Where to eat at Stansted Airport

Heading out from Stansted Airport? Save time ahead of departure day by deciding where you’ll eat. Browse what’s on offer right here…

Heading out from Stansted Airport and wondering where to grab a bite? This guide showcases the best places to eat at Stansted Airport for every traveller, from business passengers on a tight schedule to families with kids, solo adventurers, and groups of friends. Below you’ll find a rundown of restaurants and cafés at Stansted Airport (both before and after security), including what food and drink they offer, the atmosphere, who they’re best suited for, opening hours, and where to find them. Plan your pre-flight meal or coffee stop for a smoother journey!

Restaurants and Cafés at Stansted Airport

Restaurant / Café	Opening Hours	Cuisine / Type of Food	Location
Burger King	04:00–02:00	Burgers, breakfast menu	Arrivals (Before Security)
Cabin Bar	First to last departing flight	British tapas, cocktails, champagne, ales	After Security
Coast to Coast	First to last departing flight	American classics	After Security
Costa Coffee	24 hours	Coffee, teas, snacks, pastries	Arrivals (Before Security)
Giraffe	First to last departing flight	Global dishes, juices, smoothies	After Security
Halo Bar	05:00–last departing flight	Fizz bar, cocktails, light bites	After Security
Harris + Hoole	24 hours	Artisan coffee, light bites	After Security
Itsu	First to last departing flight	Healthy Asian-inspired meals	After Security
James Martin Kitchen	First to last departing flight	Bakery, British comfort food	After Security
Joe’s Coffee House	04:00–last departing flight	Coffee, teas, smoothies, sandwiches	Before Security
Joe & The Juice	04:00–23:00	Fresh juices, smoothies, sandwiches	After Security
Leon	04:00–00:00	Mediterranean-inspired healthy fast food	After Security
Not Always Caviar	04:00–last departing flight	Fresh snacks, sandwiches, salads	After Security
Starbucks	24 hours	Coffee, teas, snacks, panini	After Security
The Illustrious Bar & Café	05:00–last departing flight	Bar snacks, café fare	After Security
The Windmill (Wetherspoons)	05:00–last departing flight	Pub food, ales, wines	After Security
Wetherspoon Express	05:00–last departing flight	Pub snacks, beers, wines	After Security

Burger King

Burger King is a classic fast-food stop to keep you and your family fuelled up. Known for its famous Whopper burger, this global chain offers a full menu of flame-grilled burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries, and more. In the mornings, you can even grab breakfast items like croissan’wiches and hash browns. It’s an ideal option if you want something quick, familiar, and satisfying before your flight. The atmosphere is casual and kid-friendly, making it perfect for families or anyone looking for a no-fuss meal.

• Great for: Families and anyone looking to grab a quick bite. Business travellers in a rush will appreciate the speedy service too.
• Opening hours: Typically open from 04:00 in the morning until around 02:00 the next morning (essentially covering all first and last flights). Hours may vary slightly with the flight schedule.
• Location: Arrivals (Before Security). You can find Burger King in the public arrivals area, so it’s accessible even if you’re not flying.

Cabin Bar

If you prefer a more relaxed, upscale vibe, Cabin Bar offers a touch of class to start your trip. This chic bar and restaurant serves a range of mouth-watering British “tapas”-style small plates to share, along with an impressive selection of wines, elegant cocktails, and even luxurious champagnes. For those with down-to-earth tastes, Cabin also pours a variety of fine ales in a cosy, softly lit setting. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle of departures and unwind with quality food and drink in a comfortable atmosphere.

• Great for: Groups and couples looking to relax before the flight. It’s also suitable for business travellers or colleagues who want a quieter spot to discuss plans over a drink.
• Opening hours: Open from the first departing flight of the day to the last departing flight, so it covers all typical flight times (early morning through late night). Hours may be adjusted according to the flight schedule.
• Location: After Security (Departure Lounge). Cabin Bar is in the international departures lounge (airside), so you’ll find it once you’ve passed through security.

