Travelling from Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LJLA) in 2025? Make sure you’re fully fuelled and ready to depart with our updated guide to eating and drinking at this popular North Western airport. LJLA has recently undergone a multi-million-pound departure lounge upgrade, bringing in new restaurants and refreshing old favourites. Whether you’re travelling with family, on a business trip, flying solo, or jetting off as a couple, there’s a dining option to suit every traveller’s needs. We’ll also highlight options for various dietary requirements, from vegan and gluten-free to halal-friendly choices, so you can dine with confidence.
Restaurants and Cafés at Liverpool Airport
Plan your trip from LJLA with our guide to restaurants and cafes before and after security. Below is an overview of the eateries available as of 2025, including their typical opening hours and whether they’re located landside (before security) or airside (after security):
| Restaurant | Opening Times | Location (Pre/Post Security) |
| Sable & Co Bar & Kitchen | 03:15 – 20:30 (varies) | After security (Departures, Level 3) |
| Monty’s Diner | 03:15 – 20:30 (varies) | After security (Departures, Level 2) |
| The Kissing Gate | 03:15 – 23:15 (varies) | After security (Departures, Level 2) |
| Starbucks | 03:00 – 20:00 (varies) | Both (Landside & Airside) |
| Burger King | 04:00 – 21:15 (varies) | After security (Departures, Level 2) |
| Tap & Brew | 04:00 – 20:30 (varies) | After security (Departures, Level 2) |
| Upper Crust | 03:15 – 20:30 (varies) | After security (Departures, Level 2) |
| Greggs | 04:00 – 23:00 | Before security (Landside, Arrivals area) |
| SOHO Coffee Co. | 03:15 – 21:15 (varies) | After security (Departures, Level 2) |
(Hours may vary by day; “last flight” indicates closing time extends if flights are delayed.)
As shown above, early flights aren’t a problem, many outlets open by 03:00-04:00 AM to serve first departures, and several stay open until late evening. Now, let’s dive into what each restaurant or cafe offers and why it might be the perfect stop for you.
Sable & Co Bar & Kitchen
Best for… Travellers seeking a stylish, relaxing atmosphere with local flavour, great for couples or business travellers looking to unwind with a drink and a meal. (Adults and teens will appreciate the chic vibe, though it’s welcoming to families too.)
What’s on offer: Sable & Co is a premium bar and kitchen featuring artisan ingredients from local suppliers in a modern, comfy setting. Located just after World Duty Free on the upper level, this newly opened spot offers freshly brewed coffee, light bites, and a full bar selection. You’ll find seasonal specials and a menu inspired by the Liverpool region – think gourmet sandwiches, sharing platters, and craft cocktails with local gin or botanicals. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy runway views with a quality meal or to sip a cocktail or local beer before your flight. Vegetarian options are typically available (e.g. gourmet salads or meat-free bites), and the staff can guide you on any dishes that might meet gluten-free needs. While not a halal-certified outlet, many menu items are pork-free and you can opt for fish or vegetarian dishes to align with halal diets.
Opening times: Approximately 03:15 – 20:00 (opening with the first flights and closing by early evening). Sable & Co opens early for morning coffee or breakfast and continues serving through dinner for most evening departures.
Where to find it: Upper Level (Level 3) Departures, after Security. The entrance is immediately after the Duty Free shop, on the left-hand side. Its elevated location provides an escape from the bustle, with great views of the airfield.
Monty’s Diner
Interior of Monty’s Diner at LJLA, a retro-inspired American eatery perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.
Best for… Families and groups who want to kick off the holiday with a fun meal, as well as couples or solo travellers craving comfort food. Monty’s offers a lively 1950s American diner vibe that appeals to all ages.
