasta, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? Their dishes are made with fresh, wholesome ingredients like quinoa, almonds, spinach, and natural honey, so you can indulge without guilt. So go on and see what all the buzz is about – we promise you won’t be disappointed!
Char-Grill
Terminal 1, Gate A5
Hours: 5 am – Last Departure
At the RDU restaurant, Char-Grill, visitors can sink their teeth into some seriously tasty burgers, shakes, and fries. Here, all the favorite menu items are available any time of day, from famous burgers to a selection of delicious breakfast sandwiches that will start your day.
But it’s not just about the food and drinks at Char-Grill – the burgers are made to order with fresh, crisp ingredients. The complimentary condiments such as mayo, ketchup, mustard, pickles, onions, lettuce, and tomato allow guests to customize their burgers. Those feeling adventurous can upgrade their burger with extras like cheese, bacon, or jalapenos – for a small additional charge.
Unlike most fast-food restaurants, the burger here is not overdone – it’s cooked just right. Char-Grill also offers honey mustard as a complimentary condiment, while cheese, bacon, slaw, jalapenos, and dipping sauces are available at an extra cost. Don’t miss out on the true taste of Raleigh – head on down to Char-Grill and indulge in some seriously delicious food!
La Tapenade
Terminal 1, Concourse Entrance
Hours: 4:30 a.m. – Last Departure
If you’re a fan of Mediterranean cuisine, then La Tapenade Mediterranean Café is the perfect destination. The café gets its name from a flavorful spread made with olives, capers, and anchovies, a staple in the region.
The café prides itself on using fresh, seasonal, and locally produced ingredients to create delicious dishes. From freshly baked flatbread sandwiches, paninis, and wraps to an extensive selection of ready-to-eat salads, sandwiches, and gourmet snacks, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste. In addition to the mouth-watering food, La Tapenade Mediterranean Café allows visitors to grab a quick snack or meal on the way to the terminal. There’s even a kids’ menu to keep the little ones happy.
To top it all off, travelers at the RDU restaurant can also enjoy a range of alcoholic beverages while taking in the cozy and welcoming atmosphere of the café. Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranean cuisine or just looking for a delicious and convenient bite, La Tapenade Mediterranean Café has got you covered.
Salsarita’s Fresh Cantina
Terminal 1, Gate A5
Hours: 6 am- Last Departure (Monday-Friday), 11 am – Last Departure (Saturday-Sunday)
If you’re looking for a delicious and customizable Mexican meal at an RDU restaurant, Salsarita’s Fresh Cantina is the perfect spot. The restaurant takes pride in using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and preparing homemade sauces on-site daily. This commitment to quality ingredients ensures you’ll have nearly endless flavor combinations.
As you step up to the glass, you can watch as your meal is crafted right in front of you. Whether you’re craving a salad, burrito, quesadilla, taco, or bowl, the friendly staff at Salsarita’s will assemble your meal with your choice of protein, toppings, and sauces. So if you’re in the mood for fresh and flavorful Mexican cuisine, head to Salsarita’s Fresh Cantina and build your perfect meal today.
Starbucks Terminal 1
Terminal 1, Gate A7
Hours: 4:30 am – Last Departure
A Starbucks can be found on the concourse of Terminal 1 and offers a comprehensive selection of beverages, including coffees, espressos, Frappuccinos, teas, and more. You’ll also have access to delicious freshly baked goodies, Grab’ N Go salads, and other snack foods. Happiness in the form of coffee can be yours in the form of a tall, grande, or venti beverage, depending on your preference.
Restaurants at RDU Terminal 2
42nd St. Oyster Bar
Terminal 2, Gate C1
Hours: 5 am – Last Departure
For over 70 years, the 42nd Street Oyster Bar has been a beloved institution in Raleigh, serving up some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in town. The star of the show at this iconic eatery is the oysters shucked fresh every day for diners to enjoy. In addition to oysters, the restaurant also offers a variety of other seafood dishes made with the freshest catches of the day. Seafood is delivered daily to ensure that only the highest quality ingredients are in every dish.
Travelers who need breakfast start their day with a visit to this RDU restaurant’s full breakfast buffet. This buffet features classic Southern favorites and will satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
Bruegger’s Bagels
Terminal 2, Gate C18
Hours: 4:30 am – 8 pm
At Bruegger’s Bagels, one can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal any day or night. From freshly baked bagels to gourmet sandwiches, soups, and salads, the menu offers a variety of options to choose from. Pair your meal with a cup of house-blend coffee, and you’ll be in heaven.
Whether catching an early morning flight or leaving in the evening, Bruegger’s has covered you with their 24-hour service. So next time you’re at the airport craving something tasty, head over to Bruegger’s Bagels and satisfy your hunger.
BurgerFi
Terminal 2, Gates D3-D5
Hours: 5 am – 8 pm.
Get ready to sink your teeth into some seriously delicious grub at BurgerFi! Their burgers have 100% Angus beef that’s never frozen and free of hormones and antibiotics. And don’t even get us started on our crispy fries and double-battered onion rings – they’re so hot and crunchy you’ll have trouble keeping your hands off them. Plus, our chef-created sauces are so good that you’ll want to take them home and put them on everything! (But don’t worry, we won’t judge.)
