Takeout meal at DTW

Question

I’m flying Delta to LAX with a 1 hour stop at DTW. Would like to get a meal to bring on the 2nd flight.

Any places you especially like or avoid in post-security Macnamara terminal?

Doesn’t have to be fancy. I don’t care for Mexican food, but OK with anything else, including a good sandwich.

Answer

If you have a short layover of about an hour at DTW and want a takeout meal from the post-security area of the McNamara Terminal, your options are somewhat limited by time, but there are still some good choices for sandwiches, casual meals, and quick bites. Most places can package food to go if you ask.

Here are some recommended options:

Leo’s Coney Island – Classic Detroit-style hot dogs and sandwiches. Quick service, familiar flavors, and easy to carry onto your flight.
Shula’s Steak House Express – Offers high-quality sandwiches, wraps, and some hot items. Portions are good for takeout, and the quality is consistent.
Leo’s Deli & Café – Known for sandwiches, salads, and soups. Can pack a hearty sandwich or wrap for the plane.
Starbucks – Not a full meal, but good for snacks, pastries, and boxed sandwiches if you want a lighter option or just something to hold you over.
Panera Bread – Offers sandwiches, salads, and bakery items. Everything is packaged to go, and you can grab a quick meal easily.

Places you might want to avoid if pressed for time:

Full-service restaurants like some of the sit-down spots – they may take longer to prepare food, which is risky for a 1-hour layover.
Any busy sushi or Asian-style places – often have prep time or limited takeout packaging.

Tips for a quick takeout experience:

Check menus online in advance through the DTW website or airport apps so you can order quickly or pre-plan your stop.
Ask for “to-go” packaging when ordering; most counters are happy to provide it.
Consider something that doesn’t require reheating if you don’t have access to a microwave on the plane.

Overall, Leo’s Coney Island or Shula’s Express sandwiches are reliable choices for a quick, satisfying takeout meal at McNamara Terminal without risking missing your flight connection.