What’s on offer: Monty’s Diner is the airport’s newest all-day dining concept, serving classic American comfort foods in an upbeat, family-friendly atmosphere. This 190-seat restaurant (the largest at LJLA) provides table service from friendly staff, so you can sit back and relax. The menu spans decadent breakfasts (think cooked English breakfasts, indulgent bagels, loaded waffles) and an all-day lineup of diner favourites – juicy smashed-patty burgers, hot dogs, crispy wings, mac ‘n’ cheese, and thick milkshakes and desserts. There truly is “something for everyone,” as the airport puts it. Kids will find familiar options they love (and high chairs are available), while adults can enjoy hearty portions. Monty’s also offers some vegetarian choices – for example, a veggie burger is on the menu, and other meat-free tweaks can be made on request (one traveller noted a decent vegetarian burger and chips here). If you need gluten-free items, ask your server: certain dishes (like some breakfasts or salads) can be prepared without gluten, though cross-contamination might be a concern in a diner kitchen. Halal note: Monty’s is not halal-certified and serves items like bacon and hot dogs, but halal travellers can opt for fish (if available) or vegetarian dishes as alternatives.
Opening times: 03:15 – 20:00 daily, with slight variations by day (open from the first early flight and generally closing around the last evening departure). In practical terms, Monty’s is open for breakfast, lunch, and early dinner service – ideal for both dawn departures and evening flights.
Where to find it: Lower Level (Level 2) Departures, after Security. After exiting World Duty Free, head straight ahead on the lower level – Monty’s is centrally located in the departure lounge. Its retro neon sign and spacious seating area are hard to miss.
The Kissing Gate (Bar & Eatery)
Best for… A classic British pub experience at the airport, perfect for couples looking to relax over a pint, groups of friends kick-starting a trip, or even solo travellers who enjoy a lively atmosphere. Families are welcome too (children can dine accompanied by adults), making it a versatile choice.
What’s on offer: The Kissing Gate is a vibrant pub and kitchen offering hearty British fare and drinks in a friendly, casual setting. It has long been a favourite at LJLA, known for its burgers, fish and chips, full English breakfasts, and other pub classics – all served in generous portions to fill you up before flying. The bar features a wide range of beers (including local brews), wines, and spirits. Sports fans will appreciate the TV screens often tuned to news or matches, and there’s plenty of seating for groups. If you’re on a schedule, note that Kissing Gate allows you to book a table in advance (they historically offered a phone/email for reservations), so those travelling in a group or at peak times might consider reserving. Diet-wise, you’ll find vegetarian options such as veggie burgers or salads, and possibly a vegan curry or chilli when available. Gluten-free options are limited (some grilled items or salads), but staff can advise. While halal meats aren’t specifically available, choosing a vegetarian entrée (like a plant-based burger) or fish dish can accommodate halal requirements.
Opening times: First flight until last flight. Typically, Kissing Gate opens around 03:15 AM and stays open until the final departure of the day (often around 10-11 PM). This means you can grab a midnight snack on late flights or an early pint at breakfast (we won’t judge, you’re on holiday!).
Where to find it: Lower Level (Level 2) Departures, after Security. It’s located in the main departures floor, opposite shops like Boots and WHSmith. If you’re coming down from security, you’ll spot the Kissing Gate’s pub-style frontage and signage inviting you in for “great pub grub.”
Starbucks (Two Locations)
Best for… Anyone in need of a caffeine fix or a quick bite. Perfect for business travellers grabbing coffee on the go, solo adventurers who want to relax with a familiar latte, or families who need a quick snack for the kids before boarding. Starbucks’ cosy environment makes it a safe bet for all traveller types.
What’s on offer: LJLA offers not one but two Starbucks locations, one landside and one airside – ensuring you’re never far from your favourite coffee or tea. You can expect the full Starbucks menu of espresso drinks, Frappuccinos, teas, and pastries/sandwiches. It’s the ideal spot for a light breakfast (try a croissant, oatmeal, or a breakfast sandwich) or an afternoon pick-me-up with a caramel latte and a cake. For those with dietary needs, Starbucks has you covered: they offer dairy-free milks (soy, almond, oat, etc.) for your drinks, and usually have a few vegan and gluten-free snacks (such as certain bars or nut mixes). If you have kids in tow, they might enjoy a hot chocolate or a babyccino, and you can find simple sandwiches if they’re peckish. Note: Starbucks is not halal-certified (some sandwiches contain ham or bacon), but all beverages and many snacks are suitable for halal diets, and there are vegetarian savoury items (like mozzarella-tomato paninis) that halal travellers can enjoy.
