Cheap(ish) eats in the Atlanta airport - student trip

Question

We have a group of students traveling through ATL next month with a layover of several hours. They will need to eat in between flights, but most are traveling on a pretty tight budget. What are the most reasonable places you recommend for late lunch/early dinner options? Thank you!

Answer

When traveling through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with a tight budget, there are still several reasonably priced and satisfying food options for a group of students. Here are some of the best budget-friendly eateries at the airport where you can find a late lunch or early dinner:

1. Chick-fil-A (Concourse A & Concourse D)

Chick-fil-A is a classic and affordable choice, offering a variety of chicken sandwiches, nuggets, and sides. The menu is generally quick, making it a great option for students on the go, and it’s well-priced for airport food. You can easily feed a group with chicken tenders, waffle fries, and drinks for a reasonable cost.

What to try: The classic chicken sandwich or chicken nuggets with waffle fries.
Price range: $7 - $10 per meal.

2. Subway (Concourse C & Concourse D)

Subway offers affordable and customizable sandwiches, making it a great option for students who need something filling and quick. You can build your own sandwiches with a variety of toppings, and it’s easy to find options for most dietary preferences, including vegetarian choices.

What to try: A 6-inch sub with your choice of protein and veggies, or the classic veggie sub.
Price range: $5 - $8 per sandwich.

3. The Varsity (Concourse A)

The Varsity is an Atlanta institution known for its affordable fast food. They offer classic American fast food like hot dogs, burgers, and fries. It’s a popular spot at ATL, so it can get busy, but the prices are reasonable for the portions you get, and the food is hearty and quick.

What to try: The Varsity’s famous chili dogs or a burger with fries.
Price range: $6 - $10 per meal.

4. Nori Nori (Concourse T)

If your group is in the mood for something a little different, Nori Nori offers reasonably priced sushi and Japanese-inspired dishes. While sushi in an airport can be pricey, Nori Nori provides simple, affordable rolls and bowls that won’t break the bank.

What to try: A sushi roll or bento box with rice and vegetables.
Price range: $8 - $12 per meal.

5. La Madeleine (Concourse C)

For a more European-style option, La Madeleine offers a variety of soups, sandwiches, and pastries at reasonable prices. It’s a bit more refined than the typical fast food options, and the menu features comforting French-inspired dishes like quiches and croissants.

What to try: A croissant sandwich or a bowl of soup with a baguette.
Price range: $7 - $10 per meal.

6. Papi’s Cocina (Concourse E)

Papi’s Cocina serves up tasty and budget-friendly Mexican food, including burritos, tacos, and quesadillas. It’s an excellent option if your group is craving flavorful, satisfying food without spending a lot. The portions are generous, and you can find plenty of vegetarian and meat options.

What to try: A burrito or tacos with rice and beans.
Price range: $7 - $10 per meal.

7. Atlanta Bread Company (Concourse B)

For a lighter, more wholesome option, Atlanta Bread Company offers sandwiches, soups, and salads at decent prices. Their menu includes a variety of sandwiches on freshly baked bread, and they offer some healthy options like salads and wraps.

What to try: A sandwich on whole-grain bread or a hearty soup.
Price range: $6 - $9 per meal.

General Tips:

Look for Combo Deals: Many of the fast-food restaurants offer combo meals, which can provide better value for the money, especially for a group.
Meal Sharing: If you’re traveling with a group, consider sharing larger meals like pizzas or platters to keep costs down.
Snack Options: If you’re in between meals, you can find cheaper snack options like fruit, granola bars, or pretzels at convenience stores or small kiosks around the airport.

Summary:

There are several affordable options at ATL that cater to budget-conscious students. Popular picks include Chick-fil-A, Subway, and The Varsity for classic fast food, while Nori Nori and Papi’s Cocina offer lighter or more unique choices. For healthier options, Atlanta Bread Company and La Madeleine can also be good alternatives. By opting for combo meals or sharing, you can easily keep your group's meal costs within budget.

Cheap(ish) eats in the Atlanta airport - student trip

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