Whether you’re flying early, have time before departure, or want a last-minute bite after arrival, London Southend Airport offers several solid food and drink options airside (after security). The terminal is compact, so most dining spots are easy to find once you’ve cleared security.
Restaurants & Cafés at London Southend Airport
| Restaurant / Café | Opening times* | Before / After security | Food & drink type | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arnold & Forbes Café Kitchen | 04:00 – 21:00 | After security | Hot & cold food, sandwiches, salads, coffee | Quick meals, early flights |
| Costa Coffee | 05:00 – 20:00 | After security | Coffee, pastries, light snacks | Grab-and-go, caffeine fix |
| Giraffe Stop | 05:00 – 19:00 | After security | Casual dining, breakfast & mains | Family-friendly meals |
| Lakers Bar & Restaurant | 04:00 22:00 | After security | Pub classics, alcoholic & soft drinks | Sit-down meals, relaxing before boarding |
SKYCAFÉ (formerly SKYCAFÉ)
- Type: Coffee shop & light bites
- Location: After security (airside)
- Opening times: Daily from 4:00 AM until the last departing flight
- What to expect: A modern café serving hot drinks, pastries, sandwiches, snacks, soft drinks, and even some alcoholic refreshments. Great for a quick coffee and bite before your flight.
The Navigator Pub
- Type: Traditional pub & casual dining
- Location: After security (airside)
- Opening times: Daily from 4:00 AM until the last departing flight
- What to expect: A classic British pub environment with quality pub fare, drinks and a relaxed place to eat or unwind ahead of your flight. Enjoy hearty dishes and a wide drinks selection.
SKYLIFE Lounge @ The Pilot Cafe
- Type: Lounge with snacks & drinks
- Location: After security (airside)
- Opening times: Approx. 04:00 AM – 20:00 PM (varies with flight schedule)
- What to expect: A comfortable pay-in lounge offering complimentary snacks, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages for travellers. Priority Pass and other programs may be accepted.
Note: The standalone Pilot Bar café/bar listing shows it is currently closed or not operating independently; travellers are instead directed to The Navigator or SKYCAFÉ.
Nearby Dining Options (Just Outside the Airport)
If you have a bit more time – or are meeting someone on the outside – there are several excellent restaurants within walking distance or a short drive of Southend Airport:
1935 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar
- Type: Contemporary British restaurant
- Location: At the Holiday Inn Southend (next to the airport)
- What to expect: Stylish rooftop dining with runway views, serving breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. Great for more substantial meals or a special pre-flight dinner.
Local Nearby Restaurants & Pubs
Within a few minutes’ drive you’ll find a variety of cuisine options for lunch, dinner, or snacks – including:
- The Horse & Groom Pub – Classic British pub food
- Various local cafés, Indian, Italian & seafood restaurants in Southend-on-Sea & Rochford
(Note: these aren’t inside the airport terminal but are popular choices nearby)
Tips for Eating at Southend Airport
- The airport doesn’t operate 24/7 – food outlets normally open from 4:00 AM until shortly after the last flight departs.
- All food & drink beyond security is airside only once you’ve passed through passport control.
- Consider the SKYLIFE Lounge if you want a quieter, more relaxing meal space with free snacks included in your pass.