Coast to Coast

Craving American classics? Coast to Coast is a casual dining restaurant that brings a taste of the USA to Stansted. The menu travels from East Coast to West Coast with something for everyone, think juicy burgers, BBQ ribs, crispy chicken, and other authentic American dishes. You can enjoy your meal in a laid-back diner atmosphere, complete with leather booth seating, wooden tables, and Americana memorabilia on the walls. They also offer a variety of cocktails to pair with your meal, making it a fun stop whether you want a full dinner or just appetisers and drinks. The portion sizes and variety are sure to satisfy travellers with big or small appetites.

• Great for: Families and anyone looking for an informal sit-down meal before their flight. Groups of friends will enjoy the lively atmosphere, and solo travellers can comfortably grab a booth and a burger.
• Opening hours: Generally open from the first flight until the last flight of the day, covering all main meal times. As always, times may vary with the airport schedule.
• Location: After Security (Departure Lounge). Find Coast to Coast in the departures area after you’ve cleared security.

Costa Coffee

Costa Coffee is a beloved UK coffeehouse chain, and at Stansted’s arrivals area, it operates 24/7 for your caffeine needs. Along with its huge range of quality coffees, from rich Italian-style espressos to frothy cappuccinos, Costa serves teas, hot chocolate, and other beverages. To go with your drink, you’ll find a wide selection of snacks and light bites: panini, sandwiches, and sweet treats, including muffins, cookies, and pastries, are all on offer. You can choose to sit in and relax or take your order to go… the choice is yours. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with quick service for those on the move.

• Great for: Coffee lovers (of course!) and anyone wanting to grab a quick snack along with a drink. It’s suitable for all traveller types, business travellers can get a quick pick-me-up, and families appreciate the familiar options.
• Opening hours: Open 24 hours a day. This café is always available, even for very early departures or late-night arrivals.
• Location: Arrivals (Before Security). Located in the public area, Costa Coffee is accessible to both departing passengers and those meeting arriving travellers.

Giraffe

Giraffe is a fun, family-friendly all-day restaurant offering a globally inspired menu. If you’re in a rush, Giraffe is known for its speedy service; they aim to have your food at the table within about 15 minutes of ordering. The menu is seasonal and truly international, featuring everything from burgers and fries to colourful salads, curries, and other world cuisines. They also serve fresh juices, smoothies, and quality coffees to keep you energised. Giraffe’s atmosphere is bright and upbeat, with a funky style that brings a bit of vacation vibe inside the terminal.

• Great for: Just about anyone! It’s especially good for families (kids will find familiar favourites on the menu), but solo travellers and couples will also enjoy the diverse offerings. If you want a sit-down meal without spending too much time, this is a great choice.
• Opening hours: Open from the first departing flight to the last each day. Essentially, it’s available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner whenever flights are operating (hours may flex with flight times).
• Location: After Security (Departure Lounge). Giraffe is located in the departures area after security, so you can relax and dine before heading to your gate.

Halo Bar

Halo (sometimes called the Halo Fizz Bar) is a newer addition that offers a luxurious twist to your pre-flight experience. This stylish bar is situated in the heart of the departure lounge and features a beautifully designed setting where jet-setters can unwind. Halo specialises in bubbly and cocktails, you can enjoy a glass of fizz (Prosecco or Champagne) or choose from a range of craft cocktails. In the early morning (starting around 5:00 AM), Halo also serves a selection of light bites for breakfast. The menu may be small, but it is thoughtfully curated, including items like bacon sandwiches, free-range scrambled eggs with smoked salmon, and homemade granola to start your day. Later in the day, you can grab other upscale snacks. The drinks menu covers everything from classic cocktails to non-alcoholic mocktails. With its plush seating and soft lighting, Halo provides a calm, upscale retreat from the busy terminal.

• Great for: Couples or groups who prefer a little luxury with their air travel. It’s the perfect spot for a celebratory pre-flight drink or business travellers entertaining clients/colleagues in a refined atmosphere.
• Opening hours: Typically open from 05:00 AM until the last flight departs each day. It’s there for you for a morning toast or a late evening cocktail (hours may mirror the flight schedule).
• Location: After Security (Departure Lounge). You’ll find Halo in the international departures lounge, accessible after the security checkpoint.