Opening times: Landside: 03:00 – 19:00 daily; Airside: 03:15 – 20:00 (with slight extensions on some days). In other words, the Starbucks before security opens extra early (around 3 AM) for those arriving at the terminal at dawn, and the one after security stays open through the evening rush. Both close overnight when flights wind down.
Where to find it: There are two Starbucks locations:
- Before Security (Landside): In the Check-in hall area, next to the airline check-in desks and opposite the assistance desk. It’s a convenient spot for visitors or those yet to go through security, also right by arrivals, in case you need a coffee while waiting for someone.
- After Security (Airside, Level 2): In the Departure Lounge, on the lower level opposite Upper Crust. Once you’re through security, head toward the seating area on Level 2, and you’ll see Starbucks ready to serve you near the centre of the lounge.
Burger King
Best for… Travellers on the run or anyone craving quick, familiar fast food. Ideal for families with picky eaters (kids love Burger King’s nuggets and fries), teens, and even budget-conscious solo travellers who want a filling meal without spending a fortune. If you’re in a hurry to make your boarding time, Burger King can get you fed fast.
What’s on offer: Burger King delivers exactly what you’d expect: the full menu of flame-grilled Whoppers, cheeseburgers, chicken sandwiches, fries, and more, just like at its high-street locations. It’s a go-to for something quick, tasty, and satisfying. The airport location is brand new as of the revamp (SSP opened a new Burger King unit during the upgrades), so it’s clean, modern, and efficient. For early travellers, BK often has a breakfast menu (like bacon or sausage muffins and hash browns) available in the morning hours. By lunchtime, it’s all about the burgers and chicken. Parents will appreciate value combos and the familiarity – plus BK usually offers kids’ meals with toys to keep little ones happy. Dietary notes: Burger King has introduced some plant-based options in the UK – for example, a Plant-Based Whopper and vegan Royale burger are often available, which is great for vegetarians or those avoiding meat (though heads-up: these may be cooked on the same broiler as meat in some locations). There are no specific gluten-free burger buns, but you could order a burger “no bun” or get fries (which are gluten-free by ingredients, though cross-contact in oil is possible). Not halal-certified, unfortunately, the beef and chicken used are not guaranteed halal, and bacon is present on the menu, so halal travellers might opt for the vegan items or fish (if fish burgers are offered) and avoid pork.
Opening times: Roughly 04:00 – 21:00 daily (opening in time for breakfast and usually closing around the last evening departures). Hours can extend slightly on weekends or busy days (sometimes as late as 21:15 on a Saturday). If you’re catching a late flight and want a burger for the road, try to swing by before 9 PM to be safe.
Where to find it: Lower Level (Level 2) Departures, after Security. Burger King is located opposite Gates 1 & 2 in the departure lounge, essentially in the heart of the food court area on the lower floor. Follow the signage for gates 1-10 and you’ll see the Burger King near those early gate numbers (and you might catch a whiff of flame-grilled burgers leading you right to it!).
Tap & Brew
Best for… Those who fancy a craft beer or artisan coffee in a relaxed setting. Great for solo travellers and business travellers with time to kill (it has a laid-back vibe where you can enjoy a pint and perhaps get some work done on your laptop), as well as couples who want to toast the start of a trip with a local brew. It’s essentially a café-meets-bar, covering your needs from morning through evening.
