Stephen Gould
Options seem endless on vacation, but getting there is a different story. While layovers and delays may not sound like the best start to your romantic getaway, a few extra hours at DFW International Airport should not go wasted. Whether you have half an hour or a full day to waste after clearing security, travelers are sure to find diverse dining options within walking distance. While the list of prestigious names that have a presence in Terminal D is long, here are a few places to check out before heading to your gate.
Brewed, one of Fort Worth’s trendiest coffee shops and bistros, opened its outpost at D25 last year. Now locals can enjoy quality espresso drinks, hot teas and cocktails before their flights. Whether you share a pour-over or try one of their signature drinks — like the London Fog Latte made with Earl Grey tea, honey and steamed milk — it’s a great place for a pick-me-up. And thanks to its quirky interior and cozy ambiance, guests can sit back and feel at ease while sipping on their drink of choice. Brewed also has shareables made from scratch as well as breakfast favorites like biscuits, waffles and grits, each providing that warmth you’d expect out of “Fort Worth’s living room.”
Stephen Gould
Travel from one of Fort Worth’s favorites to a Dallas dining staple by heading over to D31. Shinsei, a Pan-Asian concept, has been serving precise plates in North Dallas for more than 10 years. And now, it is offering a few of its favorites within DFW. Airport sushi may not sound appetizing, but Shinsei’s pressed rolls are made with the same high-quality ingredients diners can expect at its flagship. Order the steam buns and crispy Brussels sprouts to get a feel for Shinsei’s flavor combinations. Or to try something only available at the outpost, the noodle bowls are both delicious and filling. To get a sampling of different bites, the outpost offers bento boxes as well as grab-and-go dishes that are perfect for busy travelers. But thanks to its exotic interior and sleek decor, diners can spend a few hours at Shinsei and feel transported before flying out.
Jason Kindig Photography
For a treat that also acts as a great southern send off, Stampede66 Express at D27 is your final destination. The full-service Stephan Pyles restaurant is located in Allen, but DFW travelers can enjoy a few of his iconic dishes like his spicy BBQ pork ribs, hickory-smoked Texas Wagyu beef brisket and pulled pork barbacoa. But the dessert selection is what helps Stampede66 stand out. Its signature pecan pie makes for a great dessert to share. But with its sweet and salty ingredients and buttery crust, you won’t want to. For a treat you can take on the go, opt in for their gooey chocolate chip cookies, just like your mama made them. Both of these desserts accomplish the same thing: They make it hard to forget you are dining out in Texas but easy to overlook you are doing it in an airport.