The gastronomic landscape of Raleigh-Durham International Airport has gained three exciting additions, transforming Terminal 2 into a local food haven. Notably, the venture includes a new establishment by renowned chef Scott Crawford, a James Beard Award nominee, as reported by CBS17. Joining Crawford's Genuine are two other locally owned businesses, Carolina Craft and Black & White Roasters, amplifying the airport's commitment to showcasing the region's culinary spirit.
Michael Landguth, President & CEO of the Raleigh-Durham International Airport Authority, told CBS17, that the airport has not only recovered from a significant downturn during the pandemic but is now experiencing growth that surpasses pre-pandemic numbers. Following a drop to just 4 percent of their regular customers at the height of the pandemic, Raleigh-Durham International Airport's traffic has bounded back to exceed 2019 levels.
Crawford's Genuine emerges as a standout with its innovative menu and design, intended to both invite and impress travelers. An outdoor patio ambiance, complete with a signature metal tree sculpture, sets the stage for a dining experience that strays from the stereotypical airport fare. Local produce and a menu that boasts Southern charm define the creativity behind the offerings at Crawford's Genuine. "It gives people a sense of what our streetside restaurants are like immediately upon arrival here," Scott Crawford explained in an interview with CBS17. Breakfast options like flavor-packed bowls and pastries from Union Special are accompanied by lunch selections featuring sandwiches and salads, as per a detailed account by WRAL.
In partnership with Grove Bay Concessions, Crawford's Genuine seeks to cater to different traveler's needs, offering both seated and Grab & Go services. The restaurant operates daily from 4 am to 10:30 pm, "We’ve worked hard to be as accessible as possible, and strike a balance between serving those who have time to spend dining with us, and those who don’t, but need something high quality, nourishing and delicious," Crawford told FSR Magazine. The establishment's investment in providing a refined dining experience tailored for travelers is evident in the impressive breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. Craft cocktails and local draft beers complement the range of dishes, promising a true North Carolina gastronomic introduction for both visitors and residents alike.
As Raleigh-Durham International Airport continues to uplift its facilities and services, the introduction of eateries like Crawford's Genuine demonstrates a deliberate push towards enhancing the airport's ambiance and guest satisfaction. These developments are not just about food; they represent a larger vision for Raleigh-Durham International Airport – to become a nexus where convenience, culture, and community converge for the ever-increasing number of passengers passing through its gates.