What’s on offer: Tap & Brew is a modern combo of coffee bar and pub. By day, it serves up quality coffees, teas, and light bites; by afternoon and evening, it also offers a range of craft ales, beers, and wines for those wanting a drink. The food menu here is mostly snacks and light meals – think pastries or muffins with your coffee, and paninis, sandwiches, or small plates if you’re looking for something savoury. It’s perfect if you just want a quick bite or to relax with a beverage without committing to a full restaurant meal. This venue was introduced during LJLA’s refurbishment (a “Tap + Brew bar” was among the new additions), and it has quickly become a popular pit-stop. The atmosphere is typically calm and “coffee shop casual,” with comfortable seating. Dietary highlights: You can get plant-based milks for your coffee here (similar to Starbucks), and they often have at least one vegan pastry or sandwich option (for example, a falafel wrap or vegan cake might be in the display). Gluten-free snack bars or pre-packaged items could be available, too. For those with halal concerns, note that Tap & Brew’s food selection is limited but includes vegetarian choices, and obviously, all coffees, teas, and soft drinks are halal-friendly. Alcoholic beverages are not halal, but if you’re halal-observant, you can simply enjoy the café side of this establishment.
Opening times: Generally 04:00 – 20:00 (with slight extensions on certain days up to 21:00). It opens early (around the first flights) serving coffees to sleepy travellers, and continues serving drinks (both caffeinated and alcoholic) into the evening. Essentially, it bridges the gap between the morning coffee crowd and the evening pub crowd.
Where to find it: Lower Level (Level 2) Departures, after Security. You’ll find Tap & Brew right next to Starbucks and opposite Burger King in the main departures floor. It’s centrally located among the other eateries, look for the inviting bar counter with beer taps and espresso machines side by side.
Upper Crust
Best for… A quick grab-and-go meal or casual snack, especially for business travellers or anyone short on time. Also fantastic for breakfast on the go. If you love crusty baguette sandwiches or just need a speedy bite between connections, Upper Crust is your spot. Solo travellers and families alike can appreciate the speedy service here, and it’s budget-friendly too.
What’s on offer: Upper Crust is a well-known bakery-sandwich chain specialising in freshly baked baguette sandwiches, pastries, and hot drinks. At LJLA’s Upper Crust, you can expect a selection of classic fillings (ham & cheese, chicken salad, cheese & tomato, etc.) served in crunchy baguettes – perfect to take on the plane or eat at the gate. In the mornings, they serve breakfast baguettes (bacon, sausage or egg fillings) and pastries like croissants and pain au chocolate. Coffee and tea are also available, making it a one-stop shop for a light meal. This unit was refurbished during the 2024 upgrades, giving it a fresh look and ample display of grab-and-go items. If you’re catching an early flight, Upper Crust is an excellent choice for something quick yet more substantial than a snack. Dietary notes: Upper Crust typically has a couple of meat-free options, for instance, a mozzarella & pesto or falafel baguette if available, so vegetarians will find something to enjoy. Vegan choices might be limited (occasionally a hummus salad baguette or just a pretzel, depending on stock). No specific gluten-free breads here (unfortunately, most items involve wheat bread), but you might opt for a salad pot or yoghurt if they stock them. Not halal-certified; however, some sandwiches are vegetarian, and those would be suitable for halal diets (just avoid any containing ham or other non-halal meats).
Opening times: 03:15 – 19:00 (approximately) daily. Upper Crust opens bright and early along with the first security wave, ensuring you can grab breakfast or a coffee as soon as you’re airside. It typically winds down by early evening (around 7 PM), so it may not be open for very late flights. If you have a late departure, plan to visit earlier or choose another outlet for dinner.
Where to find it: Lower Level (Level 2) Departures, after Security. Upper Crust is located on the lower level opposite the airside Starbucks, directly below the World Duty Free mezzanine. Essentially, once you exit Duty Free, take the escalator down (if coming from security) and you’ll spot Upper Crust’s bright signage and bakery display in the departures food court area.
Greggs (Landside)
Best for… Budget-conscious travellers and anyone who loves a good bakery treat! Perfect if you’re being dropped off early and want to grab a quick bite, or for families meeting arriving relatives. Also a lifesaver for late-night arrivals who need a snack, since it stays open later than most other outlets. Greggs is a British high-street favourite, so it’s great for a quick, familiar bite that won’t break the bank.
