Kick-start your holiday as soon as you hit Heathrow by dining at one of Terminal 5’s many restaurants. With everything from quick grab-and-go bites to luxury sit-down meals on offer, T5 caters to every taste and schedule. In this updated 2025 guide, we’ve organised the Terminal 5 dining options by category: family-friendly eateries, quick service spots, pubs, and upscale restaurants, so you can easily find what suits you. We’ll also note whether each venue is before security (landside) or after security (airside), updated opening hours, and contact details where available. Plus, we’ve included some insider tips on making the most of your time (like booking lounges, parking, or hotels through APH for a stress-free trip). Bon appétit and happy travels!
Heathrow Terminal 5 Restaurants (2025)
| Restaurant | Type of Food | Location | Opening Hours | Contact | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Giraffe | Family-friendly global cuisine | After Security | 05:30 – 21:30 | 020 3117 5500 | |
| Wagamama | Japanese-inspired, noodle bowls, ramen | After Security | 05:30 – 21:00 | 020 8283 6186 | |
| Crown Rivers (Wetherspoon Pub) | British pub food, all-day breakfast | After Security | 04:30 – 21:00 | 020 8283 6208 | |
| The Globe Pub & Kitchen | British/Grill pub (Big Smoke Brewery) | Before Security | 06:30 – 21:30 | ||
| Pilots Bar & Kitchen | Casual Brasserie | After Security | 06:00 – 22:00 | ||
| Costa Coffee | Coffee shop, snacks | Before Security (Arrivals) | 24 hours | ||
| Caffè Nero | Coffee shop | Before Security (Arrivals) | 05:00 – 23:00 | ||
| Starbucks | Coffee shop | After Security (multiple locations) | 05:30 – 21:00 | ||
| Pret A Manger | Sandwiches, salads, wraps | After Security | 04:30 – 22:00 | ||
| Itsu | Asian-inspired sushi, salads | After Security | 05:00 – 22:00 | ||
| M&S Simply Food | Grab-and-go packaged food | Before & After Security | 06:00 – 22:00 | ||
| Gordon Ramsay Plane Food | Upscale dining, Plane Food Picnic | After Security | 05:00 – 21:30 | 020 8897 4545 | |
| Fortnum & Mason Champagne Bar | Champagne & luxury nibbles | After Security | 05:30 – 22:00 | ||
| Caviar House & Prunier Seafood Bar | Seafood & champagne | After Security | 06:00 – 21:30 | ||
Family-Friendly Restaurants at Heathrow Terminal 5
Travelling with kids? Heathrow Terminal 5 has you covered with restaurants that offer children’s menus and a fun atmosphere to keep young travellers happy.
- Giraffe (After Security) – A vibrant, family-friendly restaurant known for its globe-trotting menu that satisfies even picky eaters. From fiery quesadillas to classic fish & chips, plus big burgers and hearty breakfasts, there’s something for everyone. Kids love the colourful setting and giant children’s menu (think pancakes, pastas, and more). Location: Airside in the main departures area (upper level). Opening hours: ~05:30-21:30 (serves breakfast through dinner). Contact: 020 3117 5500.
- Wagamama (After Security), This popular Japanese-inspired chain is welcoming to families and even has a kids’ menu (mini ramen and more). Wagamama is now open for breakfast from 5:30 am daily, so early flyers can start the day with something more exciting than toast. For lunch or dinner, you’ll find fresh ramen, noodle bowls, and katsu curry. Adventurous eaters can try seasonal specials, while cautious kids can stick to mild teriyaki chicken or rice bowls. Service is quick, and portions are generous. Location: Airside, Level 2 (near Gates A). Hours: 5:30 AM, 9:00 PM daily. Contact: 020 8283 6186.
- The Crown Rivers (Wetherspoon Pub, After Security), A pub might not scream “kids,” but this spacious British pub does offer a children’s menu and a casual environment for families on a budget. It’s great for an affordable breakfast or lunch: they serve full English breakfasts, fish & chips, burgers, and more pub classics. Located near Gates A1-A7, it opens extra-early at 4:30 AM to catch early flights. No need to wait for table service, order at the bar or via the Wetherspoon app and your food will arrive quickly. Location: Airside (Gate A7 area). Hours: 4:30 AM, 9:00 PM daily. Contact: 020 8283 6208.
Pro tip: If you’re travelling with friends or family who aren’t flying, your only dining option together is before security. In T5’s check-in/arrivals hall (landside) you’ll find a Caffè Nero coffee shop and The Globe Pub & Kitchen (details in the Pubs section below). These landside spots are perfect for a farewell meal without a boarding pass. Otherwise, it’s best for departing passengers to head through security first, then enjoy the wider selection airside (so you’re not watching the clock in a pre-security restaurant if security lines are long).
