Where to Eat at Luton Airport: Top Restaurants & Complete Dining Guide

Heading out from London Luton Airport? Make sure you fuel up ahead of your trip. Luton Airport offers a range of food outlets for every taste, whether you want a hearty breakfast, a quick grab-and-go meal, or a relaxing sit-down before your flight. If you’re wondering where to eat at Luton Airport, whether before security or after, this comprehensive guide has you covered with top restaurant picks, a full list of dining options, and handy pre-flight food tips.

(Pro Tip: Got an early morning departure? Consider staying at a nearby Luton Airport hotel the night before, so you can wake up minutes from the terminal and enjoy breakfast without rushing. It might be more affordable than you think!)

Top Places to Eat at Luton Airport (Our Picks)

Every traveller has different needs when choosing airport food. Here are our five favourite Luton Airport restaurants, each great for a particular craving or situation:

Best for Breakfast: Frankie & Benny’s

• Location: Departure Lounge (after security), near the gates.
• Hours: 03:00 to last departing flight (breakfast menu available all day).
• Why we love it: Perfect for a family-friendly breakfast or anyone craving a classic morning meal before flying. Frankie & Benny’s offers the warm ambience of an American-Italian diner that’s welcoming to families, couples, groups, and business travellers alike.
• What’s on the menu: A dedicated breakfast menu for adults and kids. Kick-start your day with a traditional full English breakfast, creamy porridge, pastries, fresh fruit salad, or a mouthwatering selection of eggs (scrambled, fried, you name it). Little ones can choose from child-size hot “brekkie” favourites. There are even gluten-free options available, so no one’s left out.
• Travel tip: Luton is a busy airport in the early mornings (around 40% of flights depart before 8:00 am!), so if you plan to sit down for breakfast at Frankie & Benny’s, arrive early to beat the crowd and secure a table. Enjoying a relaxed meal is much easier when you’re not racing the clock.

Best for a Sweet Treat: Krispy Kreme

• Location: Departure Lounge (airside).
• Hours: 03:00 to last departing flight.
• Why we love it: Whether you’re celebrating the start of a holiday or just need a pick-me-up before a business trip, it’s hard to resist the lure of a fresh Krispy Kreme doughnut. Why deny yourself one of life’s little pleasures?
• What’s on the menu: Doughnuts, doughnuts, doughnuts, in 16 varieties to be exact! From classic glazed to sprinkled or filled creations, there’s a flavour for every sweet tooth. Pair your treat with one of Krispy Kreme’s specially blended coffees (latte, cappuccino, espresso, take your pick) for the ultimate indulgence.
• Travel tip: To avoid spending too long choosing (and risking missing your flight), decide on your doughnut “weapon of choice” ahead of time. With so many options, you’ll want to grab and go. You can even buy an extra to savour on the plane, after all, calories don’t count on holiday, right?

Best for Quick & Healthy Grab-and-Go: Pret A Manger

• Location: Departure Lounge (after security).
• Hours: 03:00 to last departing flight.
• Why we love it: Perfect for travellers in a hurry or anyone seeking a healthier meal on the go. Pret A Manger is all about fresh, natural food made today, not factory-processed sandwiches. It’s a top choice for a quick bite that won’t weigh you down.
• What’s on the menu: Pret’s offerings range from handmade sandwiches and wraps to salads, soups, and organic coffee. They avoid artificial additives and focus on natural ingredients, so you can feel good about what you’re eating. Grabbing a meal at Pret means you don’t have to sacrifice your healthy eating habits just because you’re travelling. Plus, if you need something for the flight, Pret is ideal, pick up a wrap or snack to take on board with you. Your digestive system will thank you for choosing something light and fresh (sitting on a cramped plane is hard enough without an upset stomach!).

Best for a Relaxed Coffee or Light Bite: Benugo

• Location: Departure Lounge (airside, central).
• Hours: 03:00 to last departing flight.
• Why we love it: Great for anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the terminal for a moment. Benugo offers a slightly calmer atmosphere compared to some other spots, think of it as a chic coffee bar meets deli, right in the middle of the departures area. It’s an ideal meeting point if you’re travelling with others, or a comfortable corner to unwind solo with a snack.
• What’s on the menu: You’ll find quality barista-made coffees, plus an array of light bites: salads, sandwiches, pastries, fruit, and smoothies. Whether you need a quick snack or a light meal, Benugo has something for all types of travellers. It’s also a good option for taking food to go, grab a healthy salad or sandwich here to eat on the plane if you prefer to avoid the in-flight meal.