What’s on offer: Greggs is a popular UK bakery chain famed for its pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. At LJLA, Greggs is located landside (pre-security), serving travellers and well-wishers alike. Expect their signature sausage rolls, bakes (like the steak bake and cheese & onion pasty), and a variety of freshly made sandwiches on baguettes or bread. In the mornings, you can pick up breakfast items such as bacon rolls or porridge, along with a decent cup of coffee that often undercuts other cafes on price. A major draw is Greggs’ vegan offerings – notably the vegan sausage roll, which became a nationwide sensation and is now one of Greggs’ top sellers. It’s a flaky pastry with a seasoned Quorn (meat-free) filling that’s popular with vegans and meat-eaters alike. They may also stock a vegan bean & “cheese” melt or other seasonal vegan options, depending on availability. So if you’re vegan or vegetarian, Greggs is actually a fantastic quick option at the airport. For those needing gluten-free options, the choices are limited (Greggs does not usually have gluten-free baked goods due to cross-contamination), but you could grab a packet of crisps or a drink. Halal considerations: Greggs is not halal-certified (they do serve pork products like the traditional sausage roll and bacon sandwiches). However, halal travellers can enjoy the vegetarian or vegan pastries, fish-based items (sometimes a tuna sandwich is available), or any non-meat items. And of course, all their sweet treats (doughnuts, cookies, etc.) are fine for halal as they contain no meat.
Opening times: 04:00 – 23:00 daily. This wide span is incredibly convenient. Greggs opens early morning, so if you arrive at the airport before security opens or you’re an early drop-off, you can fuel up here. It also stays open until around 11 PM, making it one of the latest-operating food outlets at LJLA, great for those landing late at night or anyone craving a post-flight pepperoni bake on the way home.
Where to find it: Landside (Before Security), Arrivals area. Greggs is about halfway between the main Check-in hall and the Arrivals exit – right next to the landside Starbucks near Arrivals. If you’re checking in, you’ll walk right past Greggs after the airline desks; if you’re coming to meet someone, it’s conveniently on your way in to the terminal. Since it’s before security, no boarding pass is needed to visit Greggs; it’s accessible to the public.
SOHO Coffee Co.
Best for… A quiet coffee break or a quick refresher after security, especially for those who want an alternative to the bigger chains. Ideal for solo travellers who want a calm spot to relax, or anyone looking to recharge their devices and themselves. It’s also a nice option for couples seeking a less crowded cafe experience. (Business travellers hopping off a call might find this spot a bit calmer to catch their breath.)
What’s on offer: SOHO Coffee Co. is a boutique British coffee chain that prides itself on handcrafted coffee and fresh food, often with an emphasis on healthier options. The LJLA SOHO Coffee is a cosy cafe with a selection of speciality coffees, smoothies, and teas, plus a range of snacks and light meals. You’ll find artisan sandwiches, paninis, salads, and sweet treats like muffins and cakes. Compared to the main Starbucks, SOHO can be a touch quieter and sometimes has more seating available – making it something of a hidden gem in the departure lounge. Diet-friendly options are typically part of SOHO’s ethos: they often have vegan and gluten-free goodies (for example, a gluten-free brownie or a vegan wrap) and offer non-dairy milks as well. If you’re health-conscious, look out for items like protein balls or fruit pots here. Halal info: As with other cafes, there’s no halal certification, but many SOHO menu items are vegetarian or seafood-based (e.g., a mozzarella pesto sandwich or a tuna melt), which halal travellers can enjoy. And of course, all the coffees, smoothies, and pastries that don’t include meat are fine.
Opening times: Typically 03:15 – 21:00 (with minor day-by-day adjustments). SOHO Coffee opens early morning in line with the first departures (so you can grab a coffee even if you’re among the first through security at 3-4 AM). It stays open into the evening, closing around 8 or 9 PM depending on the day’s flight schedule. This makes it a solid choice for both breakfast and an early dinner coffee fix or snack.