Harris + Hoole

Harris + Hoole is an artisan coffee shop for those who take their coffee seriously. As one of the UK’s favourite boutique coffee chains, Harris + Hoole works with award-winning coffee bean suppliers to brew a high-quality cup of coffee. Beyond great coffee, this café offers a range of light bites to keep you satisfied. The food selection includes both cold and hot options: you can pick up wraps, sandwiches, pies, salads, yoghurt granola pots, porridge, and other snacks. The idea is that you can grab something quick and healthy to go with your caffeine fix. The atmosphere is relaxed and modern, making it a nice place to recharge before a flight.

• Great for: Coffee lovers who demand a top-notch roast. If you’re a traveller who prefers a craft coffee experience over standard chains, this is the spot for you. It’s also good for anyone wanting a light breakfast or snack at any hour.
• Opening hours: 24 hours a day, according to the airport listings. That means no matter how early your flight or how late you land, you can grab a quality coffee or snack (subject to flight schedules, but generally around the clock).
• Location: After Security (Departure Lounge). Harris + Hoole is located in the departures area, so it’s accessible once you’re through security.

Itsu

itsu is a popular choice for health-conscious travellers or anyone in the mood for light, Asian-inspired cuisine. Itsu specialises in Japanese and East-Asian fast food with a healthy twist. You’ll find items like sushi rolls, sashimi, low-carb salads, hearty yet low-fat chicken noodle soups, steamed gyoza dumplings, and their signature hot rice or noodle bowls (called “potsu”). Many Itsu dishes are lower in calories and fat; in fact, some menu items start from just 180 calories and are almost entirely dairy and wheat-free. The offerings are designed to be nutritious and tasty, so you can eat well and still feel good when you hit the beach or your business meeting. The atmosphere is bright, clean, and efficient, with a self-service style perfect for a quick meal.

• Great for: Anyone watching their diet or seeking a healthier meal on the go. If you’ve been working on your “beach body” or just prefer fresh, light meals, Itsu will ensure you don’t derail your efforts. It’s also great for vegetarian and vegan options, given the nature of the cuisine.
• Opening hours: Open from the first flight to the last flight of the day, covering breakfast through dinner for travellers (with some breakfast options like miso soup or porridge pots available in the mornings). Times may vary with airport operations.
• Location: After Security (Departure Lounge). Itsu is located in the airside departures area. Look for it once you’ve cleared security and are in the main passenger lounge.

James Martin Kitchen

James Martin Kitchen is a bakery-café created by British celebrity chef James Martin, offering a taste of fresh, handmade British fare. This eatery prides itself on using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients in everything it serves. The vibe here is laid-back and informal; it feels a bit like a cosy modern bakery where you can either sit and enjoy or grab something to go. On the menu, you’ll find artisan sandwiches, pastries, and baked goods, as well as hearty salads and hot meals that showcase British comfort food with a gourmet twist. For example, you might see freshly baked bread and butter from local dairies, British cheeses and meats, and seasonal produce in their dishes. Don’t forget to check out the cakes and sweet treats, which are baked on site every day, perfect for a dessert or a treat to take on your flight.

• Great for: Fresh food lovers of all kinds. Whether you’re a family looking for a quality meal, a couple seeking a relaxed bite, or a group of colleagues wanting a satisfying lunch, James Martin Kitchen has something for everyone. It’s an all-around crowd-pleaser if you appreciate quality.
• Opening hours: Open from the first to the last departing flight each day. In other words, it’s available during all main travel hours (morning till evening), with times adjusting to flight schedules as needed.
• Location: After Security (Departure Lounge). This bakery café is situated in the departures area after security, so you can enjoy a meal or snack while waiting for your flight.

Joe’s Coffee House

For travellers on the go, Joe’s Coffee House is a convenient option to grab a quick drink and bite. Run by experienced baristas, Joe’s serves a full range of coffees (espresso, lattes, cappuccinos) and teas, as well as smoothies for a vitamin boost. On the food side, it offers a selection of “grab ’n’ go” eats, you’ll find things like sandwiches (or “sarnies,” as the Brits say), wraps, soups, and pastries that you can take with you or eat quickly on site. The atmosphere is casual and geared toward speed and efficiency, so you won’t have to wait long. It’s a great place to perk up with a caffeine fix or fill up on a light lunch before heading to the security line.

