Southern Grounds, BurgerFi coming to Jacksonville International Airport
Hungry travelers soon will have an opportunity to grab a bite to eat or a cup of gourmet coffee at two new restaurants at Jacksonville International Airport.
Southern Grounds, a Jacksonville chef-driven coffee house, expects to debut this fall in Concourse A. And craft burger concept BurgerFi will open later in Concourse B in conjunction with construction of the new concourse, which is expected to open in 2022.
The addition of both Florida-based restaurants is part of a new 10-year contract valued at about $60 million that the Jacksonville Aviation Authority awarded to global restaurateur HMSHost, and its Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise joint venture partner Lee Wesley Group Inc.
The two restaurants announced Monday represent new additions to JIA’s offerings, said Greg Willis, marketing and public relations manager for JAA.
Officials announced the restaurant plans Monday in a news release.
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“We’re thrilled to partner with the Jacksonville Aviation Authority to bring local businesses into the airport, especially one like Southern Grounds that has deep local roots and delivers a beloved community gathering place into the concourse,” said Stephen Douglas, vice president of business development for HMSHost. “With the upcoming opening, we’re sending travelers off with one last bite and sip of a hometown favorite.”
With restaurants already open in Neptune Beach and San Marco and a third planned for Avondale, Southern Grounds is known for collaborating with chefs and farmers around the Southeast as the restaurant crafts its menu items, which are locally sourced.
JIA travelers will be able to have breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as snacks, pastries and other bakery goods when Southern Grounds opens. It also will offer gourmet coffee and teas.
The menu also will include artisan sandwiches, salads and tartines. There will be gluten-free, vegetarian and health-forward options for various eating preferences. In addition, there will be a selection of freshly prepared grab-and-go meal items, the news release said
"Traditionally, being in transit has been the least enjoyable part of travel. With our partnership with HMSHost and JAA, we aim to change that with a sense of community, great cup of coffee, and a relaxing customer-centric atmosphere,“ Southern Grounds owner Mark Janasik said.
With locations already at Jacksonville’s Markets at Town Center and Brooklyn Station, BurgerFi offers craft burgers made from Angus beef with no antibiotics or hormones, hot dogs, shakes, custards and more.
Times-Union writer Gary T. Mills contributed to this report.
Teresa Stepzinski: (904) 359-4075