Where to find it: Lower Level (Level 2) Departures, after Security. SOHO Coffee is tucked opposite the Aspire Airport Lounge (the premium lounge). If you’re not using the lounge but still want a comfy seat and good coffee, head over to the vicinity of the lounge entrance – SOHO is right nearby. It’s a bit further down toward the later gates, providing a nice respite if you’ve wandered past the main food court area.
With this diverse lineup of dining options, Liverpool John Lennon Airport truly caters to all kinds of travellers. Whether you need a quick sandwich before a meeting, a fun family meal with the kids, a romantic pre-flight toast with your partner, or simply a strong cup of coffee at 4 AM, you’ll find something suitable at LJLA. The airport’s recent improvements (it was even voted the UK’s best airport in 2024 by a Which? survey) have focused on giving passengers more choice and quality in food and drink. And it shows – the mix of old favourites and new concepts means you won’t go hungry no matter what time you fly.
WiFi on APH buses
Travellers using buses from APH Gatwick, APH Manchester and APH Birmingham can take advantage of the free WiFi on the transfer buses from the car park to the terminals. Simply jump on the bus and connect free of charge.
Averaging at 15.94 Mbps our bus WiFi is considerably faster than all London Airports’ internet WiFi
To further help you plan your trip, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about dining at Liverpool John Lennon Airport:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dining at LJLA
Yes – most restaurants and cafes at LJLA open very early, often around the first flight of the day. Starbucks (landside) opens around 3:00 AM, and many airside options like Sable & Co, Monty’s, and Kissing Gate open by 3:15-4:00 AM. If you have a crack-of-dawn departure, you can grab a coffee and breakfast from outlets like Starbucks, Greggs (which opens 4 AM), or Monty’s diner for a hot breakfast. Conversely, if you’re flying late, options like Kissing Gate pub and Greggs stay open until the last evening flights (around 10-11 PM). While there’s no 24-hour restaurant, the operating hours cover virtually all flight times, so you shouldn’t be stuck hungry no matter how early or late you’re travelling.
Absolutely. Every dining spot offers something for those with dietary preferences:
Vegetarian: You’ll find vegetarian choices at almost all outlets. Monty’s Diner, for example, offers a vegetarian burger, and Burger King has a Plant-Based Whopper. Sable & Co and Kissing Gate have meat-free dishes (like salads, veggie burgers, pastas) on their menus. Greggs is a vegetarian haven with their famous cheese pastries and vegan sausage rolls – the vegan roll is so popular it became one of Greggs’ top 5 best-sellers.
Vegan: Options exist, though a bit more limited. Greggs’ vegan sausage roll is a must-try for plant-based travellers. Starbucks and SOHO Coffee offer plant-based milk and usually a vegan snack (perhaps a brownie or wrap). Monty’s has indulgent items which might not be fully vegan (lots of dairy on the menu), but you could get something like fries or a modified salad. Upper Crust might have a Mediterranean veggie baguette (ask for no butter/cheese to veganize).
Gluten-Free: While dedicated gluten-free menus are rare, you can find workable options. Starbucks and SOHO often carry gluten-free pre-packed brownies or protein bars. At sit-down places like Sable & Co or Kissing Gate, ask if they can do boonless burgers or grilled items without sauce; they may accommodate. The Aspire Lounge (if you have access) also typically has some gluten-free labelled items. In general, salads, yoghurt parfaits, fruit cups, and certain cooked breakfasts (eggs & bacon without toast) can be safe gluten-free bets. Always double-check with staff about preparation to avoid cross-contamination if you have celiac.
In summary, LJLA’s food outlets have made strides in catering to dietary needs, so vegetarians and vegans will find options at multiple places, and gluten-avoiding passengers will find simple substitutes. Don’t hesitate to ask staff at each outlet – they’re used to such queries and can often point out or customise an item for you.
None of the airport restaurants at LJLA are certified halal, unfortunately. The major chains (Burger King, Starbucks, Greggs) and the SSP-run outlets (Monty’s, Kissing Gate, etc.) do serve pork and non-halal meats, so there isn’t a fully halal kitchen on site. However, halal travellers still have plenty to eat by choosing vegetarian or seafood options, which are halal-friendly by default. For example:
Monty’s Diner or Kissing Gate: opt for a veggie burger, salad, fish & chips (if available) or a breakfast of eggs, mushrooms, and beans (no sausage/bacon).