Best for Sit-Down Meals: Bella Italia

• Location: Departure Lounge (after security).
• Hours: 04:00 to last departing flight (lunch and dinner focus).
• Why we love it: Craving a proper meal – perhaps lunch or dinner – before you fly? Bella Italia is a popular full-service restaurant offering hearty Italian fare. It’s perfect for families or couples who have a bit of time and want to enjoy a sit-down dining experience rather than fast food.
• What’s on the menu: As the name suggests, you can expect a range of Italian classics: stone-baked pizzas, pasta dishes like lasagne and carbonara, fresh salads, and indulgent desserts (tiramisu, anyone?). They also serve breakfast, but their main draw is the all-day menu of Italian comfort food. It’s a great spot if you’d like a glass of wine with your meal and a more relaxed atmosphere before boarding.

(There are plenty more options at Luton, see the full list below, but the picks above consistently get good feedback from travellers.)

All Restaurants and Cafés at Luton Airport

Looking for something different or just want to see every option? Below is the complete list of eateries at London Luton Airport, separated by location. Whether you need a quick coffee before security or plan to dine after security in departures, here’s what’s on offer:

Before Security (Landside), Public Area & Arrivals

These outlets are located before the security checkpoints (in the check-in or arrivals areas). They can be accessed by anyone, including well-wishers or those meeting arriving passengers:

• Burger King, Fast-food burgers and fries. Hours: 03:30–22:00. Great for a quick bite before security or if you’re seeing someone off.
• Caffè Nero, Coffee shop serving Italian-style espresso drinks, pastries, and sandwiches. Hours: 04:00–23:00. Perfect for a caffeine fix or light snack pre-flight.
• Costa Coffee, Café in the Arrivals hall (open 24 hours). Grab coffee, sandwiches, or baked goods any time, day or night. Ideal for late arrivals or very early departures.
• Great British Sausage Company, A kiosk known for British bangers (sausages in a bun) and other hot snacks. Hours: 24/7 (Before security). A classic choice if you fancy a quick sausage bap or bacon roll on the go.
• Pizza e Pronta, Quick-service pizzeria (landside). Hours: 04:00–23:00. Offers pizza slices and Italian snacks – handy if you want something more substantial before heading through security.
• Starbucks, a globally loved coffeehouse with two locations (one before security and one after). The landside Starbucks in check-in is open 24/7, so you can always get your latte or grab-and-go breakfast, even for those 3 am check-ins.
• WHSmith, Newsagent and convenience store (Arrivals/landside). Hours: 06:00 to last flight. While not a café, WHSmith sells snacks, sandwiches, drinks, and travel essentials. You can pick up bottles of water, crisps, or sweets to stash in your carry-on.

Complete List of Restaurants & Cafés at Luton Airport

Restaurant / Café	Opening Hours	Location (Before/After Security)
Auntie Anne’s	03:00 – last flight	After security
Bella Italia	04:00 – last flight	After security
Benugo	03:00 – last flight	After security
Burger King	03:30 – 22:00	Before security
Caffè Nero	04:00 – 23:00	Before security
Costa Coffee	24 hours	Arrivals (landside)
DUBL	04:00 – 22:00	After security
Enrique Tomás	04:00 – 23:00	After security
Frankie & Benny’s	03:00 – last flight	After security
Friska	03:00 – last flight	After security
Great British Sausage Co.	24 hours	Before security
Hawker Bar	03:00 – last flight	After security
Krispy Kreme	03:00 – last flight	After security
M&S Simply Food	24 hours	Arrivals (landside)
Oriel Grande Brasserie	04:00 – 22:00	After security
Pizza e Pronta	04:00 – 23:00	Before security
Pret A Manger	03:00 – last flight	After security
Starbucks	24 hours	Both before & after security
The Smithfield Pub & Kitchen	03:00 – last flight	After security
Wasabi	03:00 – last flight	After security
WHSmith	06:00 – last flight	Before security & Arrivals

After Security (Departure Lounge), Airside Area

Once you’ve passed through security, you’ll find the main departures food court and lounge area. All these establishments are airside, accessible only to ticketed passengers:

• Auntie Anne’s, Freshly baked pretzels (sweet and Savory) and soft drinks, a great grab-and-go snack while waiting at the gate.
• Bella Italia, Full-service Italian restaurant (see “Best for Sit-Down Meals” above). Offers breakfast and all-day dining with Italian favourites.
• Benugo, Coffee shop and deli with quality coffee, sandwiches, salads, and pastries. A more relaxed vibe in the centre of the lounge.
• DUBL, A premium wine and cocktail bar offering Italian aperitivo-style bites (think fine Italian meats, cheeses, and even oysters). Perfect if you fancy a pre-flight glass of bubbly or wine in a classy setting.
• Enrique Tomás, A Spanish tapas and jamón (ham) bar. Enjoy high-quality cured Iberian ham, cheese, and tapas plates, plus Spanish wines. Ideal for a light meal with a Mediterranean twist.
• Frankie & Benny’s, American-Italian diner known for breakfast (served all day) and a broad menu including burgers, pizzas, pastas, and kids’ meals. Great for families or anyone who wants hearty, familiar fare.
• Friska, A healthy eatery focusing on fresh, feel-good food. Expect options like superfood salads, rice bowls, wraps, and smoothies. Wonderful for health-conscious travellers.
• Hawker Bar, A lively bar with an outside terrace area (unique at Luton!). Serves beers, cocktails, and bar food with some Asian street-food inspiration. Good spot for a drink and bite in a bustling atmosphere.
• Krispy Kreme, a Doughnut stand with coffee (see “Best for a Sweet Treat” above). A little taste of indulgence before you fly.
• Oriel Grande Brasserie, French-inspired brasserie offering a more upscale dining experience. From croque-monsieur to steak frites, Oriel is ideal if you have time for a leisurely meal with a French flair.
• Pret A Manger, Natural food café (see “Best for Grab-and-Go” above). Great for quick sandwiches, salads, and coffee with minimal fuss.
• Starbucks, The airside Starbucks (in the departures area) is open 24 hours as well, ensuring you can grab coffee, Frappuccinos, or a quick snack any time while waiting for your flight.
• The Smithfield Pub & Kitchen, A gastropub offering classic pub food (burgers, fish and chips, nachos) and a full bar. It’s a comfortable spot to grab a pint and a hearty plate of food. Often popular with those wanting a “last pint” before a holiday or a relaxed vibe.
• Wasabi, A casual Japanese outlet famous for sushi rolls, sashimi, and hot noodle or rice dishes like teriyaki and katsu curry. Perfect if you’re in the mood for Asian cuisine or a lighter sushi box to take on board.

Hours & Notes: Most restaurants and cafés at Luton Airport open by 3:00 or 4:00 am to cater to early flights, and they generally stay open until the last departing flight of the day. A few spots (like Costa and Starbucks) operate 24 hours. If you have a super-early flight, rest assured you can still get coffee or breakfast at 3–4 am. Conversely, late-night flyers will find at least some options (like a pub or café) open until the final departure.

(Insider tip: Plan your parking and timing so you can relax at the airport. Pre-booking your Luton Airport parking not only saves you money, but also buys you peace of mind, you’ll know exactly where to go and can head in to enjoy a meal or coffee without stress.)

Before or After Security? Timing Your Pre-Flight Meal

Should you eat before going through security, or wait until you’re airside? For most travellers, we recommend clearing security first and then settling down to eat. Getting the stressful part (security checks) out of the way can help prevent a rushed meal or indigestion. Once you’re through, you can enjoy the wider selection of restaurants in the departures lounge with peace of mind.

However, if you’re travelling with young children or feeling particularly peckish as soon as you arrive at the airport, consider grabbing a small snack or coffee before security to tide you over. A quick croissant and cappuccino at Costa or a bacon roll from the Great British Sausage Co. (landside) can keep hunger (and boredom) at bay while you queue. Just avoid eating anything too heavy right before the security line, since the process can be a bit tense.

Top Tip: Non-passengers (like friends or family seeing you off, or if you’re waiting to pick up someone from Arrivals) can only access the landside outlets. In that case, places like Caffè Nero or Burger King before security are your go-to. For everyone else, it makes sense to plan your main meal for after you’ve gone through security; you’ll have more choices and won’t be watching the clock as nervously.

