A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to mark the opening of the Italian restaurant and marketplace Eataly at Terminal 4 of JFK International Airport in Jamaica on Tuesday, Oct. 20.
This Eataly features over 200 seats, a restaurant, a wine bar and a grab-and-go marketplace. Spanning 6,035 square feet, it is the largest Eataly location in a North American airport. The selection there includes antipasti, traditional Italian pizza and pasta dishes, classic Italian sweets, refreshing salads and wine or cocktails.
Photo courtesy of JFKIAT
Enhancing the terminal’s dining program, Eataly’s addition is part of Terminal 4 operator JFKIAT’s partnership with the HMSHost-led joint venture to introduce a varied selection of local and diverse food and drink businesses there.
Photo courtesy of JFKIAT
“The arrival of Eataly marks another exciting step forward in our continued efforts to enhance the culinary and passenger experience at T4,” JFKIAT Chief Executive Officer Roel Huinink said. “As we continue to shape the future of our terminal, we remain committed to introducing concepts that offer passengers meaningful opportunities to discover new flavors, cultures and experiences. Eataly brings the traditions, quality and hospitality of Italy to T4, adding another layer to the diverse and dynamic experience we strive to create for travelers from around the world.”
This addition is the latest milestone in the ongoing transformation of Terminal 4, as JFKIAT reimagines its commercial program with a focus on creating a world-class passenger experience reflecting the cultural diversity, innovation and energy of New York City.
Photo courtesy of JFKIAT
As part of Terminal 4’s transformation, JFKIAT has woven elements of each New York City borough across different zones. Eataly can be found in the Manhattan zone, next to the Delta Sky Club and gate B32. Eataly’s first North American location is in Manhattan’s Flatiron District.
Some of the other notable culinary offerings at Terminal 4 include Brooklyn Tea and Market, FIELDTRIP, Bessou, Chopt, Dos Toros and Hunt and Fish Club.
“At HMSHost, we are passionate about transforming travel through exceptional dining experiences, and the opening of Eataly at JFK Terminal 4 represents exactly that vision,” HMSHost Vice President of Business Development Anthony Alessi said. “As one of New York City’s most celebrated culinary destinations, Eataly brings an authentic sense of place, world-class Italian cuisine and genuine hospitality to travelers. Together with JFKIAT and our partners, we are proud to continue elevating Terminal 4’s food and beverage program with concepts that reflect the energy, diversity and global appeal of New York while creating memorable moments throughout the passenger journey
In addition to having a curated selection of food and beverage offerings, the Terminal 4 Eataly provides seamless and convenient accessibility, making it navigable thanks to a layout that facilitates circulation and enables efficient flow. The grab-and-go market’s products are displayed for guests, encouraging direct interaction and facilitating the shopping experience. Shoppers also benefit from the bold and clear signage.
Photo courtesy of JFKIAT
The design uses tones of brown and neutrals, including bronze, stone, leather and wood. This design is meant to give guests and employees an elegant and welcoming feel.
“We are thrilled to introduce our Eataly experience to T4 at JFK – one of the world’s great gateways – closing out an important milestone in our brand’s expansion to the travel space in North America,” Eataly Global Head of Franchising Simone Tosato said. “From the start, Eataly has been rooted in the belief that food is a powerful way to connect people, with Italian culture and tradition at our heart. The new location at JFK allows us to bring this mission to life within a dynamic airport environment, offering a curated guest experience that underlines the quality, craftsmanship and hospitality that can be found across the peninsula of Italy. Thank you to JFKIAT, HMSHost and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for your incredible partnership and support throughout the project – we were honored to work together on this endeavor.”
Eataly’s addition reflects JFKIAT’s vision of Terminal 4 being an area where travelers can discover New York City’s rich range of culture, flavors and hospitality. This is the latest celebrated brand to offer authentic and high-quality dining experiences while reinforcing Terminal 4’s role as a global leader in hospitality and travel innovation.
Photo courtesy of JFKIAT
“Eataly is an iconic New York City destination, and we are excited to bring this beloved experience to travelers at JFK Terminal 4,” John F. Kennedy International Airport General Manager Teresa Rizzuto said. “Eataly, which made its North American airport debut at JFK, provides passengers with another opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant culinary culture as they travel through our airport. The addition of Eataly to Terminal 4’s commercial program advances the Port Authority’s goal of creating a world-class passenger experience at a new JFK International Airport.”
Terminal 4’s redevelopment is a key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion transformation of JFK Airport into a world-class gateway. In addition to this terminal and another one getting expanded and modernized, the project also includes two new terminals, a new ground transportation center and a new simplified roadway network.
Dining and Cooking