Burger King: the Plant-Based Whopper or Veggie Royale can serve as a halal-friendly alternative to beef/chicken burgers (just confirm no mayo if you avoid eggs). Fries and onion rings are also meat-free.
Greggs: many vegetarian bakes and sweets that contain no meat or alcohol.
Starbucks/SOHO – all drinks are fine, and you can get vegetarian paninis or tuna sandwiches.
Additionally, if you prefer not to buy food at the airport, you can always bring your own halal food to eat in the departure lounge – solid foods are fine through security. Some travellers bring homemade sandwiches or snacks that meet their dietary requirements. Remember that while you won’t find halal-certified meat at LJLA, you will not go hungry: there are sufficient non-meat choices across the cafes and restaurants. When in doubt, ask staff about ingredients (for example, inquire if any soups are made with vegetable broth, etc.).
Yes, LJLA is quite family-friendly. Monty’s Diner is a top pick for kids – it’s designed for families with its spacious seating and fun American menu. While Monty’s doesn’t have a separate “kids’ menu” booklet, you’ll find plenty of child-friendly items (pancakes, burgers, chicken strips, etc.), and portion sizes are generous enough to share. High chairs are available there and in most sit-down restaurants (just ask). Burger King, of course, is a hit with children – they offer kids’ combo meals (often with a toy included) featuring smaller burgers or nuggets, plus fries and a drink. Frankie & Benny’s used to have a kids’ menu when it was open, but since it’s been replaced by Monty’s, Burger King and Monty’s fill that role well. Kissing Gate pub welcomes kids accompanied by adults; they don’t have a specific kids’ menu, but you can order popular children’s foods (like fish & chips, or ask for a half-portion of a meal). For something quick, Greggs and Upper Crust have simple pastries and sandwiches that many children enjoy (like sausage rolls or ham sandwiches), and Starbucks can do warm milk or hot chocolate in a small cup for kids. Overall, you won’t have trouble finding food for even the pickiest little eater – and many eateries have booster seats and will happily provide extra napkins, kid-size cutlery, or warmed baby milk if needed. Family travel tip: the seating areas in the food court (near Burger King, etc.) have plenty of space for strollers, and there are baby changing facilities nearby as well.
Before security, LJLA has a couple of solid options. Greggs and Starbucks are the main landside eateries open to everyone. Greggs is located by the Arrivals area (great for people waiting to pick up passengers, or for a quick bite pre-check-in), and Starbucks is in the Check-In hall. These are accessible without a boarding pass, so if you arrive early or have friends/family seeing you off, you can all grab a coffee or snack together landside. Additionally, there are vending machines and a small WHSmith shop landside where you can buy drinks, snacks, or sandwiches. All other restaurants (Monty’s, Kissing Gate, Sable & Co, etc.) are after security, which means only ticketed passengers who have gone through the security checkpoint can access them. Non-passengers (e.g., someone dropping you off) cannot go to those airside outlets. However, the landside Starbucks cafe has seating where goodbyes can be had over a latte. Also, note that if you’re an arriving passenger who’s just landed, once you exit to the public Arrivals area, you can indeed stop by Greggs or the landside Starbucks before leaving the airport. In short: Yes, non-flyers can eat at the airport, but they are limited to the pre-security venues. And for travellers who clear security and suddenly realise they’re starving, don’t worry – there are no restaurants at the gates themselves, but the airside concourse is compact at LJLA, so you’re always just a few minutes away from the food outlets back in the central departure area.
Disclaimer: The information in this guide is current as of late 2024 and tailored for 2025 travel. Restaurant availability and hours may vary depending on operational changes, staffing, or flight schedules. Always double-check the latest opening times (especially for very early or late flights) and be aware that menus can change. Bon appétit, and happy travels from Liverpool!