Why You Should Eat Before You Fly (Don’t Rely on In-Flight Meals)

Airline food has a bit of a reputation, and it’s not entirely the airlines’ fault! By the time you’re cruising at 35,000 feet, your senses of taste and smell won’t be at their best. In fact, studies (including one by Lufthansa in 2010) found that the combination of dry cabin air and lower air pressure can dull your perception of salty and sweet flavours by around 30%. That perfectly fine pasta or curry might taste bland when you’re up in the air, even if it’s seasoned normally.

To compensate, airlines often load their meals with extra salt, sugar, and seasonings so that you can taste something. Unfortunately, that can leave you feeling dehydrated, bloated, or groggy after eating. Ever notice how you often crave water and feel a bit off after a plane meal? Now you know why. Tip: Drink plenty of water during your flight (carry a bottle, you can refill it at Luton’s free water fountains after security) and go easy on very sugary or salty foods before and during your journey.

So, what can you do? Eat a satisfying meal at the airport if possible, where food tends to be fresher and tastier. And if you do eat on the plane, choose items that fare better in the air. That brings us to…

In-Flight Food Tips for Better Taste and Comfort

While your ability to enjoy sweet or salty foods dips at altitude, certain flavours hold up well. Here’s how to make the most of your in-flight dining experience:

• Go for bold or spicy flavours: Spicy, sour, and umami-rich foods aren’t as affected by altitude. If there’s a curry option or a dish with tomatoes, mushrooms, or soy sauce, it might taste more flavourful up in the air. A citrusy dessert or a ginger-based dish can also come through nicely. Don’t be afraid of a little heat; your taste buds will appreciate it when sweetness and saltiness are muted.
• Choose water over wine (or know your wine): It’s always smart to stay hydrated on a flight, so water should be your main go-to drink (again, fill up at the airport for free!). If you fancy an alcoholic beverage, remember that some wines won’t taste as good in the sky. A highly acidic or tannic wine (like some champagnes or bold reds) can taste “off” when you’re airborne, almost like vinegar. If you do want wine, opt for fruity, low-tannin varieties (for example, a young Pinot Noir or a light white). And maybe skip the champagne toast at altitude; save it for when you land.
• Skip overly sweet desserts: Since airlines often ramp up the sugar to overcome dulled taste buds, that chocolate cake or fudge brownie might be packed with extra sugar. Combined with the natural dehydration of flying, a super-sweet dessert can make you feel even more sluggish. If you have a sweet tooth, something like a fruit cup or a lightly sweet treat might sit better with you until you land.

Flying with Food Allergies or Dietary Needs

Travelling with a food allergy or special diet? A little prep goes a long way to ensure you can eat safely and comfortably:

• Check airline allergy policies: Every airline has different policies on allergens (like peanuts or tree nuts) on board. Some will make announcements or create buffer zones if you inform them of a severe allergy in advance. Before flying, visit your airline’s website or call customer service to learn their procedures. (For example, some carriers won’t serve peanuts if they know a passenger has a nut allergy, but they can’t control what other passengers bring on board.)
• Bring safe snacks: While Luton Airport’s restaurants offer options like gluten-free and vegetarian meals (Pret and others clearly label ingredients), it’s smart to carry some of your tried-and-true snacks for the flight. Granola bars, protein bites, or other non-perishable items that meet your dietary needs can be a lifesaver if the in-flight meal isn’t suitable.
• Speak up: Don’t hesitate to inform the cabin crew about your allergy when you board. If you have an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) or other medication, keep it in your personal item under the seat (not overhead storage). That way it’s within easy reach at all times. It’s rare, but if you do have a reaction, you want to be prepared. And if you’re just dealing with preferences or mild intolerances, the crew might be able to provide an alternative meal or extra fruit, etc., if asked politely.

Remember, airports and airlines have made big improvements in catering to dietary requirements. Luton’s eateries include vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options (for example, many chains like Pret, Benugo, Bella Italia, and Frankie & Benny’s have clearly marked choices). When in doubt, ask the restaurant staff; they handle these questions all the time.

