The Experience
Central Standard Crafthouse & Kitchen is built for the classic pre-flight reset: a sit-down meal, a well-made drink, and enough breathing room to actually taste your food before you sprint to boarding. Expect an approachable crafthouse vibe—warm wood, bar energy, and the kind of menu that reads like “what sounds good right now?” for travelers who want more than a snack box.
What people tend to love about spots like this in an airport is the reliability: hearty comfort food, fast-enough pacing for a connection, and a bar program that doesn’t feel like an afterthought. Think shareable starters, a burger-and-fries moment, and cocktails or local-leaning beer to put a ribbon on the wait.
Location & Access
You’ll find Central Standard Crafthouse & Kitchen in Concourse C. It’s intended to be an easy stop once you’re already in the gate area—ideal if you want to keep an eye on flight screens while you eat. If you’re navigating by landmarks, aim for the main Concourse C circulation path near the gates and settle in before your boarding group gets called.
- Security: Typically post-security for concourse dining.
- Seating: Planned at around 51 seats (so it can feel lively at peak times).
- Wait times: Expect the biggest rush during the morning departure bank and late afternoon/early evening waves; mid-day is usually calmer.
Menu Highlights
While exact items can vary (and airport menus change more than we’d like), this is the kind of kitchen where you’ll want to order for maximum comfort-per-minute.
- Smash-style burger or signature house burger: Go for medium if they’ll do it, and add fries—this is usually the safest “worth the calories” airport order.
- Crispy chicken sandwich or tenders: Great if you need something fast that still tastes fresh when you’re halfway through.
- Shareable starter (wings, pretzel, or nachos-style plate): Perfect if you’re splitting with a travel companion and want to keep it casual.
Price context: Expect typical airport full-service pricing—generally mid-range ($$) with burgers, sandwiches, and starters often landing in the mid-to-high teens, plus cocktails/beer on top.
- Dietary options: Most crafthouse menus can handle vegetarian (salads, sides, possibly a veggie burger) and some gluten-free swaps (bunless burger/salad). Vegan and halal options are less certain—ask the server about ingredients and prep surfaces.
Practical Info
- Mobile ordering: Not confirmed—plan to order at the bar or with a server.
- Reservations: Unlikely in an airport setting; walk-in seating is the norm.
- Best times to avoid crowds: Late morning to early afternoon, or after the main departure rush thins out.
- Power outlets: Not guaranteed at every table—choose bar seating or perimeter tables if you need to plug in, and bring a small charger.
Note: Public info has described this venue as a planned/new opening; if you don’t see it operating yet, check the airport’s dining listings or nearby Concourse C options on-site.
Quick Verdict
- Best for: Business travelers who want a proper meal, couples/friends grabbing a drink, and anyone with 45–75 minutes to spare.
- Skip if: You’re cutting it close to boarding, you need guaranteed vegan/halal choices, or you just want a grab-and-go coffee in under five minutes.
Location
Concourse C