Quick Bites and Coffee Spots (Grab-and-Go)
In a rush or just need a light snack? Terminal 5 offers plenty of quick-service options for coffee, sandwiches, and bites you can take on the go:
- Coffee Shops (Before & After Security): You’re never far from a caffeine fix in T5. Costa Coffee (Arrivals, landside) is open 24/7, ideal for a late-night arrival or ultra-early departure. There’s also a Caffè Nero (landside, Arrivals hall, ~5:00 AM-11:00 PM) and Starbucks locations after security (one in the main terminal and others in the B and C gate areas, generally open around 5:30 AM-9:00 PM). These cafes offer the usual range of coffee, teas, pastries, and quick snacks. If you prefer something more substantial, Pret A Manger (airside) serves sandwiches, salads, and wraps made fresh daily. One Pret location opens as early as 4:30 AM to catch the first flyers. All these spots are perfect for grabbing a bite to take to the gate or a quick refuel between flights.
- Itsu (After Security), Craving something light and healthy? Itsu is a quick-service Asian outlet known for sushi, salads, and rice bowls. Located near Gate A15, it’s great for takeaway if you want to eat at the gate. Much of the menu is sushi rolls, sashimi, and dumplings, plus hot noodle soups and chicken teriyaki rice pots. Many options are health-conscious, and there are vegetarian choices (like avocado sushi or veggie dumplings). Itsu typically opens around 05:00 AM and stays open until about 10:00 PM, making it a reliable stop for a quick lunch or dinner on the fly.
- Marks & Spencer Simply Food (Before & After Security): For the ultimate grab-and-go convenience, T5 features M&S Simply Food mini-markets both in the Arrivals hall and airside (one near Gate A and one near Gate B). Here you can pick up pre-packaged sandwiches, salads, sushi packs, fruit, and snacks, even last-minute picnic items for your flight. It’s a handy option if you have dietary restrictions or want to bring food on board. (Tip: You can take solid foods through security, so feel free to carry that M&S sandwich onto the plane, just avoid liquids like yoghurt or soups in quantities over 100ml.) M&S is generally open from early morning (around 5:30 AM airside, 6:00 AM landside) until 10:00-11:00 PM.
Pubs and Casual Dining (British Fare)
If you have time to relax, Terminal 5’s pubs and casual eateries provide a chance to enjoy British comfort food or a pint before your flight:
- The Crown Rivers (After Security), We mentioned this Wetherspoon pub in the family section, but it deserves a shout-out for all travellers. It’s the go-to casual pub in T5’s departure lounge. Food: All-day breakfast (available until noon), plus burgers, fish & chips, curries, salads, and sandwiches. Drinks: Wide selection of ales, wines, and spirits at typical pub prices (quite affordable for an airport). It’s usually busy (especially mornings for breakfast and evenings for pre-flight pints), but the turnover is quick. No reservations, just find a table and order at the bar or via the app. (Family note: children are allowed until 9:00 PM and there’s a kids’ menu available.)
- The Globe (Before Security), This is Terminal 5’s only landside pub, perfect if you’re meeting someone before security or seeing off friends. Recently taken over by craft brewer Big Smoke, The Globe is an independent craft beer and food destination with a diverse menu. They serve full English breakfasts in the morning, and an all-day menu featuring pub classics (think fish and chips, English bacon burgers) and some American-style grills and smoked meats. There’s plenty of seating in a modern pub atmosphere. Location: Just behind the T5 check-in desks (landside). Hours: ~06:30 AM, 9:30 PM daily. So, if you’re early for check-in or have a company that isn’t flying, The Globe is an excellent pre-security choice for a meal and a pint. (No boarding pass required to dine here.)
- Pilots Bar & Kitchen (After Security), A 1950s aviation-themed restaurant and bar located airside, Pilots is a casual brasserie that’s popular with travellers looking for a sit-down meal and a drink. It’s run by Rhubarb Hospitality (the folks behind some upscale airport dining), so expect quality ingredients in a relaxed setting. The menu covers British and international favourites: hearty breakfasts, fish and chips, burgers, steaks, and salads. (They’ve been known to offer BBQ items and even DIY tacos on the menu!) Pilots opens around 6:00 AM and usually stays open until about 10:00 PM (exact hours can vary). It can accommodate dietary needs (gluten-free, etc.) but ask your server for options; some travellers note the menu isn’t always clearly marked for allergies. No reservations; just walk in. It’s a good option if you want a more restaurant-like experience without splurging on fine dining.
