The thrill of traveling to a new destination is always exciting, and it begins the moment you step into the airport. As you navigate through the terminals, you're often greeted by the enticing aromas of various restaurants and bars. If you're looking to relax and unwind before your flight, or simply want to indulge in a delicious drink, airport bars have got you covered. In this article, we'll explore the best airport drinks to try before your flight, from classic cocktails to unique local specialties.
The Classics
When it comes to airport drinks, some classics never go out of style. Here are a few timeless favorites that are sure to hit the spot:
- Old Fashioned: A classic cocktail made with bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. You can find this drink on menus at airports like John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
- Margarita: A refreshing blend of tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, perfect for sipping before a flight to Mexico or the Southwest. Try it at airports like Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) or Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).
- Cosmopolitan: A fruity and sophisticated cocktail made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice. You can find this drink at airports like Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) or Miami International Airport (MIA).
Local Specialties
One of the best things about traveling is experiencing the local culture, and that includes trying unique drinks that are specific to the region. Here are a few local specialties to try at airports around the world:
- Caipirinha (Brazil): A refreshing cocktail made with cachaça, lime juice, and sugar, perfect for sipping before a flight to Brazil. Try it at São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) or Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport (GIG).
- Sake (Japan): A traditional Japanese beverage made from fermented rice, perfect for sipping before a flight to Japan. Try it at airports like Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT) or Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX).
- Cerveza (Mexico): A cold beer is the perfect way to relax before a flight to Mexico. Try local specialties like Corona, Modelo, or Pacifico at airports like Mexico City International Airport (MEX) or Cancun International Airport (CUN).
Unique Airport Bars
Some airports have bars that are worth visiting just for the experience. Here are a few unique airport bars to try:
- The Aviation Bar (JFK): Located in the Delta terminal at JFK, this bar serves up classic cocktails and features a vintage aviation theme.
- The Palm (LAX): Located in the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX, this bar serves up tropical cocktails and features a fun, island-inspired vibe.
- The Coffee Bar (AMS): Located in the Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, this bar serves up specialty coffee drinks and features a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
Tips for Enjoying Airport Drinks
Here are a few tips for enjoying airport drinks:
- Plan ahead: Make sure to leave enough time to enjoy your drink before your flight. You don't want to rush or feel stressed.
- Choose a comfortable bar: Look for a bar with comfortable seating and a relaxed atmosphere. You want to be able to unwind and enjoy your drink.
- Be mindful of prices: Airport drinks can be expensive, so be mindful of prices and choose a drink that fits your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best airport drinks to try? A: Some popular airport drinks include classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Margarita, and Cosmopolitan, as well as local specialties like Caipirinha, Sake, and Cerveza.
Q: Where can I find unique airport bars? A: Some airports have bars that are worth visiting just for the experience. Try The Aviation Bar at JFK, The Palm at LAX, or The Coffee Bar at AMS.
Q: How can I enjoy airport drinks on a budget? A: Be mindful of prices and choose a drink that fits your budget. You can also consider visiting a bar during happy hour or looking for specials.
Q: What are some tips for enjoying airport drinks? A: Plan ahead, choose a comfortable bar, and be mindful of prices. You want to be able to relax and enjoy your drink before your flight.
Whether you're a fan of classic cocktails or local specialties, there's an airport drink out there for everyone. So next time you're at the airport, be sure to try something new and enjoy the experience. Happy travels!