• Great for: Anyone in a rush who needs a quick pick-me-up. This includes solo business travellers hustling to their gate, families who need to grab something for the kids quickly, or any passenger who prefers take-away.
• Opening hours: Generally open from around 4:00 AM until the last departing flight of the day. It’s positioned to serve early-bird travellers and those on late flights alike (with some variation depending on daily schedules).
• Location: Before Security (Check-In/Arrivals Area). Joe’s Coffee House is located before security, perfect for a final coffee with anyone who’s dropping you off, or for arrivals wanting a refreshment. (This also means you can visit even if you’re not flying.)

Joe & The Juice

Joe & The Juice is a trendy café and juice bar known for its fresh juices, smoothies, and healthy bites. It’s a great alternative if you’re looking for something lighter or more health-focused than the usual airport fare. At Joe & The Juice, you can order made-to-order fruit and veggie juices (like their signature Joe’s Green Kiss or Energiser blends) and smoothie combinations that are both delicious and packed with nutrients. Despite the name, they also serve quality coffee and espresso drinks for those who need caffeine. In terms of food, Joe & The Juice offers a selection of sandwiches (often on whole-grain bread, toasted panini-style) and even soups, all prepared fresh. The atmosphere is modern, lively, and a bit on the hip side, often with music playing and a sleek decor. You might see the staff deftly working the blenders and espresso machines with some flair!

• Great for: Health-conscious travellers or anyone who wants a refreshing drink and a light meal. It’s popular with solo travellers and young adults, but families with older kids might enjoy the smoothies too. If you’re not in the mood for a heavy meal, this is an ideal stop.
• Opening hours: Typically open from 04:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily (4:00–23:00), covering all typical flight departures except the very late-night hours. This ensures you can grab a juice for breakfast or an evening boost before a flight.
• Location: After Security (Departure Lounge). Joe & The Juice is located in the departures area after you pass through security. Keep an eye out for its distinctive pink and black signage in the lounge.

Leon

Leon offers “fast food that not only tastes good but does you good.” This UK-based chain is all about healthy, natural fast food with a Mediterranean twist. The founders set out to prove that fast food can be fresh and wholesome, and that ethos shows in Leon’s menu. You can expect dishes like grilled chicken or veggie mezze salads, brown rice bowls, hummus and falafel wraps, and baked fries, all with vibrant flavours inspired by the Mediterranean diet. They also serve breakfast items (porridge, egg pots, etc.) in the mornings, and a variety of lunch and dinner options that are both nutritious and flavourful. The atmosphere at Leon is cheerful and bright; many locations (likely including Stansted’s) have sunny decor that makes you feel like you’re on holiday even before you take off. It’s a great spot to energise with good food that won’t weigh you down.

• Great for: Anyone who wants good food in a sunny, uplifting environment. Leon is perfect for health-conscious travellers, vegetarians (lots of plant-based choices), and families or individuals who want a quick meal that’s a bit lighter and more natural than typical fast food. Business travellers who prefer a nutritious meal on the go will also appreciate Leon’s offerings.
• Opening hours: Usually open from around 4:00 AM up until midnight (04:00–00:00), so it covers early breakfast through late dinner. Times may adjust with the airport’s schedule of flights.
• Location: After Security (Departure Lounge). You’ll find Leon in the departures area after security. It’s convenient for grabbing something to take on board or to enjoy at a table in the lounge.

Not Always Caviar

Not Always Caviar is a café that proves you can get quality and variety at an airport without the frills of actual caviar. This spot has become an oasis for some travellers looking for a break from the typical fast-food scene. The café is light, airy, and offers a calm environment, almost like stepping into a nice high-street café away from the crowds. Not Always Caviar serves freshly prepared food all day long, from breakfast through dinner. In the morning, you can pick up fresh pastries like croissants or perhaps a tasty baguette sandwich for brunch. Throughout the day, they offer a range of sandwiches, salads, and other fresh snacks and light meals to keep you satisfied. The portions are sensible (no skimping on ingredients, but not oversized junk food either), and the quality is high; the idea is to enjoy real, flavourful food even at the airport. Takeaway is available too, so you can bring your food to the gate if you’re short on time.