This RDU restaurant also has self-serve kiosks – the perfect way to satisfy your cravings on the go. And if you’re looking for something a little different, they have plenty of options. Vegetarians rejoice – their VegeFi, a gourmet twist on a classic veggie burger, or the plant-based Beyond Burger if you want something meatless. And let’s not forget about our Wagyu Beef hot dogs – they’re fully loaded with all the fixings and ready to be devoured.
getREEF Virtual Food Hall
Terminal 2, Gate C9
Hours: 5 am – 10 pm.
At the getREEF Virtual Food Hall, travelers at RDU can enjoy a variety of delicious food options through online ordering or convenient kiosks near Gate C9. The food hall offers diverse brands, including American Meltdown, The Cheesecake Factory, Xochimex Cantina Grill, Milk Bar Cookies, and Pei Wei. Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, piping hot pizza, or Asian cuisine, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite.
One of the best features of the getREEF Virtual Food Hall is its mobile-first approach, making it easy and convenient for travelers to order ahead and avoid scrambling for food before their flight. Once you place your order, you’ll receive a text with an access code and can quickly retrieve your meal from one of the food hall’s easy-to-use cubbies. The goal of getREEF is to ensure that no one flies hungry, providing a hassle-free dining experience for all.
Jason’s Deli
Terminal 2, Gate D3
Hours: 5 am – 8 pm.
At Jason’s Deli in RDU airport, travelers can indulge in various custom sandwiches and hearty soups. The deli’s menu also includes various other dishes catering to different tastes and dietary needs. Jason’s Deli offers a self-service kiosk for those in a rush, allowing you to quickly place your order and speed through the line to catch your flight. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic deli sandwich or a fresh salad, Jason’s Deli has something for everyone.
La Farm Bakery Café
Terminal 2, Marketplace
Hours: 5 am – 9:30 pm.
Looking for a delicious snack or a filling meal before takeoff? Look no further! La Farm Bakery Café, led by Master Baker Lionel Vatinet, is here to satisfy your cravings. From buttery croissants to tender scones and crusty sourdough, their bread and pastries are handcrafted using locally grown heirloom grain and baked fresh throughout the day.
But that’s not all! The bistro’s all-day breakfast dishes, like the famous Croque Madame, as well as their pastries, soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and Grab & Go items, are sure to leave you feeling full and satisfied. And for those looking for a little extra kick, the full-service bar celebrates North Carolina beer, wine, and spirits.
So why not enjoy a taste of North Carolina before your flight and take a piece of it on your journey? Come to La Farm Bakery Café and indulge in delicious, locally sourced cuisine.
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
Terminal 2, Gate D15
Hours: 5 am – Last Departure
Indulge in some Southern-style goodness at Popeyes! From spicy to mild, their chicken will hit the spot, and don’t forget to pair it with their famous Shrimp Po’ Boy or some tasty sides. If you’re flying out early in the morning, grab one of Popeyes’ signature buttermilk breakfast biscuits filled with your choice of bacon, sausage, ham, and eggs. And for an extra burst of flavor, add some cheese and a side of seasoned hash browns. Plus, with self-serve kiosks, ordering your meal is as easy as pie!
Raleigh Taproom
Terminal 2, Gate D3
Hours: 6 am – Last Departure
Get ready to raise your glasses and say cheers to a great time at Raleigh Taproom in Terminal 2! As the craft beer trend takes flight, this spot is your one-stop shop for a delicious range of brews. Raleigh Brewing, the third largest production brewery in Wake County, has been serving up award-winning beer since 2013, and now you can taste their best at the taproom.
But the fun doesn’t stop at beer – Raleigh Taproom has a full bar and a menu that caters to all meals of the day. You can start your day off right with a scrumptious breakfast or indulge in a hearty dinner with your loved ones. And, if you’re in a hurry to catch your flight, don’t worry – the service is fast and efficient so that you won’t miss your boarding call. So, come on over and let Raleigh Taproom take your taste buds on an adventure!
Starbucks Terminal 2
Terminal 2, Marketplace, and Gate D12
Hours: 4:30 am — 7:30 pm
Need a caffeine fix before boarding your flight? Look no further than Starbucks! With its signature coffee blends and top-notch pastries, this world-famous coffee chain has everything you need to start your day off right.
Looking for something more refreshing? Try one of their handcrafted cold drinks, or opt for a tasty sandwich or salad if you need a quick bite on the go. Whatever your taste buds desire, Starbucks has got you covered.
Uptown Burger Bar
Terminal 2, Gate C18
Hours: 7 am – 8 pm
Not in the mood for a classic beef burger? No problem! Uptown Burger Bar has got you covered with its delicious Beyond Burger patty. And the fun doesn’t stop there! Choose from various sides, such as sweet potato fries, tater tots, and chicken tenders. Feeling creative? Build your own burger or salad to satisfy your unique taste buds. Uptown Burger Bar is the perfect spot for a quick, satisfying bite before boarding your flight.
Whisky River
Terminal 2, Gate D14
Hours: 5 am — Last Departure (Monday-Friday); 11 am — Last Departure (Saturday-Sunday)
Whisky River perfectly blends North Carolina charm and the Wild West! With decor that includes a Belt Buckle wall and cow skin seatbacks, this spot is perfect for those who love a rustic atmosphere. But don’t let the Western theme fool you, Whisky River has a modern vibe that will make you feel right at home.
The menu features mouth-watering dishes like pulled pork, juicy burgers, and more, all topped with Dale Jr.’s famous barbecue sauce. And to round out the experience, Whisky River offers live entertainment on select evenings. So grab a drink, kick back, and enjoy yourself!
