I would be remiss if I didn’t talk about the beloved Taste of Hartsfield-Jackson, which touched down at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Wednesday, November 5, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The afternoon promised a whirlwind of international bites, live entertainment, and a dash of friendly culinary competition – all in the heart of the world’s busiest airport.

This signature event transformed the Domestic Terminal atrium – conveniently before the security checkpoint – into a vibrant food festival open to the public.

Taste of Hartsfield-Jackson Brings Foodies To ATL

Attendees got to nosh on sample-sized delights from more than 20 of the airport’s top SkyPointe restaurants and concessions, with proceeds supporting Meals On Wheels Atlanta to deliver nutritious meals and companionship to local seniors.

For just $15, guests receive a booklet of 10 tasting tickets, redeemable for petite portions that highlight the diverse flavors available at ATL every day (They ran out of booklets for a time, but used red tickets that you have to give to food vendors).

Taste of Hartsfield-Jackson: What Restaurants Participated?

Participating spots included heavy hitters like Ludacris’ Chicken + Beer for Southern soul with a hip-hop twist, One Flew South’s upscale Southern fare, Ecco’s Italian-inspired wood-fired pizzas, and Umaizushi’s fresh sushi rolls.

Other standouts on the lineup: Mustard Seed BBQ’s smoky brisket sliders, Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles’ crispy fried goodness, LowCountry Restaurants’ shrimp and grits, and even lighter options like Freshens Smoothies and Yogurt for a post-feast refresh.

The full roster also featured Savi Provisions, Proof of the Pudding, Atlanta Braves All Star Grill, ASW Distillery, Gordon Biersch, The A Bar, Lemonade, Goldbergs, and Spartina 449.

But it’s not just about the eats – the Taste of Hartsfield-Jackson amped up the energy with interactive zones designed to keep the crowd buzzing.

The Culinary Runway Rumble pits top airport chefs against each other in a timed tournament-style showdown, judged by celebrity chefs, influencers, and media personalities for the ultimate flavor victory.

Over in the Runway Rhythm Music Zone, live performances filled the air with soulful tunes, while the SkyStyle Showcase spotlighted fall fashion and travel must-haves from SkyPointe retail partners.

The crowds loved the Passport to Flavor – a FIFA 2026 World Cup preview where samplings drew inspiration from host nations, complete with a stamp-collecting passport for prizes.

And for those craving variety, the SkyPointe Sample Series offered bite-sized specialties straight from the pros.

“This event is our way of celebrating the incredible culinary talent that makes ATL a destination in itself,” an airport employee told me, as we waited in line before the Ecco booth. “Whether you’re a local looking for a unique lunch spot or a frequent flyer scouting your next gate snack, Taste of Hartsfield-Jackson brings the world’s flavors home to Atlanta – and gives back to our community in the process.”

Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis via the event’s registration page, and organizers recommend snapping them up soon as spots fill fast.

No flight required – all we had to do is bring our appetite and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated amid the tastings.

Final Word

As Atlanta gears up for the holiday travel rush, the Taste of Hartsfield-Jackson offers a timely reminder that world-class dining is just a short drive from downtown. You can explore the best food spots at the airport whenever you’re traveling.

A short drive from the airport, you can find some of the best places to eat on the southside. The street’s walkable, trendy vibe, enhanced by vibrant murals and restored brick storefronts, draws food enthusiasts and supports a burgeoning dining scene.

More Food Coverage:

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CJ Johnson covers food and culture for the AtlantaFi.com. Reach him at cj@atlantafi.com.