Where Southern Flavors Meet Traveler Privileges

Raleigh-Durham International Airport has evolved far beyond the typical airport dining experience, curating a collection of restaurants that captures the essence of North Carolina’s vibrant food culture. For Priority Pass members, the journey becomes even more rewarding with three establishments offering $28 dining credits per person—transforming layovers into legitimate culinary experiences.

From the Atlantic Coast Conference-themed ACC American Café in Terminal 1 to the NASCAR-inspired Whisky River in Terminal 2, these dining venues tell the story of the Research Triangle’s dual identity: Southern tradition meeting contemporary innovation. Local institutions like Char-Grill bring their flame-grilled legacy directly to the gates, while French Master Baker Lionel Vatinet’s La Farm Bakery elevates the terminal with authentic Parisian-style pastries.

Terminal 1:

ACC American Café
Located near Gate A7, this café celebrates the spirit of the Atlantic Coast Conference with a menu featuring seafood, pasta, sandwiches, and flatbreads, all of which can be enjoyed using a $28 Priority Pass dining credit per member. Guests accompanying a Priority Pass member are also eligible for their own $28 credit, making it an excellent spot for travelers looking to savor a hearty meal before their flight while taking advantage of their membership benefits. The café’s atmosphere pays homage to collegiate athletic culture, providing a unique dining experience for sports enthusiasts and casual diners alike.

Terminal 2:

Char-Grill
A Raleigh institution since 1959, Char-Grill offers its classic flame-grilled burgers, fries, and shakes to travelers near Gate D3. The retro ambiance and commitment to quality make it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic local bite. (Eligible for Priority Pass dining credit)

Whisky River
Located near Gate D14, this establishment combines Southern hospitality with a lively atmosphere. Founded by NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Jr., Whisky River serves up hearty American fare alongside a selection of beers and cocktails, all set to a backdrop of country music. (Eligible for Priority Pass dining credit)

La Farm Bakery + Café
Situated near Gate D6, La Farm brings the essence of a traditional French bakery to RDU. Renowned for its artisan breads and pastries crafted by Master Baker Lionel Vatinet, travelers can indulge in a variety of baked goods, sandwiches, and specialty coffees.

42nd St. Oyster Bar
For seafood aficionados, this spot near Gate C18 offers a taste of the coast with its selection of oysters, shrimp, and other seafood delights. The relaxed setting is perfect for unwinding before a flight.

Lonerider
A local favorite brewery and distillery, Lonerider has set up shop in Terminal 2, offering travelers their signature Boots Up Ale, hard seltzers, and spirits. Complement your drink with a brick oven pizza or choose from a selection of pub plates, all crafted to provide a genuine taste of North Carolina’s brewing scene.

Raleigh Taproom
Near Gate D3, this taproom showcases the best of Raleigh’s burgeoning craft beer industry. With a rotating selection of local brews and a menu featuring both light bites and hearty meals, it’s an ideal spot for beer enthusiasts to relax before boarding.

These dining venues at RDU not only cater to a variety of palates but also encapsulate the vibrant culinary culture of the Raleigh-Durham area, ensuring that your gastronomic journey begins even before you take off.

The airport’s commitment to showcasing regional craft beverage culture shines through Lonerider’s brewery outpost and the Raleigh Taproom’s rotating selection of local brews. Meanwhile, 42nd St. Oyster Bar ensures coastal Carolina flavors remain accessible even at 35,000 feet above sea level. Whether you’re seeking a quick artisan coffee, a leisurely seafood feast, or maximizing your Priority Pass benefits over craft cocktails, RDU’s dining landscape offers a genuine taste of the Triangle that rivals many downtown establishments.

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