Upscale Dining and Luxury Treats at T5
For those looking to indulge, Terminal 5 boasts a few high-end eateries and bars to make your pre-flight experience extra special:
- Gordon Ramsay Plane Food (After Security), Enjoy a taste of fine dining in the airport. Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant offers a sleek interior with runway views and a menu of contemporary European cuisine (with some Asian influences post-renovation). Dining options: You can go à la carte or choose from fixed-price menus. A unique feature is the “Plane Food Picnic”, a to-go meal box with three courses that you can take on your flight, perfect if you’re short on time. (They’ll pack it for you in a travel-friendly bag.) The restaurant is family-friendly too; children of all ages are welcome, and they even have activity packs for kids. Hours: Open 5:00 AM, 9:30 PM daily, serving breakfast through dinner. Location: Airside, upper level near the escalators (follow signs for Gates A8-A9 area). Contact: 020 8897 4545. Dress code is casual, and walk-ins are usually fine, but it can get busy at peak dinner times (no formal reservation system for travellers, though Priority Pass holders may get access in off-peak hours via the lounge program).
- Fortnum & Mason Champagne Bar (After Security), Tucked away toward one end of Terminal 5’s departures hall is this elegant champagne and oyster bar run by the iconic Fortnum & Mason. It’s an oasis of calm and luxury amid the terminal bustle. Grab a stool and treat yourself to a glass of bubbly or a classic cocktail before your flight. Food: Light bites like smoked salmon plates, prawn cocktail, oysters, caviar, and afternoon tea goodies are on the menu; it’s all about luxurious nibbles here. Many options are naturally fine for gluten-free or low-carb diets (think charcuterie sans bread, or macarons for a sweet bite). Hours: Approximately 05:30 AM, 10:00 PM (open from first to last flight). No reservation needed. If you have time to spare and want to start your trip in style, this is the spot; it’s often quieter than the main food court, and you can truly relax with a champagne toast to your vacation.
- Caviar House & Prunier Seafood Bar (After Security), For a quick luxury bite, the Caviar House & Prunier stand-up bar (located in the main T5 departures area) is a favourite of seasoned travellers. It’s essentially a champagne and seafood bar where you can enjoy fresh oysters, caviar, and Balik smoked salmon with a glass of fizz. There are a few barstools around the circular counter. It’s perfect for solo travellers or couples who want one last indulgence in London’s fine foods. Hours: roughly 06:00 AM, 9:30 PM (closed overnight). While it’s a splurge (expect airport prices for caviar and Champagne), the quality is top-notch, a classy send-off for your trip.
Tip: If you want a VIP experience without the restaurant bill, consider booking an airport lounge. Terminal 5 has pay-per-use lounges (like Club Aspire Lounge and Plaza Premium Lounge) that you can access for a fee, and lounge access often includes complimentary food and drinks. It can be a great alternative to dining in the terminal, especially if you have a long layover or want a quiet space. You can easily reserve a spot in a lounge in advance (to guarantee entry during busy times); for example, APH offers [Heathrow Airport Lounges booking] for Terminal 5. Enjoying a lounge means you’ll have a comfortable seat, free snacks, buffet or à la carte dining, and drinks (including wine/beer), plus Wi-Fi and newspapers, a nice way to elevate your airport experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about Heathrow T5 Dining
Yes, many T5 restaurants are equipped for children. For instance, Giraffe is well-known for its excellent kids’ menu and family-friendly vibe. Wagamama offers a dedicated kids’ menu (small rice and noodle dishes with mild flavours), and even the Crown Rivers pub has children’s options and allows kids during daytime hours. Highchairs are available in most sit-down restaurants. If you need a quick snack for a picky eater, Pret and Costa carry kid-friendly items like yoghurt pots, fruit cups, and mini pastries. And don’t forget, if you’re flying with British Airways, kids under 12 eat free at Gordon Ramsay Plane Food when you show your BA boarding pass (a limited-time promo, check if it’s still valid on your day of travel).
Almost every venue in T5 offers vegetarian choices, and many cater to vegans as well. Wagamama has a 50% plant-based menu; you can get dishes like vegan ramen or yasai yaki soba, and they clearly mark vegan items. Giraffe always has a few veggie items (like veggie burritos, salads, or plant-based burgers), and they can modify some dishes to be vegan on request. At Pret A Manger, you’ll find vegan sandwiches (e.g. falafel and hummus wraps) and veggie soups daily. Itsu is very vegetarian-friendly, lots of sushi rolls are veggie, and they offer tofu dishes and veggie dumplings. Even the pubs have options: The Crown Rivers pub’s menu includes a vegetarian breakfast and meat-free pub classics (like a Beyond Meat burger or vegetarian curry). For a quick vegan snack, the M&S Simply Food shop sells items like salads, fruit, and plant-based snack pots. You won’t go hungry as a vegetarian/vegan in T5, but as always in a busy airport, if you have strict dietary needs (e.g. no cross-contamination), inform the restaurant staff and they’ll do their best to accommodate.