• Great for: Travellers looking for a healthier or more refined quick meal. It’s a good choice if you want a break from burgers and fried food, for example, business travellers or couples who want a decent bite in a relaxed setting will love it. It’s also suitable for solo travellers seeking a quiet corner to eat or anyone with an appreciation for deli-style offerings.
• Opening hours: Open daily from 04:00 AM until the last departing flight at night. This wide window means you can count on Not Always Caviar for early breakfast or a late dinner, aligning with Stansted’s flight schedule.
• Location: After Security (Departure Lounge). Not Always Caviar is located in the departures hall beyond security. Look for this café in the main lounge area; it’s accessible only to ticketed passengers after the security checks.

Starbucks

Starbucks needs no introduction, and yes, there is a Starbucks at Stansted Airport, ready to serve up your favourite coffee just the way you like it. This global coffee house is a go-to for many travellers seeking familiarity and a caffeine boost. The Stansted Airport Starbucks offers the full range of coffee and espresso drinks, from bold Americanos to caramel Frappuccinos, as well as an array of teas and seasonal specials. To eat, you can grab tasty snacks and light bites such as panini, sandwiches, pastries, and cakes. Whether you need a quick blueberry muffin for breakfast or a grilled panini for lunch, Starbucks has you covered in the food department, too. The seating typically includes comfy chairs where you can relax, and the atmosphere is the classic coffee shop buzz, people coming and going, baristas calling out orders, and a casual, friendly vibe.

• Great for: Just about everyone. Because of its wide selection, Starbucks appeals to all traveller types: business travellers can fuel up on coffee while checking emails, families can find something for picky eaters (hello hot chocolate and cake pops!), and solo adventurers can chill with a book and a latte.
• Opening hours: Open 24 hours at Stansted Airport. This is excellent news for travellers on red-eye flights or early morning departures, you’ll always find Starbucks open to serve you, day or night.
• Location: After Security (Departure Lounge). Starbucks is located in the departures area once you’ve passed security. Follow the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the main lounge, and you’ll likely spot it.

The Illustrious Bar and Café

The Illustrious Bar and Café offers a dining experience with a rock ’n’ roll twist. This chic hangout is perfect for music lovers: it features a laid-back, funky atmosphere with walls adorned by wall-mounted guitars and portraits of famous rock stars. Dining here feels a bit like visiting a cool music-themed café, which can be a fun way to kick off your trip. The menu includes a wide range of bar-and-café fare, from hearty sandwiches and burgers to lighter snacks and a full array of beverages (coffee by day, cocktails or beers by night). While you eat, enjoy the classic rock tunes and imagine dining with your rock idols gazing down from the walls. It’s a departure from the ordinary airport restaurant decor!

• Great for: The rocker inside, as the airport describes it. If you enjoy a bit of character and theme with your meal, you’ll appreciate Illustrious Bar and Café. It’s suitable for all ages (kids might find the guitars cool to look at, and adults will enjoy the music nostalgia). Groups of friends kicking off a trip can soak in the vibe here, and even solo travellers can enjoy the ambience while having a drink or bite.
• Opening hours: Open from 05:00 AM until the last departing flight each day. So whether you want breakfast in a rocking café or a late-night drink with some music memorabilia around, Illustrious has you covered during operating hours (which align with daily flights).
• Location: After Security (Departure Lounge). You’ll find The Illustrious Bar and Café in the departures area after security. Keep an eye out for its distinctive decor and possibly some tunes emanating from this corner of the lounge.

