Philadelphia Airport Food Terminal E: Best Restaurants, Quick Bites & Dining Guide
February 4, 2025
William Cartwright
The Hunger Struggle at PHL Terminal E: What Every Traveler Feels
Let’s be honest. Airport food is either amazing or a total letdown, and when you’re rushing through Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) Terminal E, it can feel like a gamble.
You’re tired. Maybe you just went through a stressful TSA screening. Maybe you’re running on coffee fumes and a granola bar from six hours ago. You finally find your gate—and now, you realize you’re starving.
But where should you eat?
- You don’t have an hour for a slow sit-down meal.
- You’re not about to pay $20 for a sad, pre-packaged sandwich.
- You want real food that actually tastes good before your flight.
This guide will help you find the best restaurants and quick food options in Philadelphia Airport Terminal E—without wasting time wandering around.
Best Restaurants & Quick Eats in Philadelphia Airport Terminal E
Terminal E is home to several solid dining options, whether you’re looking for a quick grab-and-go meal or a sit-down experience.
1. Currito – Fresh Mexican Bowls & Burritos
📍 Location: Near Gate E8
🥗 Best For: Quick, healthy options
⭐ Top Pick: Bangkok Bowl (spicy, flavorful, and packed with protein)
If you love Chipotle-style build-your-own bowls but want something fresher and healthier, Currito is a great choice.
✅ Customizable options – Burritos, rice bowls, and salads.
✅ Healthy & filling – Perfect if you want something nutritious before your flight.
✅ Fast service – Get your food in minutes.
💡 Traveler Tip: If you’re on a morning flight, Currito’s breakfast burritos are an underrated gem!
2. Smashburger – Juicy Burgers & Crispy Fries
📍 Location: Near Gate E3
🍔 Best For: A hearty meal before your flight
⭐ Top Pick: Classic Smashburger with rosemary fries
There’s something comforting about a hot, fresh burger before a long flight—and Smashburger does it right.
✅ Quality over quantity – Freshly made burgers with 100% Angus beef.
✅ Crispy, golden fries – Their garlic rosemary fries are a must-try.
✅ Milkshakes – Because who doesn’t love a good shake before takeoff?
3. Geno’s Steaks – A Philly Classic Right at the Airport
📍 Location: Near Gate E1
🥩 Best For: Authentic Philly cheesesteaks
⭐ Top Pick: Whiz Wit’ (Cheez Whiz & onions – the real way to eat a cheesesteak)
If you’re flying out of Philly, you owe it to yourself to get a proper cheesesteak before leaving.
✅ Legendary status – One of the most famous cheesesteak spots in Philly.
✅ Fast service – They keep the line moving.
✅ Philly experience – Because eating a cheesesteak at the airport still counts.
💡 Traveler Tip: Skip the ketchup. Real Philly locals don’t use it on cheesesteaks.
4. Chickie’s & Pete’s – Crabfries & Sports Bar Vibes
📍 Location: Near Gate E9
🍟 Best For: A relaxed sit-down meal & drinks
⭐ Top Pick: World-famous Crabfries with cheese sauce
Chickie’s & Pete’s is a Philly institution—and their Crabfries (crinkle-cut fries dusted with Old Bay-style seasoning) are a must-try.
✅ Full sit-down experience – Perfect if you have time before your flight.
✅ Bar & drinks available – Great for a pre-flight beer or cocktail.
✅ Big portions – Shareable plates for groups.
5. Dunkin’ – Because Coffee is a Lifesaver
📍 Location: Near Gate E4
☕ Best For: Quick coffee & breakfast
⭐ Top Pick: Large iced coffee & a Boston cream donut
Sometimes, all you need is coffee and a simple snack—and Dunkin’ has you covered.
✅ Fast & reliable – No long waits, just quick caffeine.
✅ Affordable – Unlike some airport coffee spots.
✅ Breakfast sandwiches available – If you need something more filling.
Healthy Food Options in Terminal E
✅ Currito – Fresh bowls & salads with protein-packed options.
✅ Saladworks (in Terminal D, walkable) – Build-your-own fresh salads.
✅ CIBO Express Market – Pre-packaged fruit cups, wraps, and protein bars.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re flying internationally, avoid heavy, greasy foods before a long flight to prevent bloating and discomfort.
FAQs: Food in Philadelphia Airport Terminal E
1. What’s the best sit-down restaurant in Terminal E?
Chickie’s & Pete’s is the best full-service dining option with a sports bar atmosphere, fresh seafood, and great fries.
2. Is there a Starbucks in Terminal E?
No, but there is a Dunkin’ near Gate E4 for coffee and breakfast options.
3. Are there vegetarian options in Terminal E?
Yes! Currito, CIBO Express Market, and Dunkin’ offer vegetarian-friendly meals.
4. Can I get food delivered to my gate?
Yes! Philadelphia Airport offers Grab (airport food ordering app) so you can order ahead and pick up your meal without waiting in line.
5. What’s the best food for a short layover?
For something quick, Smashburger, Dunkin’, or Geno’s Steaks are your best bets.
Before You Eat—Where to Park?
🚗 Why Travelers Choose SmartPark PHL for Airport Parking
✅ Save Up to 70% Compared to On-Site Airport Parking
✅ 24/7 Shuttle Service – Get to Terminal E in minutes.
✅ Safe & Secure Gated Parking – Travel stress-free knowing your car is in good hands.
✅ Friendly Staff & Luggage Assistance – No dragging heavy bags around.
🔗 Reserve Your Spot Now: SmartPark PHL Airport Parking and start your trip stress-free!
Final Thoughts: What to Eat at Philadelphia Airport Terminal E?
Finding good food in PHL Terminal E isn’t as hard as it seems.
🏆 Best Sit-Down Restaurant: Chickie’s & Pete’s
🏃♂️ Best Quick Grab-and-Go: Smashburger or Geno’s Steaks
☕ Best Coffee Stop: Dunkin’
🥗 Best Healthy Option: Currito
And before you even get to the airport, skip the parking headache—choose SmartPark PHL for easy, affordable airport parking.