Yes, a few. The Costa Coffee in Terminal 5’s Arrivals hall (before security) is open 24 hours, so you can always grab a coffee or sandwich no matter how early or late. Most other places in T5 have defined opening hours roughly aligned with the flight schedule. Early morning flyers (5-6 AM departures) will find that Pret A Manger opens by 4:30-5:00 AM (great for a quick breakfast to go), and Wetherspoon’s Crown Rivers pub opens at 4:30 AM for a sit-down breakfast or pint. Starbucks and Caffè Nero open around 5:00-5:30 AM as well. On the late end, many restaurants start winding down by 9:00-10:00 PM since the last departures are usually around then. Fortnum & Mason bar and Gordon Ramsay Plane Food both stay open until about 9:30 PM. If you arrive on a late flight and want something to eat after 10 PM, your best bets will be the 24-hour Costa in Arrivals or vending machines, as airside options will be closed once the final flights of the night have departed. (Also, the Sofitel hotel connected to T5 has a 24-hour room service and a bar that stays open late, but that’s outside security and mainly for hotel guests.)
This depends on your situation. If you’re a departing passenger, it’s generally recommended to go through security first and then eat on the airside. Terminal 5 has a much larger selection after security, and you won’t risk running out of time if there’s a long security queue. (Many eateries in T5 are in the main Departures hall after security, so you can relax there without worrying about the clock.) However, if you have friends or family coming to see you off who can’t go through security, or if you arrive very early, you do have landside options. Before security (landside) in Terminal 5, you’ll find: Caffè Nero (coffee, pastries), Costa (24/7 coffee shop), M&S Simply Food (for grab-and-go snacks), and The Globe Pub & Kitchen (serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with beers on tap). These are all located in the check-in/Arrivals area. So yes, you can certainly eat before security. The Globe is a popular choice for a substantial meal with someone not travelling, but if you’re flying, be sure to leave plenty of time to clear security afterwards. As a rule of thumb, aim to be through security ~90 minutes before your flight (or even 2 hours if you plan to dine airside during a busy period). This way, you can enjoy your meal without stress. And remember, you cannot take liquids through security, but solid food can go through, so if you buy a sandwich or snack landside and didn’t finish, you can carry it with you through security and eat it on the other side or on the plane.
It can be, yes, especially if you value a quiet atmosphere or have a longer layover. Terminal 5 has two main pay-per-use lounges available to all passengers (for a fee): the Plaza Premium Lounge and the Club Aspire Lounge. Both provide a comfortable escape from the terminal crowds, with plenty of seating, workspaces, and even shower facilities. Importantly for dining, lounges offer complimentary food and drinks (usually a buffet of hot and cold dishes, plus free soft drinks, coffee, beer/wine and select spirits) in an all-you-can-eat style. If you’re quite hungry or plan to drink a couple of glasses of wine, the lounge cost can be worth it compared to restaurant prices. Lounges in T5 typically cost £40-£60 per person for a 3-hour stay (prices vary, and you can often save by booking in advance online). Travellers report that the food is decent, think sandwiches, pasta, soups, pastries at breakfast, and curries or roast chicken and salads at lunch/dinner, plus desserts. It’s not fine dining, but it’s satisfying and included in the entry price. The key benefit is the relaxed environment: you can eat, recharge devices, maybe take a shower or catch up on emails, all in one place. If that appeals to you, it’s certainly worth considering. You can [pre-book a Heathrow lounge] for Terminal 5 via APH’s website or other providers to guarantee your spot (as lounges can fill up). Just be sure to arrive on time, if your flight is very soon, you might not have enough time to fully enjoy the lounge, in which case, grabbing a quick meal at a terminal restaurant might be more practical.
Disclaimer: The information above (especially menus, opening hours, and phone numbers) is current as of 2025 but subject to change. Heathrow’s restaurant offerings can evolve, and hours may shift based on flight schedules or staffing. Always double-check the latest details; you can use Heathrow’s official website or ask airport staff before relying on a specific restaurant, particularly for very early or late dining. Bon voyage, and may your journey through Terminal 5 be delicious and smooth!
Why do restaurants not open before 5.30am? We fly at 6.15 this time so don’t have time to eat a breakfast – this is always a part of our holiday!!
I see the sense of your advice to eat after passing through security. However, when family or friends are seeing you off, they often want to spend a couple of hours enjoying a relaxed meal before going through security, as it could be a year or more before everyone can meet again. Actually, I don’t know why your website came up on my search, as I specified T5 BEFORE security.
This is a good point Janet and we will look to produce content that will help those in this situation. Thanks for taking the time to post.