Ever found yourself stuck at an airport, stomach rumbling, desperately searching for something decent to eat? Travel can be stressful enough without the added burden of airport food woes. If your journey takes you through St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE), you might be wondering what culinary delights, or lack thereof, await you beyond security. Fortunately, while PIE may be a smaller, more manageable airport compared to sprawling international hubs, it offers a surprisingly diverse range of dining options, from quick snacks to more substantial meals, designed to cater to varying tastes and budgets. This guide will navigate you through the food scene at PIE, ensuring you find the perfect bite before your flight takes off.
St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport has experienced significant growth in recent years, becoming an increasingly popular gateway to the sunny beaches and vibrant culture of the Tampa Bay area. As the airport’s popularity surges, so does the importance of providing travelers with convenient and satisfying dining experiences. The goal of this article is to provide a comprehensive overview of the available options, from pre-security pit stops to post-security sanctuaries, so you can make informed decisions and enjoy a tasty start to your travels.
Fueling Up Before Security
Before you even navigate the security checkpoints, you have a few choices to satisfy your hunger or quench your thirst. These pre-security options are particularly useful if you have someone dropping you off or want to grab a last-minute coffee before facing the TSA lines.
Aelia Duty Free – Confectionery
While technically a duty-free shop, Aelia offers a variety of packaged snacks and confectionery items. If you have a sweet tooth or want to grab some last-minute treats, you can find a selection of chocolates, candies, and other sugary delights here.
Starbucks
A ubiquitous name in the world of coffee, Starbucks provides a familiar and reliable option for coffee, tea, pastries, and light breakfast items. Whether you need a caffeine boost to combat early morning travel fatigue or a quick bite to eat, Starbucks is a convenient choice. Expect standard Starbucks pricing, and be prepared for a potential line during peak travel times. Their operating hours generally align with the airport’s flight schedule.
Post-Security Dining Delights
Once you’ve cleared security, the real culinary adventure begins. The post-security area at PIE offers a more diverse range of dining options, allowing you to sit down and relax before boarding your flight.
Burger King
A classic fast-food chain, Burger King is a reliable option for a quick and affordable meal. You can expect the usual Burger King fare, including burgers, fries, chicken sandwiches, and soft drinks. This is a good choice if you’re on a budget or craving familiar comfort food. Hours typically coincide with flight schedules.
Cigar City Taproom
Offering a taste of local flavor, Cigar City Taproom is a popular spot for beer enthusiasts and those looking for a more relaxed dining experience. You can sample a variety of Cigar City Brewing’s renowned craft beers, along with a selection of pub-style food. This includes appetizers, sandwiches, and other items designed to complement the beer selection. If you have some extra time before your flight, Cigar City Taproom offers a great way to unwind and enjoy the local brewery scene. Prices are generally moderate. This is a great spot to grab lunch and a beer before your flight.
Heineken Bar
For another refreshing option, the Heineken Bar provides a selection of Heineken beers and other alcoholic beverages. This is a good spot to grab a pre-flight drink in a relaxed, bar-like atmosphere. It’s worth confirming their hours of operation before heading there.
Hudson – Books, Snacks, Souvenirs
Hudson is a convenience store offering an assortment of books, magazines, snacks, and souvenirs. If you are searching for something quick like chips, candy, gum, or a sandwich, this is the place to go.
A Closer Look: Reviewing the Options
Let’s take a closer look at two of the more popular dining options at PIE to give you a better sense of what to expect.
Cigar City Taproom: A Local Brew Oasis
Stepping into the Cigar City Taproom feels like entering a mini-brewery experience right inside the airport. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with comfortable seating and a bar area perfect for enjoying a pint and watching the planes take off. The decor features nods to Cigar City Brewing’s Tampa roots, creating a sense of place that goes beyond typical airport fare.
The menu features a rotating selection of Cigar City beers on tap, ranging from their flagship Jai Alai IPA to seasonal offerings and limited-release brews. Beer flights are available, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors. Beyond the beer, the Taproom offers a decent selection of pub-style food. The Cuban sandwich, a Tampa Bay staple, is a popular choice. The fries are crispy and well-seasoned.
Overall, the Cigar City Taproom offers a pleasant and unique dining experience at PIE. The beer selection is outstanding, the food is satisfying, and the atmosphere is relaxing. It’s a great place to unwind before your flight, especially if you’re a craft beer enthusiast. The prices are a bit higher than fast-food options, but the quality and experience are worth it.
Burger King: A Quick and Familiar Choice
Sometimes, all you need is a quick and familiar meal, and Burger King at PIE delivers just that. The atmosphere is typical of any Burger King location – clean and functional, but not particularly memorable. However, the convenience and affordability are hard to beat.
The menu is standard Burger King fare, including the Whopper, chicken sandwiches, fries, and onion rings. The food is prepared quickly and consistently, making it a reliable option when you’re short on time.
While Burger King may not offer a unique culinary experience, it’s a solid choice for a fast and affordable meal at PIE. If you’re on a budget or simply craving a classic burger and fries, it’s a convenient option.
Navigating the Food Scene: Tips and Tricks
Finding the perfect food option at PIE doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the airport’s dining scene with ease:
Consult the Airport Map
PIE’s website and airport information kiosks provide maps that clearly indicate the location of all restaurants and cafes. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the layout to avoid wandering aimlessly.
Check Opening Hours
While most restaurants at PIE operate during standard flight hours, it’s always a good idea to confirm their opening times, especially if you have an early morning or late-night flight. This information can often be found on the airport’s website or by calling the restaurant directly.
Look for Signage
Clear and visible signage throughout the airport directs you to the various dining options. Pay attention to these signs as you make your way through the terminals.
Consider Your Time
If you’re running late for your flight, opt for a quick and easy option like Burger King or a pre-packaged snack from Hudson. If you have more time, you can relax and enjoy a sit-down meal at Cigar City Taproom.
Healthy Choices
While airport food isn’t always known for its healthiness, PIE offers some relatively healthy options. Starbucks offers salads and yogurt parfaits, while you can find lighter options on the menus at other restaurants.
Dietary Needs
If you have any dietary restrictions, it’s a good idea to check the menus online or ask the staff at the restaurants about their ingredients and preparation methods. Starbucks offers dairy-free milk alternatives, and many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian or gluten-free requests.
Plan Ahead
Thinking about what you want to eat before you get to the airport can save you time and stress. Look up the menus for the different restaurants and decide what you want to eat.
Conclusion: Savoring Your PIE Experience
Dining at St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport doesn’t have to be a culinary compromise. While it may not boast the vast array of options found in larger airports, PIE offers a solid selection of restaurants and cafes to satisfy your pre-flight cravings. From the familiar comfort of Burger King to the local flavors of Cigar City Taproom, there’s something for every taste and budget.
So, the next time you find yourself at PIE, take a moment to explore the airport’s dining scene. Whether you’re craving a quick coffee, a hearty meal, or a local craft beer, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your hunger and make your travel experience a little more enjoyable. Remember to consult the airport map, check opening hours, and consider your dietary needs to make the most of your dining experience at St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport. Enjoy your meal, and happy travels!
