For the Weary Traveler: Healthy Eats in O’Hare Airport

Airport food is notorious for being bland, soggy and unhealthy. O’Hare is one of the busiest and bustling airports in the world, yet it seems that everywhere you look, there are strictly unhealthy options that are not catering to the healthy and hungry traveller. Despite O’Hare ranking second for low-fat vegetarian options in this study, it is difficult for the weary traveler to find healthy options at O’Hare, so we have done the work for you.

Terminal 1:

• The Berghoff Cafe - Gate C26. This is a spinoff of a classic Chicago restaurant, they are widely known for their Rubens which aren’t particularly a very healthy options, but all the meat is freshly carved in front of you, which is quite different from most sandwiches at airports which are wrapped in cellophane. There are also vegetarian options such as a vegetable wrap and beet salad. Finally, they make egg-white omelette and fresh fruit cups!
• La Tapenade Mediterranean Cafe - . This newly opened restaurant appeals perfectly to the healthy traveller in a rush. A wide variety of fresh foods are available for breakfast lunch and dinner. Some of the healthiest entrees include the Shrimp and Strawberry market salad with asparagus, Mediterranean chicken, and breakfast stratas and fritatas among others. There are also snacks such as humus and fresh veggies who are looking for a quick bite!
• SaladWorks-Gate C19. Voted “Best Greens at O’Hare International Airport” by Chicago Magazine, and with made to order fresh salads, it is easy to see why. There are ten different dressings, dry toppings, proteins and cheeses to choose from but choose wisely- some can undo the healthiness of the salad itself with their high fat content and calories. Feel like a salad won’t satisfy your hunger? Turn it into a wrap with a wheat tortilla.

Terminal 2:

• Cibo Express Gourmet Market(Also in terminal 3 )- This spot is a rare gem in the airport. Although it is a bit pricey, they offer a wide variety of healthy foods. Most of the sandwiches are fresh and served on whole grain bread. They have snacks such as hummus, sushi, fresh fruit and cheese, yogurt, and even soy chips. This place even appeals to the traveling vegan, with yummy tofu wraps such as the spicy buffalo tofu.
• Quizno’s (Also in Terminal 1)- The fresh meat and cheeses, the low-fat dressings, and veggie combinations make this a healthy and quick alternative. Tread wearily, however, as some sandwiches can be deceiving. Stick to the basics and pick wheat bread to keep the meal healthy and satisfying!

Terminal 3:

• Wolfgang Puck-K12. If you have plenty of time, this spot is an excellent choice for some more healthy options, such as the spinach salad, among other freshly prepared salads. Make sure to ask for dressing on the side, because these salads can be heavy in calorie-laden dressings
• Macaroni Grill-K2. Again, this is a sit down restaurant and takes a little more time than normal, but many people feel it is worth the time spent. Breakfast is always a hit here, as their omelettes can be made with egg white if you ask. With options such fresh salads and vegetables, and entrees such as the Grilled Chicken Splendini  bursting with roasted vegetables, it is a hit with travelers who have a while to spend pursuing the airport.

for a complete list of dining places in O’Hare, click here