Wetherspoon Express

If you’re a fan of the pub atmosphere but short on time, Wetherspoon Express is the answer. This is a smaller, express version of the popular Wetherspoon pub chain, offering a “last-chance saloon” for travellers who want to enjoy a quick pint or snack near the gates. Located very close to some of the departure gates, Wetherspoon Express serves a range of affordable sandwiches, wraps, and other grab-and-go pub snacks. Of course, you can also order from a selection of draught beers, wines, and spirits to toast the start (or end) of your journey. The idea is that you can relax for a few minutes right before boarding, without the risk of straying far from your gate; it’s just seconds away. The atmosphere is pared-down compared to a full pub, but it’s still got that casual, friendly British pub feel, just in mini form.

• Great for: Those who like to get the hard work (security, finding the gate) done early and then enjoy a pint or snack before they fly. If you’re the traveller who arrives at the gate with time to spare and thinks, “Well, I could go for a quick beer now,” Wetherspoon Express is for you. It’s also great for anyone who wants a cheap bite and drink without a long wait, including solo travellers and small groups of friends. (Probably not as ideal for big families due to limited space, but still doable.)
• Opening hours: Open from 05:00 AM until the last departing flight of the day. Essentially, it’s available through all flying hours, so you can grab that early morning Bloody Mary or a late evening snack as needed. Times sync with the airport’s schedule.
• Location: After Security (Departure Lounge, near the gates). Wetherspoon Express is in the secure departures area, typically very close to the boarding gates. It’s an airside location, look for it as you approach the gate lounges after finishing your duty-free shopping.

Wetherspoons, The Windmill

Wetherspoons – The Windmill is Stansted Airport’s main full-scale pub, operated by the well-known JD Wetherspoon chain. Styled like a traditional British pub (with a name to match), The Windmill offers a relaxing, child-friendly environment to enjoy a meal or drink before your flight. Travellers can choose from a wide selection of ales and wines, as well as all the classic pub grub you’d expect. The menu includes hearty English breakfast plates, fish and chips, burgers, pies, and more, all at reasonable prices, which is a Wetherspoon hallmark. Families will appreciate the dedicated kids’ menu and the informal setting (high chairs available), and everyone can make use of the free Wi-Fi available in the pub to check emails or download some entertainment for the flight. The Windmill’s atmosphere is welcoming and unpretentious, making it a popular spot for all kinds of travellers. You might forget you’re in an airport for a moment as you enjoy the familiar pub surroundings.

• Great for: Anyone who enjoys a traditional family-friendly English pub experience. This includes families (kids are welcome here), groups of friends starting their holiday, or solo travellers who fancy a hearty meal with a pint. If you have time for a sit-down meal and want filling comfort food, The Windmill is an excellent choice.
• Opening hours: Open from 05:00 AM until the last departing flight each day. This covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner times, and you’ll often find it busy at all hours with travellers grabbing an early fry-up or a late supper. Hours adjust as needed based on the day’s flights.
• Location: After Security (Departure Lounge). The Windmill pub is located in the departures area after you go through security, typically in the main food court or lounge section. It’s hard to miss, just look for the pub-style signage and the buzz of people enjoying pints before their flights.

FAQs About Places to Eat at Stansted Airport

Final Tips: Stansted Airport offers a wide variety of dining options to suit every palate and schedule. Whether you need a quick coffee, a healthy salad, a pint and burger, or a celebratory glass of fizz, you’ll find a place that fits the bill. Remember that some restaurants are before security (in the check-in/arrivals area) and others are after security (accessible only to departing passengers with a boarding pass). Plan accordingly, especially if you’re meeting someone who’s not flying, you’ll want to stick to the public (arrivals) side venues in that case. Overall, the places to eat at Stansted Airport cater to business travellers looking for efficiency, leisure travellers wanting to kick off their holiday mood, families in need of kid-friendly choices, and everyone in between. Enjoy your meal, and have a wonderful flight!

And don’t forget, the easiest way to make your journey smoother is to book your Stansted Airport parking in advance. Not only can this save you money, but it also ensures you have a guaranteed space close to the terminal, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your chosen dining spot before your flight.

Disclaimer: All information, including menus, opening hours, and locations, is correct at the time of publication. However, services and availability may change without notice, so please check directly with Stansted Airport or the individual restaurant before travelling.