The Perfect Foods for Flying: Pre-Flight Nutrition Tips

What you eat in the hours and days before your flight can make a big difference in how you feel during travel and when you arrive. Follow these pre-flight nutrition tips to give yourself the best start to your journey:

• Stay Hydrated: Aeroplane cabins are extremely dry (humidity can drop below 20%, whereas we’re comfortable around 40-60%). This can lead to dehydration, making you feel tired and more susceptible to bugs. Drink water before you fly and keep sipping during the flight. Bring an empty water bottle to the airport and fill it for free at the water fountains after security, Luton Airport has fountains right after the security checks, near the lifts to departures. Avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine pre-flight, as they can dehydrate you further.
• Go Easy on Greens (if on blood thinners): Green vegetables are super healthy, but if you’re on a medication like warfarin (a common blood thinner), suddenly loading up on vitamin K-rich greens (like spinach, broccoli, or kale) before your trip can interfere with your medication. A sudden spike in vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of blood thinners and increase the risk of blood clots (which you definitely want to avoid during a long flight). If you’re on such meds, maintain your usual diet and don’t go on a last-minute “kale binge” thinking you’re being extra healthy. Balance is key.
• Avoid Gassy Foods: Steer clear of foods that tend to cause bloating or gas before you fly. The classic culprit is baked beans, but also consider cabbage, overly greasy fried foods, or large quantities of fibre right before travel. In the pressurised cabin, the gas in your digestive system expands, which can make you quite uncomfortable (and can ahem, create unwelcome situations for your seatmates). You know your body best; if certain foods make you feel bloated on the ground, they’ll likely be worse in the air. Save the bean feast for after you land!
• Chew Gum (and Bring Sweets): Changes in cabin pressure during take-off and landing can play tricks on your ears, leading to that clogged feeling or even pain (especially for kids). Chewing gum or sucking on a boiled sweet during ascent and descent can help “pop” your ears and equalise pressure. An added perk: chewing gum has been shown to boost alertness by increasing blood flow to the brain. So if you’re feeling a bit dozy mid-flight or trying to adjust to a new time zone, a piece of gum might perk you up. Just remember to dispose of it properly.
• Time Your Meals (Jet Lag Mitigation): For long-haul travellers, jet lag is the enemy. One trick to combat jet lag is to start adjusting your meal times to your destination’s time zone a few days before travel. If you gradually shift when you eat (and sleep), you can sync your body’s internal clock faster. Also, once on the flight, try to eat according to the time of day at your destination if possible. This can help your digestion and reduce issues like constipation or fatigue when you land.
• Eat Oily Fish (or Walnuts) Pre-Flight: To keep your skin looking fresh and glowing after a long flight, load up on omega-3 fatty acids in the days before travel. Foods like salmon, mackerel, or sardines are rich in omega-3s, which can help combat the drying effect of cabin air on your skin. If you’re not a fish fan, walnuts, chia seeds, or even a fish oil supplement can help. Consider it a pre-flight beauty regimen from the inside out!
• Don’t Overdo the Salt: We mentioned that airlines tend to add salt to food to compensate for dulled taste buds. But if you’re grabbing a meal at the airport or a fast-food outlet, try not to pile on extra salt yourself. High sodium intake before or during a flight can make dehydration and bloating worse. Instead of reaching for the salt shaker, use pepper or herbs to add flavour. Many restaurants at Luton (and even in-flight meals nowadays) offer lower-sodium options or seasoning alternatives, catering to health-savvy travellers.

By following these tips, you’ll step off the plane feeling more refreshed and ready to start your holiday or meeting. Eating smart is all part of savvy travel!

FAQs: Dining at Luton Airport

Bon appétit and happy travels from all of us at APH! We hope this guide helps you make the most of London Luton Airport’s dining scene. With a bit of planning and maybe an APH airport parking or hotel booking to ease the journey, you can relax and enjoy a tasty pre-flight experience. For more clever travel tips and guides, check out the APH Travel Hub. We are here to help you jet off informed, well-fed, and ready for adventure!

• If you plan to leave your car for a while, check whether you can keep your keys in APH Luton Airport parking
• Worried about drop-off charges? Read our guide on Luton Airport drop-off fees
• For more passenger stories and parking advice, explore our APH Community parking reviews
• Before you head in, don’t forget to pre-book your parking

Disclaimer: All information, including restaurant opening times and menus at London Luton Airport, was correct at the time of writing. However, outlets may change operating hours or offerings without notice. We recommend that you check with London Luton Airport or individual restaurants directly before you travel.